April 27, 2026
Superintendent’s Corner: Why Public Education Matters—for All of Us
In recent years, there has been increasing discussion at the state and national levels about redirecting public tax dollars toward private education options, including private schools and homeschooling. While I fully respect the rights of families to choose the educational path that best fits their children, I believe it is critically important that we also take a step back and reflect on why strong, well-funded public schools remain essential to the success of our communities.
Public education is one of the few institutions designed to serve every child—regardless of background, income level, ability, or circumstance. Here in Eureka, our schools are more than just places where students learn math and reading. They are where relationships are built, where students discover their passions, and where we prepare the next generation of workers, parents, and community leaders.
In rural communities especially, public schools are the backbone of the town. They are often the largest employer, a hub for activities and events, and a source of pride that brings people together. Friday night games, concerts, student led theatre, and community gatherings all center around our schools. When we invest in public education, we are investing directly in the vitality and sustainability of our community.
There is also an important financial reality to consider. Public schools operate under strict accountability measures. We are required to serve all students, including those with special needs, and to provide transportation, meals, and a wide range of services that private institutions are not always obligated to offer. When public funds are diverted away from public schools, those responsibilities do not go away—but the resources to meet them are reduced. That creates a strain on the very system that serves the majority of our children.
It is also worth noting that in communities like ours, access to private education options is often limited or nonexistent. Redirecting public dollars in ways that primarily benefit larger population centers can unintentionally disadvantage rural students and families. Strong public schools help ensure that all children—no matter where they live—have access to quality educational opportunities.
This is not about creating division. Families who choose private or homeschool options are making decisions they believe are best for their children, and that deserves respect. However, public education remains the foundation upon which our broader system is built. If that foundation weakens, the impacts are felt far beyond the classroom.
At Eureka Public Schools, we are committed to providing opportunities for every student—whether that’s preparing for college, entering the workforce, or pursuing careers in the trades. From our classrooms to our Career and Technical Education programs, we strive to meet students where they are and help them succeed.
Investing in public education is not just an educational issue—it is a community issue, an economic issue, and ultimately, an investment in our future.
When we support our public schools, we are supporting all kids, all families, and the long-term strength of the place we call home.
—Joel Graves
Superintendent, Eureka Public Schools
#TeamEureka
In recent years, there has been increasing discussion at the state and national levels about redirecting public tax dollars toward private education options, including private schools and homeschooling. While I fully respect the rights of families to choose the educational path that best fits their children, I believe it is critically important that we also take a step back and reflect on why strong, well-funded public schools remain essential to the success of our communities.
Public education is one of the few institutions designed to serve every child—regardless of background, income level, ability, or circumstance. Here in Eureka, our schools are more than just places where students learn math and reading. They are where relationships are built, where students discover their passions, and where we prepare the next generation of workers, parents, and community leaders.
In rural communities especially, public schools are the backbone of the town. They are often the largest employer, a hub for activities and events, and a source of pride that brings people together. Friday night games, concerts, student led theatre, and community gatherings all center around our schools. When we invest in public education, we are investing directly in the vitality and sustainability of our community.
There is also an important financial reality to consider. Public schools operate under strict accountability measures. We are required to serve all students, including those with special needs, and to provide transportation, meals, and a wide range of services that private institutions are not always obligated to offer. When public funds are diverted away from public schools, those responsibilities do not go away—but the resources to meet them are reduced. That creates a strain on the very system that serves the majority of our children.
It is also worth noting that in communities like ours, access to private education options is often limited or nonexistent. Redirecting public dollars in ways that primarily benefit larger population centers can unintentionally disadvantage rural students and families. Strong public schools help ensure that all children—no matter where they live—have access to quality educational opportunities.
This is not about creating division. Families who choose private or homeschool options are making decisions they believe are best for their children, and that deserves respect. However, public education remains the foundation upon which our broader system is built. If that foundation weakens, the impacts are felt far beyond the classroom.
At Eureka Public Schools, we are committed to providing opportunities for every student—whether that’s preparing for college, entering the workforce, or pursuing careers in the trades. From our classrooms to our Career and Technical Education programs, we strive to meet students where they are and help them succeed.
Investing in public education is not just an educational issue—it is a community issue, an economic issue, and ultimately, an investment in our future.
When we support our public schools, we are supporting all kids, all families, and the long-term strength of the place we call home.
—Joel Graves
Superintendent, Eureka Public Schools
#TeamEureka