February 7, 2014
Contact: Marla Sanchez
Communications Specialist
msanchez@campbellusd.org
Direct: 408-341-7254
Office: 408-364-4200
Sherman OaksSchool renovation benefits students and community
February 7, 2014; Campbell, California. For students, completing Sherman Oaks School’s new “net-zero” energy multi-use building means faster lunch lines and a new place for assemblies and school activities. For everyone else, it is an appealing and energy-neutral space for community events and increased property values.
Sherman Oaks new multi-use building is the third of eight planned for Campbell Union School District. The other “grid neutral” buildings are under construction thanks to the 2010 Measure G school bond.
These buildings will provide vibrant places for students and community members to learn, perform, exercise and celebrate achievements, while helping the District reach its goal of reducing overall District-wide energy consumption by 60 percent. “Net-zero” means the Sherman Oaks building will use the same or less energy than it produces over the course of a year, which will reduce its energy bill to virtually zero. The building can accommodate more than 500 people, and features a stage with a large rear-projection system, stage lighting, built-in sound system with public address, a food service area and auxiliary rooms. The larger space and improved food service area will allow students to move through lunch lines faster, leaving them more time for eating and free play before returning to class.
Local artist’s exclusive work adds to appeal
Completing the building’s aesthetics are several pieces of artwork created exclusively for Sherman Oaks by local artist Sonya Paz. A San Jose-based artist, Paz has been creating and designing a broad range of artwork for many clients and organizations for more than 25 years.
She explained the themes behind her visual images:
“My art is meant to be hopeful and show optimism for a bright future,” she said. “I created these bold pieces to inspire the students with powerful images. My art “Beacon of Light” and “Musica del Corizon” is meant to show students that they can dare to dream to be their own person. I sought to design images that would strike a chord with the youth in our community and make them think about life and the long-lasting value of education. I hope that the students are inspired to learn, do their best, and remember to always be individuals, Paz said.
“Beacon of Light” An inspiring and pleasant piece of artwork that represents the Beacon to the Community – a welcoming statement. The lighthouse is prominent and emphasizes the guiding light cast on the stars. “Reaching for the stars” is the focus here by way of the lighthouse. The soaring Eagle identifies the school mascot and the strength and foundation of education for the students. The California poppies anchor the shoreline and starfish at the base of the lighthouse. The pathways significant to learning and positive futures. The sunny sky, the arched hills with water to represent nature.
“Musica del Corizon” This is vibrant piece of art based on the elements of music, theater and performing arts that we discussed. The guitar represents many diverse cultures of music and how the guitar is represented. The tree represents knowledge, learning and culture, The tree is symbolic as a source of life and it is emerging. The drum helps anchor this piece to emphasize structure, much like the education is the foundation and structure needed for the students. Mountains in the background to indicate our presence in the Silicon Valley. Sunny sun and blue skies represent California life.
To inquire about renting the building, call 408-364-4200, or visit campbellusd.org/district/facilityuse.
Photo Opportunity: Grand Opening Celebration
The first official celebration in Sherman Oaks new building happens at Back to School Night. Local dignitaries attending include District Board Members, San Jose Councilman Pierluigi Oliverio, Campbell Mayor Evan Low, local artist Sonya Paz, architects from Aedis Architects, and parents of the 600 students who attend Sherman Oaks School.
Campbell Union School District educates more than 7,800 students, from preschool to eighth grade. Its 12 schools serve the communities of Campbell, Los Gatos, Monte Sereno, San Jose, Santa Clara, and Saratoga. In addition to traditional educational programs, the district offers a parent participation school, a dual language immersion school, extended-day enrichment programs and home schooling.
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