June 23, 2025 (Smiths Falls, ON) – Students from Anne McGarrity’s Grade 6 class at Lombardy Public School have made a lasting mark on their community through an inspiring Real-World Learning project that brought play, learning and inclusion to local parks.
The class designed and built a series of wooden games tables and lending libraries for Lower Reach Park and Murphy Park in Smiths Falls. Initially, the students pitched their project to the town with a proposal to install tables and a book lending library at one of the two parks, but the Town of Smiths Falls was so impressed by the idea and the students’ enthusiasm that they asked the class to expand their plan to include installations at both parks.
“Partnering with the students at Lombardy Public School has been such a meaningful experience for our team,” said Stephanie Clark, Director of Community Services for the Town of Smiths Falls. “The lending libraries and games tables they created are more than just great additions to our parks — they’re a reflection of how young people can help shape and inspire public spaces. When you see yourself in a community’s public space— in the art, the ideas, the places where our community plays and grows — it matters.”
To bring their vision to life, students worked with the St. Lawrence College Mobile Training Lab—an innovative travelling classroom that introduces students to skilled trades. Over two days, the students used tools and equipment in the lab to construct the tables and libraries. Materials were generously donated by the local Home Hardware store.
On June 19, the school held an official unveiling at Lower Reach Park. The event featured student speeches, a showcase of the tables and library, and a community BBQ. Families and representatives from the town gathered to celebrate the project.
“Building the tables was my favourite part because we got to actually build them,” said Grade 6 student Olivia Fowler. “It was exhilarating to use all the tools and stuff. All our hard work and dedication paid off, and to see them here in the community for people to use and enjoy is really cool.”
“I'm just really excited that they're here and I really hope they help the community,” added fellow Grade 6 student Bronwyn Byington.
There are multiple tables — each hand-painted by the students — with checkers, tic-tac-toe, and snakes and ladders. The space also includes signs with game instructions and QR codes for audio instructions, supporting those with reading difficulties or visual impairments. The focus on accessibility and family bonding was a key priority for the students, who explained in their pitch to the town that “families playing games together builds strong relationships.”
The book lending libraries offer books for all ages and were designed with two compartments to hold a wide variety of titles. Books were donated by the local public library, ensuring a diverse and well-stocked collection.
“This project was incredible from start to finish,” said McGarrity. “They really put themselves in other people's shoes and started coming in with a different world view. It was really beautiful.”