Buselt family tours site of new elementary school

From left: Dr. Jennifer Root, Sarah Winant, Andy Marshall-Buselt, John Buselt, principal Stephanie Acosta.

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MENIFEE - Wednesday, amidst a cool winter morning, the Buselt family toured the construction site of Menifee Union School District's newest elementary school, Sally Buselt Elementary School.

This tour, occurring on the anniversary of their beloved mother's passing, transformed a simple tour into a poignant experience. John Buselt, Sally’s husband, was accompanied by Sara and Andy, two of Sally’s children, for their first visit to the new elementary school, which is being built at the corner of Briggs Road and Wickerd Road.

On Nov. 14, the MUSD Governing Board voted to name the school after Sally Buselt, a cherished member of the educational community who dedicated her life to education and fostering a love of learning in countless young minds. As the family explored the school, memories of Sally's passion for education were reignited, creating a touching blend of past and future.

Menifee Union School District’s Superintendent, Dr. Jennifer Root, and the school's inaugural principal, Stephanie Acosta, accompanied the family on the tour. Acosta expressed gratitude for Sally's impact on the teaching community, acknowledging the profound honor of leading a school named after such an inspirational figure.

To wrap up their visit, the Buselt family visited the former Menifee Elementary School, where a tree was planted as a memorial to honor Sally. This memorial, which was named The Giving Tree after the well-known children's book, stands as a tribute to her legacy and spirit.

"It was a privilege to have the Buselt family join us today on this significant occasion. We look forward to collaborating with the family to ensure that Mrs. Buselt’s character is reflected in the school’s culture and environment," remarked Root.

"Our tour was amazing!" Andy Marshall-Buselt wrote on Facebook. "The school site is intentionally designed to incorporate the beauty of the local landscape, which happens to be blocks away from the car accident where [mo mom] lost her life. Not only is the campus breathtakingly beautiful, but there are so many student-centered considerations that my family and I joked that it feels like Mom has been whispering in the ears of the planners throughout the process.

"This experience will forever shift this date in my memory and heart to one that is full of hope. My mother was a kind, gentle, talented soul who touched the lives of many people. She was a mother and educator who advocated for special education inclusion, the arts, and literacy, all woven together with love. I am so proud to be Sally Buselt’s child. I’ve always known that my Mom is always with me as my guardian angel. Now I know she will live on forever."