Dhruv Saripalli, a local Scout with Scouting America, is partnering with the Katy ISD’s Cimarron Elementary PTA to bring the joy of music to all children. For his Eagle Scout Service Project, Saripalli, a sophomore at Tompkins High School, is raising money to install inclusive musical play equipment on the school's playground.

Cimarron Elementary, 1100 S. Peek in Katy, is a Title 1 school with an enrollment of 564 students, and it serves proportionately more special needs students than the district average of 16.2 percent, according to 2023-2024 information from the Texas Tribune. Children with autism or who are in special education and structured life classes in receive special instruction in addition to regular classes. In the school playground, there is no current equipment accessible to children in these classes, Saripalli told the Katy Times.

“This new equipment will let children of all physical and cognitive abilities play and create music together,” he said. "Every child deserves a chance to play, express themselves, and have fun with their friends. This playground will make sure no student feels left out during recess."

The new outdoor musical instruments will include durable, beautifully tuned pieces like drums and chimes. These tools help kids develop motor skills, relieve stress, and build friendships.

The total cost for this project is over $30,000. The Cimarron Elementary PTA has already shown incredible support by contributing $10,000, Saripalli told the Katy Times in an email in mid-July. Now, Saripalli and the PTA are launching a community fundraiser to raise the remaining $20,000 needed to buy and install the instruments.

“Our community takes pride in the innovation and servant leadership exhibited by so many students across Katy ISD,” said Cimarron Elementary Principal Lindsay Chase in a statement to the Katy Times. “The student's commitment and passion exhibited in his Eagle Scout Service Project to make additions to Cimarron Elementary’s playground are commendable. He’s shown a collaborative spirit in his partnership with Cimarron and its PTA.”

Saripalli and the PTA are asking local businesses, neighbors, and community leaders to help them reach their goal. Every donation brings the school closer to a more inclusive environment.

To make a donation or to learn more about the project, please contact the Cimarron Elementary PTA or visit the official fundraising page.

About Scouting America

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