Students' idea becomes reality with new gaga pit

What started as a fun question in The Albany News Kids Corner back in February has turned into a popular new addition at Nancy Smith Elementary. When asked what they would do if they were mayor for a day, many young students said they’d build a gaga pit at the school.

Inspired by the idea, the 2024–2025 fifth-grade class took action, submitting a formal letter to various community groups, including the Albany PTO, outlining their reasons for wanting the gaga pit and the benefits they believed it would bring. The PTO loved the idea and the class’s gumption, and enlisted the help of former Albany ISD superintendent Shane Fields, who not only contributed financially but also researched gaga pit materials and completed construction over the summer.

“We were excited to help make this dream a reality, not just for all students to enjoy, but also to recognize and applaud last year’s fifth-grade class for their initiative and for taking the proper steps to bring their idea to fruition. We would also like to thank Mr. Fields for all of his work in completing this project and his continued dedication to our schools and students,” said Robin Balliew, PTO treasurer.

Now complete, the gaga pit has quickly become a favorite recess activity, proving to be a big hit among students.