New varsity letters stress community, not competition

It's a piece of Americana, a high school emblem pictured in yearbooks and worn by Richie Cunningham in "Happy Days."

The varsity letter has long been a symbol of student achievement. For generations, letters have been badges of honor for athletes.

Now, thanks to a new United Way of Snohomish County program, teens in the Everett district's high schools have a chance to earn a letter for helping others. Snohomish High School also has signed on.