​PURPLE & GOLD CLUB

Paula James

Paula James, a 1979 graduate of Lake Stevens, was born with a childhood condition that restricted her activities until she reached adolescence. However, once she began her athletic career she did so in a big way. Starting at Everett High School, where she competed as a sprinter and set the school record for the 100-yard dash.

Paula entered Lake Stevens High School the following year and competed in track and field for the next three years, setting school records in the 100 yard dash, 220 yard dash and was a member of the 400 meter relay team. Paula was a three time state champion, winning the 100-yard dash in both 1978 and 1979, and the 220-yard dash in 1978. Her times were state records for the State AA in both events.

Track coaches, fans and athletes all were amazed with the athletic ability, speed, and heart that Paula James brought to each competition. During her years of running at Lake Stevens she never failed to find the finish line and win the race, no lead was safe when Paula James ran the anchor on the relay for the Vikings. There have been many outstanding track athletes that have graduated from Lake Stevens High School and Paula was one of the finest.

Paula was also a stellar student while attending Lake Stevens High School, where she accumulated a career GPA of 3.67 and graduated in the top 15% of her class. At the end of her high school career she accepted a track and field scholarship to the University of Washington and had decided on a major in nursing.

Paula was an outstanding individual who always devoted her energies and talent to the school, the community and her family. Despite her untimely death in the summer following her senior year in a traffic accident while on a family vacation, Paula left a wonderful legacy for all future Vikings. We are proud to induct her into our Hall of Fame.