Astoria SD 1 recognizes state history teacher of the year and hears community updates

The Astoria School District 1 board opened its regular meeting by recognizing Chris Hunt, a history teacher at Astoria High School, who was announced as Oregon history teacher of the year in an award associated with the Daughters of the American Revolution. Board members and guests offered congratulations and personal remarks about Hunt's classroom impact.

Administrators reported highlights from across the district: winter athletics accomplishments (including a third-place wrestling finish at 144 pounds and swimming placements), the high school’s theater production of Beetlejuice with remaining shows this week, and two students — Quinn and Nazina — receiving Oregon State University Presidential Scholarships (noted in the meeting as providing $10,000 per year for up to four years). The district also noted recent professional development that staff described as highly useful and announced upcoming assemblies and internship opportunities.

During public comment, Bob Elsberg, a community member, asked the board to review and consider adopting a coaching-training resource he has developed and made available online. Elsberg described the resource as free, adaptable and intended to help volunteer coaches and families; he said a former student who is now a lawyer reviewed the material for legal concerns and a former colleague would help with presentation and formatting. He asked for the board’s time to review the material and for possible district endorsement or support, but did not request funding.

The board also welcomed a newly hired district office staff member named Veronica and thanked community partners and staff who supported student programs.

The meeting then proceeded to other agenda items, including public business and the announcement of an executive session later in the meeting.