Fortuna Middle School honored by state with Civic Engagement Award

FORTUNA, CA. – Civic engagement is more than just a classroom lesson for Fortuna Middle School students, and because of their active roles in the community, they are being recognized by the state.

On Wednesday, Judge Joyce Heinricks presented Fortuna Middle with the California Department of Education’s Civic Education Award of Merit.

The local school earned the award by showcasing their civic education efforts, which include bringing community speakers into the classroom, actively promoting student community engagement, and supporting their Student Council’s participation in the California Association of Student Council’s workshop.

Principal Julie Johansen says the students give her a lot to be proud of.

“I feel super lucky to have the kinds of students that we have here at Fortuna Middle School,” said Principal Julie Johansen, “They’re very passionate about the community and giving back. I’m grateful for the teachers and staff who don’t see civic engagement as a separate thing to teach, but part of our everyday here at school.”

Fortuna’s Toddy Thomas School was presented the award in 2017.