Maddie Lander | Writer
February 18, 2026
On Saturday, February 7, 2026, San Clemente High School hosted its Campus Beautification Day. Students, staff members, and volunteers worked together to paint new murals, collect litter, and refresh common areas across campus.
One of the most noticeable improvements is the new mural of a Triton and “SC” in the P-Quad. Covering what originally was a blank wall, the mural introduces color to the P-Quad and gives it more life. Like the mural in the P-Quad, the school logo was also painted on a bare wall next to the stairs on the lower level of the lunch area. Both positioned where there is significant traffic, the paintings are eye-catchers and have been appreciated by students and staff.
The lunch area in front of the Little Theater also received a major upgrade. Adjustable red umbrellas now sit on every lunch table, allowing students to block the sun depending on where it hits. These umbrellas have already been heavily appreciated by the students, especially during peak UV when the glare can be particularly strong. Sophomore student Kendyl Burke is relieved now that umbrellas prevent “the sun from glaring into [her] retinas.” The benches along the walls also got a new red paint job to cover the old cracked and faded paint, providing cleaner and more comfortable seating for students.
Another improvement all around campus is the addition of new succulents in the planter boxes which were once drowning in litter. Along with the succulents, new mulch was added, giving the area a cleaner and more maintained look. “I helped clear out the planter boxes with my basketball team,” mentioned sophomore Dylann Dubost. “After the mulch was put in, the plants looked so much nicer.”
One of the main projects was the removal of gum from the concrete pathways. Volunteers used scrapers to scrape away gum that has been sitting there for years, leaving the walkways noticeably cleaner. New signs were also added along several hallways. Featuring school colors and phrases, the signs bring vibrancy to the previously drab walls and help create a more cohesive and visually appealing look across campus.
By the end of the day, the campus appeared noticeably refreshed. Students, staff, and volunteers were able to see the effects of their hard work immediately, creating a sense of accomplishment. The beautification day brought the school community together and new upgrades along with it.
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