PACIFIC BEACH – Monday, Feb. 2, dawned bright and clear as Pacific Beach Elementary officially marked the end to the school’s two-and-a-half-year expansion, remodeling, and modernization effort.
“Our students love these new and upgraded facilities, and we love to see them love them,” said Karon Schnitzer, Pacific Beach Elementary’s principal. “Our teachers can also do more with the spaces, so it’s a win-win.”
More than two years ago, construction began on the to bring students a new transitional kindergarten and kindergarten building, a grass field, a secure main campus entryway, renovated classrooms, and shade shelters.
Funded by local bond measures, the kindergarten facility includes modern, state-of-the-art classrooms and collaborative workspaces that lead out to a new play structure with a shade shelter. A second shade shelter was installed in the general play area.
“It’s been amazing to see our school go under construction since I’ve been here,” said fifth-grade student Suzy Liielnora. “I know future students will have great experiences with these new facilities.”
All existing classrooms, the student services facility, and the multi-purpose room were renovated, and all restrooms and the school kitchen were upgraded. To make room for these new facilities, the three portable classrooms that were built in 1976 were removed.
A TK through fifth-grade campus, Pacific Beach Elementary offers robust arts and science programs; music, theater, and dance opportunities; and hands-on scientific experiences through a partnership with San Diego Youth Science.
Following up on a community request, the one-acre joint-use field is being expanded and upgraded to include a walking and running track, a renovated basketball court, new trees, a drinking fountain, secure perimeter fencing, and a public access gate.
As part of the Play All Day partnership with the city of San Diego, the joint-use field will be accessible to the community as a local park after school hours and during school breaks. A separate dedication for the field will be held once it opens to the public later this spring/early summer.
Located along Tourmaline Street, Pacific Beach Elementary has served the community for 96 years.
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