Our School. Our Kids. Our Say. Let’s Make District Listen!

Thank you for taking a moment to read this message.  Whether this is the first you're hearing of it or you've already caught bits and pieces, we encourage you to review the three main issues we’re working to change.

Principal Tubbs has been advocating strongly on behalf of our students, but it’s clear district staff members are not listening. Your voice matters.  Please take a few moments to read through the 3 proposed changes and additional information.  We need the support of our parent community to help ensure the best outcome for our school.

3 RENOVATION CHANGES

Kindergarten Gate Safety
The current Kindergarten gate design wraps around the center planter, leaving an area open to the public that is currently closed to the public.  This fencing extends parallel to a classroom window causing safety concerns.  The current plan was created after the construction documents were reported "Complete." These concerns have been shared with district staff including a proposal to extend the fencing to include both the corner classroom and the center planter—creating a safer layout and additional secure space within school grounds since Pac Rim is moving towards a full day Kindergarten program.  However, the Director of Construction will not reverted to the original design.  It’s essential that the fence be extended to ensure all classrooms are safely enclosed and space is allocated to fit the needs of our Kindergartners. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2. Wall Ball Courts & Shade Structure
Originally, we were going to have three wall ball courts for the kids to play with the removal of a fourth wall ball court that was installed only five years ago to replace with a shade structure.  The layout would’ve been 3 court on the Northeast side of the blacktop.  Now, the district has decided to eliminate one of the courts on the Northeast side of the blacktop, moved the shade structure to the south side of the play structure, while keeping the 2020 wall ball. This change is unnecessary and avoidable.  The shade structure could remain near its current location, where there is adequate space, as previously measured. The district claims there isn’t enough room for three wall ball courts in the Northeast corner and that students don’t need four courts, but that’s simply not true. These courts provide vital recreational space and should not be reduced, especially when better alternatives exist.

3. Portable Classroom Removal
The portable classrooms on the blacktop will be removed and relocated to a new building where KidsCare currently operates—which is not a concern.  However, district also plans to remove the three portables on the field, citing age as the reason, and they are unwilling to allow us to retain them for their current multifunctional use.  This is concerning, especially since other schools have been allowed to keep their portables,  which are older than ours.  The district master plan rated the portables as in "good condition."  The master plan recommended replacing the portables with permanent classrooms, which would be great for our community.  However, the Director of Construction plans to remove 11 portables and replace with 8 permanent classrooms and two modular buildings.  These three portables could be a valuable asset to our daily school operations.  We should be given the same flexibility and consideration as other schools when it comes to preserving functional space.

ADDITIONAL INFO.

Pac Rim has not received the same level of funding or attention as other schools in the district. As one of the last schools scheduled for renovation, we’re now facing one of the smallest remaining budgets—despite this being our first major renovation, while other campuses have already benefited from multiple upgrades. There isn’t enough funding for a new Multi-Purpose Room (MPR), or even to reconfigure the current snack/lunch entrances.  Meanwhile, other schools have received new playgrounds-one has 2 play structures on campus not including a new kindergarten structure, dedicated gaga courts, and enhanced facilities.  Our play structure has a broken pole and in desperate need of a modern update.  Pac Rim is budgeted with approximately $3.8M while Aviara Oaks Elementary has $46M.  Magnolia, Kelly, and Hope all have over $20M.  Out of the 26 recommended items on the construction project list, only 7 items will be completed.  Does this seem right to you?  Our community has contributed through both fundraising and tax dollars, and it’s only fair that our students receive the same quality of improvements as those at other schools.  Resources can and should be reallocated to ensure equity across all schools—including ours.

 

 

 

 

 

 

As parents, we have the power to be heard—but we need many voices. If these decisions don’t sit right with you, please email our board members directly and voice your concerns.  

*Kathy Rallings- krallings@carlsbadusd.net

*Laura Siaosi-lsiaosi@carlsbad.net

*Gretchen Vurbeff-gvurbeff@carlsbadusd.net

District needs to understand that our school community is paying attention and expects better for our students.

Thank you for your time—and if you feel frustrated or outraged, as many of us do, don’t let that energy go to waste. Sign this petition/send that email. This is our school, and our voices matter.