SAN BERNARDINO, CA—The San Bernardino City Unified School District (SBCUSD) and Fifth District Supervisor Joe Baca, Jr. unveiled the Field of Dreams project before more than 600 students at Curtis Middle School on Oct. 16, a transformative plan to renovate and expand a baseball field for children and families.
The announcement drew cheers from students and staff gathered in the school’s multipurpose room as Supervisor Baca Jr. shared his vision for improving recreational opportunities in San Bernardino. As a gesture of encouragement and community pride, every Curtis student received a custom Field of Dreams T-shirt from Supervisor Baca Jr. to commemorate the day. And in baseball tradition, Cracker Jack boxes were available as “Take Me Out to the Ballgame” played, while hundreds of students cheered.
“As a former State Assemblymember, I had the honor of authoring AB 1497, which made it possible for this land to become part of Curtis Middle School,” said Fifth District Supervisor Joe Baca, Jr. “Today, as County Supervisor, I’m proud to see that vision come full circle. The Field of Dreams project is about more than new fields—it’s about giving our youth a place to grow, play, and dream big. When we invest in our schools, we invest in the next generation of leaders right here in San Bernardino.”
Terry Comnick, SBCUSD’s Associate Superintendent of Business Services, Facilities and Operations, highlighted the strong collaboration between the District and county leadership that made the project possible.
“This project is proof that when we invest in our students, we’re investing in the future of our community,” said Comnick. “Our students in San Bernardino deserve the same facilities as students in La Jolla or Beverly Hills. The new Field of Dreams gives our kids a place to grow, compete and believe that anything is possible, both on and off the field.”
The Field of Dreams project will include:
- Renovation of the school’s baseball field for year-round use
- New energy-efficient lighting to improve safety during evening activities
- Shaded seating
When completed, the upgraded baseball facilities will serve more than 600 Curtis Middle School students daily and create additional opportunities for youth sports, after-school programs and neighborhood events.
The Field of Dreams initiative demonstrates the impact of shared investment between Supervisor Joe Baca Jr.’s office and SBCUSD. Supervisor Baca Jr. worked to secure $3 million in funding to support the project, with another $1 million coming from SBCUSD.
About San Bernardino City Unified School District:
Led by Superintendent Mauricio V. Arellano, the San Bernardino City Unified School District (SBCUSD) is California’s ninth-largest school district and is dedicated to providing a high-quality education that prepares students for college, career and life. With a focus on equity, excellence and empowerment, the District serves a diverse student population in the San Bernardino and Highland communities. For more information about SBCUSD, visit www.sbcusd.com and follow the District @SBCityUSD on Facebook, Instagram, X, YouTube and LinkedIn.
About Fifth District Supervisor Joe Baca, Jr.:
Supervisor Joe Baca, Jr. is a dedicated public servant with a deep-rooted commitment to enhancing infrastructure and fostering a resilient community in the Fifth District of San Bernardino County. With a track record of spearheading projects that uplift neighborhoods, he consistently seeks innovative solutions to advance local development. For media inquiries, contact Josie De Vera at Josie.DeVera@bos.sbcounty.gov or via phone at (909) 387-5010.
About Curtis Middle School:
Curtis Middle School serves students in grades 7–8 with a strong focus on academics, athletics and enrichment programs that prepare students for success in high school and beyond. For more information, visit https://curtis.sbcusd.com/.
