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Zimmerman Rebuild Website; in English and Spanish with school and district logos
Updated

Learn more about the process and how to share your input into the design of the new Zimmerman campus to be built on Larch Avenue. 

Colton Joint Unified School District
Press Release
February 21, 2024
Contact: Katie Orloff (909) 580-6503

Colton Joint Unified School District Superintendent Presents Updates on the

New Walter Zimmerman Elementary School

On February 7, Colton Joint Unified School District (CJUSD) Superintendent Dr. Frank Miranda
presented an update on the new state-of-the-art Walter Zimmerman Elementary School project at
the Bloomington Municipal Advisory Committee meeting. The project was made possible
through months of negotiations between CJUSD and Howard Industrial Partners concerning the
planned Bloomington Business Park project located between Jurupa Avenue and Santa Ana
Avenue in Bloomington.
“It’s been over 60 years since the last time a new elementary school was built in Bloomington, so
we’re very excited about this project.” said Dr. Miranda. Subsequently, Dr. Miranda detailed the
process toward school board approval, emphasizing extensive community outreach, which has
included a hands-on Design Symposium comprised of four meetings (three in-person, one
online), as well as the robust research and thought process behind the various project designs.
Owen Chang, CJUSD’s director of facilities and energy management, then highlighted the
incorporation of community feedback along with the data received from various studies to create
a list of pros and cons for the different layouts.
The presentation concluded with the forthcoming steps:
• Ongoing drafting and study of various designs tailored to meet the needs of Zimmerman
students and parents as well as the Bloomington and CJUSD communities.
• Analysis under the California Environmental Quality Act followed by Review/approval
from various agencies.
• The final stages encompass bidding and construction.
The new school will incorporate cutting-edge technology, advanced learning spaces and
equipment, air filtration and soundproofing measures, and up-to-date security features.
“We are excited to finally get a new school that the students and parents of Bloomington
deserve,” said CJUSD Board President Frank A. Ibarra. “Empowering our youth and investing in
our community with a new elementary school, after six decades, is a gift that will enhance our
students’ education and build a stronger, thriving community.”
The project timeline is subject to resolution of outstanding litigation filed over the Bloomington
Business Park following the San Bernardino County Board of Supervisors' unanimous approval
of the project in November 2022. It is hoped that the new school can be opened by August 2027.
For additional information regarding the project, please visit zimmermanrebuild.com

 
 
Slow Children Crossing sign
Updated

Parent Tips for School Drop-Off and Pick-Up: Keeping Your Child Safe

The hustle and bustle of school arrival and dismissal can be stressful, but prioritizing safety is key. Here are some tips to ensure a smooth and safe experience for you and your child:

Before You Arrive:

  • Plan ahead: Review the school's drop-off and pick-up procedures. Is there a designated zone? Are there specific lanes for entering and exiting? Knowing the plan will help avoid confusion and delays.
  • Prepare your child: Make sure they have everything they need for the day (backpack, lunch, etc.) and are familiar with the drop-off/pick-up routine. Practice safe pedestrian skills like looking both ways before crossing and using designated crosswalks.
  • Leave on time: Avoid the last-minute rush that can lead to distracted driving.

During Drop-Off and Pick-Up:

  • Follow the rules: Pay attention to signage and designated lanes. Don't double park or block crosswalks. This keeps traffic flowing and reduces risk for pedestrians.
  • Minimize distractions: Put your phone down and focus on the task at hand. A moment's inattention can have serious consequences.
  • Be patient: Delays are common during peak times. Stay calm and courteous to other drivers and school staff.
  • Let the professionals handle it: If your child needs assistance getting out of the car or crossing the street, allow school personnel to help.
  • Meet in a designated area: Arrange a specific spot near the school for your child to wait for pick-up. Avoid lingering in drop-off zones, as this can create congestion.

Additional Tips:

  • Consider alternative transportation: If possible, explore options like carpooling, walking, or biking to school. This can not only ease congestion but also promote healthy habits.
  • Teach your child about stranger danger: Remind them not to leave with anyone unauthorized and to report any suspicious activity to a trusted adult.
  • Communicate and collaborate: If you have any concerns about safety during drop-off or pick-up, don't hesitate to talk to the school administration or parent-teacher organization.

By working together and prioritizing safety, we can ensure a smooth and enjoyable school experience for everyone.