Beginning in 2005, E3 worked with the Three Rivers School District to develop a program aimed at helping freshmen students make a more successful transition into high school.

With E3's help, the district and Three Rivers Leadership Team created Freshmen With Futures and recruited over 100 employer mentors who met with students, served as role models and helped them make the connection to the "real world of work."

Community Update

During 2006, local employers met with small groups of students on a monthly basis, to serve as an authentic resource to student. Mentors helped students understand that their efforts in high school will impact them as they develop goals and visions for the future -- no matter what direction they choose. 

The program is now incorporated into the school career unit, and they have established a strong connection to over 100 local employers.  As planned, E3's role will diminish as the district and local business community take greater ownership of the program and seek ways to support and expand it.  E3 will continue to monitor the program and promote its successes.

Many thanks to the employers and community volunteers who are working with the students in the Freshman with Futures program.  Select a high school to view the list of mentors: Hidden Valley High School, Illinois Valley High School and North Valley High School. 

Read the profile of Marty Bauer, Freshman with Futures project co-chair, to hear how caring adults can make a lasting impression on students.

Leadership Team

Co-Chairs:

Dr. Jerry Fritts, Superintendent, Three Rivers School District

Marty Bauer, President, Portola Properties

Team:

Phil Stephens, Three Rivers SD Board of Directors

Dave Strahan, Three Rivers SD Board of Directors

Jann Taylor, Three Rivers School District

Linda Draper, Job Council

Jodi Wainwright, Worthington Construction

Gina Marie Agosta, Coalition for Kids

Lowell Gibson, Recognition Specialties, Grants Pass Chamber of Commerce

Bob Shumaker, Illinois Valley CRT

Nancy Maxwell, Rogue Community College

Cindy Spencer, Fire Mountain Gems

Jennifer Phillippi, Rough and Ready Lumber Company

Judge Lindi Baker, Josephine County Justice Department

Dennis Webber, Parkway Christian

Lisa Woodruff, Zonta Club

Suzanne White, American Association of University Women

Noel Hoback, Active Club and Newbridge High School

Linda Hugle, Three Rivers SD, Principal at North Valley HS

JoAnne Bethany, Three Rivers SD, Principal at Illinois Valley HS

Dennis Misner, Three Rivers SD, Principal at Hidden Valley HS

Ted Crocker, Illinois Valley Chamber of Commerce