A groundbreaking ceremony was held this morning to celebrate the beginning of construction for Soboba Aquatics Center at San Jacinto High School.

The community has been in desperate need for a pool since Sallee Park Recreational Pool, the only public pool in San Jacinto, closed in 2014. However, San Jacinto Unified School District (SJUSD) has been advocating for a pool long before the closure of Sallee Park. It’s been on the hearts and minds of several board members for nearly 20 years.

Diane Perez, SJUSD Superintendent, stated at the groundbreaking ceremony, “Today is about equity and our kids getting what they deserve. It’s not just about a pool. It’s about all the places of connection that make kids successful.”

With the help of the community, especially the Soboba Band of Luiseño Indians Tribal Council, they’ve finally been able to make a splash. The pool has been named in their honor and to showcase the rich heritage of the community.

Construction begins this month and the pool is scheduled to open in the Fall of 2019.