The second area is designed for first- and second-graders. Children who use this equipment are building their motor skills, Popiolek said. The equipment includes an apparatus for rock climbing.
The third playground area is constructed for children in third through fifth grade. The equipment includes hanging pieces designed to help build upper body strength.
"Our main goal is to increase activity," Popiolek said. "People need activity no matter what their age.
"Why do any of us work out, or take a walk? It's because activity gives us more energy. When you have energy, you are more prepared for learning."
When Earl Gaskins, the principal at Ring Factory, arrived at the school two years ago, the playground used by the kindergarteners and first- and second-graders was antiquated and unsafe. There were drainage problems, and the play surface wasn't level, he said.
"The teachers had to really keep an eye on where the kids were playing," Gaskins said. "And when they got in an area that wasn't safe, they would direct the children to other areas."
Now the playground has a new drainage system, new grass and larger, age-appropriate fixtures and play areas.
Activity on the playground at Ring Factory Elementary - which dedicated a new playground in September - has drastically increased, Gaskins said.
"The kids love the new playground," he said. "They have more room to play, and they don't have to wait in line. The kids don't get a lot of time at recess, so when they have to wait to do something, they don't get a lot of activity."
But inactivity is a problem of the past, he said. At recess, the children spread out and move throughout their break, he said. Some kids don't get enough time on the playground during the school day, so they play on it after school, he said.
The equipment includes stations that offer children a place to test the temperature or look through a telescope, as well as sliding boards and climbing equipment.
"The best thing about the new playground is that the children can grow with it," Gaskins said.
