Tommy Takes a Tumble

Description

Tommy is a wheelchair-bound student. Unfortunately, the design of the school's playground reflects little consideration for those with disabilities. The uneven terrain severely limits Tommy’s ability to play with classmates. As a result, Tommy is often left out of activities and some children poke fun at Tommy’s circumstances. Tommy begins to suffer from anxiety and depression due to the constant feelings of being left out. However, Tommy is determined not to let his disability hinder his participation. When he notices other children playing tag, he decides he will keep up with them no matter what it takes. Tommy runs into a hole in the pavement, causing his wheelchair to flip over and results in serious head injuries. Jackie and Samantha, Tommy’s school nurse and psychologist, are both horrified by this incident that has negatively impacted his health and well-being. Frustrated by the school board’s refusal to accept responsibility and provide funding to make improvements, they file a formal complaint to the Department of Public Health and Safety. As head of this department, Federica is called in to investigate the incident. Upon investigation, she finds that the school entrances and playground landscape are poorly equipped for children with disabilities and represent a threat to overall public safety. Tommy’s teacher, Eve, also recognizes the need for a more inclusive playground. Eve collaborates with Jackie, Samantha and Frederica in efforts to develop a proposal for implementing necessary changes to all schools regarding accessibility for students with disabilities. The four women approach Mike, an urban designer at a local planning firm, for ideas on design improvements for those with disabilities. Together they all use their expertise to create a functional design for playgrounds and schools that allow children to have a safe, inclusive and visually stimulating space to play in, develop and grow. The five professionals set out to change the school board’s attitude and convince them that the benefits of the proposed changes are worth the financial investment. Overall, they hope to create necessary changes that will never place a child in Tommy’s situation ever again.