This letter was sent to students and parents in the Seaside School District.

It is with a heavy heart I write to inform you that the Seaside School District Board of Directors officially accepted my recommendation to suspend the Pacifica Project as a graduation requirement for the class of 2021.

The Pacifica Project has been a staple for Seaside High School students for over 25 years. It is no doubt that the Pacifica has had a positive impact on our community and the lives of our students throughout its duration.

My recommendation was based on the need for students to frequently spend time volunteering in locations that could potentially put them and-or their families at increased risk in conjunction with the increased safety measures put into place by the state of Oregon and the Oregon Health Authority. It would also be an unfair ask of our community partners to invite students to their respective locations to serve.

I fundamentally believe that service is a critical aspect of leading a fruitful and fulfilling life. It is also true that the earlier one serves in their lifetime, the likelihood of continuing to serve increases throughout the remainder of one’s life.

For those of you that completed the requirements prior to this announcement, thank you.

Although the completion of your Pacifica Project is no longer required for graduation, I am hopeful that you are able to reflect on your time volunteering as a positive and worthwhile experience. Know that your time certainly had a positive impact on our community. For those of you yet to start or complete your project, I encourage you to carry on with your plans when it is safe to do so and make a positive impact on your community.

Jeff Roberts

Principal, Seaside High School