Forest Hill Elementary School’s New “net-zero” energy-efficient Arty building is ready for students
August 15, 2025; San Jose, Calif.: For students, completing Forest Hill 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.
Forest Hill’s new multi-use building is the fifth Campbell Union School District “grid neutral” buildings that has been built since 2013. Other Completed buildings are, Blackford Elementary, Castlemont Elementary, Sherman Oaks Charter schools and Lynhaven Elementary 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 appeal for Forest Hill Elementary
Completing the building’s esthetics are several pieces of artwork created exclusively for Forest Hill Elementary 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 and growth for student to experience bright futures,” she said. “I created these bold pieces to inspire the students with powerful images. These two art pieces “Playful Music & Education” and “The Sky’s the Limit” are meant to show students that they can dare to dream to be their own person. I designed images that would resinate with the youth in our community and make them think about life and the long-lasting value of education, arts and music. This new building and the art within can inspire students to do their best, and remember to always keep learning, This is the fifth school I have created art for and I am so honored to be part of this amazing project.” Paz said.
Forest Hill Vice Principal, Chelsea Armann said “I am thrilled that our new Multi-Use Room will include colorful and joyful art pieces that reflect the spirit and personality of our school. This artwork gives true Forest Hill Falcon character and life to a space that might otherwise seem a little impersonal.”
Grand Opening Celebration Friday, August 22 at 8:30am
The first official celebration in Forest Hill’s new building happens for a ribbon cutting on Friday, August 22, 2025 at 8:30am. Artist Sonya Paz, Principal, teachers, staff and parents of the students who attend Forest Hill Elementary School will be in attendance.
Forest Hill Elementary School was established in 1962 and is located at 4450 McCoy Avenue in San Jose. It is one of 12 schools operated by the Campbell Union School District. Approximately 520 students attend Forest Hill 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 Forest Hill Elementary School visit their website at:
https://foresthill.campbellusd.org/school-information/about-forest-hill
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.
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