News Releases
2002–2003 School Year

EUREKA— At its regular meeting on June 4, the Governing Board of Eureka City Schools approved the layoffs of 13 classified employees due to the closure of Worthington Elementary School and an elimination and reduction of special education aide hours due to a reduction in students in need of services. In May, district officials began working with Eureka City Schools CSEA (California School Employees Association) representatives to address the process for these reductions.

According to Greg Aslanian, associate superintendent of human resources, “It is always regrettable when reductions of this nature become necessary. While schools do not like to view themselves as “a business,” there is a bottom line with all organizations. The closing of Worthington School, declining enrollment, and state budget cuts to education make reductions like this unavoidable.”

Of the 13 layoffs, 6 were a result of Worthington’s year-end closure due to declining enrollment. In October 2002, the Board began a series of public meetings to discuss its facility utilization plan which included a recommendation for school closure. In January 2003, the Governing Board voted to close the Worthington campus. Starting in September 2004, Worthington will serve as a temporary school site for elementary schools undergoing bond modernization.

Special education students who’s annual IEP (Individual Educational Plan) recommended their inclusion into other programs next year or who will be moving from the district resulted in 2 full-time special education aide positions being eliminated. In addition, 2 part-time special education aide positions were eliminated due to Worthington’s closure.

The remaining 3 job eliminations were the result of classified union seniority rights due to the closure of Worthington. For the past month, the district and the employee’s union worked closely to address the reductions through a prescribed process based on seniority. Generally the staff most affected are those with the least time in the district.

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Press Release
For Immediate Release

June 20, 2003

New athletic directors and basketball coach slated for Eureka High School

EUREKA— The athletic department at Eureka High School will have some familiar faces in new positions next school year. The district has announced that Eureka High School teachers Jack Lakin and Ron Hartman will serve as co-athletic directors.

According to Eureka High School’s co-principal Pat Faeth, “The high school administration has felt for some time that with the large number of boys and girls athletic teams and events, the department would be best served by having two people working together collaboratively.”

Longtime Zane Middle School P.E. teacher Duane Peterson will serve as Eureka High School’s boys varsity basketball coach.

Peterson will continue to teach at Zane in addition to his duties as basketball coach at Eureka High School. He has been teaching and coaching girls and boys sports in Eureka City Schools since 1974. He has coached softball, track, and volleyball in addition to his many years of experience coaching basketball. Peterson is a graduate of Humboldt State University.

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Press Release
For Immediate Release

June 19, 2003

Coast Central recognizes outstanding Eureka High School students

EUREKA— Coast Central Credit Union sponsored a recognition luncheon for Eureka High School students who have demonstrated excellence in service-learning on June 17 at the Red Lion Inn. Eureka High School faculty and staff nominated 11 students for notable service to their school and the community. The luncheon recognized the students, their family members, and their nominating teachers and celebrated the students’ service-learning contributions. Eureka High School’s Project Serve is a state of California service-learning program in collaboration with Eureka City Schools. Project Serve has promoted service learning and community service since 1993. In 2000, Eureka High School was recognized with a Presidential Award, the nation’s highest honors for excellence in service-learning, when it was named a National Service-Learning Leader School.

According to Coast Central’s vice-president of marketing Dennis Hunter, “The reason we recognize these outstanding students is because service-learning is a big part of what keeps us going as a community. These students are our future.” Coast Central Credit Union has sponsored the service-learning luncheon for the past nine years.

Brian Doyle was nominated by teachers Jennifer Johnson and Ron Perry. Doyle is the system administrator for the school’s EAST Lab. Through his dedication, including many hours of work outside of school, the EAST Lab upgraded its computer server and now runs smoothly.

Ana Godoy de Leon and Kailey Morse were nominated by teacher Ron Perry. Godoy de Leon and Morse created “Safety First,” a schoolwide safety program which revised and improved the safety plan for Eureka High School.

German Godoy de Leon Jr. was nominated by Naval Chief Gordon McLaughlin. Godoy de Leon performed many service hours while involved in the school’s NJROTC program.

Renae Flores, Lindsey Olson, and Liesel Powell were nominated by teachers Stephanie Jackson and Wendy Riggs. The three volunteered their own time to serve on the district’s Nutrition Policy Committee. They also provided exceptional service to the community through the organization of Eureka High School’s annual blood drive.

Elizabeth Silver was nominated by teacher Mauro Staiano. Silver was honored for being a committed, consistent member of YEAH (Youth Educating Against Homophobia) and Redwood Resolvers, the school’s conflict managers program.

Laura Buckingham and Nichole Spitzer were nominated by Colleen Giampaolo. Buckingham and Spitzer are starting Humboldt County’s first American Cancer society’s Youth Relay for Life 2003.

Carolyn Coffman was nominated by Humboldt Bay High School principal Georgeanne Fulstone-Pucillo. It was noted that Coffman puts a human face on the Community of Caring program at Humboldt Bay. Coffman has been a teen mentor at the Glen Paul Center for Exceptional Children, a cross-age tutor, and a junior counselor with AmeriCorps’ day camp.

Eureka High School senior Shanti Sattler was the luncheon’s guest speaker. Sattler has extensive experience in service and is currently serving a three-year term as a representative of Youth Serve America, a national service-learning organization. Sattler represents California and is one of only 24 representatives in the nation.

Eureka High School is an outstanding service-learning school for all students, and service-learning is found both inside and outside the curriculum. Service-learning is supported by district strategic planning and by a wide-range of community partners. Students are encouraged to participate in all of their four years at Eureka High. As a National Service-Learning Leader School, Eureka High School shares its service-learning successes with other schools. This may include hosting visitors to its campus, training peers, or promoting service-learning through conferences, in publications, or even online.

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Press Release
For Immediate Release

June 16, 2003

Eureka City Schools announces administrative appointments

EUREKA— At a special board meeting on June 5, the Governing Board of Eureka City Schools approved the appointment of Jan Schmidt to be principal at Alice Birney Elementary School and Rob Effa to be assistant principal at Zane Middle School beginning the 2003-2004 school year.

Schmidt joined the district in August 2002 as assistant principal and coordinator of categorical programs at Zane Middle School. Prior to coming to Eureka City Schools she served as vice principal and special programs coordinator at Blue Lake Elementary School for six years. Schmidt has coached and taught elementary, middle and high school since 1985. She earned her B.A. and administrative credential from Humboldt State University. Schmidt replaces current Alice Birney principal Teddie Lyons who will serve as Zane Middle School principal in the fall.

Effa will assume Schmidt’s position at Zane. He has served as a part-time science teacher and part-time assistant principal at the school since September 2002. Effa will relinquish his part-time duties as science teacher to become a full-time assistant principal. Before coming to Zane four years ago, he taught math and science at McKinleyville Middle School. Effa earned a B.S. in natural resources and biology and his administrative credential from Humboldt State University.

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Press Release
For Immediate Release

June 12, 2003

District issues rehire notices to teachers

EUREKA— On June 4, Eureka City Schools issued rehire notices to approximately 13 full time equivalent (FTE) teachers completing a full or partial rehire of all 41 permanent and probationary employees who received layoff notices on March 15. The district was able to complete the process after an in-depth summary of retirements, resignations and employee leaves, which totaled 32 FTE, gave a clearer picture of staffing needs for the 2003-04 school year.

Superintendent Jim Scott is glad the district was able to offer employment to its teachers who received notices. “We are very pleased that after careful consideration of our staffing needs for next year we are able to bring everyone back,” said Scott. “This has been a difficult spring for these teachers with the uncertainty about their employment for next year. These teachers are an investment in the future and we are thrilled that they will be doing what they love to do; teaching the students of Eureka City Schools.”

The district is required by law to issue Reduction In Force (RIF) notices by March 15 to any employee who’s status the following school year is in question. Faced with declining enrollment, uncertainty about the State $38 billion budget crisis and the possible reduction of teaching positions tied to categorical funds, the district had no choice but to issue the large number of RIF notices, the most since the late 70s.

District kindergarten enrollment for next school year is higher than originally projected. “Our kindergarten registration has gone really well. We have a much higher number of new students for us at this time of year,” acknowledged Scott.

Class size will not be affected next year as the district will continue the popular class size reduction program in kindergarten through third grades. Ninth grade class size reduction in English will also remain intact.

Eureka City Schools Governing Board will hold a meeting on its 2003-04 budget at its June 18 workshop meeting starting at 4:00 p.m. in the district’s board room, 3200 Walford Avenue.

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Press Release
For Immediate Release

June 12, 2003

Project STEM hosts Mentor Success Event

EUREKA— Eureka High School’s Project STEM (Success Through Educational Mentoring) program held a special celebration dinner on June 5 at the Wharfinger Building for students, mentors, and their families. Project STEM celebrated the accomplishments of students and recognized the commitment of mentors.

Eureka High School senior, Malcolm Jett, was presented with the $500 Ginny Wythe Scholarship. Jett said his favorite thing about Project STEM was having fun while also keeping up on his schoolwork and getting back on his feet. He remarked that the program helped him stay on task and get organized.

Mentor and Eureka High School counselor Cherie Zygaczenko has been paired up with senior Robert Flowers for three years. When asked what benefits Zygaczenko receives from mentoring students, she said, “It’s the satisfaction of knowing that you’ve made a little difference in the students’ lives while helping them get through high school and seeing them do well academically.” She also enjoys the strong bonds she has made with her mentees while also seeing each student’s self image become more positive through the years.

When asked how Project STEM helped him, Flowers said that he doesn’t think he would have passed his classes if it weren’t for Zygaczenko and Project STEM. “She is the most caring person I know. She cares so much about things I do and she is such a sweetheart. She cares about people more on a personal level and that’s what really makes me happy.”

Flowers said that he would recommend Project STEM to students. “I think if anybody needs help with anything you don’t need to be afraid to ask. Just go to a teacher or counselor and say you need help and you’ll realize they will be there to help you.”

Americorps members Jana Wilson and Ray Keane are also mentors with Project STEM. They said that they love to see their mentees grow. They will do things from tutoring students after school to going to their basketball games and just hanging out with them on a social level.

More than 200 Eureka High School students are linked up with approximately 100 mentors each year. Mentors include Eureka High staff, AmeriCorps members, college students, substitute teachers, and community members.

This year is the seventh year Project STEM has been serving Eureka High School and Humboldt Bay High School students. In 2000, the program won California’s Spirit of Mentoring Award. Project STEM is funded by an academic mentoring grant through the office of California’s Secretary of Education. Eureka High’s STEM program is one of just three programs in the state to be renewed for next year.

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Press Release
For Immediate Release

June 11, 2003

Eureka City Schools awards Apple Pins

EUREKA— At their regular meeting on June 4, the Governing Board of Eureka City Schools awarded Apple Pins to 16 individuals for their outstanding service on behalf of Eureka City Schools’ students.

Jim Sanders, principal at Lafayette Elementary School, was honored for his caring attitude and providing 30 years of exemplary leadership as a classroom teacher and principal.

Pam Lindstrom, principal at Worthington Elementary School, was recognized for always putting the needs of children first.

Carmen Hagood, Worthington’s school secretary, was acknowledged for her professionalism and organization.

Lorraine Smith, special day class teacher at Alice Birney Elementary, was praised for being an outstanding member of the school community and having a positive attitude.

Dolores Blanc, health aide at Lincoln Elementary, was commended for her bringing dental care to students and creating a family atmosphere at the school.

Gail Owren, second grade teacher at Jefferson Elementary, was recognized her role in creating educational partnerships designed to increase participation, homework completion and attendance.

Evelyn and Aldo Bongio, Washington Elementary neighbors, were honored for helping to keep the school and neighborhood beautiful by picking up trash on their regular walks.

Leona Smith, playground monitor at Lafayette Elementary, was recognized for setting a positive tone on the playground through her patience and willingness to work with individual students for their benefit.

Beth Baker, Winship Middle School mathematics teacher, was acknowledged for student success and as an enthusiastic school leader and mentor teacher.

Penni Nicoll, counseling clerk at Zane Middle School, was commended for her contribution to the school through organizing student events to her good sense of humor that makes others laugh.

Jeff Nissen, school counselor at Zoe Barnum High School, was praised as a role model for students and being respectful of opinions and approaches other than his own.

Bob Embertson, Eureka High School principal, was honored for his commitment to students and staff and performing his job without fanfare.

Marge Crichton, counselor Eureka High School’s Special Projects office, was recognized for her untiring efforts in creating meaningful school and community partnerships for hundreds of employees and thousands of students.

Lois Beachy, school and community resource coordinator, was acknowledged for her extraordinary efforts to benefit students by developing and implementing the Community Learning Centers, the district’s after-school program.

Maureen Olsen, special services technician, was honored for her behind-the-scenes work in the School Attendance Review Board and Committee for Academic Performance and for modeling sensitivity and fairness in complex issues.

Donna Walton, food service worker at Lafayette Elementary, was praised for her sincere interest and loving heart toward every child she serves.

Micki Thornton, administrative assistant to the superintendent, was commended for her efficient organizational work with the school board.

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Press Release
For Immediate Release

June 6, 2003

Eureka City Schools announces new principal for Lafayette School

EUREKA— At its regular board meeting on June 4, the Governing Board of Eureka City Schools approved the appointment of Laurie U. Alexander to the job of principal at Lafayette Elementary School starting the 2003-04 school year. Alexander will replace Jim Sanders who will be retiring after a stint as elementary summer school principal in July.

Alexander comes to Eureka from Oceanside Unified School District where she has served in a variety of capacities since 1986. Her broad experience includes elementary classroom teacher, master teacher, language arts resource teacher, and summer school program coordinator. She also served as district coordinator for categorical programs and educational support. Most recently, Alexander has been administrator on special assignment assisting underperforming schools to improve instructional programs and academic achievement.

Alexander received a B.A. from University of California, Santa Barbara, and an M.A. in Educational Administration from Chapman University in 1996.

For more information, contact Sheldon J. Reber, director of school and community relations, at 441-2416.

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Press Release
For Immediate Release

June 6, 2003

Eureka teacher recognized for work with survivors of traumatic brain injury

EUREKA— Brenda Bertain, Eureka Adult School Instructor for the Educational Life Skills Program for Survivors of Traumatic Brain Injury, recently received the C. Raymond Hudson Award given by the Area I Developmental Disabilities Board.

According to the Board, Ms. Bertain was recognized for her “kindness, tolerance for ambiguity and tenacity in building a new program which serves persons who have suffered a traumatic brain injury. Brenda creates a safe and nurturing setting for her students so as to foster their recovery process and regain social and learning skills”.

The Educational Life Skills Program for Survivors of Traumatic Brain Injury emphasizes cognitive retraining, socialization, wellness and vocational development to promote independence. Curriculum includes life skills, communication skills, vocational exploration, creativity developments, personal development and cognitive retraining.

The summer program will be held from 12:30–3:30 p.m. on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays at the Eureka Adult School beginning June 24. Please call the Eureka Adult School office at 441-2448 for more information. Eureka Adult School is located in the Jacobs Education Center, 674 Allard Avenue.

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Press Release
For Immediate Release

June 6, 2003

Eureka High School receives $42,000 recycling grant

EUREKA— Eureka High School students Kimberly Haase and Sarah Prangley are working on a project for their EAST class called Project ROCME. EAST is a service-learning class in which individual students work on one or more service projects during the year and learn skills to make them better community members. The facilitators for this class are teachers Jennifer Johnson and Ron Perry.

Project ROCME is an acronym for Recycling On Campus Made Easy. ROCME focuses on the school’s recycling needs. Currently the project is dealing with Eureka High’s desperate need for beverage containers/recycling bins.

In November of 2002, science teacher Robert Childs applied to the California Department of Conservation for a grant to help ROCME supply the campus with recycling bins. Childs wrote the grant with support from Special Projects coordinator Marge Crichton and Straight Up AmeriCorps member Kimberly Morgan.

In May of 2003, Childs received a call confirming $42,000 in grant money for the project. The money will go to buying professional beverage container bins and providing funding for Childs and an AmeriCorps member to oversee container servicing, data collection, and implementation of a recycling education program.

ROCME is also organizing a project for the end of the school year. There has always existed a problem with students generating huge amounts of waste out of their lockers the last few days of school. ROCME is now organizing a convenient and efficient way for having all these materials recycled or reused. The project includes recycling the paper and saving all reusable binders, pens and pencils for teachers to give out to the next year’s students.

If you would like to contact ROCME for more information please call 476-1632 (Eureka High EAST Lab) and ask for Project ROCME.

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Press Release
For Immediate Release

June 5, 2003

School Board receives first draft of Nutrition Policy

EUREKA— At its regular meeting on June 4, the Governing Board of Eureka City Schools received the first draft of a Nutrition Policy written by the district’s nutrition policy task force. A presentation on the nationwide obesity epidemic among children and adults was made by task force member Melissa Martin, health education specialist. Laurin Berta, R.D. parent and dietitian, presented and overview of the policy to the Board. A copy of the draft Nutrition Policy is posted on the district’s Web site at www.eurekacityschools.org and is available at school site offices.

During the last 3 months, a committee of community professionals, staff, students, and parents have been meeting to develop a draft document for a district Nutrition Policy. The committee in developing this draft policy recognized the following facts:

• Improved nutritional status has a positive and immediate impact on student academic performance.

• Healthy well-nourished children are more likely to attend school and more prepared and motivated to learn.

• Chronic illnesses in adulthood result from habits acquired early in life.

• One of the most effective ways to prevent chronic disease is to establish school policies/programs that encourage children and adolescents to develop healthy eating and exercise habits that they can maintain throughout their lives.

Some of the recommendations included in the draft policy include implementing a universal breakfast program to at least K-6 students, a ban on the vending machine sale of sodas, chips, and candy during school hours, and a variety of venues at Eureka High School where students can choose high quality foods for the lowest possible cost. Parents/guardians will be encouraged to support the effort by providing healthful snacks for classroom and school events.

The Governing Board encouraged the public to get involved. “We want the public to give us input,” said Joyce Hayes, board president and a member of the task force. “The Board will look at the policy again on June 25 at 4:30 p.m.” At the end of the month, the Board will submit the nutrition policy to the California School Board Association for further review.

For more information contact Joyce Hayes at 445-3965. School Board meetings are held at the district office, 3200 Walford Avenue, Eureka.

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Press Release
For Immediate Release

June 2, 2003

Eureka school board concludes superintendent evaluation

EUREKA— The Governing Board of Eureka City Schools recently concluded its annual evaluation of Superintendent James W. Scott, Ed.D. Scott is concluding his 10th year as district superintendent. The Board utilizes the Professional Standards for the Superintendency as criteria along with the strategic goals of the district.

According to Board President, Joyce Hayes, the evaluation is an ongoing process between the Superintendent and the Board that ensures that all district efforts are focused on the district’s vision for student learning.

The Board commended Dr. Scott for his creative leadership and management of district resources including personnel and facilities. Further, the Board cited curriculum planning and high commitment to the district strategic vision to improve learning as strengths.

The Board asked Superintendent Scott to develop future goals that will increase outreach to ethnic groups in the community and increase their representation on district committees, planning, and decision making. The Board also requests the Superintendent to seek ways to improve curriculum and teaching strategies for secondary students who need extra help to be successful.

For more information contact Sheldon J. Reber, director of school and community relations, at 441-2416.

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Press Release
For Immediate Release

May 30, 2003

School Board approves new Zane Middle School principal

EUREKA— At its regular workshop meeting on May 21, the Eureka City Schools Governing Board approved staff’s recommendation to appoint Teddie Lyons to be principal of Zane Middle School starting the 2003-2004 school year. Lyons is currently the principal of Alice Birney Elementary School.

Lyons has been a classroom teacher, a reading specialist, a curriculum resource specialist in language arts, and a Title 1 coordinator. Her administrative career began in 1977 as an administrative intern for San Diego Schools. From 1995 to 1997, Lyons served as principal of Jefferson Elementary School before moving to her current position as principal of Alice Birney Elementary. She received her B.A. from San Diego State University and her M.A. from Saint Mary’s College.

Current Zane principal Catalina Nocon will begin serving as principal of Jefferson Elementary School next school year. Bill Cannady, Jefferson’s current principal, will begin serving as associate principal of student welfare at Eureka High School next school year.

For more information contact Sheldon J. Reber, director of school and community relations, at 441-2416.

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Press Release
For Immediate Release

May 19, 2003

Winship Middle School—Distinguished!

EUREKA— A warm, orderly setting, actively engaged students, and a staff that shares the responsibility of implementing a standards-based curriculum. Those are just some of the qualities that were noted when Winship Middle School received Distinguished School status from the California Department of Education (CDE).

On May 16, Winship was recognized as a 2003 California Distinguished School during a ceremony held in Anaheim. Representatives from Winship joined 132 California public middle schools and high schools for the award. Of the 2,228 middle and high schools in the state, fewer than 400 middle and high schools were eligible to apply based on their Academic Performance Index (API) results.

CDE’s visiting team noted that “Winship teachers, administrators, and support staff are committed, innovative, energetic, and driven to provide an outstanding education for their students.” Students interviewed by the team said “Our teachers really care about us. They are always there at lunch, or before or after school for us. If we don’t understand something, the teachers go over it with us a million times until we get it.”

Winship provides its students with an array of classroom experiences including computer simulation activities and integrated thematic units. The visiting team observed students frequently working in collaborative classroom teams and observed strong community partnerships. “The school’s Lunch on the Lawn event is an excellent example of the school’s connection to its community,” wrote team leaders.

It’s not the first time Winship has been recognized as a California Distinguished School. The school also earned the state recognition in 1999.

For more information contact Sheldon J. Reber, director of school and community relations, at 441-2416.

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Press Release
For Immediate Release

May 19, 2003

Math teachers honored

EUREKA— Two Winship Middle School mathematics teachers were honored recently by the Humboldt County Board of Education and Garry T. Eagles, Ph.D., Humboldt County Superintendent of Schools.

At a reception at the Wharfinger Building on May 14, the Day of the Teacher, Sue Jungi was recognized with the 2003 Jean Olson Career Achievement Award and Bill Funkhouser was recognized with the 2003 Excellence in Teaching Award.

Phyllis Chinn, Humboldt State University professor of mathematics, wrote in her nomination letter, “In all her years of teaching, Sue Jungi has striven to improve her own understanding of mathematics and pedagogy in order to give her students the greatest opportunities to learn.”

In 1988, Jungi was instrumental in the formation of the Redwood Area Mathematics Project (RAMP). “Thanks to Sue’s consistent and effective work, over 300 teachers have participated in RAMP institutes, thereby increasing their effectiveness in teaching mathematics,” wrote Chinn. “I particularly recall examples of rich geometry activities including tessellations, origami, and geoboards, as well as extensive student work on patterns in numbers and algebra. My own teaching at the university level improved as a result of my contact with Sue.”

Winship principal Kim Cobine nominated Funkhouser for an Excellence in Teaching Award because “Bill personifies the lifelong learner and his actions exemplify the continuous development essential to being a true master teacher.”

Cobine interviewed some of Funkhouser’s students and all agreed that he is a great teacher because they usually get what he means the first time. Chris, one of Funkhouser’s students, said “When you get it, it sticks!”

Chris also mentioned how Funkhouser likes to bring real-life examples into his classroom. “The other day he had this toy car and he had us figuring out the miles-per-hour the car was going. It was really cool how he taught us to do that.”

Funkhouser has also been a participant and team-level teacher in RAMP.

For more information contact Sheldon J. Reber, director of school and community relations, at 441-2416.

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Press Release
For Immediate Release

May 19, 2003

She’s enthusiastic, energetic, and dedicated!

EUREKA— At the California Continuation Education Association’s (CCEA) annual conference in May, Humboldt Bay High School principal Georgeanne Fulstone-Pucillo was recognized as Administrator of the Year for District 1. Fulstone-Pucillo also serves as Eureka High School’s assistant principal.

In her recommendation of Fulstone-Pucillo, Jeanne Yttreness, vice-president of CCEA, wrote “Enthusiastic, energetic, dedicated! These three adjectives describe Georgeanne Fulstone-Pucillo just as accurately now as when she began her career in education 23 years ago.”

Yttreness noted that Fulstone-Pucillo was someone who “knows all students can learn and, with her staff, has developed a challenging curriculum that promotes multiple-modality instruction and community, real-world connections.”

Prior to her current duties, Fulstone-Pucillo also taught a variety of subjects at Humboldt Bay including mathematics, science, economics, English, civics and work experience.

In 2002, CCEA recognized the staff and students of Humboldt Bay High School with an Exemplary Program Award for their work in creating the Glen Paul Exchange Teen-to-Teen Mentoring Project. The eight-year-old program pairs emotionally and physically-challenged teenagers at Glen Paul School with Humboldt Bay students.

For more information contact Sheldon J. Reber, director of school and community relations, at 441-2416.

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Press Release
For Immediate Release

May 5, 2003

The play’s the thing for Zoe students

EUREKA— For the past five years, Adina Lawson and John Myers have shared the magic of Shakespeare with students at Zoe Barnum High School. Their innovative language and performing arts program was recently given an Exemplary Program Award at the California Continuation Education Association (CCEA) annual conference in May.

“Shakespeare speaks to students through a participatory program of theater games, acting, and staging,” said Lawson. “Kids stand on desks waving plastic swords with Shakespeare’s words in their mouths.”

Lawson and Myers received training in these techniques through summer programs at the Oregon Shakespeare Festival (OSF) and through the Shakespeare Set Free publications of the Folger Shakespeare Library. “Every year we teach a different Shakespeare play to 150 students—the entire student body,” explained Lawson. “Last year it was Macbeth and this year we performed Othello. For six weeks, Zoe Barnum becomes Elizabethan in feeling. Kids insult each other in Shakespeare’s language and spout iambic pentameter in the halls. Kids feel the joy and richness of our English language.”

Lawson feels that if Shakespeare is taught at Zoe Barnum, he can be taught at other alternative schools. She quotes Joan Langley, director of eduction at the OSF, “Tell your students that the words are not in the way. The words are the way.”

For more information contact Sheldon J. Reber, director of school and community relations, at 441-2416.

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Press Release
For Immediate Release

May 5, 2003

Zoe Barnum recognized as Model School

EUREKA— Zoe Barnum High School is just one of 20 schools being recognized as a Model Continuation High School by the California Department of Education and the California Continuation Education Association (CCEA). The recognition program identifies and recognizes outstanding programs and creates a resource list of quality programs for school visitations. Zoe Barnum was recognized for providing comprehensive services to at-risk youth through the use of exemplary instructional strategies, flexible scheduling, and guidance and counseling services. Representatives from the high school received the award at CCEA’s annual conference on May 2 in San Francisco.

In the Model Continuation High School application, language arts teacher Adina Lawson wrote that she interviewed kids before first period “about what makes Zoe Barnum extraordinary?”

Kyle: The friendly environment. You are accepted for who you are.

Danielle: The teachers will take their time for students who need help.

Travis: All the teachers pay attention to the kids. Every teacher. Every student.

Rolanda: The people, the mix. Tolerance for our diversity.

Chester: This is not a giant social event. It’s about the education.

Lawson mentioned the school Community of Caring Grant and how it changed Zoe Barnum’s culture. “We were to institute the values of responsibility, caring, trust, family and respect into our curriculum and our social interactions on campus. We suddenly had a shared vocabulary to express and exalt the best of being human. All classroom management, all curricular content, all social content, now looked to our Community of Caring values. New questions arose. Was this novel responsible in its depiction of Native Americans? Was that conversation a caring one? Did the tardy policy express teachers’ trust of students, as well as students’ respect of staff?”

Even thought the Community of Caring grant ran out, Lawson states “the core values continue to imbue and support every word and every action on our campus.”

For more information contact Sheldon J. Reber, director of school and community relations, at 441-2416.

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Press Release
For Immediate Release

May 1, 2003

Jackson has a passion for teaching

EUREKA— Anyone who’s ever come in contact with Eureka High School physical education teacher Stephanie Jackson knows she is “a bit of sunshine on a rainy day.” That comment was also felt by her colleagues who nominated Jackson as California League of High School’s (CLHS) Educator of the Year.

Jackson was recognized by her peers as someone who actively participates in every aspect of the high school, provides inspiring leadership, and truly cares about students, teachers and staff.

Jackson has been a driving force behind HealthPath, a four-year integrated academic program for students interested in future careers in healthcare. She has put in countless hours writing grants, planning curriculum, and organizing activities for the students who are in the program.

Her colleagues also noted that Jackson’s relationships with others are “real.” On the first day of school, “she calls her past student teachers and wishes them good luck and maintains contact with them through the ups and downs of their teaching careers.”

Jackson attended the CLHS regional awards banquet in Santa Rosa in April.

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Press Release
For Immediate Release

May 1, 2003

Zane music teacher recognized as Music Educator of the Year

EUREKA— Zane Middle School music teacher Bruce McCay has been selected as Music Educator of the Year for the North Coast Section of the California Association for Music Education (CMEA).

According to the Association, McCay’s “dedication to students is of the highest caliber. The students that have come through your classroom are some of the best on the North Coast. Your students have shown a strong commitment to music and healthy respect for you as their teacher. The ensembles you have taught have proven to be of high quality and make wonderful music.”

McCay was presented with the award in March at CMEA’s state conference in Anaheim.

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Public Service Announcement
For Immediate Release

May 1, 2003

Jefferson School hosts Bingo Night on May 30

EUREKA— Jefferson Elementary Schools is hosting a Bingo Night to raise money to send fifth-graders to the Whiskeytown Environmental Camp and to benefit the afterschool program. Bingo Night will be held on Friday, May 30 from 6 to 8 p.m. Prizes include movie coupons, gift certificates, tools, gourmet foods and much more. Chili dogs and sodas will be available for purchase. Jefferson School is located at 100 B Street in Eureka. For more information call 441-2493.

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Press Release
For Immediate Release

April 14, 2003

Governing Board receives Eureka City Schools 2003-2004 Budget Plan

EUREKA— At its workshop meeting on April 9, the Governing Board of Eureka City Schools received a presentation on the 2003-2004 Budget Plan from district superintendent Jim Scott. The 2003-04 Budget Plan document is posted on the district’s Web site at www.eurekacityschools.org and attached to this press release.

The Budget Plan document reveals the district’s $3.27 million deficit for the 2003-2004 school year and details proposed actions to overcome the large sum. The district has projected unrestricted revenue for the 2003-04 school year at $28.53 million. Expense projections have been calculated to total $31.81 million. The Governing Board must adopt next year’s budget by June 30.

“This Plan takes into account the effects of how the State fiscal crisis will impact our district as well as ongoing declining enrollment, rising health care costs, and adjustments for staffing,” said Superintendent Scott.

The Budget Plan recommends certificated reductions of $2.03 million based on declining enrollment, program needs in special education, potential library reductions, adjustments for overstaffing, retirements, and elimination of leadership positions.

Classified reductions of $556,152 are based partly on reduced custodial and grounds hours, and unfilled or reduced administrative positions.

The district will also be able to realize a $883,000 reduction based on the use of one-time moneys such as refinancing of current debt, deferred maintenance, and ending fund balances.

The next meeting on the district’s Budget Plan for 2003-04 will be held on May 14 at 4:30 p.m. in the district’s board room, 3200 Walford Avenue. For more information contact Sheldon J. Reber, Director of School and Community Relations, at 441-2416.

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Press Release
For Immediate Release

April 11, 2003

Eureka School Board announces administrative assignments for 2003-04

EUREKA— At its April 9 workshop meeting the Governing Board of Eureka City Schools approved the following administrative assignments for the 2003-04 school year.

Bob Steffen, associate principal of Eureka High School, will become co-principal of the school. The co-principal idea for Eureka High School has been of interest for some time. While this is a fairly new concept, many high schools have implemented the principal-team idea and report positive results and a high degree of satisfaction from those they serve.

Pat Faeth, principal of Zoe Barnum High School, will become co-principal along with Steffen. Both administrators are excited about the opportunity to become equal partners in leading Eureka High School.

Bill Cannady, principal at Jefferson Elementary School, was appointed as associate principal of student welfare at Eureka High School. He will replace Roger Lorenzetti who filled in this past year in the areas of student discipline, attendance and supervision.

Georgeanne Fulstone-Pucillo, assistant principal of Eureka High School, will assume the leadership for the Special Projects office from Marge Crichton who will be retiring at the end of this school year. Fulstone-Pucillo will continue with her responsibilities at Humboldt Bay High School while also working closely with staff in dropout prevention strategies.

This redesign of the Eureka High School Administrative Team results in the loss of one full-time assistant principal at the high school.

Catalina Nocon, principal of Zane Middle School, will replace Cannady as principal of Jefferson. Nocon will also be assigned to direct district-wide implementation and evaluation of the Local Education Agency Plan (LEAP), which will direct all program design and budgets for categorical funds.

Kim Kellenberg, director of Eureka Adult School, along with assistant directors Debra Jones and Kevin O’Brien, will assume the additional duties of running Zoe Barnum High School.

The consolidation of Zoe Barnum and Adult Education results in an additional full administrative reduction.

For more information contact Sheldon J. Reber, Director of School and Community Relations, at 441-2416.

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Press Release
For Immediate Release

March 25, 2003

Eureka High School hosts 10th-Annual Multicultural Show on April 4

EUREKA— The Eureka High School World Unity Club is sponsoring the 10th -Annual Multicultural Show on Friday April 4 from 7 to 9 p.m. in the Eureka High auditorium. The goal of the World Unity Club is to spread knowledge and awareness of other cultures throughout Eureka High School and the community. The proceeds from this performance will provide an exchange-student scholarship for a Eureka High student this coming school year.

This year’s performance will feature a multitude of dancers, musicians, storytellers and singers representing the diversity of our community. Eureka High students, as well as performers from throughout Humboldt County, will be participating. Performances will include German, Lao, Hmong, Native American, Middle Eastern, American and Mexican cultures.

Tickets are $3 for adults, #2 for seniors and children (ages 6-12), and free for children 5 and under. They may be purchased at the door the night of the show.

Eureka High School is located at 1915 J Street. For more information or tickets please contact the World Unity Club advisor Maureen Kearns at 839-4810.

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Press Release
For Immediate Release

March 18, 2003

Eureka City Schools’ Governing Board announces administrative assignment

EUREKA— At its regular meeting on March 5, the Eureka City Schools Governing Board approved an administrative assignment for the 2003-2004 school year.

Current Worthington Elementary School principal Pam Lindstrom has been assigned to be principal at Lafayette Elementary School beginning July 1. Lindstrom has been principal at Worthington School for two years. Prior to serving as Worthington’s principal, Lindstrom was principal at Lincoln Elementary for three years and principal at Grant Elementary School for three years. Lindstrom has also served as Eureka City School’s director of early childhood education.

Lindstrom received her B.A. from UC Santa Barbara, her M.A. and elementary teaching credential from San Jose State University, and Learning Handicapped and Resource Specialist Teacher credentials from Humboldt State University. Lindstrom has also served for 18 years as a K-8 teacher and college instructor.

For more information contact Sheldon J. Reber at 441-2416.

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Press Release
For Immediate Release

March 18, 2003

Eureka community leaders go back to school during Principal for a Day

EUREKA— For one day, 8 Eureka business and community leaders will go back to school as a “Principal for a Day” and learn firsthand about the challenges and the achievements in Eureka City Schools. Principal for a Day is scheduled for Tuesday, March 18 from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. The event is a partnership with the Greater Eureka Chamber of Commerce.

The media is encouraged to attend any of the participating school sites on Tuesday, March 18.

Among the local business and community leaders participating in Principal for a Day are:

Bryan Plumley, Cochrane & Plumley, at Winship Middle School, 2500 Cypress Avenue, 441-2487;

Susan Seaman, KEET-TV, at Alice Birney Elementary School, 717 South Street, 441-2495;

Peter LaVallee, Mayor of Eureka, Zoe Barnum High School, 674 Allard Avenue, 441-2467;

Charlotte McDonald, executive director Eureka Main Street, at Lafayette Elementary, 3100 Park Street, 441-2482;

Ken Skaggs, Eureka Chamber of Commerce, at Eureka High School, 1915 J Street, 476-4800;

Fred Nelson, Humboldt Taxpayer’s League, at Lincoln Elementary, 216 West Harris Street, 441-2446;

Jeff Leonard, Eureka City Council member, at Zane Middle High, 2155 S Street, 441-2470;

Lt. Ron Waters, Eureka Police Department, at Jefferson Elementary School, 1000 B Street, 441-2493.

During their day on campus, the new school administrators will participate in a variety of tasks as they jobshadow the school’s principal. Principal for a Day activities might include learning about school technology, facilities management, partnership opportunities, school–to–career, curriculum, service-learning, accountability measures, and classroom observations.

Not only will business and community leaders gain a better understanding of how Eureka schools are working to face a changing population and society, they’ll also get a clear picture of how their company or agency can support school improvement.

“Principal for a Day is a call to Eureka’s business and community leaders to get involved at the point of change in our schools,” said Jim Scott, superintendent of Eureka City Schools. “By engaging our Principals for a Day in public education, we hope to mobilize the expertise and resources of our community, build lasting partnerships, and make our schools better.”

All Eureka City School have ongoing educational partnerships with local business and community groups. For additional information regarding Principal for a Day 2003 contact Sheldon J. Reber at 441-2416.

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Public Service Announcement
For Immediate Release

March 17, 2003

Lafayette Musical Theater Club Presents Alice In Wonderland

EUREKA— Lafayette Elementary students will present Scenes from Alice in Wonderland on March 25 and 26 at 7 p.m., in the Eureka High School auditorium. More than 60 Lafayette students grades K-5 will be performing. This is Lafayette’s 8th-annual musical production. Auditions begin in the fall each year with the school’s play being presented to the public in early spring. Tickets are available at Lafayette School and at the door. Lafayette School is at 3100 Park Street in Eureka. For more information call 441-2482.

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Press Release
For Immediate Release

March 13, 2003

Board issues layoff notices due to declining enrollment and budget uncertainty

EUREKA— Anticipating unprecedented cuts to its 2003-2004 budget due to declining enrollment and California’s financial crisis, the Eureka City Schools Governing Board passed a resolution at its March 12 workshop meeting to issue layoff notices to 39.5 certificated teaching personnel. The notices are required by law to be sent to teachers by March 15 even if there is a remote possibility the teacher may be laid off the following school year. Any final decision on actual layoffs will not occur until late spring or summer when the district hopes to have a clear picture of State budget reductions.

In a letter sent to all staff on March 6, Superintendent James W. Scott, Ed.D. expressed his feelings on the high number of notices. “The district has been put in an impossible position by the State. We fully expect to bring many who are noticed back to their rightful teaching position; however, for now we must be very cautious.”

As enrollment has declined in past years, the district has been able to adjust teaching positions through retirements and attrition. This will not be the case in the 2003-2004 school year. Scott explained to the Board the many steps taken to determine the number of layoff notices. “The district determined the number of notices by looking at the amount of employees on leave, the effects of declining enrollment, categorically funded teachers, program reductions as well as the number of retiring and temporary teachers,” said Scott.

At its March 12 meeting, Superintendent Scott shared a presentation with the Board that featured an overview of budget cuts made since the 2000-2001 school year. “Over the past three years we have reduced our budget in excess of $5 million in order to keep pace with declining enrollment and shrinking state revenues,” Scott told the board. “However, our costs have risen in areas such as special education, energy and health and welfare. Health benefits alone have gone up approximately 40% or $2,000 per employee. What we have left are programs we feel are essential to educating our young people.”

Copies of Superintendent Scott’s presentation can be viewed on the district’s Web site at www.eurekacityschools.org.

The Governing Board will discuss future budget meeting dates at its regular workshop meeting on March 19 at 4:30 p.m. in the district’s board room, 3200 Walford Avenue.

For more information contact Sheldon J. Reber at 441-2416.

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Public Service Announcement
For Immediate Release

March 6, 2003

Eureka Adult School hosts Open House on March 26

EUREKA — You’re invited to the Eureka Adult School’s Open House on Wednesday, March 26 from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Jacobs Education Center. Come and learn about exciting new classes, work in the computer labs and enjoy refreshments. The Adult School's new session begins March 31.

New class offerings include Lap Swimming, Aqua Aerobics, Learn to Swim for Adults and Teach Your Child to Swim. All swimming classes are held at the new Eureka High School pool. For the first time they'll be offering an Introduction to Computers class in Spanish. Learn how to paint in Water Color and Acrylics as well as Drawing and Sculpture. Yoga and Tai Chi will help you relax while Creative Dance will enliven your spirit. Did you have a successful garden? Come learn what to do with all that good food in our new Home Canning class, offered in June. Or maybe you’ve always wanted to learn how to fly fish. Our fly-casting class will be taught by two of the best and most well-known experts in northern California. Perhaps singing and song writing is your interest. Check out our new voice and music writing classes.

The Eureka Adult School's Open House will be held on Wednesday, March 26 from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Jacobs Education Center, 674 Allard Avenue. Call 441-2448 for more information.

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Public Service Announcement
For Immediate Release

February 7, 2003

Eureka High offers Parent Orientation Night on March 3

EUREKA— Parents of eighth grade students are invited to attend Eureka High School's Parent Orientation Night for incoming freshmen for the 2003-2004 school year on Monday, March 3 from 6:30-9:00 p.m. Students are also welcome.

The evening includes presentations by Eureka High School counseling and teaching staff. Parents will meet in the auditorium at 6:30 for an orientation by the counselors and guidance technicians. At 7:30 all departments will be available for demonstrations, discussions and questions in the school gymnasium.

Parents of 8th-graders from Zane, Winship, Freshwater and Kneeland schools can look for registration packets being sent home with their student the week of February 24. If your child does not attend one of these schools, drop by the high school during the week of February 24 to pick up a registration packet, or packets will be available at the orientation on March 3.

Eureka High School is located at 1915 J Street. For more information call 441-2591.

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Press Release
For Immediate Release

January 27, 2003

Eureka City Schools selects architectural firms for school bond projects

EUREKA— At its workshop meeting on January 22, the governing board of Eureka City Schools approved hiring two firms to provide architectural and engineering services for its elementary, middle and high schools. The work will be paid for by Measures S and T, last year’s successful local school bond measures.

LPA Inc. was selected to perform architectural and engineering services for the middle and high school bond projects. Local firm Matson and Vallerga Architects, Inc. was selected to perform architectural and engineering services for the elementary schools bond projects. Members of the district’s Citizen’s Oversight Committee participated in the interview process.

The first order of business for the architects is the drafting of current modernization plans for all schools that will be submitted to the state. The district hopes to supplement the proceeds from Measures S and T with matching money from a state bond expected to be on the ballot in March 2004.

For more information contact Sheldon J. Reber, director of school and community relations, at 441-2416.

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Press Release
For Immediate Release

January 27, 2003

Singing Valentines!

The members of Eureka High School’s “Limited Edition” will be serenading the community again this year with Singing Valentines. Send a song of your choice and a long stemmed red rose to someone you love on February 13 or 14.

Songs include: All I Have To Do Is Dream, Can’t Help Falling In Love, In The Still Of The Night, Stand By Me and Unchained Melody.

The cost is $15 within Eureka and $20 outside of Eureka. All proceeds benefit the Eureka High School Choral Music Department

To order your Singing Valentine call the Eureka High School Choral Department at 476-1757

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Press Release
For Immediate Release

January 9, 2003

Eureka City Schools Governing Board approves Worthington closure

EUREKA— At its regular meeting on January 8, the Governing Board of Eureka City Schools approved the closure of Worthington Elementary School to effect elementary site consolidation from seven campuses to six. Worthington will close at the end of the current school year. The Board had asked superintendent James W. Scott, Ed.D. to make a recommendation based on enrollment figures, utilization of facilities and operational costs. In a series of public meetings, Dr. Scott had outlined several recommendations including elementary school closure.

A complete copy of Dr. Scott’s recommendations for action presented to the Board on January 8 can be found at school offices and on the district’s Web site at www.eurekacityschools.org.

Based on the approved recommendations, the district will utilize Worthington as a temporary site for elementary schools under modernization construction. A task force is to be formed in January to develop strategies for innovative practices at one or more of the remaining elementary sites and report its preliminary findings to the Board in March 2003. The task force will research charter school regulations, review “magnet school” concepts and consider previous concepts that have been introduced such as Montessori and Language Immersion.

For more information contact Sheldon J. Reber at 441-2416.

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Press Release
For Immediate Release

January 9, 2003

Eureka High School pool offers free community swim on January 25

EUREKA— On January 25 at 11 a.m., Eureka City Schools will hold a ceremony to officially thank Eureka residents Rob and Cherie Arkley for their generous donation to renovate Eureka High School’s pool facility. The public is invited to attend.

The pool will also be open on January 25 for free community swimming from 11 a.m. until 1 p.m.

A representative from the Eureka Adult School will be on hand with information on swim classes and registration materials. The Eureka Adult School now offers weekday classes in Aqua Aerobics, Swim for Fitness and Lane Swimming at the pool.

The school’s pool was closed for seven years due to a significant leak. Repair of the leak proved difficult given the expense and compliance with multiple new regulations since the swimming pool was built over 50 years ago.

Eureka High School is located at 1915 J Street. The pool is located in the Jay Willard gymnasium.

For more information contact Sheldon J. Reber at 441-2416.

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Press Release
For Immediate Release

December 19, 2002

School board and public continue school closure discussion

EUREKA— At its workshop meeting on December 18, the Governing Board of Eureka City Schools discussed and received public input on the district’s Facility Utilization Plan. At its fourth public meeting on the issue, the Governing Board asked Superintendent James W. Scott, Ed.D. to recommend whether the District should just close one school and maintain six elementary schools, or close two schools and maintain five elementary schools. Previously, on December 11, Dr. Scott recommended to the Board that Worthington be the school closed to take the District to six elementary schools.

Dr. Scott stated that it was his recommendation that the District should not close two schools. “If we close two schools, the draw-down on the capacity of our district puts us in a situation that potentially would create more problems than it would solve,” said Scott. “In addition, the savings from a second closure realized in 2003-2004 would be significantly reduced by increased transportation and perhaps the adding of classrooms at some sites.”

Acknowledging the current state fiscal crisis, Scott said, “I believe that in the next 18 months we will be going through some critical budget issues which will require us to look at all programs. I think we will be a stronger district with six elementary schools as we persevere through these tough times.”

The Facility Utilization Plan asked the Governing Board to commission a process to address a number of challenges facing Eureka City Schools. Discussed in the Plan is the district’s continuing declining enrollment, increasing operational costs, the long-term implications of California’s ongoing financial crisis, the need for temporary housing during bond construction, the growth of adult education, and consideration of a small high school. Copies of the Plan are posted on the district’s Web site at www.eurekacityschools.org and can be found at school sites.

The Board is expected to make a final decision on school closure in January. The next board meeting is scheduled for January 8 at 7:30 p.m. at the district office, 3200 Walford Avenue. For more information contact Sheldon J. Reber at 441-2416.

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Press Release
For Immediate Release

December 11, 2002

Board receives Facility Utilization Plan recommendation on school closure

EUREKA— On December 11, at its third public information meeting on the district’s Facility Utilization Plan, the Governing Board of Eureka City Schools received a recommendation on elementary school closure from district superintendent James W. Scott, Ed.D. The school district currently operates seven elementary schools. Based on extensive research, Dr. Scott made the recommendation to close Worthington Elementary School at the end of the current school year. Criteria used included enrollment decline, density of students living in the neighborhood, impact on transportation to other schools, using the campus as a temporary site for schools under bond construction, the condition and assets of the facility and flexibility of use.

In addition to Dr. Scott’s recommendation, the governing board also asked for two scenarios of further reducing from six to five elementary schools. The other elementary schools discussed in the scenarios were Jefferson and Lincoln.

The Facility Utilization Plan asked the governing board to commission a process to address a number of challenges facing Eureka City Schools. Discussed in the Plan is the district’s continuing declining enrollment, increasing operational costs, the long-term implications of California’s ongoing financial crisis, the need for temporary housing during bond construction, the growth of adult education, and consideration of a small high school.

The Board is expected to make a final decision on school closure in January. The next board meeting is scheduled for December 18 at 4:30 p.m. at the district office, 3200 Walford Avenue. The Facility Utilization Plan will be an agenda item but no decision will be made. The public will have an opportunity to comment during the December 18 meeting.

For more information contact Sheldon J. Reber at 441-2416.

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Press Release
For Immediate Release

December 5, 2002

School Board hosts final public information meeting on December 11

EUREKA— At its regular meeting on November 20, the governing board of Eureka City Schools directed superintendent James W. Scott, Ed.D. to present a recommendation on elementary school closure at its third public information meeting on December 11. The district currently operates seven elementary schools. In addition to the recommendation, the governing board also asked Dr. Scott to describe a scenario of further reducing from six to five elementary schools. The governing board will not make a decision on elementary school closure at the December 11 public information meeting. The information meeting is open to the public and will last from 5-7 p.m. at the district office, 3200 Walford Avenue.

According to Joyce Hayes, board president, “The purpose of the meetings will be to not only provide information to the public but to allow an opportunity for community input on a facility plan that addresses the district’s long-range needs. The board will carefully consider all input from the community, staff and parents in order to make the best decision on how facilities should be used to support student needs.”

The Facility Utilization Plan Update asked the board to commission a process to address a number of challenges facing Eureka City Schools. Discussed in the plan is the district’s continuing declining enrollment, increasing operational costs, the long-term implications of California’s ongoing financial crisis, the need for temporary housing during bond construction, the growth of adult education, and consideration of a small high school.

The plan also recommends that the governing board take input from parents, staff and community serving on existing district committees including the superintendent’s parent advisory, the fiscal policy team and the district curriculum committee.

The facility utilization plan is posted on the district’s Web site at www.eurekacityschool.org . For more information and to schedule interviews with Dr. Scott and board president Joyce Hayes contact Sheldon J. Reber at 441-2416.

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Press Release
For Immediate Release

December 2, 2002

First Eureka City Schools teacher achieves National Teaching Certification

EUREKA— Winship Middle School mathematics teacher Bill Funkhouser was awarded National Board for Professional Teaching Standards certification in the area of “Early Adolescence Mathematics.” This award is the highest level certification available to teachers in the United States. Funkhouser is the first teacher in the Eureka City Schools district to receive the national certification.

Funkhouser has taught at Winship since 1991 and served as a math textbook author. In 1996, he was recognized with the Johns Hopkins University Teacher Fellowship Award. In 1998, Funkhouser was awarded the Humboldt County Excellence in Teaching Award.

About the process, Funkhouser said, “This professional certification was the most challenging and introspective experience I have ever undertaken. I know my students will benefit from the realizations I have made over the past year.”

National Board Certification, developed in 1986 is a symbol of professional teaching excellence. Offered on a voluntary basis, it complements, not replaces, state licensing. While state licensing systems set entry-level standards for beginning teachers, National Board Certification has established advanced standards for experienced teachers.

The certification process is a yearlong series of performance-based assessments that includes teaching portfolios, student work samples, videotapes and thorough analyses of the candidates' classroom teaching and student learning. Teachers also complete a series of written exercises that probe the depth of their subject-matter knowledge, as well as their understanding of how to teach those subjects to their students.

The National Board identified Five Core Propositions that describe the knowledge, skills, and dispositions that characterize accomplished teaching. These core propositions form the basis of the certification process:

Teachers are committed to students and their learning. Accomplished teachers are dedicated to making knowledge accessible to all students. They act on the belief that all students can learn. Accomplished teachers understand how students develop and learn.

Teachers know the subjects they teach and how to teach those subjects to students. Accomplished teachers have a rich understanding of the subject(s) they teach and appreciate how knowledge in their subject is created, organized, linked to other disciplines and applied to real-world settings. Accomplished teachers command specialized knowledge of how to convey and reveal subject matter to students.

Teachers are responsible for managing and monitoring student learning. Accomplished teachers create, enrich, maintain and alter instructional settings to capture and sustain the interest of their students and to make the most effective use of time. They know how to engage groups of students to ensure a disciplined learning environment, and how to organize instruction to allow the schools' goals for students to be met.

Teachers think systematically about their practice and learn from experience. Striving to strengthen their teaching, accomplished teachers critically examine their practice, seek to expand their repertoire, deepen their knowledge, sharpen their judgment and adapt their teaching to new findings, ideas and theories.

Teachers are members of learning communities. Accomplished teachers contribute to the effectiveness of the school by working collaboratively with other professionals on instructional policy, curriculum development and staff development.

Accomplished teachers find ways to work collaboratively and creatively with parents, engaging them productively in the work of the school.

For more information contact Bill Funkhouser at 441-2487.

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Press Release
For Immediate Release

October 22, 2002

Eureka City Schools hosts public meetings on facility plan

EUREKA— The Governing Board of Eureka City Schools will host three public information meetings about recommendations contained in the recently released Facility Utilization Update Plan.

Discussed in the Facility Plan is the District’s continuing declining enrollment, increasing operational costs, the implications of California’s ongoing financial crisis, the growth of adult education and consideration of another small high school in the District.

The Facility Plan recommends the Board carefully consider further consolidation of elementary schools. If enacted, a consolidated campus could provide temporary classroom space for schools under bond construction and/or provide a community center campus for the Eureka Adult School.

The Facility Utilization Update Plan is posted on the district’s Web site at www.eurekacityschools.org and is available at school sites.

On November 6, the fiscal and operational considerations will be discussed. On November 20, the plan's programmatic considerations will be discussed. On December 11 the board will hear general considerations

Meetings will be held from 5 to 7 p.m. at the District Office, 3200 Walford Avenue, Eureka.

You can also send your comments on the plan via e-mail from the district’s Web site at eurekacityschools.org. Comments will be shared with staff and board members.

For more information call 441-2400.

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Press Release
For Immediate Release

October 14, 2002

Governing board receives superintendent’s facility utilization plan update (attached - requires Adobe Acrobat Reader )

EUREKA— At its special workshop meeting on October 8, the governing board of Eureka City Schools received a facility utilization plan update from district superintendent James W. Scott, Ed.D.

The plan (attached) asked the board to commission a process to address a number of challenges facing Eureka City Schools. Discussed in the plan is the district’s continuing declining enrollment, increasing operational costs, the long-term implications of California’s ongoing financial crisis, the need for temporary housing during bond construction, the growth of adult education, and consideration of a small theme-based high school.

The plan recommends that the district consider further consolidation of elementary school sites from seven to six or five. If enacted, a consolidated site could provide temporary classroom space for schools under bond construction and/or provide a community center campus for the Eureka Adult School.

During discussion of the facility plan and its timeline, the board set three informational meetings for the public to comment on the financial, operational and programmatic effects of the plan. On November 6, the board will take public comment on the fiscal and operational considerations of the plan. On November 20, the board will take public comment on the programmatic considerations of the plan. On December 11, the board will take public comment on general considerations of the plan. All meeting are open to the public and last from 5-7 p.m. at the district office, 3200 Walford Avenue.

The facility utilization plan is posted on the district’s Web site at www.eurekacityschool.org . For more information and to schedule interviews with superintendent Jim Scott and board president Joyce Hayes contact Sheldon J. Reber at 441-2416.

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Press Release
For Immediate Release

October 1, 2002

Creature Features Night comes to Grant School

EUREKA— The community is invited to a Creature Feature Science Night at Grant School on Friday, October 4 from 6:30 to 8 p.m. As part of Grant’s Oceans Month, students and their parents will get to explore 14 different activities that focus on the “creatures” of the marine environment. Families sharing and experiencing the fun and learning together is the goal for the evening. Children must be accompanied by an adult. The event is being presented by the Families and Schools Ocean Immersion Project in Northern California. Participating in the event will be members of the University of California’s Lawrence Hall of Science. Grant Elementary School is located at 3901 G Street in Eureka. For more information call 441-2552.

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Press Release
For Immediate Release

September 30, 2002

Environmental educators convene at Wharfinger

EUREKA— Local educators and community partners will share teaching ideas at the first Enviromental Education Conference on Friday, October 4 from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Wharfinger building on the Eureka waterfront. The conference is sponsored by the Families & Schools Project of Northern California.

The media is invited to attend.

The conference will focus on establishing a network of community educators and connecting them to public school programs.

Conference highlights will include:

How to dovetail your curriculum to the California State Science Standards.
Breakout sessions to share curriculum with teachers and community educators with similar focus.
A presentation by Joseph Cornell, an international expert in Environmental Education and author of “Sharing Nature With Children.”
Ideas on how to partner with the North Coast CREEC Network, the California Regional Environmental Educators Community, presented by Natalie Schaefer, CREEC coordinator.
A Lawrence Hall of Science presentation of proven educational methods.
An introduction to the Families and Schools Project of Northern California.

For more information contact Jeff Self at 441-2547or selfj@eurekacityschools.org.

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Press Release
For Immediate Release

September 30, 2002

Tooth Mobile provides free dentistry to Lincoln students

EUREKA— The Tooth Mobile has traveled from Santa Clara, California to provide care to up to 130 Lincoln Elementary students. Lincoln students will receive free dental care through October 11 thanks to a partnership between the school, Eureka City Schools and the Humboldt County Department of Health and Human Services Public Health Branch.

The Tooth Mobile delivers professional, quality dental care to uninsured children from low-income families. They travel throughout California to schools, community centers, rural and urban areas, migrant camps and health fairs to respond to these children’s dental needs. The Tooth Mobile is a tailor-made, 40-foot motor home and consists of two dental chairs, x-ray equipment and a lab—all the equipment necessary to deliver comprehensive care. By traveling to schools throughout California, Tooth Mobile has provided dental care to more than 5,000 children in 24 counties. As a result of Tooth Mobile’s presence, school attendance rates consistently increase, and parents have a renewed confidence in the schools’ care and support for their children. In addition, the pain and discomfort of students' untreated dental problems no longer interfere with regular attendance.

One week of the Tooth Mobile is supported by the Circle of Smiles Partnership funded by The California Endowment and the Humboldt Area Foundation. The second week is funded by Delta Dental DentiCal Outreach Unit and the Department of Health Services.

Lincoln Elementary School is located at 216 West Harris. For more information contact Sheldon J. Reber at 441-2416. For information on the Tooth Mobile: www.toothmobile.org/index2.htm

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Press Release
For Immediate Release

September 25, 2002

School Board selects firm for Eureka High School seismic study

EUREKA— At its regular meeting on September 18, the Governing Board of Eureka City Schools approved a proposal from LPA, Inc. for a seismic study of Eureka High School. The comprehensive study is to include the school’s main building, industrial arts building and the Jay Willard gymnasium. The study is the first step in the process of seismically upgrading Eureka High and the report will be used to determine the district’s eligibility for State Hardship Funding for seismic retrofit work.

The seismic study of Eureka High School is an integral part of Measure S, the school bond measure passed by voters in the Eureka Unified School District on March 5. The study will cost $39,960 with 8% in reimbuseable costs and is expected to be completed by early December.

Founded in 1965, LPA, Inc. is one of the largest architectural, planning, landscape, and interior design firms in California.

For more information contact Sheldon J. Reber at 441-2416.

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Press Release
For Immediate Release

September 11, 2002

Winzler’s 58th Anniversary

EUREKA— Former and current Winzler Children’s Center students, parents and staff are invited to join a celebration of 58 years of service to the community. The dinner and fund-raiser will take place on Friday October 11 from 5:30 to 8 p.m. in the Eureka High School cafeteria, 1915 J Street. A spaghetti dinner will be served. The cost is $5 for adults, children under 12 are $3 and family tickets are $15. All proceeds raised will go toward the purchase of new classroom furniture and educational materials. A Dutch Raffle is planned along with recognition of past directors and a photo display of Winzler's history. The community is invited to bring any Winzler memorabilia. Winzler, under the direction of Eureka City Schools, is a nonprofit agency that provides childcare to low income families at three sites: the original facilities behind Winco, Alice Birney School, and Lincoln School. For more information contact Winzler at 441-2498.

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Press Release
For Immediate Release

September 9, 2002

Eureka High hosts Humboldt/Del Norte College and Career Night 2002

EUREKA— Eureka High School will host the annual Humboldt/Del Norte College and Career Night 2002, presented in collaboration with North Coast School-to-Career Consortium, for all local high school students and their parents on Monday, September 16, 2002.

The program features a large college fair in the Jay Willard Gymnasium from 6:30 to 9 p.m. More than fifty college, university, vocational school and armed services representatives will distribute information and answer questions. There will also be a booth on college admission testing, featuring information on the SAT1/SAT2 and the ACT entrance exams.

In addition, the evening’s program includes a schedule of two 30-minute presentations by the University of California system, the California State system, California and Oregon private colleges, and College of the Redwoods’ honors and transfer programs.

A schedule of times and locations for each presentation, plus a listing of the represented schools can be obtained from each local high school’s counseling office.

For more information contact Ron Dias, counselor at Eureka High School, 441-2591.

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Press Release
For Immediate Release

September 5, 2002

Eureka City Schools to observe September 11 anniversary

EUREKA— In accordance with Governor Davis’ plans, all Eureka City elementary and secondary schools will observe the anniversary of September 11 with a moment of silence at 8:46 a.m. The moment of silence will be followed by a statement from the school’s principal and a patriotic expression. All district flags will be lowered to half staff.

Parents and community are invited to join Eureka City Schools in honoring the memory of those we lost and reaffirming our patriotism and resolve as a democratic nation to move forward and create a peaceful future for our children.

Eureka High School will host a lunchtime event with music and speakers from 12:40 to 1:20 p.m. in the school’s Albee Stadium. Parents and community members are encouraged to contact their local school regarding observance plans.

For more information contact Sheldon J. Reber at 441-2416.

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Press Release
For Immediate Release

September 4, 2002

Back to School Nights

EUREKA— Parents and community are invited to attend Back to School Nights at Eureka City elementary and secondary schools. Take a look inside classrooms and meet with teachers and staff. It’s also an excellent opportunity for parents of pre-school-age children who are deciding where to send their children to school. Please call the school for times.

Winship Middle School, 441-2487
Thursday, September 5

Jefferson Elementary, 441-2493, and Zane Middle School, 441-2470
Thursday, September 12

Worthington Elementary, 441-2567
Friday, September 13

Eureka High School, 4412508, and Humboldt Bay High School, 441-2549
Thursday, September 19

Zoe Barnum High School, 441-2467
Wednesday, September 25

Alice Birney, 441-2495, Grant, 441-2552, Lafayette, 441-2482, Lincoln, 441-2446, and Washington, 441-2547, Elementary Schools
Thursday, September 26

For more information contact Sheldon J. Reber at 441-2416.

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Press Release
For Immediate Release

August 29, 2002

District gains $800,000 with sale of first series of school bonds

EUREKA— At its first joint meeting on August 21, the Eureka City Schools’ Governing Board and the Measures S and T Citizens’ Oversight Committee heard a report from the district’s financial consultant on the sale of the first series of school bonds. According to Mark Epstein, of California Financial Services, the first Measure S bond was sold at a true interest cost of 4.93% and the first Measure T bond was sold at a true interest cost of 4.86%. “The sale of the school bonds went as well as we could hope for,” said Epstein. “The savings between the interest rate we originally estimated in 2001 and the final interest rate means taxpayers will have an additional $800,000 to put back into the schools.” The school bonds will be sold in two series with the next sale scheduled for 2003/04.

The first series of Measure S bonds provides Eureka City Schools with $22.1 million for renovation and modernization of its middle and high schools. The sale of Measure T bonds provides the school district with $6.7 million for renovation and modernization of its elementary schools.

With the sale of the second series of school bonds in 2003/04, total bond proceeds will total $32.5 million for Eureka’s middle and high schools and $10.5 million for the district’s elementary schools. The successful passage of Measures S and T last March also make Eureka City Schools eligible for an additional $16.5 in State modernization money in 2004 or 2005 depending on statewide school bond election results.

For more information contact Sheldon J. Reber at 441-2416.

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News Releases 2002–2003 School Year

News Releases
2002–2003 School Year