Showcase for the arts

The music center at Ontario Christian Schools was dedicated on Wednesday, an event seven years in the making.

The 10,000-square-foot center is considered the final phase of the library building, said Keith Lucas, the principal at Ontario Christian's elementary campus.

Construction on that portion of the building, which houses the library and computer lab, started seven years ago.

With the hope of raising funds in the future, the center was not built at that time, said Arnie Levitt, the building's architect.

But, Levitt said he had faith that there would be enough funding to build the music center.

"This facility is going to be with us for the next 100 years, so we wanted to do it right," said Leonard Stob, Ontario Christian superintendent.

The music center has four classrooms as well as a choir and instrument room, Lucas said.

"It sends the message that we value the importance of the arts," Lucas said.

While other districts may be faced with cutting programs, Ontario Christian is committed to arts, he said.

Less than a year ago, Ontario Christian High School celebrated the opening of its arts center, Stob said.

Funding for the music center, which cost $2.6 million to build, was raised through donations from parents and community members, Lucas said.

Councilman Jason Anderson applauded the school for building the center despite the economy.

"I'm really impressed with Ontario Christian's commitment, wisdom, leadership and good stewardship," Anderson said.

The center is a testament to Ontario Christian's commitment to providing quality music programs to future generations, he said.

The project was completed faster than officials anticipated, Lucas said.

Originally, the building was expected to be finished in January 2009, but as construction got under way, the timeline kept moving up, Lucas said.

"It really allowed for the start of a great school year," he said.

Prior to the opening of the center, Lucas said, students had to pack into one large room for music classes and because of limited space not all children could join the band.

Now, the band has its own room upstairs, he said.

"We are so grateful for what the Lord is doing at Ontario Christian," Stob said.

Mayor Paul Leon and Chino Mayor Dennis Yates attended the dedication.