Just like that - we are beginning another school year together!
Not long ago, we were all gathered together at the Welcome Back at Les Schwab Amphitheater. More than ever, this year the event was a thank you from our community. This year numerous community partners gave their time, talents and resources to pull off the event at no cost to the district and as a celebration of our public schools.
The work you do matters, and our community knows it.
The Welcome Back energizes me. It reminds me of the great privilege we have to be able to dedicate our life’s work to not only changing the trajectory of the students lives we serve, but to also shape the direction, future and value of public education in our community for generations to come.
In short: I believe, together, we are changing the world.
Every day, we work with students who possess passion, integrity, curiosity and drive. Our students serve as our inspiration and motivate us to do our best.
Our students are passionate about giving back to the community and thinking beyond themselves. Our job is to support the ambitions of our students and show them the possibilities they possess.
Our schools are filled with thousands of students who will change the world. We are sharing the stories of just a few of them in this year’s calendar. These are scientists who will make important discoveries, leaders who guide us and artists who will inspire us.
Our students will change the world through their bold dreams and ambitions. Jacob, a member of the Class of 2017 at Mountain View High School, heads off to college with plans to study engineering and aeronautics. His ultimate goal is to help create the next iconic space craft that will travel to Mars.
Our students will change the world through their quiet dedication to making the world a better place. Ben, a student at Pacific Crest Middle School, knows the importance of clean water because he spent many years living in an orphanage in Ghana where he did not have reliable access to this basic need. Ben shared his personal story with his fellow students and led an inspiring fundraising campaign for Safe Water Network.
Our students will change the world by stepping up to help their local communities. Kayanna, a student at La Pine High School, recognized that some in her community struggled to find food. On her own, she created a community supper event to feed her community, raise awareness about hunger and raise money for the local food kitchen. She didn’t do this to earn extra credit or recognition — she took on this project because she knew her community would benefit.
We believe in all of our students. We believe each one will change the world for the better.
The world awaits.
Best,
Shay Mikalson, Superintendent