Part of the new inclusive playground at Panama Public Schools (Photo submitted by Jennifer Toney)
Panama, OK – 05/01/2026– Panama Public Schools was awarded a TSET Healthy Incentive Grant of $47,285.00 from the Tobacco Settlement Endowment Trust (TSET). The grant will pay for the development of an inclusive playground designed to meet the needs of students of all abilities, including adaptive equipment for students with physical and intellectual disabilities at Panama Public Schools.
TSET Healthy Incentive Grants fund projects and equipment that promote wellness, improve access to physical activity and encourage tobacco-free living. The program rewards schools and school districts that adopt policies that promote healthy living.
Panama Public Schools qualified for the grant by updating and strengthening district wellness policies and tobacco-free school policies to align with TSET requirements. As part of the application process, the district demonstrated a strong commitment to student health by promoting a healthy youth initiative, increasing awareness of prevention efforts, and supporting resources such as the Oklahoma Tobacco Helpline. These efforts reflect the district’s dedication to creating a healthier environment for students, staff, and the community.
“We are honored to receive this grant from TSET,” said Jennifer Toney, Panama Special Education Director. “Over the past few years, our life skills program has continued to grow, and we have seen firsthand the impact of creating meaningful, inclusive opportunities for our students with disabilities alongside their peers. This inclusive playground is another step in that vision, ensuring all students have a place to play, connect, and belong. These funds will allow us to provide accessible and engaging physical activity opportunities that will benefit our students for years to come while continuing to build a culture of inclusion within our school and community.”
TSET Healthy Incentive Grants empower schools to make meaningful, sustainable changes that encourage healthier lifestyles. Since the program began in 2013, schools across Oklahoma have used these grants to fund a variety of projects that improve well-being and academic success.
For more information about the TSET Healthy Incentive Grant Program, visit TSET Healthy Incentive Grant Program
Get Local News!
