News | Article from San Bernardino County Sun

By Leonor Vivanco, Staff Writer

Fontana school to get facelift

Fontana (April 22, 2007) - Students left South Tamarind Elementary School on Friday during dreary weather that was reflected in the look of the school - drab.

"It's going from a tan and brown institutional look and we're going to bring color and vibrancy to it," said Jan Stephens, Hands On Inland Empire community resource manager.

Today, more than 400 volunteers will be all over the campus painting murals, picnic tables, portable classrooms, tether ball poles, and kindergarten cubbies and cupboards.

They'll also plant trees and build a walkway so students no longer trample weeds or walk in the driveway. Students will be able to go outside for class once the outdoor classroom is installed.

All this will give the school a makeover that coincides with Earth Day and National Volunteer Week.

"I think it's going to bring the community together. The kids are going to feel good about their school," said Principal Joanne Thoring.

The students are thrilled, she said.

"I like that we're going to make the school a lot better. It's going to look awesome," said fourth-grader Austin Aguayo, 10.

"I think it's awesome the community and everybody is coming together to help my school," he said.

On Monday morning, the students won't be able to believe their own eyes.

"The excitement is going to be amazing," Thoring said.

Now, the outside of the school will match the wonderful things happening inside the classroom, she said.

"This facelift is going to reflect the quality of our programs," she said.

Contact writer Leonor Vivanco at (909) 386-3875 or via e-mail at leonor.vivanco@sbsun.com.

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