News Stories Thu., Aug. 31, 2017

The back to school BBQ is today from 4-6pm at the Warm Springs K-8 Academy.  This year school supplies will again go directly to classrooms.  The supplies are being provided by the Warm Springs Johnson O’Malley Committee.  So al the basic supplies will be available to all students in classrooms.  Backpacks will be distributed at the BBQ.  There is a walk around the track sponsored by the Child Health Task Force and the Diabetes Program.  For every lap (up to 4) you get a raffle ticket.  Also – there will be a resource fair in the cafeteria and information about HPV vaccine.  This year school started August 14^th and students already have days in on the new school year.  The Back to School BBQ is a chance for families to connect with teachers and school staff – share a meal and show support for making education a priority in our community

The Warm Springs K-8 Academy is using a new web based system this year called Pick Up Patrol.  It’s a way for parents to make changes to their student’s regular after school dismissal plans.  This does require access to the internet from a computer or smart phone.  If you have questions about using this app – contact hgonzalez@509J.net or call 541-553-1128.

Oregon earned federal approval yesterday of its state plan for public schools. Governor Kate Brown says the U-S Department has approved an Oregon plan that (quote) “supports a seamless system of education.” State schools superintendent Salam Noor called it a “tremendous milestone for Oregon.”  When Congress passed the “Every Student Succeeds Act,” the idea was to replace federal mandates with more flexibility for states.  Still, the approval of Oregon’s plan comes as a relief. The Department of Education under Secretary Betsy DeVos had drawn criticism earlier this summer, for tough vetting of plans from other states.   Oregon’s plan confirms a state goal that every student complete high school – including 90 percent getting full diplomas – starting in 2025. The plan also aims for having 80 percent of 3rd graders proficient in reading and math, within eight years. Meeting those goals would mean major improvements.   The plan includes several strategies, such as prioritizing equity and providing students a more well-rounded education.