Manhattan Beach Education Foundation Art project Unveiled
Story and photos by Jefferson Graham
The members of the Manhattan Beach City Council and school board, plus other local dignitaries, gathered at Metlox Saturday morning for the unveiling of the “Seeds of Knowledge” art installation.
Created by artist Betsy Schulz, the installation shows a young girl reading a book at the park, with the Manhattan Beach Pier ahead of her, along with other nature scenes and thanks to the many donors who raised funds for the project.
Ribbon cutting with city officials and artist Betsy Schulz
The project represents “what it means to be a community that puts an emphasis on education,” said Hillary Mahan, executive director of the Manhattan Beach Education Foundation, which supplements state funding for local school programs.
Beyond the local officials, members of the Mira Costa High School jazz sax band, and choir both performed for the crowds. State senator Ben Allen addressed the gathering of about 100 people on the plaza, talking about his experience working with schools in Santa Monica.
Council members Joe Franklin, David Lesser, Steve Napolitano, Amy Howorth and mayor Richard Montgomery
“Manhattan Beach blew them out,” when it came to private fund-raising from parents, he said. The cities have now looked to Manhattan Beach for guidance on how to do it effectively, and are working together, he added.
Sen. Ben Allen, flanked by Hilary Mahan on the left, the executive director of the Manhattan Beach Education Foundation and Alice Kuo, the board president.
“Great schools don’t just happen on their own,” he said. “This is the gold standard of what you can do together in a community.”
Ann Pitts created the logo for the Manhattan Beach Education Foundation. Pictured with husband Mike Pitts