Science teachers reflect on Oak Commons successes
Oak Commons is located in the quad near the science classes. The layout of the walking paths provides easy access to Mrs. Hill and Mrs. Cruz’s classrooms.
Science teacher Kristen Cruz was one of the teachers leading the design.
“We had a hundred percent say in the design, so Oak Commons was pretty much done by the science teachers,” Cruz said.
Many students find that they can enjoy the walk to their classes, along the scenic paths in the quad.
Sophomore Lillie Perkins admires the newly built Commons on her way to Hill’s chemistry class.
“The walk to 2nd period is really pretty, its honestly the highlight of my day,” she said.
Oak Commons was originally proposed as a small area with picnic tables in grass, but with the support of principal Caffery, the idea expanded into a completely updated center for students and nature.
“It was a small project that ballooned into something huge. Principal Caffery said, ‘I like it, but I feel like you’re thinking too small. Let’s go big.’ He supported us in really expanding,” Cruz said.
With eight picnic tables and six benches, Oak Commons is a large enough space for multiple classes to work outside simultaneously.
The plants and flowers in Oak Commons were planted intentionally, as all of them are native species to Southern California.
With help from Jacob Lloyd Davies, an FUHS alumni who works in ecosystem restoration, the science teachers decided on the most beneficial plants for the Commons.
The teachers specifically focused on creating complete food webs, with supportive wildlife that will sustain the garden. Throughout Oak Commons, one can find caterpillars, butterflies, and hummingbirds.
Since the finalization of Oak Commons, more students have gotten the chance to work outside in a pleasant environment. Perez commented that she was excited to supply FUHS students with a new space for schooling.
“We are giving them an opportunity to experience something they may not normally have the opportunity to do, as well as interact with it alongside their classmates and their peers,” Perez said.
