Our Readers Write: Bird Rock Elementary School modernization

Bird Rock Elementary modernization offers further opportunities

The recent article detailing the exciting modernization project at Bird Rock Elementary School was a pleasure to read (“Renderings preview next summer’s Bird Rock Elementary modernization project,” Dec. 11, La Jolla Light).

It is heartening to see such a significant investment — over $25 million — in our community’s future and the school’s next 75 years. This project rightfully celebrates the critical intersection of community and education and continuing public access to the park space.

As we plan for the school’s future, we have a timely opportunity to think holistically and ambitiously. Recent state laws aimed at easing California’s housing crisis present a perfect opportunity to explore integrating multi-story workforce housing on appropriate sections of the site. This innovative approach, already being pursued by the [San Diego Unified] school district on other sites, could provide critically needed affordable homes for the teachers and staff who form the backbone of our community, deepening the school’s neighborhood roots.

Furthermore, even without a housing component, the current building design appears constrained. The envelopes could be expanded, and potentially built higher, to maximize this investment by providing more spacious classrooms, modern science and arts labs and other amenities that create a truly exceptional learning environment for our students. Let’s not miss the opportunity to aim higher.

Any such expansion of vision must, however, be guided by one non-negotiable principle: the preservation of our mature tree canopy. The article mentions a new shade structure, but natural shade from mature trees is irreplaceable. These existing trees provide essential shade for our children, oxygen for our community and a critical habitat for the numerous birds and owls — yes, we hear them — that reside there.

If any tree replacement is absolutely necessary, the new plantings must be mature and robust specimens, not spindly saplings that will take decades to offer the same benefits.

In summary, let’s champion the school’s modernization, explore innovative solutions like workforce housing to meet broader community needs, and do it all with an unwavering commitment to preserving and enhancing our vital urban forest and open space.

Harry Bubbins

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