The Springfield-Greene County Park Board and Community Partnership of the Ozarks (CPO) cut the ribbon on a unique playground at Phelps Grove Park in the fall. The Roseann Bentley Musical Playground was dedicated Nov. 21.
Named for CPO founding member Roseann Bentley and located in Phelps Grove Park, the playground features eight colorful percussion instruments for those of all ages and abilities.
CPO approached the Park Board in 2022 about building a playground in Bentley’s honor, who served on CPO’s board of directors for over 20 years.
“As a longtime champion for children and early childhood education, Roseann’s impact on Springfield and Greene County, the region, and our state has been immeasurable,” said Janet Dankert, president/CEO of CPO. “The CPO board and staff as well as the Park Board agree that this project is the perfect way to recognize and honor Roseann’s contributions for years to come.”
It took CPO less than a year to raise the funds needed for the playground through donations from the community, including a contribution from the five Rotary Clubs in Springfield.
“It’s incredible that we’re opening this playground exactly 12 months after we announced the project last year,” said Park Board member Leslie Carrier. “That shows how much our community loves parks, but more than that, it shows how much our community loves Roseann and her family, and how we all wanted to provide a tangible ‘thank you’ for all that she has done over the years and service in our community.”
About Roseann Bentley
Born in Springfield in 1936, Bentley is a former educator, state senator and Greene County commissioner. She spent over 50 years in public service advocating for families, children and education.
Bentley’s career began in classrooms, teaching kindergarten and first-grade students. She would later serve on the Springfield Public School Board of Education, the State Board of Education, the National Association of State Boards of Education and the Parents as Teachers Board of Directors.