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Belle Haven Elementary School celebrated with students, staff and parents in the joyful send off of their school’s cafeteria during a groundbreaking ceremony for construction of the Menlo Park school’s new campus on Feb. 9.
As a goodbye to the cafeteria, guests were invited to draw and write on the wall under a construction-themed balloon arch — a special surprise for students who usually are told not to draw on school property.
To celebrate the cafeteria’s long lasting life, everyone sported colorful hardhats while playing games, eating popcorn and pizza and spending time with their friends and family.
“I’m a little nervous but it’s exciting to see what the future comes up with,” said Principal Michelle Masuda.
‘I’m a little nervous but it’s exciting to see what the future comes up with.’
Belle Haven Principal Michelle Masuda
With most of the school’s original classrooms closed off for demolition, Belle Haven has turned into what Masuda calls, “the portable city.” Classrooms have been relocated into smaller portable classroom buildings as construction has begun on the school.
In a speech, Ravenswood School District’s superintendent, Gina Sudaria expressed excitement for the school’s construction gratitude toward all the teachers and Will Eger, the district’s chief business officer.
“This is all possible from the community’s support,” said Sudaria to The Almanac, referring to the passing of the $110 million Measure I bond in 2022.
Construction to rebuild the school began in late January and is expected to be completed in phases over the course of three years.
As the oldest school in the eastern part of Menlo Park, they are expecting to have new buildings open for students during the 2025-26 school year. With the full modernization of the school, they will have an HVAC system, full size gym with bleachers, a new field, a makerspace and a family health center.
During the signing on the wall, second-grader Kayden, drew a smiley face.
“I’m excited for a brand new school,” said Kayden. Kayla Livingston, Kayden’s mother, said she was excited for the health center and makerspace.
“It means a change of pace for the neighborhood and a new building means so much,” she said.
After Belle Haven finishes its renovations, Masuda said she expects enrollment rates to increase. Sudaria added that with the a new modernized school, she wants Belle Haven’s exemplary staff to be reflected in the school’s outward appearance.
After a round of a game they called, “pass the toolbox,” Belle Haven officals closed off the event with their regularly scheduled family board game night — leaving an echo of laughter and joy in the last event to be held in the cafeteria.
Superintendent Gina Sudaria expresses excitement for a brand new school on Feb. 9, 2024. Photo by Jennifer Yoshikoshi. 
Parents, faculty, and students gather for the groundbreaking ceremony. Photo by Jennifer Yoshikoshi. 
Students and teachers play “pass the toolbox” on Feb. 9, 2024. Photo by Jennifer Yoshikoshi. 
Students draw and write on the cafeteria wall on Feb. 9, 2024. Photo by Jennifer Yoshikoshi.
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