Supporting Every Student’s Future
Recently, I was asked whether our levy truly helps all students and prepares them for the jobs of the future. Some expressed concern that our efforts are focused mainly on students going to college.
We are proud to support those students pursuing higher education. Last year, Eastern students completed over 420 hours of college-level classes paid for by the school and earned nearly $900,000 in scholarships before graduation.
But our commitment extends far beyond college preparation. We also work hard to prepare every student for their next step—whether that’s college, workforce, or a technical path, or the military. Our graduates last year earned 28 industry credentials and 166 graduation seals.
A strong part of this preparation is STEM education and exposure. We host multiple groups to work with students in school and organize field trips where students experience careers in action. Soon, students will visit Athens to see a 3D printer that builds an entire house, then drives out the front door—demonstrating cutting-edge technology in the construction field. We want our students to have hands-on experiences, apprenticeships in evolving career paths.
To equip students for tomorrow’s jobs, we are Training and certifying all of our teachers in Artificial Intelligence. We are also expanding pre-apprenticeships programs with unions, including pipefitters, electricians, and manufacturing. Seventeen students currently participate in the Incert program through Washington State, earning credentials in Manufacturing, IT, Criminal Justice, PLC programming, and CNC operations. We also have multiple students taking career technical education classes through the comprehensive program at Meigs Local.
We are equally proud to recognize students who choose paths like military service; last year, two of our graduates enlisted in the Marines, and we honor their commitment to serving our country.
I am also frequently asked why we emphasize sports and extracurricular activities. Our data show that students involved in extracurriculars have better grades, attendance, and behavior than those who are not. At Eastern, students can engage in a wide range of activities, including new clubs and teams such as games club, FFA, E-sports, Science Olympiad, drama, and many more. These opportunities foster stronger connections to school and motivate students to excel academically.
Our “Find Your ‘E’” philosophy is about helping every student discover their path—college, career, trades, military, or technical fields. We also know that any of these paths start with a strong foundation in our elementary school. Our teachers do an outstanding job of giving our students the skills they need to pursue their “E”.
If you have questions about the levy or our programs, please reach out. We are always excited to share how your support makes a real difference for all Eastern students.