We the parents, future parents and neighbors of Loyal Heights Elementary School, as well as concerned citizens, protest the proposed elimination of  half of the playground at Loyal Heights Elementary school. We feel that recess is an essential part of the school day, promoting physical fitness, social development as well as academic ability, and that the proposed 37,000 square feet is an inadequate space for an elementary school with a student population of 650-800 students. A larger playground, based upon the standard set by neighboring schools, of 110 square feet of outdoor space per child is necessary to continue the high level of education already in place and Loyal Heights Elementary School. Additionally, the current playground is a valuable community asset as it is the only playground north of NW 70th St and west of 24th Ave NW outside of Golden Gardens, and as such the existing space should be preserved.