Auto: Mike Camicia

“We’re not gaining much in the way of new features, other than a new classroom that is big enough to allow the 35 students per class to actually walk between the desks without tripping over each others’ backpacks. I’ve wanted a “real” classroom for over 10 years. Also, the curriculum will be altered a bit as we build shelves and carefully put things away. That’s the best thing about auto­—everything can become a lesson. Just talking about the stuff as we put it away is a learning experience in itself.

[The time during the move] has been the most frustrating period of my life. [I was] thrown out into a section of the parking lot with only a fraction of my tools and had to work in the weather. I’m a hands-on guy that likes to see things get done and done correctly. I watched my class sign-ups dwindle because students knew hands-on activities would be limited due to the construction. I’ve worked very hard to build [the auto] program up, and we are nationally recognized. To be handicapped such as we have been for an entire year while hoping the results would be worth it in the end has made this a very long and challenging project. I can’t wait to get back in at this point, regardless of the changes that didn’t live up to my expectations.”

Biotechnology: Geri Horsma

“The design for the new biotech room will be very much the same, so it will be very comfortable. We appreciate the help and flexibility of the staff and movers for making sure things go as smoothly as possible.

One of the most difficult things about moving things from the science department is that it’s like moving a huge kitchen pantry because you can’t just put anything into a box. Certain things are delicate and very specific; we have to plan very carefully.”

Video Production: Edward Corpuz

“The new video studio will include a larger broadcast control room. The larger control room gives us flexibility to add more equipment in the future, and it provides a more comfortable learning environment for the students. The old room, RC-7, was too small and couldn’t fit the whole class. We had to split it up during the mornings; half the class did field production and the other half did studio. The Mid-Peninsula Media Center, which helped us build our original studio during the 2005-2006 school year, will help us move and rewire the new studio.”

Digital Electronics: Bakari Holmes

“[Digital Electronics] is moving in last. We’re waiting until after GRT, auto and video production move in on Dec. 18.”

Tech (GRT): Bill Dunbar

“We will have a much bigger and better machine shop than we have in the temporary space that we are now occupying, and we will have better storage. All in all, this should be a good thing for us!

Some of our power tools are heavier than small trucks, and moving them in is quite a challenge.

We are preparing for the move by repacking our tools and supplies so that we will be organized when we start work for the new semester. I am hoping that we can then resume our regular curriculum.”