The Cypress School District celebrated the grand opening of its newly constructed STEM labs and arts classrooms during a Ribbon Cutting Ceremony held at Frank Vessels Elementary School on August 12. The STEM facilities are furnished to support hands-on, project-based learning experiences for students, while the arts classrooms are acoustically designed for music and performing arts instruction.
A number of local leaders and community members were in attendance to show their support for these new programs, which will be provided for all District students beginning this school year. Honored guests included Cypress Mayor Mariellen Yarc, Cypress City Council Member Stacy Berry, Cypress Police Department Commander Steven Ramsey, and State Assemblywoman Young Kim.
In her welcoming remarks, Superintendent Anne Silavs stated, "It is important to acknowledge that all this was made possible through the vision and steadfast commitment of past and present School Board Members, whose dedicated service turned this dream into a reality."
These new facilities will support the District's ongoing efforts to
- Deliver cutting-edge instruction for student success in college and career,
- Inspire student innovation, creativity, and appreciation for the arts,
- Prepare students for the jobs of the future, and
- Provide students in the community with a competitive advantage at the university level and in the job market.
During the ceremony, Cypress School District Board of Trustees Vice President Brian Nakamura accepted certificates of recognition from Assemblywoman Kim and Jeremy Tran, a representative from Orange County Supervisor Michelle Steel's office.
"We are excited about what these new programs will mean for our students. We look forward to the many amazing things we know our students will accomplish as a result of this investment in their education," said Trustee Nakamura.
Following the presentation, guests enjoyed refreshments and toured the new facilities with district staff, who demonstrated various types of technology and provided information regarding the unique features of each classroom.
"It's hard to believe that just three short months ago we were breaking ground on this important project. Yet here we are today, on the third day of school, opening these brand new facilities for our students and staff," observed Tim McLellan, Assistant Superintendent, Business Services. "We are so grateful to our team for all their hard work to get these classrooms ready in time for the new school year."
Superintendent Silavs remarked, "Some school districts offer these types of programs at just one or two schools or just for certain grade levels. I am proud that the Cypress School District will be providing these valuable learning experiences for all our kids."
