The Chickering School in has some new playground equipment, and anyone who attended last night's Chickering School PTO Picnic knows that this equipment will most certainly fulfil its use.

The Chickering School PTO held their third annual picnic last night, and organizers said it was the largest turnout they had ever had. Not only was the weather perfect, but the date aligned perfectly with the school schedule in that they didn't have today off for an extended long weekend this year.

"It's definitely more people than we've ever had in three years," PTO Co-President Heather Tourtellotte said.

One reason may have been the addition of a food truck, as Chickering welcomed Captain Marden's Cod Squad, who served a little bit of everything, including lobster rolls and clam rolls.

A DJ entertained and interacted with the kids, and many might say the highlight of the night, in the kids' minds, was the arrival of the ice cream truck.

"This is a good introduction to education," PTO Co-President Patricia Martinovich said with a smile as she talked about how the kids go to school for a day or two and then come back for a giant party. She also explained how Chickering has a sense of community, with everyone pitching in to watch each other's children.

The playground equipment was all made possible through donations by parents. There was an auction held in the spring as well, and there were also a few anonymous donors, but without Chickering's own parents it wouldn't have happened.

One highlight of the night for the kids was the announcement of the winner of this year's directory cover art contest. Each year every Chickering student who wants to can submit a piece of artwork to be judged by a panel who will determine what picture will grace the cover of the school's directory.

This year's winner, announced late last night at the picnic, is fifth grader Sophia Maurer. Maurer's art will be on the cover of this year's directory. You can view it in the photos.

The PTO's next big event will be on Dover Day, which is September 8. The PTO will be running games for the kids that day.