I wouldn't say that's normal. Typically the playground committee does the hard work of researching, pricing, and recommending what equipment the playground should include. The principal has final say, of course, but if there's a disagreement it's usually worked out through discussions and more research. To be honest, I don't think it makes sense for the principal -- or any one person -- to make this decision on his own. It's a large cash outlay, and it's not as simple as saying "this looks fun, and I think kids would like that, too." It takes some thought to create a playground that works for kids of wide ranging abilities, interests, and ages.
- Craig
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