El Morro Elementary work lagging slightly

The construction and renovation at El Morro Elementary is a little

behind schedule, but officials hope to make up the delay by the end of

June.

“Working around student schedules presents certain challenges, but

once school is out, we will have the site to ourselves,” said Gary

Attridge, project manager for McCarthy Construction, which is handling

the work. “We still expect to meet our November completion deadline.”

The update came during a May 15 meeting of the Laguna Beach Unified

School District’s Citizens Oversight Committee.

District officials say they are confident that the delay won’t drive

up the cost of the work and that there will be adequate funding to cover

any unforeseen costs.

One problem area is the expansion of the school’s athletic field.

“Because we are working in the Crystal Cove Area, we have certain

environmental constraints,” said Supt. Theresa Daem. “We are developing

land that is on the cusp of two water quality boards and adjacent to

endangered habitat. Permits won’t even be issued until late August.”

The next meeting of the oversight committee is scheduled for 8 a.m.,

June 7 in the district boardroom, 550 Blumont.

Band room may be named after teacher

The Laguna Beach High School band room may be named after longtime

music teacher Jeff Foster, who is retiring next month after 35 years of

teaching.

Debbie Rabbin of the Laguna Booster came up with the idea to honor

Foster for his years of service to the community and students.

“He has maintained the vibrant energy throughout his career,” Rabbin

said.

Foster also will be honored at 1 p.m., June 2, at Bluebird Park by

music alumni.

PTA holds final Coffee Break

The Laguna Beach PTA Council had its last Coffee Break of the year

this week.

Michael E. Bernard, a professor at Cal State Long Beach and founder of

You Can Do It! Education, discussed with parents how to direct children’s

interest into their schooling and career choices.

Related to the talk, the PTA is working on a project to help students

make career choices and focus on school achievements.

The PTA’s officer board is headed by Kristen Thomas.

Bringing conservation to campus

The school district is looking into ways to best use conservation in

both its new and older classrooms.

The plan will focus on improving the efficiency of classrooms as well

as cutting down on electricity use.

Thurston Middle School and Top of the World Elementary are the

district’s most energy-efficiency campuses, officials said.