Santa Barbara Unified broke ground Monday on the Building Community Wellness Project at San Marcos High School. This approximately $11 million initiative focuses on both health career education and student well-being, marking a significant investment in the school's facilities and programs.
The project will replace four aging portable classroom buildings on the campus with three new permanent structures. These permanent buildings are designed to house five specialized classrooms specifically for the Cottage Health Careers Academy. These new learning environments will include modern science laboratories, a demonstration classroom equipped with patient-bed learning stations for practical experience, a permanent restroom facility, and dedicated outdoor learning areas. These additions are set to enhance the educational offerings of the academy, which has prepared San Marcos students for health care careers for over two decades.
Principal Dare Holdren emphasized the practical benefits of these new facilities. Holdren stated, "These new spaces will let our Royals get hands-on experience, build confidence, and pursue health care careers." The expanded and upgraded spaces are intended to provide students with the foundational skills and real-world exposure necessary for future employment in the local health sector, allowing them to live and work in their hometown.
Beyond academic facilities, the project also includes the modernization of the existing Elings Wells Family Wellness Center. This center serves as a vital resource where students and community members can access essential care and support services. The upgrades to the center are part of a broader commitment to student and community well-being, complementing the health career focus of the new classrooms.
Superintendent Dr. Hilda Maldonado underscored the district's commitment to creating supportive and career-focused environments. Maldonado noted that the district is "investing in spaces where students can learn, receive support," further explaining that the project aims to prepare students for careers vital to the community. This reflects a dual commitment to both student academic and personal development, aligning educational pathways with local workforce demands.
The Building Community Wellness Project is funded through a combination of resources. It builds upon the 2016 Measure I bond and utilizes district funding. Additionally, the Royal Pride Foundation is providing support through a funding agreement that was established in 2023, demonstrating a collaborative approach to financing this significant school improvement.
McGillivray Construction Inc. has been selected as the construction contractor for the project. Kruger Bensen Ziemer Architects Inc. is responsible for the design of the new facilities. The entire project is scheduled to be completed in December 2027, with construction expected to continue over the next several years.
