Fulton County Schools replaced mulch with rubberized play surfaces at Ocee Elementary and three other campuses, removing barriers for students who use wheelchairs and walkers.

Two Tire Product Grants from the Georgia Department of Natural Resources' Georgia Environmental Protection Division (EPD) funded the work, according to a district announcement. Traditional mulch and other playground surfaces can create barriers for students who use wheelchairs, walkers or other mobility supports, the district said. The rubberized surfaces, made from recycled tires through the state's grant program, replace that mulch.

A 2026 grant supported playground upgrades at Asa G. Hilliard, Heritage, Ocee and Woodland elementary schools. All four offer specialized autism and adapted learning programs for students with physical, developmental and intellectual needs. A first grant had funded a similar project at Campbell Elementary School, where a ribbon-cutting was held in August 2024.

Ocee Elementary Principal LaTosha Gray said the upgraded surface is giving students a safe, comfortable space to play outdoors. "Our students are loving it," Gray said. "The new cushioned surface provides an added layer of protection."

At Asa G. Hilliard Elementary, Principal Tiambi Walker said staff members have observed students interacting more frequently across grade levels and abilities since the surface was installed. That's a change.

Walker said the playground has become a space where students build friendships and develop confidence.

Woodland Elementary Principal Marcquez Haley said the new rubberized surface will provide many of the school's students who use wheelchairs and other mobility supports with safer, more independent access to playground spaces. Heritage Elementary Principal Tracee Ragland said the upgrade has been especially meaningful for students who use wheelchairs, giving them greater access to play alongside classmates.

Grant amounts were not included in the district's announcement. The four 2026 schools join Campbell Elementary as FCS campuses with the upgraded surfaces.