Great students from our schools

of the Gateway

Did you read about Purdy Elementary third-grader Hailey Bergren last week? She won first place in a regional science fair and a Special Award from the U.S. Surgeon General.

Have you been reading about the 2008 Students of Distinction? We profile four of the 33 outstanding high school seniors graduating this year every week, and their stories are amazing. Students these days are accomplishing so much more in high school than previous generations. It’s inspiring and gives us hope for the world’s future.

And, talk about inspiring: Today’s profile of 1974 Peninsula High School graduate Steve Olson on Page 11A chronicles his successful career as an author of books and articles about science. He’s one of four distinguished alumni of the Peninsula School District who will be inducted into Gig Harbor’s Hall of Fame at the community banquet on May 19.

Like Lute Jerstad, Theresa Malich and Doris Heritage, who will also receive the Alumni of Distinction award, Olson came through our public schools, just as 9-year-old Hailey Bergren is doing right now.

When they are supported by parents and the community and financed properly, our public schools produce world leaders. People like our Students of Distinction and our distinguished alumi, who are all now or will be making a difference.

Those of us fortunate enough to live in the Gig Harbor area have many reasons to give thanks. Our Peninsula School District is among them.