October 26, 2021
By Kelli Gile, Office of Community Resources
DIAMOND BAR, CA—Wearing blue hard hats, Walnut Valley USD leaders ceremoniously scooped golden shovels of earth at the official groundbreaking for South Point Middle School’s new performing arts building on October 20.
Parents, staff, students, community members, and local officials attended the event marking construction onset of a 10,000 square-foot music center funded by community support of Measure WV.
“This is a celebration of what we can accomplish when we all come together with a strong vision,” shared Principal Dr. Susan Arzola.
“It’s a big day for all of us!”
The South Pointe Choir opened ceremony with the “National Anthem” performed by eighth grade member Ashley Shah and “We Can Dream” under the direction of Robin Wadsworth.
A percussion ensemble presented “On The Spectrum” led by band and instrumental music director Susan Willmering.
Parents in attendance were thrilled to see children perform for the first time together since pandemic swept through the nation, Principal Arzola commented.
“It’s exciting to know that this state-of-the-art facility will impact generations of students,” said Superintendent Dr. Robert Taylor.
“Congratulations to the kids, you are the big winners today!”
“Thank you to our Walnut Valley community and everyone involved for making this possible,” added Board President Layla Abou-Taleb.
Principal Arzola shared that the new construction project will have a “ripple effect” on campus.
“It is very exciting just to start to dream of the possibilities that are going to be coming with this amazing performing arts building,” she noted.
With the expansion of band and choir programs, spin and dance classes will move into existing music rooms, the television studio will grow from a closet to a class, and a full classroom will now be dedicated to the robotics and STEAM program.
“Thanks to the Walnut Valley USD and our community, the sound of music will be louder and stronger here at South Pointe!”
Shown:
Golden Shovels! Walnut Valley USD hosts groundbreaking ceremony for South Pointe Middle School performing arts building on Oct 20. Shown: Principal Dr. Susan Arzola, Band and Instrumental Music Teacher Susan Willmering, Board Member Cindy Ruiz, Board Member Larry Redinger, Board Member Layla Abou-Taleb, Choir and Drama Teacher Robin Wadsworth, Choir President Katherine Vallarta, ASB President Evelyn Kim, Band President Megan Chou, Board Member Dr. Tony Torng, and Superintendent Dr. Robert Taylor.
Dig It! South Pointe staff members mark groundbreaking of new performing arts building.
South Pointe choir and band students perform during Oct. 20 groundbreaking ceremony.
Groundbreaking Day! South Pointe percussion ensemble with director Susan Willmering.
Superintendent Dr. Robert Taylor, Board President Layla Abou-Taleb, and Principal Dr. Susan Arzola deliver comments at groundbreaking ceremony.