The Hollywood Citizens Association and the District 96 School Board Sign 30-Year Lease for Expanded Playground Land

Hollywood Elementary scheduled to receive a more expansive playground and more green play space for 2021-2022 school year

The Hollywood Citizens Association (HCA) and the District 96 Board of Education (D96) have reached a much anticipated agreement for a long-term lease of the HCA property adjacent to the school. The long-term lease agreement extends for 30 years.

“On the 100th anniversary of the Hollywood House, the HCA is excited that a six year journey to expand the Hollywood Elementary playground space is coming to fruition,” said Gonzo Schexnayder, HCA President. “When Superintendent Martha Ryan-Toye joined the ongoing conversation, she engaged in a productive dialogue with the HCA that resulted in a great solution. We think this lease is a win-win-win -- the HCA preserves the historic Hollywood House property as a community resource, the school board achieves their objectives for separating play and parking, and Hollywood Elementary children will get an expanded playground and more green play spaces.”

The lease will allow the school district an opportunity to almost triple the playground space and improve the playground and outdoor play areas for Hollywood Elementary School students. In addition, the modification of the playground space will provide for a separation of play and parking. The playground will be a valuable asset for Hollywood School students and the entire community.

Details of the lease will be shared by D96 following the August 19, 2020 school board meeting.

ABOUT THE HOLLYWOOD CITIZENS ASSOCIATION
The HCA was formed in 1915 to raise money for a community center and the first elementary school for the Hollywood neighborhood. The Hollywood House, built in 1920, served the early grades until Hollywood Elementary School was completed in 1929. The prairie style building subsequently served as a church and continues to be a community resource for Hollywood neighbors, local organizations, and the surrounding community.

For more information, contact Gonzo Schexnayder, President, HCA, at info@hollywoodcitizensassociation.org or visit the website at https://www.hollywoodcitizensassociation.org.