EUREKA UNION SCHOOL DISTRICT Superintendent: Tom Janis Chief Business Officer: Melody Glaspey Director of Curriculum, Instruction, Professional Development and Student Assessment: Ginna Myers Director of Human Resources: Kelli Hanson, Ed.D. Director of Student Services: Kristi Marinus

5455 Eureka Road Granite Bay, CA 95746 Phone: (916) 791-4939 Fax: (916) 791-5527 www.eurekausd.org

PRESS RELEASE Contact:

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Tom Janis, District Superintendent Eureka Union School District 916-774-1201 [email protected]

Excelsior, Maidu and Oakhills Elementary School in the Eureka Union School District Selected as an Outstanding and Innovative 2016 Gold Ribbon Award-Winning School The Eureka Union School District is extremely proud to announce that Excelsior, Maidu and Oakhills Elementary Schools in the Eureka Union School District, have been named by the State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tom Torlakson to be honored under the state’s new Gold Ribbon Schools Awards Program, which is temporarily taking the place of the California Distinguished Schools Program. “These schools are academically successful, vibrant, and innovative centers of learning and teaching,” Torlakson said. “They provide great examples of the things educators are doing right—embracing rigorous academic standards, providing excellence and creativity in teaching, and creating a positive school climate.” “Excelsior and Oakhills Elementary Schools were chosen as model schools for their innovative and challenging instructional program that foster 21st Century learning,” commented Tom Janis, Eureka Union School District Superintendent. “I am very proud of the learning community at both schools as every teacher and every classified staff member, in one way or another, has supported our journey towards excellence. We are privileged to have the amazing support of families and the community at-large through our partnerships with the Eureka Schools Foundation, our Parent Teacher Club and other businesses.” “Maidu Elementary was chosen for this great recognition due to all the hard work that everyone has put into the school to create a positive school atmosphere and culture using the Positive Behavior Intervention & Supports (PBIS) program.” commented Maidu Principal, Stephanie Groat. Schools applied for the award based on a model program their school has adopted that includes standards-based activities, projects, strategies, and practices that can be replicated by other local educational agencies. The award is recognizing elementary schools this year and junior high schools and high schools in 2017. The Gold Ribbon awards recognize California schools that have made gains in implementing the academic content and performance standards adopted by the State Board of Education. These include, the California Standards for English Language Arts and Mathematics, California English Language Development Standards, and Next Generation Science Standards. “The entire Excelsior, Maidu and Oakhills Elementary School Teams have earned commendations and honors for their dedication, commitment and outstanding service to our students. This well-deserved recognition represents the over-and-above professional support for all students. The entire district community congratulates Excelsior, Maidu and Oakhills Elementary Schools on this fine accomplishment,” said Mr. Janis.

Tony Corado

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Ryan Jones

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Board of Trustees: Renee Nash ♦ Aimee Scribner

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Andrew Sheehy