CV’s Chalich receives honor from state bar
When Central Valley High School government teacher Stan Chalich walked into a staff meeting recently, he had no idea he was the guest of honor. It was only when he heard the voice of a former student, now a U.S. Attorney, that he suspected something was up.
“I was totally surprised,” he said. “I was actually a little embarrassed.”
Chalich was awarded the 2009 Flame of Democracy Award by the Washington State Bar Association’s Council on Public Legal Education. The group gives out the award every year to someone who has made a significant contribution to increasing the public’s understanding of law, the justice system or government.
With 40 years teaching government in the Central Valley School District under his belt, Chalich certainly qualifies. He has also taught current world problems, economics and sociology. Chalich was nominated by several people, including former students, co-workers and former teacher Tim Hattenburg.
Chalich, a Central Valley High School graduate, said he’s still in education after 40 years because he wants to make students think. “I don’t do it for this,” he said of the award. “I do it because I love what I do.”
Chalich may be teaching his students about government and how it works, but he’s also teaching them about life. “You always have your say, but not necessarily your way,” he said. “I let them have their opinion. All I say is, make sure you’re doing your homework so you know what you’re talking about.”
Kindergarten registration
Parents in the East Valley School District may begin registering their children for kindergarten on Monday.
Parents should bring a certified copy of the child’s birth certificate, immunization records and proof of residency, such as an electricity bill. Children must turn 5 before Aug. 31 in order to attend kindergarten.
Children should be registered at the school they will be attending. Parents not sure which attendance boundary they live in can call (509) 926-6371. Visit www.evsd.org for more information.
Rapid Rabbit Run
The 25th annual Rapid Rabbit Run is rapidly approaching.
The annual 5-mile and 3-mile runs will be next Saturday beginning at 10 a.m. at East Valley High School, 15711 E. Wellesley Ave. The 5-miler is a qualifying race for Bloomsday second-seed runners. Trophies are given to the top male and female finishers and ribbons will be given to the top three finishers in each age group in both runs.
Check-in for the races is from 4 to 7 p.m. Friday at the school and before the races from 8:30 to 9:45 a.m. next Saturday. Late registration is $17 with a T-shirt, $12 without a T-shirt.
To register, call (509) 226-2197. Proceeds from the event will benefit the Senior All Knighter.