Anyone who’s dabbled in home improvement knows that initial visions—whether about aesthetics or budget—can dramatically transform by the time the last nail is in place. Often, the journey between inception and completion reveals surprises, challenges, and, ultimately, growth.
Our summer facilities work was no different. Where our vision started and what we had in the end were vastly different. Some of the work was typical deferred maintenance work (think roof repairs or drainage), but much of it was centered around the concept of creating spaces that let brains “breathe” and encourage collaborative work.
To illustrate:
When we encountered root damage from the trees out front and town regulations around juniper bushes, it prompted us to reimagine what students experience as they walk into Saklan. As they enter the school, they pass by drought-resistant plants, through a skylit breezeway, and the first thing they see is a tree-shaded conversation and collaboration area.
One of last year’s Fund-A-Need projects was to purchase collaborative furniture for the 5th grade classroom. As we evaluated the space and how the new furniture would work in the room, it was clear that we needed new LED lighting that could be adjusted depending on the activity and flooring that allowed the student work spaces to be reconfigured easily. We liked the outcome so much that we replicated the work in the Kindergarten classroom.
Lastly, our work on the Pavilion and the lower school outdoor learning spaces are almost completed. The Pavilion now boasts improved lighting, heating, and flooring, while new communal lunch tables, designed to encourage bonding and dialogue, will arrive in early September. Behind the Lower School classrooms the outdoor learning space is now graced with a redwood fence and new sunshades. Furniture designed for group work is soon to be delivered.
This transformation would have remained a dream without two things: the hard work of Javier Yacarini and his leadership of a team of individuals who worked diligently to make all these visions a reality, and the incredible support of our parent community. A substantial portion of the funding for these improvements was generously provided through Auction Fund-A-Need contributions and our successful Annual Giving Campaign. We extend our deepest gratitude. As Saklan continues to innovate in the realm of education, it’s only fitting that our facilities evolve in tandem.
With gratitude,
David
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