One of the biggest athletic and administrative changes over the summer was Chris Harris leaving Yreka High School to become the new principal at Jackson Street Elementary, and the hiring of Steve Van Ert as the new athletic director and assistant principal at YHS.

Harris did a fantastic job at YHS and I was sad to see him move on. But, I was also very happy to see Van Ert move into his spot. My experience with Van Ert while he was at Dunsmuir was always positive, and I think he’ll do a great job at YHS.

Below are the questions and answers from an interview we did via email that should shed some light on Van Ert’s beliefs and way of doing things, as well as provide some background information for those who don’t know him.

Q: Where did you grow up/spend your youth?

A: Redding; Enterprise High grad

Q: Colleges attended and degrees earned?

A: Bachelor of Science in Biology from Chico State /teacher credential, admin credential and Master of Arts in Education from Simpson University

Q: Coaching background, where, what, and when?

A: 6 years Head Track Coach, 5 years in football (JV 1 yr, V Off. Coord 1yr, 3 yrs Head Coach: 17-16 after an 0-10 first year of rebuilding) at Dunsmuir High School.

Q: Administrative/management/leadership experience (other than coaching)?

A: At Dunsmuir: Nor. Cal Writing Project, GATE Coordinator, member of WASC team, WASC Visiting Committee member, leadership team for PLC (Professional Learning Community) and APL-CORE.

Prior to education: Pacific Northwest Total Quality Manager for world’s 3rd largest construction materials business – served as facilitator; Safety, Training & Education Manager; and the Administrative Advisor to Executive Team. I also served in the military for 8+years (Military Police, Investigations, Personal Security, Engineers)

Q: Coaching philosophy?

A: develop a well rounded athlete first by continuously addressing the 5 essential biomotor abilities (coordination, flexibility, endurance, strength and speed). The next key component is to ensure mastery of the fundamentals; break down every movement into its finest parts and work them daily.

Q: What do you like best about the current athletic programs?

A: In spite of current economic difficulties, our community has constantly risen to assist in providing opportunities that other schools just can’t afford. On top of that, we have devoted, hard-working professionals who understand their sport and who always have the best interests of their student-athletes in mind.

Q: What needs to be adjusted in the athletic programs?

A: It is too early to say. I need to know what we have before making adjustments and that takes personal observation. I have already witnessed the desire of our coaches and volunteers to provide the greatest experiences possible and the willingness to do what is needed in many areas. I believe we should consistently have competitive teams and I will take the necessary actions to help us be the respected program we are capable of being.

Q: Approach to discipline with students? How does it change with multiple infractions?

A: Coaches should always have one rule: show respect. That implies that the coach will model that behavior and have fair, consistent application of the consequences for choosing a behavior that does not meet that one rule. In regards to multiple infractions – first, it is a privilege to participate on our teams. Athletes who choose not accept the responsibilities of being a Miner are not ready to be involved on our teams. Second, one person does not dictate the success of our season, but can have a negative impact on the whole team. That simply means that being an athletic superstar doesn’t shield you from the consequences of being disrespectful.

Q: What is most important in forming a strong positive relationship with students and athletes?

A: Our athletes are individuals that will represent our school, our community, and their families. We need to help them develop in all aspects of their lives, stressing first academics and social responsibility. We do that by getting to know every individual and modeling appropriate behaviors.

Q: What role/relationship should parents have with school administrators in regard to discipline of students.

A: Parents lay the foundation for our athlete’s beliefs and behaviors. They should be supportive of the program and the professionals who are working to create the best experience possible for their child. That said, it is up to the Head Coach to ensure parents and athletes understand the expectations of the program. Parents are encouraged to discuss the well being of their child, ways to help their child improve, scheduling, and their child’s behavior directly with the coach. Other areas of concern should be brought to my attention.

Q: What attributes/skills do you believe you bring to your position as AD and assistant principal?

A: I have a wide range of experiences in life, which includes raising two great kids and being 1 of 6 kids myself. I believe that our students will rise to the level of greatest expectation and I strive to be equitable, consistent and understanding.

Q: Any changes in school policy regarding rules, regulations, or discipline forthcoming?

A: My first job is to observe. While learning about our community I will ensure we are in compliance with regulations and are using the best practices. The school has been investigating practices involving drug testing for some time and I will help with that process. I have always been interested in and have extensively studied school wide discipline so I plan to be a resource in that field.

Q: Anything else you’d like to add?

A: It is a great privilege for me to be able to serve this awesome community. I look forward to many years that will bring great challenge and reward. I will make mistakes along the way and I won’t be everybody’s favorite; but I will always strive to serve our students with integrity. Yreka has a long standing tradition of power, success and pride; I will strive to continuously build upon its strong foundations.

Q: Oh, and what’s the best part about working in Yreka?

A: Aside from the school and community, this is an outdoor enthusiast’s dream land

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