Last Friday, Sierra Canyon School hosted a Groundbreaking Ceremony for its future state-of-the-art Visual and Performing Arts Center—The Center for the Arts.
This long-awaited milestone marks a new chapter in the School's history and the completion of our campus master plan. This space will elevate the Sierra Canyon journey and support our endeavor to intentionally build academic agility, genuine confidence, and compassionate character in our students.
As guests arrived, they took in the scenic setting near the construction site. With music playing and student artwork on display, the stage was set not only for a ceremonial groundbreaking but also for a celebration of the vibrant arts culture that already exists at Sierra Canyon.
Attendees were welcomed with an inspiring program that captured the heart and soul of the project. Remarks from Head of School Jim Skrumbis, Associate Head of School and Upper School Director Stephanie Rubin, lead donor and parent Michael Everest (Enoch '28, Calliope '30, and Hannah 33), and Performing Arts Director Chris Sampson underscored the significance of the day and the vision for the future. Speakers reflected on the impact the building will have as a catalyst for student expression and interdisciplinary collaboration across all divisions.
Throughout the morning, the voices and talents of students took center stage. The Upper Campus Choir performed a beautiful rendition of “True Colors,” while student dancers brought energy to the celebration. A particularly moving moment came from a powerful performance by two students who blended Shakespearean verse with live instrumental accompaniment. Alongside them, the Visual Art Department proudly showcased student pieces and presented a "Wishing Tree" of students' hopes for the future of Sierra Canyon Arts. From the stage to the gallery, these performances and displays not only showcased the extraordinary talent within the student body but also offered a glimpse of what is possible once the new space becomes a reality.
The ceremony culminated in a symbolic groundbreaking, as shovels were lifted by the Board of Trustees, lead donors, and School leadership—each person representing the community who made this vision possible. This signals the official start of the construction and a powerful sense of forward momentum on what will be the crown jewel of the Upper Campus.
As this historic event came to a close, there was a shared sense that something meaningful had been set in motion—not just the start of construction but the affirmation of Sierra Canyon School's commitment to the arts.
This groundbreaking event followed months of quiet fundraising through the Center for the Arts Capital Campaign, with leadership gifts from families who believe deeply in the School's mission. With additional opportunities for naming spaces and supporting the campaign, the excitement continues to build as the community unites in its shared commitment to this transformative vision.
#SCArts #SCCommunity
