Written By: Stacy Lowe, Public Relations Specialist
CORONA, CA - A brightly painted storage shed has become a symbol of teamwork, learning, and community at Wilson Elementary School, thanks to the efforts of students from Orange Grove High School’s Construction class and the CNUSD Support Services Team.
The story began when the students built the shed for a construction competition. When the shed returned to school from the event, the students decided it could serve an even greater purpose. The idea to donate it to Wilson Elementary’s Kindergarten class quickly took shape, and the CNUSD Support Services Team jumped in to help make it happen.
The project became a collaborative effort, with Orange Grove students working alongside the Support Services Painting Department staff to paint and prepare the shed. As they worked, the students not only learned practical skills like painting techniques but also received mentorship from the staff, who shared their experiences and advice about life after graduation.
For Joseph Sanchez Ochoa, the project was an eye-opening experience that went beyond just building a shed. Reflecting on the experience, he said, “I learned the value of being a team player. Working together with others helped me understand how important teamwork is, not just for building a shed, but in life.”
He continued, “I also gained a deeper sense of responsibility, learning how to ensure things get done right and on time. The project was fun and rewarding, and it showed me that hard work truly pays off.”
Fellow student Tania Fabian reflected on the lasting impact of their hard work. "It's an absolute honor knowing that younger kids will be using this shed for years. Our teacher’s knowledge and passion for construction inspired us throughout the competition. I hope our shed and our winning team will inspire others to continue that legacy and encourage more women to get involved in construction."
Once the shed was ready, the Support Services grounds department delivered it to Wilson Elementary, placing it in a spot on the playground where it will be used to store tricycles and playground equipment. The project wrapped up with the annual Support Services/Orange Grove Senior BBQ, a celebration of all they had accomplished together.
CNUSD Field Maintenance Supervisor George Marron, who helped mentor the students, reflected on the impact of the project. "Since we started the mentoring programs with the kids from Orange Grove, I’ve found a real sense of accomplishment. I found my ‘Why,’ and for this, I’m extremely thankful to these kids and Orange Grove HS Principal Mr. Guillen and his staff. I hope to continue this program for many years to come and continue showing these kids different skills within different trades."
The shed now stands at Wilson Elementary, not just as a functional storage space, but as a reminder of what can be achieved when people come together to support each other. For the students who built it, the experience was about more than just construction—it was about learning, inspiring others, and giving back to their community.