SAGLE — As laughter rings out across the playground at Sagle Elementary, a new addition brings an element of excitement during recess for students. 

Children crowd into a newly installed gaga ball pit, shrieking as they run from a fast-travelling rubber ball within the octagonal arena. 

Gaga ball, as a sign affixed to the pit explains, is a form of dodgeball that is normally played within an enclosed playing area. 

The pit comes after an annual end-of-year fundraiser hosted by the school's Parent Teacher Association, a group of parents that plan several events and fundraisers throughout the school year. 

Last spring, the PTA hoped to purchase a gaga ball pit for students but did not reach its fundraising goal. 

However, after learning of the shortfall, the Sagle Senior Center donated $5,000 to the fundraiser, giving that wish list item a place among the playground's other attractions. 

"It was so generous, and it was completely out of the blue," said Sagle Elementary Principal Jennifer Majors. 

A large sum of the money donated by the Sagle Senior Center was raised through its bingo nights, said Sagle Senior Center chair Monica Gunter. 

Every Thursday, community members from across Bonner County fill the senior center with cards in hand, eager for a chance to shout "bingo." 

With the event's continuous success and a desire to give back to the community, Gunter said the center chose to donate the money to Sagle Elementary. 

"We feel it's the best elementary school in the county, and we just love putting our money back into the kids," said Gunter. 

Whether it's additional school supplies or new playground equipment, Majors said that the money raised from PTA fundraisers is extremely beneficial for the students. 

"The money goes straight to them," said Majors. 

The senior center is just a short walk away from the school, and many residents have a direct tie to the school with children or grandchildren who attend, said Majors. 

That rings true for Gunter, who takes her own grandchildren to the school's playground to enjoy the new addition. 

"They love it, I take my grandkids over there all the time," said Gunter, adding that she doesn't hesitate to join in on the fun with them.