Halloween was more than trick-or-treating and pumpkin carving for the residents of the Glen Park neighborhood this fall as the Halloween Festival hosted by the San Francisco Shared Schoolyard Project served a fun, holiday-themed community event that provided educational and neighborhood-building opportunities.   

Over 200 attendees scattered the yard to partake in activities ranging from face-painting, cooking lessons, to soccer. Tenacious Tennis set up the nets for everyone to enjoy a game of tennis. Mission YMCA provided the little ones with an opportunity to create their perfect version of "slime!" Tutu School of West Portal and Girls Scouts both registered young girls for their respective organizations. City College of San Francisco tabled and informed neighbors that City College is now free for San Francisco residents. The SFFD brought out their fire truck for everyone to explore!

The large crowd of teachers, parents, children, and neighbors gathered as Glen Park teacher Lia McLoughlin lead off  the speaking program. She thanked everyone for coming out and celebrating Halloween at Glen Park. She was followed by Supervisor Mark Farrell, who has spearheaded the Shared Schoolyard Project since 2012, and Supervisor Jeff Sheehy, who also thanked neighbors and community members for coming out.

Glen Park Elementary School is open on the weekends between 9:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. The schoolyard will be opened by the San Francisco Recreation and Parks department and cleaned by the San Francisco Department of Public Works. For any questions or more information about the San Francisco Shared Schoolyard Project, please contact Amy Randel at randela@sfusd.edu or by phone at (415)308-6596.