The Lamplighter Chabad Day School of Tucson, which serves students from kindergarten through eighth grade, blends authentic Jewish traditions and customs with diverse academic subjects.
Until recently, however, the school lacked a key component of a well-rounded educational environment—a dedicated space for physical activity and play. That will change for next year’s enrollees.
Thanks to a community grant and a private donor, the school has constructed a vibrant indoor soft playground that provides a safe, fun, and healthy space for students of all ages on its campus at 3830 E. Bellevue Street.
Dr. Elyse Golob, director of development at Chabad Tucson, which oversees the Lamplighter School, noted the significance of the new space. “An indoor soft playground enhances our school’s capacity by offering benefits such as social development, creative expression, motor skills, emotional regulation, and cognitive growth,” she said.
“Playgrounds provide students with a designated area to play and learn, and they contribute to improved academic performance. They ensure the availability of regular physical education classes, along with opportunities for unstructured movement throughout the day,” she added.
The William and Doris Rubin Endowment Fund at the Jewish Community Foundation of Southern Arizona (JCF) generously provided funding for this project, along with support from a private donor to Chabad Tucson.
The new playground includes a foam pit, rock-climbing wall, hammock, sensory and tire swings, monkey bars, a toddler jungle gym, soft climbing arches, and interactive sensory wall panels.
Students beginning at the Lamplighter Chabad Day School this fall will be the first to enjoy the new space.
“We’re incredibly grateful for the generosity that made this indoor playground possible,” said Feigie Ceitlin, Head of School of Lamplighter. “In addition to being a play space, it’s a perfect fit for our school’s bright, colorful, and inviting interior, designed to spark joy and creativity in every child.”
Plans for the coming school year include expanding enrichment programming, increasing STEM learning opportunities, and integrating the new playground into a broader health and wellness curriculum.
Ceitlin added, “Since opening our doors in 2022, Lamplighter has continued to grow, and this playground is a milestone in our journey. We’re already looking ahead to the second phase of development, which includes renovating the remaining half of the school property to expand and enhance the learning environment for our students.”
For more information about enrollment or to schedule a tour, visit LamplighterTucson.com.
