Mr. Brett Silva Commemorative Glen

I’m writing to share the story of Mr. Brett Silva who, in January of 2017, died tragically in a car accident. Mr. Silva was a brilliant teacher at Pleasant Valley High School in Chico, a scoutmaster in Orland, a soccer coach to many boys and girls over many years, and beloved father, husband, family member, and friend. There is an ache that his absence leaves behind in the hearts of literally hundreds of people. Mr. Silva had a way of inspiring people to dig deep down and achieve their greatest potential. He was motivational without pressure. Intense, but tempered with humor. He was fiercely loyal to his family and friends. Our world doesn’t have enough people willing to donate their time to teach young people to be good citizens, respect their flag and country, learn to love the outdoors, and become leaders. Mr. Silva unselfishly donated his time as a Cubmaster and Scoutmaster for over 20 years, helping young men to discover and develop their strengths. Our world doesn’t have enough great teachers, who care genuinely about the education and enrichment of young minds, as well as about each of them individually. Mr. Silva made learning interesting and fun, while challenging his students to push themselves to become their best. Our world doesn’t have enough dedicated coaches. Mr. Silva took a genuine interest in each of his student athletes, pushing them outside their comfort zones to achieve what he knew they could achieve, even before the students believed in themselves. He was a mentor in every sense of the word. His life left a mark on his communities that will never be forgotten.

My name is Jordan Pitman and I’m a 17 year old recent graduate from PVHS. I have heard stories from Mr. Silva’s friends and colleagues’ about their lunchtime chats with him. He started the tradition of rolling his office chair outside and circling up with the other teachers near the grassy area outside of their classrooms during lunch. I’ve heard that this was an amazing time of fellowship, sharing of stories and ideas, halving their stresses and doubling their joys, bouncing ideas off one another and telling jokes.

I am a Life Scout from Troop 31 in Chico, beginning my Eagle project. To ensure that Mr. Silva’s memory and personal contributions are always remembered, I plan to construct a gathering place on Pleasant Valley High School's campus known as 'Silva Glen'. It is my intention to honor and commemorate Mr. Silva by creating a place where his friends, colleagues and students can go to remember their time with him. This project will include the creation of a permanent meeting space in the same spot where he and his friends and colleagues used to meet at lunch time. It will have permanent tables, shade, and pathways leading to it and will overlook the soccer fields where he coached many students for many years. The funds donated here will go directly towards construction of this project and will be built entirely by volunteers. Your donation will make it possible to ensure that Silva Glen will survive for many years, reminding us all of Mr. Silva's many contributions. Eagle projects are funded 100% by donations so, without you, this won’t be possible. Thank you with all my heart to any and all those who donate. I promise that even the smallest monetary contributions are appreciated immensely and will be put to work. Any funds raised in excess will go directly to Pleasant Valley High School. As the funding for this project goes through the school, which is a non-profit organization, your donation should be tax-deductible. (Consult your tax advisor for details).

Please contact me if you have any questions or if you are able to donate materials toward the completion of this project.

Thank you for making this vision a reality and for helping me to create a place where Mr. Silva’s memory can live on.