Iroquois Elementary, a United Way Community School, hosted a ribbon cutting ceremony to celebrate the installation of a new Nonverbal Communication Sign and Buddy Swing on Tuesday. 

The special playground swing is designed to allow children of all abilities to enjoy outdoor play together. 

The Buddy Swing provides a safe and accessible experience for children with and without disabilities to swing together, while the Nonverbal Communication Sign allows students to point to symbols or images to express their needs. 

Together, the swing and the sign promote interaction and inclusivity to ensure that all children can participate in playtime equally. 

The project is the result of the advocacy of a Iroquois Elementary student, Mackenzie Badowski. 

Last year, Mackenzie presented to her belief in the importance of having a buddy swing and a nonverbal communication sign on the school playground to the Community School Director. 

Her passionate presentation and commitment to inclusivity led to the approval of the sign and swing. The project was funded by the United Way of Erie County.