Grauer student constructs footbridge to connect basketball court with garden area for Eagle Scout project

For his Eagle Scout project, Grauer Junior Zaid Nazif chose to enhance The Grauer School, an independent school in Encinitas, by constructing a footbridge that connects the school’s basketball court and garden area. Completing an Eagle Scout project is the final and most significant milestone in a Scout’s journey.

The capstone project is designed to demonstrate leadership, planning and a commitment to service by benefiting a school, religious institution or community organization. Nazif has been involved in the Scouting program since kindergarten, beginning as a Cub Scout, and continued his journey with Rancho Santa Fe Troop 766, where he has remained a dedicated member throughout the years, according to a news release.

“This new bridge will improve safety and accessibility for students and everyone who attends the school’s sports events that are held on the basketball court during the school year,” said Dana Abplanalp-Diggs, M.Ed., head of school for The Grauer School, in the news release. “I loved seeing the project go from a concept to a plan and from construction materials to a completed bridge that will benefit many students, families, teachers, staff members and visitors for years to come.”

Nazif’s project began months in advance and involved extensive planning and coordination. He developed a scaled schematic design and presented a detailed project plan that included both written and visual components outlining the project’s purpose, structure and construction approach. He met with Abplanalp-Diggs, his Scoutmaster and his Eagle Scout counselor to gain the necessary approvals and guidance.

With support from his family and close community members, he raised funds and purchased materials from Home Depot. The project required careful on-site measurements, strategic task delegation and hands-on leadership to ensure successful execution. He led the construction and installation process over three days, with the help of members of his Scout troop, the news release stated.

“I am proud to contribute a lasting improvement to The Grauer School’s campus,” said Nazif in the news release. “It is an honor to leave behind a meaningful legacy as part of my journey toward earning the Eagle Scout rank.”

Students and families have the opportunity to learn more about The Grauer School at its annual Discover Grauer Open House on Saturday, Nov. 1, between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. For more information and to RSVP, visit www.grauerschool.com.