CARMICHAEL, CA (MPG) - Sixty-five years after John Barrett Middle School first opened its gates, the San Juan Unified School District facility last week celebrated a whole-campus renovation. The $45 million price tag was funded by voter-approved bonds.

With paint barely dry, staff, students and VIPs lined up for a ribbon cutting. The ceremony marked the end of three semesters of what Principal Amy Alexander-Carter called “controlled chaos.”

Classes continued through construction. “Our biggest challenge was having only one hallway for 700 students to walk through,” explained the Principal.  “The kids were crunched together, trying to get to classes -- they were always stressed and anxious about being late.

“Another issue was the noise. But our contractors worked with us; they tried to keep jackhammering down during classes.  The atmosphere is completely different, now. It’s peaceful and the kids have room to roam. They’re happy and excited – you can see it their faces.”

Named for a pioneer farmer and Carmichael leader, the 22-acre campus was once part of a farm John Barrett's ancestors established in the 1860s. Their 480-acre holding bordered Carmichael Colony north of Lincoln Avenue. Almost a century later, the school was built during San Juan School District's push to educate growing numbers of children during baby-boom years. By 2020, the facility was deemed outdated; its massive renovation began in spring last year. 

Improvements include new classrooms, a science wing, a media center, administrative offices and an (almost-completed) cafeteria. Access and parking areas have been streamlined; new landscaping extends throughout the campus.

Students also enjoy a large central quad. Here a 1500-square-foot shelter provides for shaded lunch breaks. Paint-selections reflect the green, black and white fighting colors of Barrett -- home of the Broncos. Final remodel elements – a gym and sports fields -- will be completed by 2023

English and history teacher Rebecca Culver marvels at the school’s transformation. “For many years, Barrett’s been a hidden gem,” she told the ribbon-cutting audience. “Our students are excited that everything’s been designed with their best interests in mind.

“We’re not a hidden gem anymore. Here’s to watching Barrett Middle School, as it continues to shine on.”

San Juan Unified has construction in progress at two other sites. A campus modernization is under way at Earl LeGette Elementary School (Fair Oaks). Mesa Verde High School (Citrus Heights) is getting a new stadium. Both projects funded by voter-approved bonds. For more information, visit www.sanjuan.edu/constructionnews.