When an elementary school in Dartmouth lost its playground last year, the school turned to students, staff and local businesses to fundraise for a new one.

A year later, the principal of the school says she has been overwhelmed by the community’s response.

“We put it out to our school community and thus far, in less than a year, we’ve raised $111,000,” says Lee-Anne Coveyduc, the principal at Crichton Park School.

“Some of that money came from family donations, community donations, corporate donations and then our students here held some fundraisers.”

The playground was torn down last spring after the city cited safety concerns.

“At that time we started applying for grants to have a new playground put in but unfortunately we couldn’t get any grant money,” says Coveyduc.

The school turned to the community for help and many students also stepped up by hosting fundraisers. A handful of students even donated $800 in birthday money.

“I told my parents that I wanted to raise money for my birthday party,” says Grade 1 student Norah Funder.

“When I had my party everyone gave me $5 and I made $20,” says Grade 2 student Jayden Butler.

The donors are all recognized on a donation tree displayed in the school, but the fundraising efforts aren’t over.

Next month a songwriters circle called “The Stage is our Playground” will held at Pier 21.

“It’s hosted by ECMA winner Charlie A’Court, featuring Ian Janes, Ian Sherwood and myself,” says Emily Myers, a member of the Parent-Playground Committee.

Myers has two children who attend Crichton Park School. She sang on A’Court’s first album and says he was pleased to be able to help the cause.

“We champion any cause that gets kids active, outdoors,” says Myers. “It’s good for their physical health, it’s good for their mental health.”

At $110,000, the school is getting closer to its fundraising goal of $150,000. But Coveyduc says it’s about more than just the money – it’s also about the lessons learned along the way.

“I think they’re learning really good citizenship skills,” says Coveyduc.

“I think they’re learning that if they put their minds to it they can make anything happen and I think they’re learning what community is all about.”

With files from CTV Atlantic's Jacqueline Foster