Neighborhood Wins: Washington Middle School Bandroom – A Decade in the Making 🎶
- Staff
- 1 day ago
- 2 min read
When Washington Middle School students returned in fall 2025, they walked into a bandroom transformed — not just by new walls and equipment, but by more than a decade of persistence, investment, and alumni pride.
A Vision Takes Root
This project began back in 2013, when Principal Michael Harano and district legislators identified the need for a modern music facility to match the talent and dedication of Washington’s students.
2013: $1.1 million secured to plan/design a new band room, equipment and facilities.
2015: An additional $500,000 provided to expand the scope.
2018–2019: $750,000 in funds supported relocation of existing sewer line, electrical upgrades and heat abatement — critical groundwork for the facilities upgrades.
2022–2023: $10 million allocated for full-scale construction of a new band room facility.
Every step was a neighborhood win — proof that steady advocacy builds momentum.
An Alumnus Returns Home
As the project neared completion, Jake Shimabukuro — Washington Middle School Class of 1990 — stepped in to help shape the final chapter.
For Jake, the band room wasn’t just another music space — it was personal. His own middle school experience, discovering the joy of music at Washington, inspired him to partner with the Good Tidings Foundation to refresh the interior, making sure the space reflected creativity, warmth, and possibility.
A Win for Students
By fall 2025, the dream became reality. Students entered the new bandroom with excitement and pride, ready to play and grow in a facility designed for them, see the news story here.
Why This Matters
Persistence Pays Off: More than ten years of planning and advocacy delivered results.
Alumni Power: A Washington graduate gave back, reminding students that they too can one day lead and inspire.
Students First: The new space honors the talents and futures of Washington’s young musicians.
Looking Ahead
The new bandroom is more than just a facility — it’s a living reminder of what can happen when schools, legislators, community partners, and alumni all invest in students.
As Jake reflected, “Washington Middle was where I first learned the joy of music. Giving back to the place that gave me so much is an honor — and I hope it inspires these students to dream big.”
