In February 2026, the Future Forward Innovations Team at Eureka City Schools (ECS) launched the very first History Palooza. This learning experience gives students an opportunity to select a topic they are passionate about, and create a project in a style that suits their learning style best. Students were free to work individually or as a group, taking ownership of their own projects. Across four events, approximately 700 students presented their projects with the support of more than 40 high school student leaders who helped orchestrate the celebrations.
Future Educator Pathway students mentored elementary learners in the weeks leading up to the Palooza and played a central role in organizing and facilitating the event itself. Their leadership was essential to its success. ECS Student Ambassadors also engaged with younger students and selected an award recipient highlighting Global Stewardship. Together, these high school leaders modeled the excellence and opportunity that await younger students at ECS. Awards for History Palooza projects were selected by Future Educator Pathway students, the Blue Lake Rancheria Tribal Education Agency, ECS Student Ambassadors, Cal Poly Humboldt History faculty, teachers, and ECS administrators.
“The generous financial support and partnership of the Blue Lake Rancheria were instrumental in launching this event. In addition, Cal Poly Humboldt professors interviewed student researchers and presented awards recognizing excellence in historical inquiry. These partnerships enriched the experience and underscored the strength of our broader learning community.” –Ron Perry, Pathways and Dual Enrollment TOSA, Eureka City Schools
“The History Department at Cal Poly Humboldt enthusiastically supports our community and its history. To that end, we were excited to learn about History Palooza at Eureka City Schools. We believe that history is for everyone. We all have a history, and ought to share it and our points of view with one another.” –Ryder Dschida, History Education Program Leader, Cal Poly Humboldt
Originally Published: 3/25/2026