Cabrillo High Aquarium Celebrates 40 Years, Unveils Chumash Mural
The student-run aquarium marked four decades with an open house showcasing marine exhibits and a new mural honoring Chumash heritage, funded by federal grants.
Cabrillo High School's aquarium welcomed the community Wednesday night for an open house celebrating 40 years of student-run marine exhibits. Founded in September 1986 by former coach Dave Long, the aquarium now features more than 20 displays operated by students in the school's career technical education program.
The event unveiled the new Chumash Kelp Forest Mural, funded by a $75,000 grant from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. San Luis Obispo muralist Colleen Gnos created the piece with guidance from Chumash cultural teacher Levi Zavala. The mural depicts the Chumash story "Coyote Rescues Sharpshin Hawk," connecting Indigenous culture with marine education.
Students Share Marine Knowledge
Throughout the evening, students guided visitors through exhibits they maintain. Ninth-grader Emma Durham explained how juvenile horn sharks use spotted pigmentation for camouflage and can inflate like pufferfish. Eleventh-grader Taylor Raffel showed off South American sea nettles, jellyfish with four stomachs that students feed up to three times daily.
Aquarium Director Greg Eisen, in his 23rd year leading the program, said it gives students opportunities to use their talents and interests. The Institute of Museum and Library Services recently awarded the aquarium a $100,000 grant to renovate exhibit exteriors with organic cladding and cabinetry.
The aquarium at 4350 Constellation Road is free to the public during open houses throughout the school year. The next event, Sharktoberfest, is scheduled for 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. on October 21. Find more local events and Lompoc news on our site.
Facts via Noozhawk.
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