November 19, 2021
By Kelli Gile, Office of Community Resources
WALNUT, CA— Construction will soon commence on a two-story science and technology classroom building and gymnasium at Suzanne Middle School.
Walnut Valley USD celebrated the groundbreaking of the nearly $5.2 million state-of-the-art facilities funded by Measure WV during a groundbreaking ceremony on Wednesday.
“I want to thank our community for making this possible!” said Superintendent Dr. Robert Taylor to parents, staff, students, community members, and local officials in attendance.
“You can see the effects it’s having throughout our entire district with modernization projects at all 15 schools.”
The 10,000 square-foot science building will feature ten STEAM-focused classrooms with collaboration work spaces.
The 12,000 square-foot gymnasium will include interior bleachers, full-size basketball court and two practice courts, volleyball court, wood gym floor, and attached Kinesiology workout room.
“The modern design will fully transform the look of our campus and we’re excited to have that happen soon!” shared Principal Dr. Amy Smith during the November 17 ceremony.
The Board of Trustees awarded the contract for the two-story classroom building and gymnasium to R.C. Construction Services at the October 20 meeting.
The winning bid for the projects designed by DC Architects was $5,100,911.00.
“Thank you to everyone that made this bond measure a reality to enable us to upgrade our facilities,” commented Board President Layla Abou-Taleb.
Two student leaders also shared their thoughts about the campus construction.
“This is a great thing for our school!” exclaimed ASB President 8th grader Maxwell Alfaro.
“And although I may not see the finished project, I’m happy knowing my little sisters will be able to enjoy these new buildings for me.”
Seventh grade school treasurer Brandon Lee said he is “ecstatic” about utilizing the school additions next year and that they will benefit everyone on campus.
“I believe Suzanne students will be very excited because the new science building will be more modern and high-tech and the new gym will be useful in many ways,” he said.
The Walnut campus built in 1962 has never had a gymnasium.
“For example, if a basketball bounces out of the court it can interfere with other games and activities if outdoors,” Lee noted.
“However, with the indoor gym it will hit the wall instead!”
“It will also protect us from the sun on hot days and from getting wet on rainy days,” Lee added.
The 487-day construction will begin on November 29 with a projected completion in Spring 2023.
“I’m really excited for current and future generations of students who will benefit from these facilities!” Supt. Dr. Taylor said.
Shown:
Golden Shovel Day! Walnut Valley USD hosts a groundbreaking ceremony for Suzanne Middle School two-story classroom building and gymnasium on Nov. 17. Shown: Board Member Dr. Tony Torng, Student Brandon Lee, Student Maxwell Alfaro, Principal Dr. Amy Smith, Board Member Cindy Ruiz, Board President Layla Abou-Taleb, and Superintendent Dr. Robert Taylor.
Dig It! Suzanne Middle School staff members mark groundbreaking of two new buildings on campus.
Walnut Valley USD celebrated new construction projects funded by Measure WV at Suzanne Middle School on Nov 17.