Press release from Eureka City Schools:

In a ceremonial signing at the Humboldt County Office of Education (HCOE), the dignitaries of Eureka City Schools, Lafayette Elementary School, Linsen Elementary School, and Taiwan’s Ministry of Education met over Zoom to formalize the relationship. The event began with the recognition of dignitaries from both countries, followed by a performance by the Recorder Choir of Linsen Elementary School.

Principal Quincy Brownfield of Lafayette Elementary School, highlighted the significance of the new partnership. “Though the Pacific Ocean separates our schools, what unites us is far greater than the distance between us. We share a belief in the transformative power of education — an education that connects young people to the world, prepares them to be curious global citizens, and encourages them to learn not only from textbooks, but from one another.

“Last summer, one of our teachers, Mr. Nick Williams, had the privilege of visiting Taiwan through the California–Taiwan Global Classroom Connect program. He returned filled with enthusiasm — energized by the hospitality, innovation, and warmth he experienced in Taiwan. That spark has since spread throughout our school community. Our students now talk eagerly about their peers across the world — peers they already feel connected to through shared learning.”

Mrs. Brownfield concluded, “We are proud to stand with Linsen Elementary School, knowing that together, we can foster learner agency, cultural understanding, and a strong foundation for success in an interconnected world. As we say xiè xiè (謝謝) —, meaning “thank you” — we honor the goodwill and collaboration that have led to this moment.”

Following remarks from representatives of Taiwan’s Ministry of Education and the Principal of Linsen Elementary School, the principals of both schools signed the memorandum of understanding simultaneously. Photos were taken to commemorate the virtual ceremony. This concluded with comments from Jennifer Johnson, Assistant Superintendent of Educational Services for Eureka City Schools, expressing gratitude for everyone’s dedication to global education.

For more information regarding global education in Humboldt County, visit https://globalclassroomconnect.org/. Local Educators are also invited to participate in the Global Education Forum on February 28, 2026. Contact Greg Gaiera ggaiera@hcoe.org for registration information, or register at http://tinyurl.com/cgef2026