Library another first for Eastside Academy

Bellevue's Eastside Academy is all about second chances.

The unveiling of the schools first library this past week only further solidifies the academy's focus on creating a better tomorrow for the students who attend.

The creation of the new Harnish Foundation Library at Eastside Academy was made possible by donations from a variety of organizations and individuals in the community including the Harnish Foundation and Bank of America.

"This library is so much more than a room with books," said Toni Esparza, the Executive Director. "To the students who attend Eastside Academy, this new library means a place all their own where they can come and learn. This means hope for a future."

The non-profit alternative high school serves students who have not found success in a typical school setting. Now in its ninth year, Eastside Academy recently relocated to a new facility provided by First Presbyterian Church. The donated space has allowed the school to add classrooms, a computer and science lab and now, a new library.

"Youth that come to us have faced struggles such as homelessness, abuse, mental health issues, drug and alcohol addiction, truancy and criminal histories," said Elyse Nicholson, the Director of Development. "We treat students holistically, providing them with an education, while treating them with drug and alcohol programs, mental health counseling and mentoring and alumni programs."

Eastside Academy provides tuition assistance to every family, ensuring that students who need extra support are able to receive it. The school enrolls an average of 40 students each school year.

"A lot of these kids have given up on school prior to coming here," Esparza said. "We provide a new way of looking at education. We are here to work with the students one on one. We aim to give them direction - for today and the rest of their lives."

Lindsay Larin can be reached at 425-453-4602.

To learn more about Eastside Academy, visit www.eastsideacademy.org.

Contact Bellevue Reporter Staff Writer Lindsay Larin at llarin@bellevuereporter.com or 425-453-4602.

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