A penny at a time, Emerick Elementary is taking steps to improve its playground.

The PTO grabbed the reigns of the project and is working to raise money for the renovation. At the same time, the school started the Pennies for the Playground project so students could contribute their spare pennies to the effort.

Students will also have their say on the playground’s final appearance with voting that will include the children.

“We want everyone to take special pride in it,” principal Deborah Cookus said of the playground.

Cookus said the playground is just one example of how the community, school and parents have teamed up on projects.

She said the school has several events that help to bring the community together, such as a skating night, secret Santa, movie night and silent auction.

“What struck me when I came here is the family and community feel that the school has,” Cookus said.

According to the school’s improvement plan, 90 percent of first-grade students were reading at or above their grade level in 2005-06. The school has historically had few or no students with limited English skills, although Emerick had 14 such students in 2005-06.

About 84 percent of students passed all of their SOL tests during the 2005-06 school year, with the district setting a goal of 90 percent.

Like other elementary schools in Loudoun County, Emerick has technology assistants who work with teachers to help them integrate technology into the curriculum. Cookus said the arts also play a large role at the school.

Students can join a variety of clubs, including chorus, art and Spanish clubs, as well as those hosted by the PTO. The school is also beginning a literacy program to benefit each student in kindergarten through second grades.

Cookus said the school sends out surveys regularly to get feedback from parents about any possible improvements that need to be made.

She said the school plans to focus on improving the academics of its students and building upon the core values that exist in the community.

“I want us to continue what we are,” she said. “I hope we can maintain that sense of community.”