Lynhaven School’s New “net-zero” energy-efficient Arty building is ready for students
August 24, 2023; San Jose, Calif.- For students, completing Lynhaven 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.
Lynhaven’s new multi-use building is the fourth Campbell Union School District “grid neutral” buildings that has been built since 2013. Other Completed buildings are, Blackford Elementary, Castlemont Elementary and Sherman Oaks Charter schools, thanks to the 2010 Measure G school bond.
These buildings have provided a vibrant place 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 these buildings 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 artwork adds to appeal
Completing the building’s esthetics are several pieces of artwork created exclusively for Lynhaven by native San Jose artist Sonya Paz. Born and raised in Santa Clara, Paz has been creating and designing a broad range of artwork for many clients and organizations for more than 35 years. The two large art panels measuring 5′ x 7′ will be prominently displayed on both sides of the stage, and there will be 10 colorful pop art icons of the same theme displayed around the perimeter of the large room.
She explained the themes behind her visual images: “My art radiates optimism for student to experience bright futures,” she said. “I created these bold pieces to inspire the students with powerful images. These two art pieces ” Learning is Where Dreams Begin” and “Lynx to the Future” – (a play on words based on the Lynhaven Lynx mascot) are 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. This new building and the art within can inspire students to do their best, and remember to always keep learning, This is the fourth school I have created art for and I am so honored to be part of this amazing project.” Paz said.
Lynhaven’s Principal, Alanna Callaway Wilson said “Sonya took the time to understand and capture the values and identity of our school community in her artwork. With her artwork, our new common space/multi use room now feels like “us.” Staff and students love the vibrant colors and playful feeling of the pieces. We are really looking forward to sharing them with our families at our Back-to-School Night Welcome celebration.”
Grand Opening Celebration Tue., August 29 at 5:30pm
The first official celebration in Lynhaven’s new building happens at Back to School Night. Artist Sonya Paz, Principal, teachers, staff and parents of the students who attend Lynhaven Elementary School will be in attendance.
Lynhaven Elementary School was established in 1958 and is located at 881 Cypress Avenue in San Jose. It is one of 12 schools operated by the Campbell Union School District. Approximately 488 students attend Lynhaven School, ranging from transitional kindergarten to grade five. This construction project is part of a campus-wide renovation made possible by the 2010 Measure G school bond funds.
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.
To learn more about Lynhaven Elementary School visit their website at:
https://lynhaven.campbellusd.org/school-information/about
For more information on Sonya Paz and her artwork, visit her website at www.sonyapaz.com, she can also be reached at 408-378-5000.
