Maple School in the Fullerton School District (FSD) opened its doors in 1924. On April 24, 2024, FSD officials joined the community in celebrating this centennial milestone. The early evening celebration featured inspiring and congratulatory remarks from FSD Superintendent Dr. Bob Pletka, Board of Trustees President Leonel Talavera, and Assemblywoman Sharon Quirk-Silva.

During the event, Principal Anthony Abney shared the historical significance of Maple School and the new vision for the next century.

“Maple School serves as a testament to the evolving efforts toward educational equity and inclusivity in our community and beyond over the past century,” shared Mr. Abney.

He spoke about the desegregation initiatives, the impact on Maple School, and the influence it has played on the school today. The history of Maple School exemplifies the struggle toward fostering education equity and inclusion.

Mr. Abney continued, “In the time since reopening, Maple has been a leader in Fullerton and beyond for diversity, equity, and inclusion, reflecting our collective commitment to ensuring every student receives a quality education in an environment that celebrates diversity and promotes unity.”

The vision for the next century is as ambitious as it is essential: to provide a curiosity-driven, impactful education to our students through project-based learning, advocacy, environmental science, and immersive experiences. Central to the educational philosophy of Maple School is the belief in the power of experiential learning (LEARNING through EXPERIENCES) to ignite passion, foster resilience, and cultivate a lifelong love of discovery.

Mr. Abney concluded with these inspirational words, “As we celebrate our history as well as our vision for the future of the next century, let us do so with a steadfast commitment to innovation, collaboration, and excellence. Together, let us continue to nurture the minds, ignite the imaginations, and shape the futures of generations to come.”

Attendees were treated to a student performance by Maple School’s Ballet Folklorico and heartwarming remarks from alumni ranging from the class of 1952 to 2010. The rich history was further commemorated with the school’s annual Service Learning Projects. The evening concluded with a community celebration enjoyed by all attendees.

The Fullerton School District is located in northern Orange County, California, and serves over 11,600 students in grades TK – 8th. The Fullerton School District includes 21 schools, 15 elementary schools, two K-8th grade schools, three middle schools, and a distance learning and home school model. The mission of the Fullerton School District is to work collaboratively with the community to provide an innovative, high-quality educational program for all students in a safe learning environment. The District motto, “Great Schools – Successful Kids,” exemplifies the belief that all students will achieve academic excellence, acquire interpersonal skills, and develop technological expertise to contribute as productive citizens in a democratic society. For more information, call 714/447-7400 or visit http://www.fullertonsd.org.