Alumni

Alumni Connections Newsletter

Pauline
(Watson)
Francisco
SHS Class of 1942

I received a voicemail from an older gentleman that said I should call and talk with Pauline Francisco. The caller went on to say that Pauline had graduated in 1942 from Scottsbluff High School and that she had an interesting story. He mentioned how I could get a hold of her and that she was 100 years old.

I immediately made the call. Pauline is living in a retirement community these days. Luckily I was able to set up an appointment for later that day. I wasn’t sure what to expect, would Pauline remember her days at SHS? Would she have a sound mind? What I found was a lovely woman with a sharp mind.

Pauline Evelyn Watson moved with her family from Saskatchewan Canada to Scottsbluff in the fall of 1941. She was a senior in high school at the time. The thing that Pauline remembered well was the day that the entire student body was called down to the Scottsbluff High School auditorium. It was December 8, 1941. They all watched as President Franklin D. Roosevelt declared War against Japan after the bombing on Pearl Harbor.

Pauline married Harry Francisco and they had two sons, Carl and Dale.  After spending some years in California they came back home to Western Nebraska.  In 2011, Pauline was selected to receive the AARP Andrus Award for community service.  This award recognizes individuals who, through volunteer service, are significantly enhancing the lives of people over the age of 50.  For 11 years Pauline served as the chair of the AARP Gering/Scottsbluff Community Action Team.

I spent an hour asking questions and listening and was reminded again that everyone has a story to tell. Scottsbluff High School alumni all share the same starting point- graduating from SHS. But from there the stories head in many different directions. Many of us can point to a teacher or event from high school that helped shape who we are today. I love to hear those stories and want to share them with you all. Each month we will highlight an SHS alum. If you would like to share your story or know someone who would like to share their story, please contact me at brohrer@sbps.net. As always, you can stay up to date with all our events by visiting sbpsfoundation.com.

Go Bearcats!! 

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Pauline Francisco

Bearcat Pride Plaza

Did you miss the chance to purchase an engraved paver at the Bearcat Pride Plaza? Don’t worry! Sales will reopen once a year, in July during reunion season. You and your family can still be part of the legacy! Your purchase helps to continue and grow Career Academy education at SHS.

Two options are available, bricks start at $100.  Follow us on Facebook for sales dates.  Email foundation@sbps.net for more information.