August 29, 2006
Opening of New Metal Shop at San Leandro High School
San Leandro High School celebrated the opening of its new metal shop on Friday, August 25, 2006. With a donation of $2,000 from the Sheet Metal and Air Conditioning Contractors' National Association (SMACNA) and $75,000 authorized by the School Board, the metal shop was renovated and new equipment was purchased.
After an introduction by Superintendent Christine Lim and a brief history from Assistant Principal Linda Granger, a red ribbon was ceremoniously cut to open the new shop. On hand were School Board Trustees Stephen Cassidy, Ray Davis, Linda Perry, and Rick Richards, Couty School Board member Felix Elizalde, Assistant Superintendent Leon Glaster, San Leandro High Principal Amy Furtado, local politicians Ellen Corbett, Alice Lai-Bitker, and San Leandro City Council members Tony Santos and OB Badger.
According to Principal Amy Furtado, 190 students signed up for metal shop classes, but only half of those students can be accomodated. The new metal shop teacher is Dion D'Amico.
Vocational education is critical to the success of many students. Students enrolled in vocational classes perform better academically and our schools need to ensure that our students have vocational education opportunities in other areas as well. I'll work with our local business community to find additional ways that students can receive vocational training while providing skilled and educated employees for local businesses.
