Cleveland Charter High School Completes $170 Million Modernization Project (09-16-22)

CONTACT: Jonathan Fu
jonathan.fu@lausd.net 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 16, 2022

Cleveland Charter High School Completes $170 Million Modernization Project

Los Angeles, CA (September 16, 2022) – After four years of construction, Los Angeles Unified will mark the completion of a new 450-seat performing arts center, a state-of-the-art computer aided design facility, a new early learning center and two new multi-story classroom facilities at Cleveland Charter High School as part of a $170 million comprehensive modernization project.

“Today is truly a celebration for the Cleveland High School community,” Superintendent Alberto M. Carvalho said. “These multimillion dollar investments represent an intensified focus on our students, as well as highlight the importance of modernizing our schools.”

Aimed at modernizing facilities and improving the student experience, the $170 million project includes a new state-of-the-art multipurpose room complete with a new stage, lighting, audio, concession and ticketing amenities.

“Today, we honor Cleveland Charter High School’s rich and diverse culture and history,” Board Member Scott M. Schmerelson said. “This beautiful modernization project will provide a new state of the art facility that will support our students’ success for generations to come. Our students, teachers and local school community deserve these investments so they can continue with dynamic and innovative teaching and learning.”

To bolster Cleveland Charter High School’s math and science program, several upgraded classrooms and state-of-the-art science laboratories were also constructed. Crucial infrastructure improvements include new transportation and maintenance buildings, a new indoor and outdoor dining facility and several important safety and technological upgrades. 

“Cleveland Charter High School deserves world class facilities and we’re delighted to deliver on our promise of ensuring that our students become the next generation of changemakers, problem solvers and pioneers to positively impact our world,” Local District Northwest Superintendent Dr. David Baca said. “We are appreciative of our school community for approving the bonds necessary for making this project a reality.” 

Funds were also used to support the modernization and reconfiguration of several buildings and classrooms, maximizing existing infrastructure to deliver an enhanced student experience. To promote sustainability, the project also includes the installation of new solar panels above the performing arts building, providing 116 kW of power. 

“This comprehensive modernization project is a clear example of the Cleveland community coming together to dream big,” said Cleveland Charter High School Principal Cindy Duong. “Thanks to our partners at Los Angeles Unified, PBWS Architects and Kemp Brothers for responding enthusiastically to make our dreams a reality. We believe all students deserve a quality education and now – thanks to this bond measure – we have facilities that meet that expectation.” 

In alignment with Superintendent Carvalho’s 2022-26 Strategic Plan, this project reinforces Los Angeles Unified’s commitment to improving operational effectiveness with clean, state-of-the-art learning environments that focus on elevating the student experience. In total, the modernization project includes approximately 176,200 square feet of improvements to the Cleveland Charter High School campus. 

“We are thrilled to provide the Cleveland Charter High School students, staff and community with a modernized campus, replacing temporary bungalows that were installed decades ago, with beautiful, state-of-the-art new and upgraded facilities,” said Chief Facilities Executive Mark Hovatter. “The Cleveland Cavaliers now have a campus that could rival that of any private college.” 

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