S.S. Palmer Elementary is getting new playground equipment thanks in large part to a donation from its parent-teacher organization.

Earlier this month, Palmerton Area School District’s board of directors approved a purchase of playground equipment from Recreation Resource USA at a price of $26,072.

A large chunk of that, according to PASD Facilities Director Joe Faenza is coming from a PTO donation.

“They raised $16,500 that they are putting toward that, leaving the district’s portion at just over $9,500,” Faenza said. “It’s something Mary Brumbach had been working with the PTO on before she retired as principal at Palmer/Parkside, and she really wanted to see that followed through on.”

The new metal and fiberglass equipment is replacing a wooden structure.

“The current equipment is structurally sound and there are no safety issues, but the plans were to purchase some more modern equipment,” Faenza said. “The PTO has been raising funds over a number of years. They will also be donating their time, along with local businesses, to help remove the current equipment and install the new items.”

Faenza said he, along with representatives from the equipment manufacturer, would be on site when the install occurs to oversee and supervise the process.

“The equipment currently has an eight-to-nine week delivery window,” Faenza said, “so that should allow for installation to occur before winter.”

The remaining money, after the PTO donation, will come from the district’s activities fund.

“That is money that has been raised and accumulated over the years with the intent to go toward student related projects or items,” Faenza said.