In just under two years, Measure G, the Oakdale school bond measure that was approved by voters in 2024, has already been put to good use. The new Student Services Center at Oakdale Junior High School is under construction and will provide multiple services including a counseling center, an area for students and parents to meet with staff members and a student store. From the new Student Services Center to the impressive new shade structure which sits just outside of the cafeteria, district officials note that funds from Measure G have provided tangible improvements on the OJHS campus.
Underneath the vast gray roof of the new structure, the coolness seemed to permeate throughout the area. With 30 long tables that seat 10 students each located directly under the structure and another 15 round tables just outside of the structure that can seat about six to eight students each, the new outdoor dining area is a welcome addition and will provide a gathering spot for the students that enjoy their meals there. The new structure replaced a much smaller structure that was showing some wear and tear including leaking when it rained so this new structure is expected to provide excellent protection from the elements.
“I just want to acknowledge all of the support from everyone who voted for Measure G and to thank the community for making this happen. This structure will serve these kids today and kids for many generations to come,” said Oakdale Joint Unified School District Superintendent Larry Mendonca at an Oct. 7 dedication and ribbon cutting ceremony.
He noted that Measure G will also provide funding for future projects including two new classrooms at Fair Oaks Elementary School and a new multi-purpose room at Magnolia Elementary School. Mendonca went on to thank several folks that were instrumental to the completion of this project including the Director of Maintenance and Operations for the OJUSD, Todd Dailey and his team, for their outstanding work.
Mendonca also highlighted Ron Holcombe, Gary Gery and Paul Cahill from Pacific Program Management as well as architect Alisa Cota from Pratt Architecture for their contributions. He continued by thanking the inspector along with the OJUSD Board Members for their support and dedication to bringing these projects to fruition. Board President Clayton Schemper shared his enthusiasm for the project noting that students that will become future community leaders will enjoy their school day meals here for years to come. Oakdale Mayor Cher Bairos noted how thrilled she was for all of the students that can now enjoy their breaks there and make good use of the outdoor dining area.
Junior High Principal Jeff Aprile thanked everyone and introduced members of the OJHS Student Leadership Team who were there to share in the momentous occasion by participating in the ribbon cutting ceremony. The structure has officially opened to students and, based on the excited looks on many of the students’ faces that passed by during the ribbon cutting ceremony, the outdoor area will be one of the most popular places on campus.
