Auburn School District No. 408
915 4th Street Northeast, Auburn, WA  98002

3/22/06

NEWS RELEASE
Auburn School District's Board of Directors
Honors Student Erik Vatne

The Auburn School Board of Directors will recognize Erik Vatne, a Mt. Baker Middle School eighth grader, for being an outstanding student.

Erik sets the bar at school, daily contributing to classroom discussion, achieving high marks, and participating in band and jazz band, as well as theater and choir. The term “well-rounded” pops into the mind of Mt. Baker Principal Louanne Decker. Erik’s language arts teacher, Ms. Stonack, says, “We see the hope for our future in Erik. He contributes positive energy to every classroom he enters.”

Erik is an Honors student and also enjoys reading. His goal is to read the top 100 novels of all time. He’s also a movies and music buff, outsmarting his teacher, Ms. Stonack, one afternoon in computer lab. Ms. Stonack asked Erik if he had ever seen the movie Easy Rider. He replied, “Of course,” and further pointed out that Jack Nicholson was nominated for best supporting actor. Ms. Stonack disagreed with Erik. An Internet search ensued, and the class learned Erik was right, finding it amusing that Ms. Stonack would actually disagree with Erik about any movie or music trivia.

Erik Vatne is a young man who will go far. His future is bright and promising, and his parents are one hundred percent supportive of his individuality and interests. “He will make his mark on the world, whatever he decides to do,” remarks Ms. Stonack.

For additional information, contact Superintendent Linda Cowan at (253) 931-4914.