The grant funding is part of the California Department of Water Resources’ Urban Community Drought Relief Grant Program. Along with partner agencies including Upper San Gabriel Valley Municipal Water District, the District was awarded grant funding to implement a water-use efficiency program.
Through this initiative, BPUSD is removing sections of traditional grass turf and replacing them with drought-tolerant plants and shrubs designed to reduce water usage while maintaining attractive, welcoming school environments.
The project has already been completed at the District Office, where the front lawn has been renovated with water-efficient landscaping. Additional improvements include seven areas at BP STEM Academy and four areas at North Park Continuation High. More sites are currently in development, with additional turf removal work expected to begin in the coming weeks.
Beyond conserving water, district leaders view the project as an opportunity to model environmental responsibility for students. By transitioning to drought-tolerant landscaping, BPUSD aims to reduce long-term water consumption and contribute to regional drought resilience efforts.
PHOTOS
BPUSD_STEM_Turnkey: Students from BP STEM Academy pose with Assistant Principal Travis Nelson, Superintendent De. Mendoza, Upper Water Board Director Jennifer Santana, and Principal Stephen Compton.
BPUSD_NPHS_Turnkey: Dr. Mendoza and Jennifer Santana take a photo at North Park High's updated lawn.
BPUSD_NPHS_Landscaping: Photo of North Park Continuation High landcaping
BPUSD_NPHS_Landscaping: Photo of the District Office's front landscaping