Thanks to the generosity of Foothill Federal Credit Union in Arcadia, Mountain View High School was the recipient of a $50,000 campus makeover.
Over 200 students, staff and district personnel volunteered their time on a recent Saturday to give the campus a facelift.
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Mountain View High Makeover courtesy Foothill Credit Union
by Anne Donofrio-Holter1
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“It was incredible,” said Keith Wheeler, principal. “Foothill Federal Credit Union donated paint and supplies as well as bark and mulch for the planters.” Volunteers, which included superintendent Nick Salerno and even students from the district’s other high schools, painted benches, exterior doors and walls and baseball backstops with the school’s official colors, purple, gold and white, and added decorative bark to planters and mulch for better drainage.
Mountain View High School was selected from a number of applicants after an initial walk through by representatives from the credit union and the United We Paint organization. The credit union even provided lunch for the volunteers. “Foothill Federal Credit Union is exceeding expectations by continuing its tradition of providing school makeovers for those districts that can use a helping hand,” said a credit union spokesperson. “Mountain View High School won the gift through their enthusiasm and community support.” “I can’t believe how different the campus looks,” said one student as he painted benches. “It’s fun being here today with my friends and working together,” said another, with just as much paint on her shirt as on her brush.
“Our school makeover event was a huge success,” said Wheeler. “The connection brought the community closer to the school. It identified a source of strength and character that this school and district has.” “This is our school and we are proud of it,” said yet another. “It’s so cool that a business would donate all these supplies to help make our campus look better.” “Many of the students were amazed at what their effort and energy can accomplish and were not even aware of the impact they had and can have on our school,” said Wheeler. “I’m thrilled so many volunteered for this event. It makes leadership that much easier when you are surrounded by a caring and passionate group of people.”
“We are very pleased to be able to partner with Foothill Federal Credit Union and United We Paint on this worthwhile project to enhance the positive learning environment for the students at Mountain View High School,” said Salerno. “We are extremely appreciative of their generosity and support and thank them for selecting Mountain View for this wonderful event.” “We thank Foothill Federal Credit Union and United We Paint for what they gave to our campus,” said Wheeler. “We now have a bond with them that can never be broken.”