News Releases
2005–2006 School Year

Eureka— "Extraordinary" is how Eureka Adult School's English as a Second Language (ESL) Program was described by an evaluation team from California Department of Education (CDE). The ESL program received the California Program of Excellence Award and is formally recognized as a model program in the state of California.

Kim Kellenberg, senior director of the Eureka Adult School, reported "the CDE team congratulated the program staff for creating a community within the school, and for preparing the students to become productive workers and community members. Interviews were held with students who stated they are proud to be students of Eureka Adult School where they are learning English and preparing to enter the workforce. The students view their teachers as role models."

Also interviewed were the Eureka Adult School's community partners who spoke of the many ways the school and community work together to enrich the lives of students. Debra Jones, associate director of adult education, reflected that "the school and community partnerships ultimately create a richer community for all of us." The CDE team acknowledged the scope of these collaborations and recognized that the relationships are built upon long-standing partnerships and commitments.

Jones said the CDE team applauded the passion, creativity and dedication of all staff members, "from the first person a student meets in the office to the counselor, instructors and administrative leadership team. They felt the genuine care that each of our students receives here at Eureka Adult School."

The CDE team spoke highly of the Newcomer Center, children in the classroom, teachers who work across curriculum and student proficiency levels. They also noted the integration of students into academic and vocational programs and the Eureka Adult School's work at the Job Market.

For more information contact Debra Jones at 441-2448.

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News Release
For Immediate Release

June 9, 2006

Eureka school board announces administrative changes for 2006-07 school year

Eureka— At its regular meeting on June 7, the Governing Board of Eureka City Schools approved leadership changes for the 2006-07 school year at the school district’s office as well as several elementary and secondary schools.

Greg Aslanian, associate superintendent for human resources, and Kim Kellenberg, senior director of Eureka Adult School and alternative education programs, will share responsibilities in both departments. Aslanian will start the 2006-07 school year as senior director of adult and alternative programs as he transitions from human resources. He will work with Zoe Barnum High School’s learning director Georgeanne Fulstone-Pucillo and the Eureka Adult School’s associate director Debra Jones. Prior to becoming the district’s associate superintendent, Aslanian served as principal of Eureka High School for four years.

Aslanian reflected on his career in education. “I began my first teaching assignment in the San Mateo County juvenile court school program 31 years ago,” he recalled. “While I have thoroughly enjoyed my last 11 years as associate superintendent of human resources, I decided I wanted to conclude my career doing what I love most; being with kids. You might say I have gone full-circle and am coming home to do what I went into education for in the first place. I particularly enjoy alternative education and am grateful to the district for providing me with this opportunity.”

Kellenberg has overseen adult education programs at the Jacobs Education Center for the past 9 years. He has also directed the district’s alternative education programs, including being principal at Zoe Barnum High School, for the past three years. Starting the 2006-07 school year, Kellenberg will become the senior director of human resources, work with classified staff and serve on the district’s classified Interest-Based Bargaining committee. Kellenberg will also oversee the Eureka Adult School’s move to the Jefferson Learning Center and continue working with the district’s community partners.

“We are very appreciative of our many community partners and their support of students and programs,” stated Kellenberg. “I’m looking forward to continuing our work in connecting our schools with the community.”

Winship Middle School principal Kim Cobine will be leaving the school district at the end of the school year to start a new job assistant superintendent for the Humboldt County Office of Education. Cobine will be replaced by Paul Gossard currently principal at Washington Elementary School. Gossard has been principal at Washington for the past five years and served as principal of Marshall Elementary School for six years. He’s “looking forward to working with the staff, students and parents at Winship Middle School.”

Winship associate principal Kathleen Honsal has been assigned to be principal of Lafayette Elementary School. Honsal served as principal for Washington School for three years prior to moving to Winship. Honsal remarked she is “thrilled with the move to Lafayette and looking forward to meeting the Lafayette community. I have enjoyed my five years at Winship and leave that position with fond memories and lifelong friendships.”

Lee Ann Lanning, principal at Grant Elementary School, will be the new principal of Washington Elementary School starting in the fall. Lanning also serves as the district’s director of special education. Lanning said “while I am leaving behind a great school, I am excited at the opportunity to provide leadership and work with the wonderful students, parents, and staff of the Washington community.

Eureka High School associate principal Bill Cannady will move to Grant Elementary School. Prior to coming to Eureka High School three years ago, Cannady served as principal of Jefferson Elementary School for five years.

Laurie Alexander, current principal of Lafayette Elementary, will serve as principal of Lincoln Elementary starting the new school year. Alexander has been principal at Lafayette for the past three years and came to Eureka City Schools with an extensive background as a teacher and administrator. She “looks forward to working with the students, families and educational team at Lincoln School in the years ahead.”

Lincoln Elementary School principal Larry Nicoll will serve as Winship Middle School’s new associate principal. Nicoll served eight years as assistant principal at Eureka High School prior to coming to Lincoln four years ago. “I’ve worked with high school and elementary students and I’m really looking forward to getting to know Winship Middle School students, the school staff and community,” remarked Nicoll.

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News Release
For Immediate Release

May 31, 2006

Eureka City Schools’ graduation dates and times

Humboldt Bay High School – Tuesday, June 13 at 5:00 p.m.
Wharfinger Building, Eureka

Eureka Adult School – Wednesday, June 14 at 2:00 p.m.
Jacob’s Education Center, 674 Allard Avenue, Eureka

Zoe Barnum High School – Wednesday, June 14 at 4:00 p.m.
Jacob’s Education Center, 674 Allard Avenue, Eureka

Zane Middle School – Thursday, June 15 at 2:00 p.m.
Eureka Municipal Auditorium, 1120 F Street

Winship Middle School – Thursday, June 15 at 4:00 p.m.
Eureka Municipal Auditorium, 1120 F Street

Eureka High School – Friday, June 16 at 2:00 p.m.
Albee Stadium, Eureka High School

For more information contact 441-2400.

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News Release
For Immediate Release

May 17, 2006

Jefferson community invited to meeting about Eureka Adult School on May 31

Eureka— Eureka City Schools will host a community meeting on the district’s plans to use the former Jefferson Elementary School as the new site for the Eureka Adult School. The community is invited to attend.

The Eureka Adult School, currently located at the Jacobs Education Center, will be moving to the Jefferson site over the summer.

The meeting will be held on Wednesday, May 31 from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. in the Jefferson multipurpose room. Representatives from the Eureka Adult School and Eureka City Schools will be present to talk about plans and answer any questions.

Jefferson is located at 1000 B Street in Eureka. For more information contact Kim Kellenberg, director of adult education, at 441-2467.

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News Release
For Immediate Release

May 11, 2006

Jenna Hunter chosen as Eureka High’s girl’s soccer coach

EUREKA— Eureka High School’s girl’s soccer team will have new leadership this fall. EHS athletic director Jack Lakin has announced that former HSU soccer star Jenna Hunter will serve as the school’s varsity soccer coach.

Hunter received much local and national recognition during her HSU soccer career. She was a three-time GNAC first team all conference selection, selected as all-region in 2003, and was a 2003 All-American selection by NCSA. In addition, Hunter is in HSU’s record books for first in all-time career assists and second for all-time career goals.

Hunter has served as assistant coach for Humboldt State University’s women’s soccer team for the past two-and-a-half years. She was responsible for team management, training, teaching, motivation and providing feedback to athletes.

Hunter describes her coaching philosophy as to “help and inspire athletes to be the best they can be, both on and off the field. The team camaraderie along with mental and physical development are experiences that are priceless in high school athletics.”

In 2005, Hunter received a B.S. in Kinesiology from HSU. She is currently enrolled at HSU in Kinesiology masters classes.

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News Release
For Immediate Release

May 9, 2006

The 6th Annual Northcoast Student Film Festival lights up the screen this Friday

Eureka— The 6th Annual Northcoast Student Film Festival, presented by the Eureka High School Media Club, is a chance for high school students throughout the county to show the world their videographic talent. The student short films will be presented Friday, May 12, from 7 to 9 p.m. in the Eureka High School Auditorium. Admission is $3 at the door. Come experience the teen-age imagination projected on the big screen.

For more information, contact Philip Middlemiss at 476-1799.

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News Release
For Immediate Release

May 8, 2006

Alice Birney School receives Target grant for Family Arts Night on Wednesday, May 24

Eureka— Alice Birney Elementary School today announced a partnership with Target in recognition of its efforts to encourage both art education and family involvement. Alice Birney School received an education grant in the amount of $1,000 to hold a Family Arts Night.

Principal Jan Schmidt stated that, “We feel very fortunate to be a recipient of Target’s generous donation. We decided to combine this event with our school’s Open House on Wednesday, May 24, where we will display student art work that has been created throughout the year.”

This year, Thao Le Khak, an Artist in Residence, provided art instruction to all Alice Birney students in 1st through 5th grades. Parents and children are invited to come enjoy viewing student artwork in all classrooms as well as creating new ‘masterpieces’ along with their child.

According to Schmidt, parents and students will be able to experience Chinese brush painting, Mexican traditional bark paintings, and Native American design print during the Family Arts Night.

This grant is part of the ongoing support Target provides to local communities throughout the country. Every week Target gives more than $2 million to strengthen families and communities across the nation, with a focus on education, the arts, social services and other vital community partnerships.

“At Target, we are making a real difference every day through our grant making program,” said Laysha Ward, vice president, community relations, Target. “We’re proud to partner with Alice Birney as part of our ongoing commitment to give back to the communities where our guests and team members live and work.”

Additionally, Target gives back through signature programs that are designed to inspire learning in children and families. Programs include: Take Charge of Education, a school fundraising program; Ready. Sit. Read!, a program dedicated to fostering a life-long love of reading in children; Start Something, a partnership between Target and the Tiger Woods Foundation, which helps kids build core values; Target House, which serves as a home away from home for families of children receiving life-saving treatment at St Jude Children’s Research Hospital in Memphis; and Target Volunteers, where Target team members and retirees annually donate more than 300,000 hours of time to more than 7,500 community-based projects

Alice Birney School is one of six elementary schools in Eureka City Schools. It serves a population of approximately 315 students and is known for its high academic achievement. For the past five consecutive years, Alice Birney School has received the high rank of 10 out of a possible 10 on the state-wide Academic Performance Index (API) when compared to similar schools, and has twice been named a California Distinguished School.

For more information contact Alice Birney principal Jan Schmidt at 441-2495.

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News Release
For Immediate Release

May 4, 2006

Lakin hands off to Montana

Eureka— The Eureka High School Loggers will have a new football coach for the upcoming season. Head coach Jack Lakin will step aside to become more involved in student activities, including athletics, at Eureka High next school year. Assistant football coach Garett Montana will advance into the head coaching position.

"I'm very appreciative of the support the community has shown us over the years and I'm eager to take on an expanded role in school activities that will include athletics," remarked Lakin.

Lakin has coached football, basketball and track at Eureka High School over the past 16 years. He has coached youth sports teams in the community for 27 years. Lakin is also a mathematics teacher at Eureka High School and Humboldt Bay High School.

"We're fortunate to have Garett Montana take over as head coach," said Lakin. "Garett has contributed to the success of the football program and had a positive influence on the players. I believe strongly in his abilities."

In 2003, Lakin and Montana coached the Eureka High Loggers football team to a perfect 13-0 season and captured the Class 3A Redwood Empire bracket.

After the Loggers' undefeated season, Lakin was selected by his peers as North Coast Section 2003 Football Honor Coach.

One benefit of playing football for Lakin is that Eureka is, perhaps, the only school in the North Coast Section, which still plays two-platoon football— 11 different starters on offense and defense. It's helped keep the Loggers highly competitive and "also increases the number of players needed to fill reserve roles," noted Lakin.

Lakin began coaching student athletes at Ferndale High School in 1979. At Eureka High, he has also coached basketball, including seven as the boy's varsity coach, and was an assistant track coach for seven seasons.

Some of Lakin's fondest memories are the work his teams have done off the field. "Our football teams are very much a part of the Eureka community. We've worked with the Senior Resource Center to operate the Firewood for the Elderly program and the football team is involved in the American Cancer Society's Relay for Life. I like seeing the players enjoy the rewards of helping others."

Montana is excited to take on the new role. "I view this as the best job around. When I started as assistant coach in 1995, Jack gave me a lot of responsibility right away. He allowed me to learn and progress as a coach. I was fortunate to witness first hand how he was able to take the program up to a new level."

Montana was Eureka High's starting quarterback in the mid 80s and graduated from EHS in 1988. He went on to play two years at College of the Redwoods where he was named all-conference and most valuable player in 1990. Montana also played football for two years at Humboldt State University under coach Fred Whitmire. He currently teaches sixth-grade at Zane Middle School.

"My blood is red and green," joked Montana. "Albee Stadium is home to me, and those are my players. I know most of those kids, and I have a very good relationship with many of them. I thought about other football programs but my goal from the start was to coach at Eureka High."

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News Release
For Immediate Release

May 3, 2006

Worthington community invited to meeting about Zoe Barnum High School on May 15

Eureka— Eureka City Schools will host a community forum on the district’s plans to use the former Worthington Elementary School as the new site for Zoe Barnum High School. The community is invited to attend.

Zoe Barnum High School, currently located at the Jacobs Education Center, will be moving to the Worthington site over the summer.

The forum will be held on Monday, May 15 from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. in the Worthington multipurpose room. Representatives from Zoe Barnum High School and Eureka City Schools will be present to talk about plans and answer any questions.

Worthington is located at 3400 Erie Street in Eureka. For more information contact Zoe Barnum principal Kim Kellenberg at 441-2467.

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News Release
For Immediate Release

April 28, 2006

EHS music ensembles impress judges at New York festival

Eureka— Three music ensembles from Eureka High School traveled to New York City to participate in the 2006 Heritage Music Festival, April 18 - 23. There were 31 groups from 20 U.S. and Canadian schools participating in the Festival.

The String Orchestra received a Bronze Award and a number of positive comments from the judges. The EHS Wind Ensemble received a Silver Award and was complimented by the judges for a very fine performance. The EHS Jazz Ensemble received a First Place Gold at the Festival. They were also awarded the Adjudicators Award for Jazz and the Outstanding Band Group Award. The Adjudicators Award is given to the group that best represents their particular performing area. The Outstanding Band Group is given to the instrumental ensemble that receives the highest combined score from all of the concert and jazz bands.

The music students had an incredible experience and would like to thank the community for their tremendous support. All the students came back with memories that will last a lifetime.

For more information contact Eureka High School music teacher Chris Cox at 441-2508.

News Release
For Immediate Release

April 12, 2006

A new factor in high school graduation

EUREKA— High school seniors in Eureka will find something new when they cross the stage at this year’s graduation ceremonies.

Seniors from Eureka High School, Humboldt Bay High School, Zoe Barnum High School and the Eureka Adult School will be handed either the traditional High School Diploma, a Certificate of Educational Achievement or a Certificate of Completion. This three-tiered system was adopted by the Governing Board of Eureka City Schools in June 2004. The system is based on state requirements that, beginning in the year 2006, all graduating seniors must pass the California High School Exit Exam (CAHSEE) to earn a High School Diploma.

According to Eureka High School principal Bob Steffen, “The three-tiered system was designed to recognize students who have completed all classes required for graduation and encourage students to complete high school. We believe the system will help advance educational, job training and employment options for our graduates.”

The traditional High School Diploma will be handed out to seniors who have completed all classes required for graduation and successfully passed the CAHSEE requirement.

Students who receive the Certificate of Educational Achievement will have completed all classes required for graduation except for the Algebra 1 requirement and/or the CAHSEE requirement. These students have demonstrated satisfactory attendance and participated in tutoring and other academic support services. This is the first year the Certificate of Achievement has been available.

Certificates of Completions, which have been in place for many years, are awarded to students who have completed a course of study prescribed by an Individual Education Plan. Only students with disabilities may be awarded a Certificate of Completion.

“Some students have done a commendable job in their classes for four years, but were unable to pass the exit exam” said Zoe Barnum’s principal Kim Kellenberg. “We’re pleased to be able to offer them the Certificate of Educational Achievement. No distinction between the three awards will be made when the names of graduating seniors are read during the ceremonies.”

This is the first year that high school seniors will be held accountable for passing the CAHSEE. The California Department of Education has clearly stated that schools may award certificates to students who have not been successful in passing the exit exam and, therefore, cannot be awarded a diploma.

The CAHSEE consists of tests in Mathematics and English language arts. Questions on the tests are aligned with California content standards adopted by the state Board of Education. This year’s graduating seniors began taking the exams as sophomores in 2003. Students have six opportunities to take the test beginning in their sophomore year.

The English language arts portion of the CAHSEE addresses state content standards through grade ten. In reading, this includes vocabulary, decoding, comprehension, and analysis of information and literary texts. It also includes writing strategies and applications, and the conventions of English (e.g. grammar, spelling, and punctuation). The mathematics portion of the CAHSEE addresses state standards in grades six and seven and Algebra I. The exam includes statistics, data analysis and probability, number sense, measurement and geometry, mathematical reasoning, and algebra. Students are also asked to demonstrate a strong foundation in computation and arithmetic, including working with decimals, fractions, and percents.

Eureka City Schools offers many programs to help high school students pass the exit exam. “We offer students a CAHSEE test preparation class in addition to tutoring opportunities and remediation programs,” remarked Steffen.

Many high school teachers have also received training on how to help English language learners and students with disabilities pass the CAHSEE.

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News Release
For Immediate Release

April 6, 2006

Eureka Citizens' Oversight Committee presents third annual report

Eureka– The Eureka City Schools' Citizens' Oversight Committee for Bond Measures S and T has released its third annual Report to the Community. The report is posted on the district's Web site at: http://www.eurekacityschools.org/bonds/COCAnnualReport2004-05.pdf.

The Citizens' Oversight Committee (COC) members include Liana Simpson, representing local businesses; Larona Farnum, representing a senior citizen organization; Lynn McKenna representing a taxpayer organizations; Kurt Kramer and Susan Seaman, parents of students in Eureka elementary schools; Melinda Ciarabellini and Bob Marino, parents of students in Eureka secondary schools; and Ken Skaggs and Marge Custis, community members at large.

The primary purpose of the COC is to ensure that the expenditure of taxpayers' money is consistent with the bond language and that bond revenues are expended only for the construction, reconstruction, rehabilitation or replacement of school facilities and that no funds are used for salaries or general operating expenses. The COC also has the responsibility to report its activities to the public annually, and alert the public to any waste or improper expenditure of school construction bond money.

The COC is an independent group of concerned citizens, who volunteer their time to monitor the progress of the Bond projects to ensure that the end result will be a safer and more effective learning and teaching environment for the future.

While the COC can make recommendations in an advisory capacity to the Governing Board, it cannot establish education policy nor authorize the expenditure of taxpayer funds.

The Citizens' Oversight Committee was formed after the passage of the Eureka School Bonds in March 2002. The measures fell under the provisions of Proposition 39 which requires the district to appoint a Citizens' Oversight Committee to ensure funds are only spent on repairs and new construction.

For more information contact Sheldon J. Reber, director of school and community relations, at 441-2416 or check the COC's Web page at: http://www.eurekacityschools.org/bonds/oversightcommittee.html

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Press Release
For Immediate Release

March 24, 2006

Community leaders go back to school during Principal for a Day

EUREKA— For one day, eight 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 Wednesday, March 29 from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m.

“Principal for a Day engages our participants to get involved at the point of change in our schools,” said Jim Scott, superintendent of Eureka City Schools. “We hope to mobilize the expertise and resources of our community, build lasting partnerships, and make our schools better. 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.”

The media is encouraged to attend any of the participating school sites.

This year’s Principal for a Day participants are:

Alexis Walker, Target store team leader, at Alice Birney Elementary, 717 South Street, 441-2495.

Marge Custis, retired educator and community volunteer, at Grant Elementary School, 3901 G Street, 441-2552.

Bonnie Neely, Humboldt County supervisor, at Lafayette Elementary School, 3100 Park Street, 441-2482.

Lynn McKenna, retired teacher and community volunteer, at Lincoln Elementary School, 216 West Harris Street, 441-2446.

Julie Ryan, AmeriCorps volunteer coordinator for Volunteer Center of the Redwoods, at Winship Middle School, 2500 Cypress Street, 441-2487.

Brent Rasmussen, owner CoxRasmussen & Cross advertising agency, at Zane Middle School, 2155 S Street, 441-2470.

Bob Marino, DG Fairhaven Power Plant general manager, at Eureka High School, 1915 J Street, 441-2508

Ken Skaggs, financial management consultant, at Zoe Barnum High School and the Eureka Adult School, 674 Allard Avenue, 441-2467.

During their day on campus, the new school administrators will participate in a variety of tasks as they job-shadow 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.

All Eureka City Schools have ongoing educational partnerships with local business and community groups. For additional information regarding Principal for a Day 2006 contact Sheldon J. Reber, director of school at community relations, at 441-2416.

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Press Release
For Immediate Release

March 23, 2006

Eureka High business students to compete at International conference

EUREKA— Ten students from Eureka High School received rave reviews for their business and marketing skills at California’s Career Development Conference (CDC) in Irvine earlier this month. The students, members of DECA (Distributive Educational Clubs of America), placed in the top three at the Conference. They’re now making plans for the next step— competing at the International Career Development Conference held in Dallas, Texas, April 28 through May 3.

Pa Kou Yang, Bao Yang, and Xou Her won first place in the Entrepreneurship Promotion Project category for their work organizing Eureka High School’s recent Career Expo. Mina Chao and Kris Gattis won first place in the Public Relations category for their DECA public relations promotion. Amber Chaney, Amanda Wendlandt, and Gabriella Johnson won second place in the Civic Consciousness category for their Socks for Soldiers project. Marcus Erken won third place in the Learn and Earn Project category for his ehsloggers.com 24-7 e-store project. Mark Masiglat won third place in the Civic Consciousness category for his American Cancer Society project.

At the International Career Development Conference, the Eureka students will compete against over 13,000 winners from throughout the United States, Canada, Mexico, and Germany.

DECA is a marketing club at Eureka High School where students participate in projects to improve their skills in leadership, social intelligence, vocational understanding and civic consciousness. This club is dedicated to preparing students for future roles in business and the community. Students gain experience in leading, goal setting, and implementing goals.

Eureka High School’s DECA club is sponsored by the Humboldt Regional Occupational Program. For more information contact 445-7104.

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News Release
For Immediate Release

March 10, 2006

Healthy Kids Survey given in April

EUREKA— Eureka City Schools will be administering the California Healthy Kids Survey in April. It is given every other year to 5th, 7th, 9th, and 11th grade students. It is voluntary and anonymous. Students do not have to participate and no names are used. The survey results will help us plan programs to assist students.

The survey asks questions about student behaviors, such as:

physical activity and nutrition
use of tobacco, alcohol, or other drugs
bullying, teasing, weapons, and school violence
feelings of safety at school and out of school
feelings of connection with a teacher or other adult (does someone care about them at school and out of school)

Signed consent is required for all 5th grade students from their parent or guardian. Parents/guardians must sign and return the form, either giving or denying consent.

Signed consent is not required for 7th, 9th, and 11th graders’ parents or guardians. If you do NOT want your child to participate, fill out and return the withdrawal form. If you allow your child to take part in the survey you do not have to return the form.

Consent/withdrawal forms were mailed to all 5th, 7th, 9th, and 11th grade student addresses. If you did not receive it, call your child’s school or 476-1601.

You can read a copy of the actual survey at your child's school. Each school office has a copy in English and in Spanish.

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News Release
For Immediate Release

March 8, 2006

Eureka EAST students rate highly at national conference

EUREKA— EAST Lab students and teachers from Eureka City Schools recently returned from the national EAST Partnership Conference in Little Rock, Arkansas where they received multiple awards and much acclaim.

EAST (Environmental and Spatial Technology) students connect the classroom with the community while utilizing real world skills such as desktop publishing, video editing, graphical information mapping systems, public speaking and presentation software, and Web page design. EAST began in 1996 and now includes 230 school in six states.

Eureka City Schools is the only district in California to offer the EAST program to students in grades 4 through 12. The Eureka EAST program serves a total of 800 students in the district.

Michelle Hutchins, the district’s learning director of educational technology, remarked that educators from around the nation are fully aware of the Eureka EAST programs. “My favorite aspect of the conference was attending with four schools and realizing that Eureka City Schools had the largest presence of any district. People from Arkansas with EAST programs much older than ours kept asking if we were “the Eureka from California,” and then made a point to interact with our students. Our EAST programs have paved a curricular pathway that other EAST Labs follow. We have a lot to be proud of.”

Eureka High School seniors Kris Buihner and Briana York presented the EAST Founder's Award in front of nearly 2,000 people after Eureka High was named a finalist. According to EAST Lab facilitator Ron Perry, “Although the EHS EAST Lab did not earn the Founder’s Award, the level of respect that the EAST community had for their effort was reflected by the constant stream of visitors to the our booth and their many questions. The student team of Julio Miles, Andrea Howard, Hannah Jones, Kris Buihner, and Brianna York prepared a portfolio of projects for submission and by all accounts amazed the judges. These students have set the bar high for future submissions.”

The Program Impact Assessment presentation team of seniors Julio Miles and Andrea Howard earned nearly perfect scores for Eureka High and a superior rating. The presentation covers community involvement, teamwork, collaboration, problem solving, use of technology and student growth.

The awards for Eureka High School did not end there.

EHS junior Leo Garcia won the Project Poster Design contest. Garcia’s Sports Crew Poster was one of three from EHS that reached the final eight in this competition. EHS freshman Kelsey Younker’s Youth Relay for Life Poster and senior Sam Gentle’s Web Site Poster also reached the finals.

Eureka High junior Michael Roscoe earned second place in the ESRI mapping competition for a series of maps he is creating for the Wiyot Tribe. ESRI Internet mapping technology is a professional application used by many organizations to create spatially-enabled Web sites for a variety of needs. His prize was software for himself worth $16,000. “The EAST Lab will receive updates and software from ESRI worth much more because of the efforts of Michael and Jared Blood, his project partner,” said Perry.

Julio Miles was recognized by EAST for submitting the logo that was used for much of the EAST Conference publications.

The conference was also a tremendous networking opportunity for all EAST students. “Dozens of labs came to our booth in the hopes of adopting some of our projects like Project Diversity, the Youth Relay for Life, and Youth Ready to Respond.” said Perry. “Holly LaCount’s Ride For Life, the Equestrian Relay, was the project that seemed to generate the most interest. About a dozen schools in three states seem intent upon replicating Holly’s efforts.”

Zoe Barnum students distinguished themselves by earning an excellent rating at the conference. “This is a particularly impressive rating given that we are a newly established EAST Lab,” remarked facilitator Scott Robbins.

Senior Tessa Elwell and sophomore Bill Johns presented the projects and progress of the Zoe Barnum EAST Lab to the public, media, and conference judges. Several exemplary projects were highlighted including the Sequoia Humane Society, the Cooper Gulch Skateboard Park, and the Community Quilt Project.

The conference also provided an opportunity for Zoe Barnum students and Robbins to attend a series of training sessions on professional software suites, public relations and marketing strategies, and communication and presentation skills.

Robbins sees a great future for Zoe Barnum’s EAST Lab. “The Zoe EAST Lab will continue to strive for greater community involvement and collaboration with private and public entities. In addition, the Lab is strengthening cross-curricular connections with each academic area within the school.”

Both Winship and Zane EAST Labs earned superior ratings at the national conference.

Jamie Bush, Zane’s EAST facilitator commented that “the superior rating is an honor achieved by only 20% of the EAST schools in the nation.”

Bush reported that Zane seventh-grader Elena Zamarippa and sixth-grader Marianne Frakes “did an excellent job presenting our accomplishments to the judges. All Zane EAST students earned the award with their hard work this year. I could not be prouder.” Zamarripa remarked “I loved meeting new people from Hawaii and Arkansas, and getting to know the Winship EAST students.”

Zane students also took classes in SketchUp, a 3-D digital design program, SoftImage, a professional animation program, VersaCAD, a program used by engineers and architects, and Adobe Photoshop, a professional image editing program.

Winship’s EAST facilitator Dana Jacobs reported that Winship students highlighted several projects including: Animals Matter, a fundraiser for Miranda’s Rescue; Hurricane Katrina Relief, which raised over $2,261; the second annual Christmas At Your Door, a tree and ornament drive for local shelters; student-designed posters about Healthy Lifestyles; and six murals to promote good sportsmanship among area school teams that come to play in Winship’s gymnasium.

After the conference concluded, a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity opened up for Winship seventh-grader Elijah Beiser. Beiser took a class in ArchiCAD, a software program that assists engineers, architects and other design professionals. According to Jacobs, “The ArchiCAD rep called Elijah at home and told him that he showed more interest and appreciation than anyone in his 35 years of teaching. He’s sending him the software for free and offered him a job out of high school if he continues with his interest in technology.”

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News Release
For Immediate Release

March 2, 2006

Eureka High students to view mock DUI trial

EUREKA— Eureka High School students in health and safety classes will watch a Mock DUI Trial on Monday, March 6 from 8:30 to 10:07 a.m. in the school’s auditorium. A local judge will preside along with prosecuting and defense attorneys, the arresting officer and a student jury.

The auditorium will be arranged as much as possible to be like a courtroom setting. There will be poster sized photos of actual crash scenes and vehicles placed on easels in the center aisle to be viewed as participants find their seats in the “courtroom.” Students from media and drama classes will also participate.

The Eureka Police Department hopes to have a wrecked car placed near the front steps of the main building early in the morning prior to student’s arriving at school.

The media is welcomed and encouraged to attend. Please check in with the Eureka High School main office first. Eureka High School is located at 1915 J Street. For more information call 441-2508.

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News Release
For Immediate Release

February 27, 2006

Eureka High offers Parent Orientation Night on Monday, March 6

EUREKA— Parents of eighth grade students are invited to attend Eureka High School’s Parent Orientation Night for incoming freshmen for the 2006-2007 school year on Monday, March 6 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 cafeteria, main building and other locations.

Parents of 8th-graders from Winship, Zane, Freshwater and Kneeland schools can look for registration packets being sent home with their student the week of February 27. If your child does not attend one of these schools, drop by the high school during the week of February 27 to pick up a registration packet, or packets will be available at the orientation on March 6.

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

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Press Release
For Immediate Release

February 2, 2006

Good Things Come in All Packages

EUREKA— On Thursday, February 9, the third annual Positive Body Image conference, “Good Things Come in All Packages” will take place at Eureka High School. This conference is a partnership between the Healthy Start/Marshall Family Resource Center and Tapestry, two school-based programs promoting healthy choices and nutrition.

The conference will provide 50 students with up-to-date information regarding eating disorders and positive alternatives for an active, healthy lifestyle. The students will participate in the following activities:

A Theatrical Performance by Girls Inc. of the Redwood Coast
Guided Imagery and Story Telling
A Panel Discussion with health professionals and survivors of eating disorders
Workshops include:
“Snack Attack” – Project Lean
“Balance Inside & Out” – HealthSPORT
“Belly Dance Beautiful” – Shoshanna
“Thumbing our Noses at the Media” – Marcelle Olsen, MFT
“Diversity: Making a World of Difference” – Girls Inc.
“What’s on Your Plate?” – Jennifer Holcombe

The attendees will then come together for a “Celebration Feast”, plus receive some special raffle prizes and other treats. The goal of this conference is to give adolescents the tools to not only help themselves, but also their peers and loved ones live a healthy and productive life.

For more information contact Kristine Fabian at 441-2404 or Jesica Bishop at 441-2355.

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Press Release
For Immediate Release

January 26, 2006

Eureka High students to hear about career choices on February 3

EUREKA— What does it take to run a successful bakery, write for a daily newspaper, help prepare tax returns, or serve as the county’s district attorney?

Students at Eureka High School will have an opportunity to hear about these professions and more during the 2006 Career Expo on Friday, February 3. More than 65 business and community leaders will make presentations to students from 9:15 to 10:50 a.m.

Confirmed speakers for the event include: Dennis Rael, Los Bagels; Rick Roberts, Jitter Bean; Tom Pagano, Tomaso’s; Susan Jansson, Healthsport; Bob Bork, Carpenter’s Union; Bill Wing, Wing Inflatables; Kit Mann, Kokatat; Tom Tellez, Wallace & Heinz; Michael Thomas, NorthCoast Rep. Theater; Libby Maynard, Ink People; Duane Flatmo, professional artist; Sara Arthurs, Times Standard; Chris Crawford, Justice Served Court Technology; Bob LaFranchi, Loleta Cheese; Mary Ann Bansen, Bancrest Dairy; Catherine Ziemer, Farm Bureau; David Salter, M.D.; Mike Pigg, professional athlete; Loren Azevedo, optometrist; John Fullerton, certified public accountant; Greg Aslanian, associate superintendent Eureka City Schools; Felicia Jensen, Humboldt Childcare Council; Kristin Sobilo, Winship Middle School teacher; Keith Adams, National Guard; Paul Gallegos, Humboldt County District Attorney; Mike Jones, Superlube; Steve Miller, former Eureka High School teacher; Jackie Christensen, Eureka Reporter; Ron McQueen, College of the Redwoods; Kent Bradshaw, former Fortuna Chief of Police; Eric Smith, Eureka Fire Chief; John LaFlame, Coast Guard; Mary Nethery, author; Ted Stewart, Chapalas; Jim Stephens, JRStephens Cabinets; Michelle Hutchins, Eureka High School Technology Department; Mickey Jones, Mickey’s Quality Cars; Sandra Spaulding, real estate agent; and James Athing, chiropractor .

Organizers are in the process of confirming additional guest speakers for the event.

Eureka High School is located at 1915 J Street. For more information contact Marcie Chelgren-Smith at 441-2508.

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News Release
For Immediate Release

January 13, 2006

Eureka City Schools Governing Board approves Jefferson closure

EUREKA— At its regular meeting on January 11, the Governing Board of Eureka City Schools approved the closure of Jefferson Elementary School at the end of the current school year.

District superintendent Jim Scott, had made the recommendation to close Jefferson at the Board’s November 16 meeting based on continuing declining enrollment, operational costs and utilization of district facilities. A series of school board and public meetings were held in November and December to discuss the recommendation.

“This was a most difficult decision for the school board as they struggle with declining enrollment and how to meet the facility needs of the entire district,” said Dr. Scott. “Eureka City Schools simply could not continue to operate six elementary schools with such low enrollment. Jefferson was chosen after careful consideration of the overall impact closure would have on each elementary school.”

Dr. Scott also noted “during the public hearings on the facility plan, Jefferson parents and community members spoke eloquently about the wonderful programs offered to students. Teachers and staff were praised for their caring, loving concern for the welfare of all Jefferson children.”

At the January 11 meeting, Dr. Scott presented the Board with information on bussing Jefferson children provided by Dan Pires, director of transportation. In his presentation to the Board, Pires noted that district buses have capacity to transport Jefferson students to other elementary schools at an added cost of $15,000.

Dr. Scott also provided the Board with a preliminary staffing analysis based on a reduction from six elementary schools to five. In addition, Scott presented board members with an update of projected operational savings associated with the closure of Jefferson and the relocation of Jacobs program. Scott noted that even with anticipated cost increases, the district would have a net savings of approximately $500,000.

The Board will next meet on Wednesday, January 18 at 4:30 p.m. to discuss a facility plan for the relocation of programs at the Jacobs Education Center campus that will most likely include utilizing the Jefferson and Worthington campuses. Scott told board members that this will be accomplished without additional administrative personnel. Worthington Elementary was closed in June 2003 due to declining enrollment.

Programs operating at Jacobs include the Eureka Adult School, Zoe Barnum High School, Transition Opportunity Program School, Home and Hospital, Center for Independent Study, Eureka Even Start, the Teen Parent Program and the Newcomer Center.

Eureka City Schools’ Governing Board meetings are held at the district office, 3200 Walford Avenue. For more information contact Sheldon J. Reber, director of school and community relations, at 441-2416.

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December 28, 2005
TO: All News Media
PRESS RELEASE
FOR MORE INFORMATION, CONTACT:
jdebets@co.humboldt.ca.us

Humboldt County to Receive $500,000 for Newcomers Center

Eureka— The Humboldt County Workforce Investment Board and Eureka Adult School will receive $500,000 to prepare limited English speakers for jobs and integration into the North Coast economy and community.

"We're seeing a number of new families arriving in Humboldt County each day. They find work, but usually have limited ability to fully integrate into the community or the workplace," explained Kim Kellenberg, Director of the Eureka Adult School. "The Newcomers Center helps them not only gain language skills, but also enroll their children in school and integrate into our community productively."

"It's great to have the state support for our efforts to meet local needs as defined by industry leaders on the North Coast," said Bonnie Neely, Humboldt County Supervisor and WIB member.

The grant will fund expansion of Eureka Adult School's pilot Newcomer's Center now serving the many new immigrant families arriving in Humboldt County, and replicate the Center in Northern Humboldt and the Eel River Valley.

"While this program specifically targets limited English speaking workers, it is important to note that employers describe a huge need to improve work-readiness and literacy skills for all workers," explained Jacqueline Debets, WIB Executive Director.

The Newcomers Center provides English as a Second Language (ESL) classes for workers and their families at the Eureka Adult School, and on-site for several employers. Work readiness will now be integrated with language skills training.

This grant award is part of $17.9 million in grants that the state Secretary of Labor and Workforce Development, Victoria Bradshaw, announced last week. The grants fund special programs statewide that will help new workers find jobs and retrain existing workers in high-need and high wage sectors of the economy.

"The programs funded through this grant will focus on four specific areas," said Bradshaw. Humboldt County WIB's grant comes from "the second group [that will] provide customized services and training to help workers with special needs overcome employment barriers."

In addition to the $500,000 grant award, the Adult School's pledged $233,206 in match to the program.

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News Release
For Immediate Release:

December 12, 2005

Eureka Reporter Logger Classic promises exciting basketball

EUREKA— Eureka High School has announced the matchups for its annual Logger Classic basketball tournament to be played Thursday through Saturday, December 15 through 17, at College of the Redwoods’ main gym.

The schedule of games is attached. (Microsoft Word document)

The Eureka Reporter is sponsoring this year’s event.

High schools basketball teams participating include Eureka, Arcata, Fortuna, Shasta, Castro Valley, Ukiah, Analy and Mt. Diablo.

On Thursday, December 15, the tournament starts at 4:30 p.m.

On Friday, December 16, tip off time is scheduled for 4:00 p.m.

Saturday, December 17’s games begin at 12:30 p.m., with the Eureka Reporter Logger Classic Championship Game starting at 5:00 p.m.

Please note that all Eureka Reporter Logger Classic basketball games will be played at College of the Redwoods’ main gym.

For more information contact Eureka High School at 441-2508.

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News Release
For Immediate Release:

December 5, 2005

Eureka High basketball games moved to CR

EUREKA— Eureka High School boys and girls home basketball games will be played at College of the Redwoods for the 2005-06 season due to occupancy limits placed on Eureka High’s Jay Willard Gym.

“We’d like to invite everyone to watch Eureka High basketball at College of the Redwoods,” said associate principal Bill Cannady. “We’re looking forward to seeing our fans there.”

District superintendent Jim Scott explained the decision to move basketball games to CR. “In the spring of 2005, we learned that the Jay Willard Gym would be subject to limitations on the number of people who could occupy the complex at any given time” said Scott. “This is due to the gym not meeting current fire safety exit codes for large numbers of people.”

Although the Jay Willard Gym meets exit codes for the number of students in the gym during physical education classes, it does not meet standards when large crowds gather for events like basketball games. Of particular concern to the district are the two balconies where the majority of spectator seating is located.

“The district has been unable to make temporary repairs to correct the situation because the Environmental Impact Report (EIR) process has not been completed for the new Eureka High gym,” noted Scott. “When the EIR process is completed, we will make temporary modifications so we can use the Willard Gym for competitive sporting events during the 2006-07 school year while the new gym is under construction.”

Superintendent Scott expressed regret on the inconvenience this may have on athletes, parents and staff.

College of the Redwoods requests that people attending Eureka High School basketball games at CR park as close to the CR gym and fieldhouse as possible.

The location for the upcoming Northcoast Classic Wrestling Tournament is still to be decided.

For more information contact Eureka High School at 441-2508.

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Public Service Announcement
For Immediate Release

November 29, 2005

Eureka High School’s annual pottery sale December 7 and 8

EUREKA— Eureka High School students are hosting their annual Christmas pottery sale on Wednesday, December 7, and Thursday, December 8 from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. The public is invited to the event.

The pottery sale will be in the pottery studio which is in the industrial education building located next to the Eureka High School gym. Lots of student-made pottery will be available at bargain prices. Also included are unique styles of pottery from several Humboldt County artisans.

All proceeds are used to maintain and upgrade the pottery studio for the benefit of the Eureka High School student body.

Eureka High School is located at 1915 J Street. For more information contact Eureka High School art teacher David Jordan at 476-1714.

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News Release
For Immediate Release:

November 17, 2005

Eureka school board receives superintendent’s Facility Utilization Plan

EUREKA— At its November 16 meeting, the Governing Board of Eureka City Schools received an update on the district’s Facility Utilization Plan from superintendent James W. Scott, Ed.D.

The Plan, attached here and here, addresses the district’s continued enrollment decline and the facility challenges at its Jacobs Education Center site.

In his presentation to the board, Dr. Scott made the recommendation to close Jefferson Elementary School at the end of the 2005-06 school year and consider moving programs currently housed at the Jacobs Education Center to Jefferson and the district’s Worthington site.

“This recommendation is made with the total recognition of the incredible contribution of the Jefferson staff,” said Scott. “Jefferson is truly a community school and has served its students well over the years.”

The recommendation to close Jefferson was based on the district’s continued enrollment decline, the ability of the remaining elementary schools to accommodate Jefferson students, and ongoing personnel and operational savings.

Scott remarked that in 1996, the district operated seven K-6 elementary schools and one K-8 school with a total elementary population of 2,937 students. This school year, the district’s six K-5 elementary schools have declined by 87 students to a total of 1,634 elementary students.

“Since 1996,” Scott said, “the district’s enrollment has declined by approximately 1,200 students.” School district programs and personnel are funded based on student enrollment. Scott noted that over half the counties in California are experiencing declining enrollment.

The Jacobs Education Center facility plays a large part in the superintendent’s recommendation. Jacobs is home for Zoe Barnum Continuation High School, the Eureka Adult School, Center for Independent Study, Home and Hospital, Transitional Opportunity Program School, Even Start and the Newcomer Center.

Because of the American with Disabilities (ADA) requirements, the Jacobs Education Center poses many facility challenges. The district learned that the state would require three times the amount of Bond Measure S money it had set aside just to bring the campus up to basic ADA requirements.

Consequently, at its October 24, 2004 meeting, the school board decided not to spend Measure S funds at Jacobs.

The district will hold a parent information meeting, including Spanish and Hmong interpreters, at Jefferson School on November 29 at 6 p.m. The next board meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, November 30 at 5:30 at the district office. The school board is expected to make a final decision on the Facility Utilization Plan at either its January 11 or January 18 meeting.

Eureka City Schools’ district office is located at 3200 Walford Avenue. For more information contact Sheldon J. Reber, director of school and community relations, at 441-2416.

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News Release
For Immediate Release:

November 9, 2005

Eureka school board members and superintendent earn CSBA Masters in Governance certificate

EUREKA— Trustees of the Eureka City Schools’ Governing Board, Judy Anderson, Joyce Hayes, Lisa Pace and Fran Taplin, along with district superintendent James W. Scott, Ed.D., have completed the California School Boards Association (CSBA) Masters in Governance program.

The board members and Dr. Scott received the Masters in Governance certificate after completing 56 hours of intensive training on the role of the governance team in setting the direction of the district, student learning and achievement, school finance and facilities, human resources, setting policy, collective bargaining, and community leadership.

“I would highly recommend CSBA’s training to school board members, especially new board members,” said Eureka School Board president Judy Anderson. “It provided us with valuable resources and will help our board function more effectively.”

“This certificate recognizes a demonstrated commitment to learning, leadership and effective governance,” said CSBA President Dr. Kerry Clegg. “The Masters in Governance program is designed to provide board members and superintendents with the knowledge and skills to function effectively as governance teams. Our program recognizes the necessity of the board and the superintendent working closely together toward a common goal— student learning and achievement. We are extremely proud when a trustee or superintendent completes the requirements of the program in the interest of better serving his or her local schools, communities and the children of California.”

Anderson, a school board member since 1997, has been actively involved with Eureka City Schools since 1991, volunteering at several schools and serving on school and district committees.

Joyce Hayes, executive director of the Humboldt Senior Resource Center, has been on the school board since 1992. Hayes‚ tenure has included serving as board president and board clerk. She will be stepping down from her position as school board member in November.

Lisa Pace, owner of Pace Chem-Dry, has been a board member since 1999. Pace has been actively involved in the district having served on school and district committees, school PTA and as a classroom volunteer. Pace currently serves as the school board’s clerk.

Fran Taplin, a retired Eureka City Schools‚ teacher with 31 years of experience, has been on the school board since 1996. Taplin is currently president of Humboldt County Association of School Trustees. She has served on numerous school and district committees as well as the California Teachers Association’s state legislative committee.

CSBA’s Masters in Governance training was offered at the Humboldt County Office of Education in Eureka.

Eureka City Schools' Governing Board agenda and meeting minutes can be found at http://www.eurekacityschools.org/boardmeet.html

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News Release
For Immediate Release:

November 2, 2005

National Merit Scholarship Program recognizes eight Eureka High seniors

EUREKA— Eureka High School has announced that Sarah Hardi, Frederick Hope, Kelsey Larson, Mark Myslin, Heather Price, Matthew Steinwachs, Christopher Toney and Alexander Vitale have been named Commended Students in the 2006 National Merit Scholarship Program.

A letter of commendation from the school and the National Merit Scholarship Program Corporation (NMSC), which conducts the program, will be presented by Bob Steffen, Eureka High School’s principal, to these scholastically talented seniors.

About 34,000 Commended Students throughout the nation are being recognized for their exceptional academic promise. Although they will not continue in the 2006 competition for Merit Scholarship awards, Commended Students placed among the top five percent of more than one million students who entered the 2006 competition by taking the 2004 Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test.

“It is important to acknowledge the attainments of academically talented students and to credit schools for the key role they play in their development,” noted Sharon Smith, NMSC’s Director of Educational and Scholarship Services. “We hope the recognition received by these able young men and women who are commended in this rigorous, nationwide competition will encourage them to take advantage of opportunities for higher education and to diligently pursue their professional goals.”

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News Release
For Immediate Release:

October 31, 2005

Eureka schools see impressive gain in test scores

EUREKA— The California Department of Education released its annual Academic Performance Index (API) Growth Report on October 27 and the news for Eureka City Schools was positive. The district posted an 11 point gain overall among its elementary, middle and high schools.

The API is the cornerstone of California’s Public Schools Accountability Act of 1999. The purpose of the API is to measure the academic performance and growth of schools. It is a numeric index that ranges from a low of 200 to a high of 1000. A school’s score or placement on the API is an indicator of a school’s performance level. The ultimate statewide API performance target for all schools is 800. A school’s growth is measured by how well it is moving toward or past that goal.

The new 2004-05 API Growth Index is based on test scores from the California Standards Test and the California Achievement Test taken in May 2005 by students in grades 2-11. More than 3,600 Eureka students participated in testing last spring. The district’s API, combining scores from all its schools, is now at 721.

“We have several schools that are pushing toward 800.” said Bob Munther, assistant superintendent. “Our students and teachers have been doing an extraordinary job in improving student learning.”

Lincoln Elementary posted the most dramatic gain on the API, a leap of 75 points, to rise to 761. Alice Birney Elementary, 764, and Jefferson Elementary, 706, gained 30 and 33 points respectively. Grant Elementary rose to 765 and Lafayette Elementary moved to 746. Washington Elementary improved its API 32 points to 856.

Eureka’s 6-8 middle school students also performed well with Zane gaining 16 points to 707 and Winship rising 17 points to 781.

Eureka High School did not meet its 5 point growth target and remained at 698 API, the same growth index score the school had last year.

Participation rate, a key category on both the API and the federal No Child Left Behind Adequate Yearly Progress (AYP) report, was high. “We’ve really tried to be proactive with test participation,” said Munther. “All of our schools are exceeding the 95% minimum participation rate. Every elementary school had 100% participation, our middle schools had 99% participation and Eureka High School had 96% participation.”

According to Munther, the rise in scores correlates to the current structure of the tests. “When the tests were introduced seven years ago, they were not aligned with the state standards being taught in our classrooms. There was a feeling by many educators that it was not an accurate representation of how our students were performing. Now all tests are aligned with our standards. It’s not a perfect system but it’s a better system.”

The complete Eureka City Schools 2004-05 API Growth Report is posted on the district’s Web site at: www.eurekacityschools.org/test.html.

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News Release
For Immediate Release:

October 24, 2005

EAST Lab Wins Golden Bell Award

EUREKA— Connecting the classroom with the community has been a hallmark of Eureka High School’s Environmental and Spatial Technology (EAST) Lab.

Now the successful student-driven program has garnered yet another award for its students and staff.

Eureka High School’s EAST Lab will be honored in the 26th Annual Golden Bell Awards program of the California School Boards Association (CSBA).

The award was won in the Instruction category under the direction of teachers Jennifer Johnson and Ron Perry.

“This award is further validation of the EAST program in Eureka City Schools that has gained national and now state recognition for excellence,” noted district superintendent Jim Scott. “We are proud of our students and in awe of our EAST teachers.”

According to Bill Cannady, EHS associate principal, “The success that the EAST Lab has enjoyed did not occur by accident. It is the result of the facilitator’s careful planning, spirited leadership, and a dedication to best serving student needs. Through the hard work of Ron Perry and Jennifer Johnson, Eureka High School has established themselves as cutting edge leaders in education.”

The highly respected Golden Bell awards will be presented at a special ceremony during CSBA’s Awards Luncheon at the San Diego Marriot Hotel and Marina, on Saturday, December 3. The event is held in conjunction with the California School Boards Association’s Annual Education Conference.

The CSBA Golden Bell Awards program promotes excellence in education by recognizing outstanding programs in school districts and county offices of education throughout California. The Golden Bell Awards reflect the depth and breadth of the education programs necessary to address students’ changing needs. The goal of this awards program is to contribute to the development and evaluation of curriculum, instruction and support services.

Seeking Solution EHS EAST Lab Program is a project-based, service-learning program which uses the most current high-end technologies and encourages civic engagement as a tool. The EAST Lab curriculum is looked upon as a model for other EAST schools across the country.

During the course of the school year, Eureka High EAST students have the opportunity to learn the following technology applications: architecture, animation, computer-aided drafting, database development, 3D design engineering, global positioning systems, geographical information systems, computer networking, systems administration, computer programming, desktop publishing, digital filmmaking and Web development.

During the last four years, over 200 community service projects have been executed and include several events that are now a part of the community. They include: Youth Relay for Life, the second annual event raised $30,000 for the American Cancer Society; Ride for Life for equestrians which raised $12,000; Youth Ready to Respond, a yearly event which teaches elementary students how to respond in emergencies; and Every Fifteen Minutes, a two-day program which coordinated local emergency response teams to stage a car crash to teach teens the dangers of drunk driving.

“Rather than learning to satisfy only the demands of the teacher, students are asked to apply their knowledge to make a difference in their community,” remarked Cannady. “Empowered by this challenge, students have exceeded all expectations. They truly have provided invaluable service to their school and community while demonstrating incredible personal growth.”

In addition to having EAST Labs at Winship and Zane Middle Schools, Eureka City Schools recently expanded its award-winning EAST program to Grant, Jefferson, Lafayette and Washington elementary schools, the Transition Opportunity Program (TOP) and Zoe Barnum High School.

According to Michelle Hutchins, the district’s learning director of education technology, “Eureka City Schools is the first school district in California and third in the nation to bring EAST to this level.”

Being recognized for excellence is nothing new for Eureka City Schools’ EAST programs. Students from the Eureka High School, Zane and Winship EAST programs attended the 2005 EAST Partnership Conference held in Sacramento where each program received “Superior” ratings. More than 2,000 middle school and high school students were there to represent the hard work of over 20,000 EAST students from over 220 schools in 6 states.

In 2004, Eureka High School EAST students returned from EAST’s national conference in Arkansas with the Founders Award and Best Web Site Award. The students submitted a large portfolio with evidence detailing the program’s projects over the past three years. Only two schools out of 212 were selected for the Founders Award, the top award an EAST Lab can receive.

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News Release
For Immediate Release:

October 17, 2005

Eureka High seniors nominated for prestigious Heisman Award

EUREKA— Eureka High School seniors Alex Vitale and Kari Lentz have been honored with a nomination for the coveted Wendy’s High School Heisman Award. Awarded in conjunction with the collegiate Heisman, this program celebrates the nation’s top high school seniors who best exemplify a well-rounded “citizen-scholar-athlete.”

Created in 1994 through a partnership between Wendy’s and the Heisman Memorial Trophy, the Wendy’s High School Heisman program has rewarded youth excellence for 12 years.

Vitale is currently ranked number one out of 356 seniors with a 4.33 cumulative grade point average. He has played soccer and competed in track and field for Eureka High School. He is a member of the the school’s Soroptimist Service Club and the Computer/Science/Technology Club. His community service experience includes American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life and Youth Relay for Life, beach clean-up days, tutoring middle school students in math, homeless shelter clothing drive and youth soccer lessons.

Lentz is currently ranked 14th in her class with a 4.19 cumulative grade point average. She has played basketball, softball and volleyball for Eureka High School. Lentz is a member of the Soroptimist Service Club, the Cookie Interest Club and the school’s symphonic band. Her community service includes Sophomores in the Streets, assistant coach at local youth volleyball clinics, sports benefit car washes and the Belize-Guatemala environmental/educational trip.

“These students are truly in a league of their own,” says Archie Griffin, the only two-time winner of the prestigious Heisman Memorial Trophy and program spokesperson. “Each student nominated for the award has gone above and beyond expectations to help those in need, enhance their education and pursue their dreams.”

The Wendy’s High School Heisman Program is comprised of five phases: Nomination, State Finalists, State Winners, National Finalists and National Winners. Entries are initially evaluated by ACT Assessment during the State Finalist and State Winner phases and then passed on to a distinguished panel of judges to elect the National Finalists and National Winners.

Twelve National Finalists are invited for an all-expense paid trip to New York City on December 9–11, to participate in the Heisman weekend festivities. ESPN2 will feature all 12 National Finalists during the Wendy’s High School Heisman Awards Ceremony that will air on December 11.

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Public Service Announcement
For Immediate Release

September 15, 2005

Grand Opening of Eureka’s Newcomer Center

Eureka— The Eureka Adult School is hosting a grand opening of the Newcomer Center on Thursday, September 22 from 3:30 to 6 p.m. The Eureka Adult School is located at 674 Allard Avenue.

The Newcomer Center is a bilingual resource and information center for new community members. The Center provides school enrollment assistance as well as referrals to employment, business start-up and social service resources.

The Newcomer Center will be a welcome addition to the wide variety of community support and outreach programs already offered at the Eureka Adult School. The Center was developed by Eureka City Schools in response to the changing demographics of our community

The Newcomer Center can be reached at 441-2462 for questions or assistance.

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Public Service Announcement
For Immediate Release

September 14, 2005

Eureka High hosts Humboldt/Del Norte College Night 2005

EUREKA— Eureka High School will host the annual Humboldt/Del Norte College Night 2005 for all local high school students and their parents on Wednesday, September 21 from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. The program features a large college fair in the school’s cafeteria featuring more than 35 college, university, and vocational school representatives on hand to distribute information and answer questions.

There will also be a booth on college admission testing, featuring information on the SAT and the ACT entrance exams. In addition, the evening’s program includes a schedule of 30-minute presentations by the University of California system, the California State system, 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

August 30, 2005

Eureka City Schools expands award-winning EAST program

EUREKA— Eureka City Schools has big plans to offer its award-winning Environmental and Spatial Technology (EAST) program to four elementary schools, the Transition Opportunity Program (TOP) and Zoe Barnum High School during the 2005-06 school year.

“We are the first school district in California and third in the nation to bring EAST to this level,” said Michelle Hutchins, the district’s learning director of education technology.

Eureka City Schools recently received a $230,000 Enhancing Education Through Technology competitive grant from the State of California, to expand its EAST program, offered at Eureka High School and Winship and Zane Middle schools, to include four elementary schools, TOP and Zoe Barnum High School.

“We are now the only district in California where students in grades 4 through 12 can experience the collaborative learning environment provided by the EAST experience,” noted Hutchins. “The EAST program will now serve a total of 800 students as 500 additional students join from fourth through twelfth grades.”

Eureka City Schools pursued the expansion of EAST to include grades 4 and 5 with the belief that early introduction of EAST program tenets will increase student commitment to their learning process.

EAST students are encouraged to find a school or community problem to solve, document their progress, and present their results/status using technology.

The EAST model was chosen because of a nationwide history of success and the success experienced by Eureka City Schools’ students. Based on a limited study over the past four years, Eureka EAST students experienced a 15 percent increase in attendance and a 40 percent decrease in incidences involving discipline. In addition, at-risk students are less likely to transfer to independent study or alternative education if they are involved in EAST. Almost 90 percent of Eureka EAST projects directly involve the community and 20 percent of student projects concern issues about race and ethnicity.

Students from the Eureka High School, Zane and Winship EAST programs attended the 2005 EAST Partnership Conference held in Sacramento where each program received “Superior” ratings. Several EAST projects with significant community impact were recognized with awards at the annual conference including “Youth Relay for Life,” “Gotta Serve Somebody; Humboldt Vietnam War Memories,” and “Youth Ready to Respond,” a cross-age disaster preparedness education program. More than 2,000 middle school and high school students were there to represent the hard work of over 20,000 EAST students from over 220 schools in 6 states.

Hutchins credits the EAST Lab facilitators for creating a dynamic program. “The success of our EAST Labs is a testimonial to the awesome instructors we have directing these programs; Jennifer Johnson and Ron Perry at Eureka High, Jamie Bush at Zane, and Dana Jacobs at Winship.”

The new elementary EAST program, serving students in grades 4-5, will allow teachers to develop lessons rich in real-life experiences. Much of their initial work will focus on analysis of instructional methods and student learning through video work. With this information, they will refine their lessons and include technology as a component for increasing student access and achievement.

“Assuming we can secure the funding, we plan to include the remaining two elementary school in the near future,” said Hutchins.

Both Washington and Grant Elementary Schools will each receive 32 laptops with wireless network capabilities that will all connect to the Internet from several buildings on the campuses. Adding to the existing technology, the laptops will be dispersed between target classrooms to ensure daily integration of EAST philosophy. Laptops provide flexibility to the number of computers used with students on a given day resulting in the number of students per computer averaging 2.4 students per computer at Grant and 3.4 students per computer at Washington.

Jefferson Elementary School will receive 10 multimedia workstations dispersed throughout 3 classrooms that will bring the number of students to computers to 5:1.

Lafayette Elementary School will receive 15 multimedia workstations located in one classroom that teachers will rotate their students through on a daily basis. The shared classroom will provide 2 students per computer initially, but after renovations are complete and computers are dispersed, classrooms will have a 7:1 student to computer ratio.

All computers purchased are designed to run advanced software applications. Several of the applications come with campus licenses and some with home licensing for students.

“The home licensing and laptop check-out programs will address the needs of students who would not have the means to acquire experience in these applications any other way thus helping to address the “digital divide,”” remarked Hutchins.

The four elementary schools will have their EAST programs up and running by October, according to Hutchins.

The EAST program at TOP School and Zoe Barnum High School will serve academically at-risk students, provide teachers a professional development center and host family technology nights. The classrooms will be used after school for various programs and become a place where students and their families will have access to technology for the purpose of learning.

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Press Release
For Immediate Release

August 16, 2005

Jefferson bids farewell to principal

EUREKA— Students at Jefferson Elementary School will see a familiar face in the principal’s office when school starts on August 29. Anne Ziegler, Jefferson’s long-time reading intervention teacher, has been selected to serve as the school’s interim principal. Ziegler takes over for Catalina Nocon who has accepted a job as principal in the Ross Valley School District in Fairfax, California.

“Catalina has been a leader among leaders in Eureka City Schools,” remarked district superintendent Jim Scott. “Her dedication to the welfare of our children and the positive influence she has had on their lives is the legacy she leaves in our district. She will be greatly missed but we wish her the best in Marin County.”

Nocon has served as a teacher and principal in local schools since 1977 and spent the past 13 years with Eureka City Schools. She served as assistant principal of Winship Junior High, principal of Washington Elementary, principal of Zane Middle School, principal of Jefferson Elementary and district director of No Child Left Behind’s LEAP (Local Educational Agency Plan). Nocon received her B.A. from Humboldt State University in 1976, her teaching credential from HSU in 1978, a master’s degree from HSU in educational administration in 1992, and an administrative credential from HSU in 1992.

Ziegler has spent the past 10 years teaching at Jefferson. She has been with Eureka City Schools since 1971 and has taught at Alice Birney, Lincoln and Washington elementary schools. Ziegler was instrumental in the development of Jefferson’s strategic plan, served on the school site council, and has helped with the coordinated compliance review. She received a crosscultural, language and academic development certificate from Humboldt State University in 1995, her administrative credential and clear reading certificate from HSU in 2000, and a master’s degree in education from HSU in 2003. Ziegler plans on continuing to provide some reading intervention in conjunction with her administrative duties.

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Press Release
For Immediate Release

August 2, 2005

Eureka High School athletics announces fall sports practice dates

EUREKA— Eureka High School students interested in playing fall sports should take note of the following dates:

Football practice for 9th grade, JV and Varsity starts Monday, Aug. 15.

Girls tennis practice starts Thursday, Aug. 25.

Girls golf, boys and girls soccer, volleyball and cross country, all start practice Monday, August 22.

Information packets and physical forms are available in all Eureka High School offices. All paperwork must be completed and turned into the information office before the athlete can practice.

A meeting for fall sports athletes and their parents will be held on Monday, Aug. 29 at 6:30 p.m. in the Eureka High School auditorium.

For more information, please call 441-2524.

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News Releases 2005–2006 School Year

News Releases
2005–2006 School Year