Jacob Hiatt and Janemarie Petersen don’t have to struggle anymore to get outside to play with their peers at recess or participate in fire drills at Warren Elementary because they are wheelchair bound.

Their new found freedom comes thanks to the determination of teacher J.J. Lamb and a couple of local businesses who contributed to the project of building a wheelchair ramp on the west side of the school.

“It’s a wonderful thing,” said Jane Petersen, Janemarie’s mom.

In previous years Jacob and Janemarie would have to go around the entire building to get outside even though the door to the “big kid” playground was closest to their classrooms.

Administrators were supportive of the community service project because it promotes equal access as well as complete inclusion and involvement with the students’ peers.

“It’s a nice thing to get done,” Principal Tim McMahon said. “For us it allows these kids to be able to exit the building and go out to the playground the same way their classmates do in the fourth and fifth grades. It will be easier because of the access point and (because it) allows them to be more incorporated.”

The supplies were donated by Helena Sand and Gravel. Tabbert Construction donated the labor and machinery for the job.

It was the fire-drill issue that jolted Jason Tabbert enough to motivate the company’s contributions, he said.

“I wish I could have done it three years go, but it will be there for the next kid,” said Tabbert, vice president of the company.

Jacob has muscular dystrophy and Janemarie has cerebral palsy, and although they enjoy things that typical 10-year-olds do, sometimes they have to experience them differently.

They both like animals and playing board games. Janemarie loves pink, and her four cats, which, most of the time, all sleep with her.

Jacob is a history buff, likes spiders, and is a big fan of anything relating to “Star Wars.” His family also has animals — two cats and five dogs. His favorite dog is Bruiser, although he affectionately refers to him as “devil dog.”

Jacob’s mom Apryl wasn’t surprised to get the call from Lamb about his idea to build a new ramp because he frequently called her to keep a strong line of open communication between the school and home.

She said Lamb has a strong bond with his students and humbly cares for them in many ways.

Lamb says no matter what kind of morning he is having seeing Jacob always brightens his day with his constant smile and sparkle.

“No matter how my day starts, he cheers me up,” Lamb said.

Reporter Alana Listoe: 447-4081 or alana.listoe@heleair.com