Chaffey Joint Union High School District held a celebratory dedication ceremony for the new Etiwanda High School Auditorium and High School Building on May 7th. With performances by the EHS Chamber singers and the Etiwanda Jazz Band, the ceremony was one to remember. Mat Holton, Superintendent said, “At the end of the day we want to make sure there is a building that is worthwhile and functional and that ultimately students can learn, perform, and excel in.”

This new facility is now the largest of the entire district and the students, staff, and parents were eager to tour the new addition to their campus. Jim DiCamillo, president of WLC Architects shared some fun facts about the design. To put in perspective, there is a total of 2 ½ acres under one roof that can house up to 2,000 students. 

The project includes a new 98,000 sf classroom building designed as 4 large classroom wings flanking an 800-seat auditorium. The classroom wings house approximately 50 permanent teaching stations including general instruction spaces, 5 science labs, and specialty classrooms for drama, choral, and music. The auditorium portion of the building includes a scene shop, lobby, ticket booth, and public restrooms. The main entry opens into the central campus quadrangle. The building features a full stage with a complete rigging, lighting and sound system. The house floor is a simple sloped design with excellent sight lines for the entire audience. A technical catwalk level is included above the house and stage and provides access to the follow-spot booth above the dedicated AV control room.

In collaboration with CJUHSD, WLC Architects, and Tilden-Coil Constructors, the new facility was completed on time and on budget. John Rhinehart, Board of Trustees President, said, “This building most of all represents commitment…Commitment to the American ideal that education is the great leveler in our society. This building is going to host generations of young people whose future is our future.” Tilden-Coil is proud to be shaping the futures of so many students!