Lynwood Unified School District’s Washington and Wilson elementary schools showcased new safety features and upgraded facilities during grand openings and ribbon-cutting ceremonies on May 25.
District Board members, administrators and the Washington and Wilson school communities gathered for intimate outdoor events to celebrate the improvements.
At Washington Elementary, Principal Sandra Verduzco welcomed more than 25 District employees and guests to see the modernizations, including an expanded front office with wide and secure front doors, updated floors and paint, and new fencing and gates for increased security.
“The improvements provide a new modern look and feel while also giving our staff and students extra layers of security between them and the public,” Verduzco said. “The changes have also given staff much more room to operate.”
After a tour of the facility upgrades, the LUSD caravan traveled to Wilson Elementary for the unveiling of its new, modernized front entrance.
In addition to the front entrances, both schools received new lobby areas that provide a safe buffer between visitors and staff, security cameras and control systems that require visitors to buzz in and be identified before entering the office, and updated fire alarm systems.
“We strive to provide our children with stimulating educational opportunities that push them to be their best,” Wilson Principal Trionne Magee said. “We set a standard of achievement that inspires them to reach the loftiest of their goals and that standard is not just upheld through curriculum, but through the learning tools we provide them.”
Wilson Elementary also received a new fire lane, a reconstructed staff parking lot, upgraded air conditioning, ceilings and lighting, and an expanded nurse’s office.
“On behalf of the Board of Education, I would like to thank everyone who contributed to these wonderful changes, including our Citizens’ Oversight Committee who continually pushes for advancements,” Board of Education President Maria G. Lopez said. “This project was made possible by Measure N and is one of many upgrades that will boost the safety of students and ensure they have a positive learning environment.”
The Lynwood Unified community supported Measure N, a $65 million bond measure, in November 2016. In January 2020, the District issued $25 million in bonds for repair and upgrade projects across LUSD.
“Today is a celebration of the improvements happening all around the District thanks to the commitment this community has made to its children,” Superintendent Dr. Gudiel R. Crosthwaite said. “I would like to give a special acknowledgment to our contractor Del Terra Group for a wonderful job done. I would also like to thank our Board for their continued leadership and for fiercely advocating these positive changes.”