Snohomish summer camp gets $21K for tuition waivers

The Snohomish Education Foundation recently awarded $21,230 to the Snohomish School District’s Science and Arts Academy summer camp. The grant provides tuition waivers for 56 academically struggling students from low-income families and students from English as a second language households. Since 2015, the Snohomish Education Foundation has funded over $113,230 to the Academy.

“We are so grateful to the Snohomish Education Foundation and the many people who have contributed to the success of the Science and Arts Academy,” said academy director Philippa Farrell. “This program has supported thousands of students in summer learning, and has shown measurable growth for students, particularly those from low-income and second language learning homes. Instead of ‘summer slide’ a phenomenon in which students lose growth over the summer, our students are showing gains.”

At the camp, students choose from hands-on, vocabulary rich learning in areas such as arts, literature, science and outdoor learning. The Summer Academy recently concluded its 10th year at Snohomish High School with over 510 students enrolled from kindergarten through eighth grade. With 35 teachers, 28 para-educators, 20 volunteers, and two student interns, the staff focused on sparking student interest in learning, and “opening doors” that they may not have known existed.

For more information about the Summer Science and Arts Academy, visit the Snohomish School District’s website at www.sno.wednet.edu.

Lynnwood honors excellence

Mayor Nicola Smith and the Lynnwood City Council presented Excellence Awards to the 2019 recipients — people who demonstrate excellence, actively contribute to the community and generally make Lynnwood “a great deal more!”

Dale Schlack, the Lynwood police chaplain for more than 17 years, was given the employee award. According to a news release, “Chaplain Dale always brings a caring, uplifting and humble presence as he supports grieving family members through traumatic life events, responding alongside our police officers, firefighters, and paramedics.” He also supports the responding police officers, ensuring they’re on solid emotional ground and providing his guidance and listening ear when needed.

The citizen award went to Loren Simmonds, a Lynnwood resident and former city councilmember. He currently serves on the city’s civil service commission and the Parks and Recreation Foundation. “Loren Simmonds has a passion for serving the Lynnwood community and he cares deeply about City government and the community members we serve,” a statement said.

And Mr. Kleen 76 Station was recognized with the business award. The business, which has been around for more than 50 years, was described as a “proud and active member” of the Lynnwood, Snohomish County and greater Puget Sound communities, regularly attending and hosting events. The business is a member of the Lynnwood Chamber of Commerce and the Economic Alliance of Snohomish County.

Rotary students of the month

The Rotary Club of Everett honored three Everett high school students as Rotary Students of the Month for November.

Everett High School’s Student of the Month is Nattapon “Genie” Oonlamom, who is applying to a number of universities to get into medical school. She wants to become a surgeon. Her problem-solving skills and commitment to hard work have made her a top student and invaluable member of many clubs at the school.

Sequoia High School’s Student of the Month is Rory Maxwell. Rory has been described by classmates as self-determined, independent, and a positive force who, after school, enjoys painting and skating.

Cascade High School’s Student of the Month is Alaska Luna. Alaska revived her school’s Latino Club and helps with Spanish translation on campus. She is a wrestler and also serves as yearbook editor.

Each month during the school year the club recognizes outstanding local high school students for their accomplishments and their promise.

Donations roll in for Christmas House

Christmas House recently received a generous $5,000 operating grant from Tulalip Tribes.

Since 1993, Tulalip has donated over $69.5 million which encompasses over 245 charitable organizations annually.

BIKES CLUB presented another $2,000 to Christmas House, to purchase helmets for any and all bicycles that are given away this season. The club’s goal is to promote bicycling to everyone, both for fun and for exercise.

And the Nysether Family Foundation, which is dedicated to improving the quality of life and services available for Snohomish County youth, seniors and those who are developmentally challenged, provided a $5,000 grant.

Christmas House, a nonprofit charity that was formed in 1981, provided free Christmas gifts to 7,200 children from 2,400 low-income families throughout Snohomish County last year.

The charity will open its doors Dec. 5 at the North Everett Boys & Girls Club and serve the public through December 21. The store will be open Tuesday through Saturday.

Fore more information, visit www.christmas-house.org or call 425.338.2273.