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Ribbon Cutting Celebrates Sowers Middle School’s Phase 2 Completion

Posted Date: 6/10/25 (5:00 PM)
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With more than 200 students, families, staff, alumni, and community leaders in attendance, Huntington Beach City School District (HBCSD) proudly celebrated the completion of Phase 2 of the Sowers Middle School reconstruction with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on June 4, 2025. 

The event featured a spirited performance by the Sowers Band and special appearances from local and state representatives, including commendations from Senator Tony Strickland’s and Assemblymember Diane Dixon’s offices, and remarks from Huntington Beach City Council Member Andrew Gruel. Student leaders were also on hand to assist with event logistics and welcome guests, reflecting the strong sense of school pride and community involvement.


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"This milestone reflects our community’s shared commitment to continually improving the student experience,” said Superintendent Dr. Leisa Winston. “I’m proud of how we’ve brought this vision to life, from modern learning spaces to enhanced facilities that support the daily rhythms of school life.”

The newly completed Phase 2 delivers a range of enhancements that support student wellness, safety, and community use. Features include:

  • A state-of-the-art gymnasium that doubles as a multipurpose space with a performance stage and integrated AV system

  • A new locker room building centrally located within a vibrant hard court area that includes basketball, volleyball, pickleball courts, and ball walls

  • Upgraded outdoor “nodes” between the Viking Union and the gym, offering inviting student gathering spaces that also function as vital emergency access routes

  • Improved parking facilities and streamlined drop-off and pick-up areas, reducing traffic congestion and improving access for families and staff

  • Enhanced walkways, bike paths, and exterior lighting increasing student and pedestrian safety along the perimeter of the campus


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“At HBCSD, we are committed to supporting the whole child—academically, physically, and emotionally,” said Mark Manstof, Executive Director of Operations. “Phase 1 of the Sowers modernization created future-ready classrooms to support academic growth. With Phase 2, we’ve built on that foundation by adding facilities that promote physical wellness and enhancing daily operations through improved parking and safer walkways that strengthen security for our entire school community.”

The design, led by Studio W Architects and constructed by Construct 1 Corporation, reflects modern educational standards while embracing environmental efficiency and community integration. These campus upgrades were made possible thanks to voter-approved Measure Q, additional facilities funding, and proceeds from the sale of the Gisler property.


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“This second phase represents more than new buildings—it’s an investment in our students’ growth, wellness, and future,” Dr. Winston added. “Thanks to the passage of Measure Q and our supportive community, we’ve created dynamic spaces where students will thrive—physically, socially, and academically—for generations to come.”

The ribbon cutting, led by the HBCSD Board of Trustees, signaled the opening of these modern spaces and a new chapter for Sowers Middle School.

These new facilities promise to spark connection, pride, and possibility—fulfilling a community vision rooted in innovation, safety, and the power of public education.