The tragic death of Zina Linnik in July 2007 had a deep impact on her teachers and fellow students at McCarver Elementary School. They have been busy preparing a fitting tribute to her.
The girl and her Ukrainian immigrant family lived on Hilltop. She was abducted in the alley behind their home by a man who took her to a remote location and killed her. He was later apprehended, convicted and imprisoned.
Teachers and students from McCarver discussed efforts to honor the girl as part of improvements to McCarver Park, located adjacent to the school at South 23rd and ‘J’ streets, during Tacoma City Council’s study session on March 24.
Councilmember Lauren Walker said the children’s efforts have helped the community heal. “They have taken all of us on a journey of passion and commitment.”
Fifth-grade teacher Sheila Haase taught Linnik. “Even though she was quiet and shy, she quickly found a place in my heart,” she told the council. “Zina’s death left a deep scar in our community.”
“I still often think of the special and beautiful way her life impacted me,” said Katie Thaut, a reading teacher. “She possessed a passion and resilience that daily inspired me.”
In Thaut’s first year at the school she tutored Linnik. She became close with the Linnik family. She wears a locket with a picture of the girl and her sisters, taken when Thaut took them to Point Defiance Zoo.
The city has allocated $100,000 for the project, which will incorporate elements of Ukrainian art in playground equipment and features based on the girl’s favorite books. Some parts of the memorial will be installed at Wright Park.
Representatives of various governments have visited McCarver to explain the funding process. Haase took students to Olympia last week to discuss funding with legislators. The process has been a good civics lesson for the children, she noted.
Five students addressed the council. They expressed hope the project will improve their neighborhood.
Taushelle Ellis said Hilltop could benefit from having a nice place for community gatherings. “Thank you for believing in us and our community.”
“There is nothing more powerful than a community that takes ownership of its public spaces and invites others to join them,” said Councilmember Marilyn Strickland.
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