 The NEHS mascot, "Scottie", the Scotch Terrier, reflects the school's heritage, as do the names of the school newspaper (Caledonian) and yearbook (Tartan).In April 2004 NEHS staff, parents, and community members were approached with information about the Oregon Small Schools Initiative project and grant opportunities.In May 2004, a $900,000 grant from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation was awarded to NEHS to begin this project.