As National Volunteer Month comes into full swing, Cox Communications employees in Orange County volunteered with Operation Clean Slate to paint a STEAM-themed mural at Santiago Elementary School. The Lake Forest school, which is part of Saddleback Valley Unified School District (SVUSD), opened as a new STEAM Magnet School for the 2018-2019 school year and features flexible learning spaces and an Innovation Lab.
This is the third of five murals being sponsored in South Orange County by Cox Communications through Operation Clean Slate to inspire students to pursue a career in STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Math).
“Cox is proud to support Santiago’s new STEAM Magnet School designation with an appropriately themed mural, painted by students and Cox volunteers, that will promote innovative learning for generations to come,” said Colleen Dillaway, Director of Public Affairs for Cox Communications.
Students, teachers and families were able to get a first look at the completed mural on the morning of April 8 at a dedication ceremony. SVUSD Superintendent of Schools Crystal Turner, Ed.D., Assistant Superintendent Laura Ott and Director of Elementary Education Liza Zielasko also participated in the dedication.
“We were very fortunate to become a STEAM Magnet school this year. I can’t think of a better way to cap off the year than to have the opportunity for our students to come together with members of the community and create a wonderful STEAM mural,” said Santiago Elementary principal Howard Johnston.
“Our school provides meaningful, innovative learning experiences for a community of diverse learners who solve complex problems with creativity and confidence. Bringing people of all ages and backgrounds together to paint a beautiful piece of artwork that emphasizes our school’s focus follows our mission.”
