In fact, equity is a big theme in the district’s approach to facilities upgrades, said Trenton Hansen,
Assistant Superintendent for Organizational Leadership and Planning.
“We are committed to ensuring 21st century facilities districtwide,” Dr. Hansen said.
“Our schools – some built decades ago – are being upgraded, as funds become available, to provide a modern, interactive learning environment for every student.”
Voter-approved local school bonds – dedicated 100 percent to school facility construction/modernization – unlock matching school-bond funding from the state, empowering districts such as JUSD to make sweeping improvements that far exceed what might be done with local money alone.
At JUSD, achievements to date include myriad modernization projects. For example:
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At Glen Avon Elementary, upgrades underway have an estimated completion date of early 2021. Improvements include a new library and office building, along with modernization of every permanent classroom. The project also will enhance accessibility to campus facilities.
- Ina Arbuckle Elementary, built in 1956, was last modernized in 1987- until its refurbishment in 2019. Improvements include a new kindergarten wing, new playgrounds, a new library media/center, a new multipurpose room and a new administration office.
- A project to modernize and expand West Riverside Elementary began in late 2018. Improvements include a new office, classroom and library building, and a renovated early 20th century structure converted to an Innovation Lab. Still to come are an outdoor amphitheater, a new playing field and more classrooms and offices.
Upcoming projects include:
- The modernization of Troth Street Elementary School.
- Construction of a concert hall at Rubidoux High to showcase student talent in band, choir and orchestra.
Broadly, JUSD has delivered new playgrounds at Granite Hill, Ina Arbuckle, Indian Hills, Pedley, Rustic Lane, Sky Country, Stone Avenue, Sunnyslope, and Van Buren elementary schools and the Pacific Avenue Academy of Music.
Other improvements include a refurbished track and new video production studio at Rubidoux High, a welding lab at Nueva Vista High, and an Innovation Center at JHVS that supports classes in areas such as engineering and design and building and construction trades.
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Site leaders shared perspective on the upgrades and what they have meant to student learning:
- “The learning environment at West Riverside has changed completely. Our incredible classrooms, library, innovation center, playground and landscaping have uplifted the spirits of the entire community. Students want to come to school and they are proud to be Dragons!"
- Marcy Hale, Principal of West Riverside Elementary
- “In Jurupa Unified, safety is our top priority. In 2017, Mira Loma Middle received safety gates and panic bars. Seventeen other schools in our district were also upgraded. Learning is uninhibited when students and staff are safe."
- Mary Boules, Principal of Mira Loma Middle School
- “Jurupa Valley High School's facilities look far different than just five years ago. All of the upgrades, including the Innovation Center, have made learning without limits possible."
- Kimberly Corbin, Principal of JVHS
