Recess will have an extra special meaning this week as Cape Elizabeth youngsters go back to school.

At both the Pond Cove and Middle School, two new colorful, fun playgrounds will be there to enjoy.

Kids have already been playing on the new equipment at the Middle School, and Pond Cove Principal Tom Eismeier promises the structure at his school will be ready in time for opening day Aug. 29.

In answer to numerous parent and student queries, Eismeier told the School Board last Thursday that the new equipment will be open to all students, not just first- and second-graders who traditionally use the end of the playground where the new structure is being built. "We will adjust the schedule, and I think they're just going to love it," he said.

During the summer, the playground at the Middle School and one of two playgrounds at Pond Cove were removed and replaced with new structures and surfaces.

Cost of the renovation was $239,000, much of which came from grants and community donations organized by CapePlay, a group of parents and citizens organized to replace the schools' 15-year-old playgrounds with new equipment that is safe, colorful and fun.

"That project," said Eismeier, "with Town support, parent involvement and community involvement through fundraising has just blossomed into two playgrounds -- and a third on the way -- that the whole community can be very proud of."