2018-08-17T08:18:28+00:00Salem-Keizer Recognized for High Standards in Financial Reporting and Accountability2018-08-17T08:18:28+00:00August 17, 2018|Salem-Keizer Public Schools was awarded the Certificate of Excellence in Financial Reporting in May, presented by the Association of School Business Officials International. The Certificate of Excellence recognizes districts that have met the organization’s high standards for financial reporting and accountability. Salem-Keizer earned the Certificate of Excellence for its Comprehensive Annual Financial Report for the fiscal year ending in 2017. The Comprehensive Annual Financial Report informs parents and other stakeholders about the financial and economic state of the district, making it an important communication tool for building trust and engaging with the Salem-Keizer community. According to the Association of School Business Officials website, applying for the Certificate of Excellence demonstrates transparency and credibility, improves financial reporting through comments from school financial professionals, and is viewed by [...]
2018-08-16T15:00:14+00:00Salem-Keizer Public Schools’ Career-Technical Education Center Offers Two New CTE Programs2018-08-16T15:00:14+00:00August 16, 2018|Salem-Keizer Public Schools’ (SKPS) Career-Technical Education Center (CTEC) is introducing two new programs this fall, Law Enforcement and Business Development and Leadership. “We are excited to add two new programs to our center,” said Rhonda Rhodes, principal at CTEC. “The new programs expose our students to a wider array of career options and enable opportunity and critical skill-building in both the fields of law enforcement and business entrepreneurship.” Salem-Keizer’s Career and Technical Education (CTE) students graduate at an impressive rate. The graduation rate for students who participate in one CTE class is 87 percent. That number jumps to 98 percent for students who complete coursework at CTEC. Students enrolled in the Business Development and Leadership program will discover the responsibilities of taking charge. They will [...]
2018-08-16T13:41:54+00:00Stephens Middle School Students Win Statewide and National Awards for Civics Project2018-08-16T13:41:54+00:00August 15, 2018|Thirty students in teacher Audrey Von Maluski’s Project Citizen elective class at Stephens Middle School recently won top honors in the state, and in the nation, for a comprehensive civics project they worked on last spring. The students’ award-winning project is called "Is this America? Safer Schools to End Gun Violence." The 7th and 8th graders conducted original research, selected their own topic and determined recommendations to make schools safer. The students led interviews with multiple experts in the fields of education, security, mental health and law enforcement. Stephens Middle School students celebrate after winning 1st Place in Oregon for their Project Citizen presentation (Photo: Mary Fields). At the state competition, Stephens’ students gave presentations in front of an expert panel, which included [...]
2018-08-16T14:11:02+00:00Three Salem-Keizer High Schools Ranked Top 50 in Oregon2018-08-16T14:11:02+00:00August 14, 2018|South Salem High, West Salem High and Sprague High recognized for quality of education Salem-Keizer Public Schools’ very own South Salem, West Salem and Sprague High Schools are ranked among the top 50 high schools in the state of Oregon according to the Portland Business Journal. Each of the three schools received national rankings and were ranked in the top 50 for high schools in Oregon. South High is ranked 34th, West Salem High is ranked 41st and Sprague High is ranked 49th in the state of Oregon. “We are proud to receive the national recognition,” said Superintendent Christy Perry. “Salem-Keizer educators across the board have embraced our student-centered ideals and continue to explore the various ways we can better prepare our students for life [...]
2018-08-14T14:37:51+00:00Salem-Keizer Public Schools Suspends Outdoor Athletics for August 14, 20182018-08-14T14:37:51+00:00August 14, 2018|Due to air quality concerns, all Salem-Keizer Public Schools (SKPS) outdoor athletics have been suspended for Tuesday, Aug. 14. Outdoor marching band rehearsals also have been suspended. Per Oregon School Activities Association guidelines, practices may be moved indoors if space is available and ventilation permits.
2018-08-14T15:10:14+00:00African-American/Black Community Gathering for Students and Parents | Las Escuelas Públicas de Salem-Keizer abordan la equidad en colaboración con NAACP, Coalición de Iglesias2018-08-14T15:10:14+00:00August 10, 2018|On Wednesday, August 22, the Coalition of Churches and Salem-Keizer’s National Association for the Advancement of Colored People are holding a community gathering. At the gathering, Superintendent Christy Perry of Salem-Keizer Public Schools will address the progress and continuing needs of African-American/Black students, particularly in the areas of academics and discipline. “Salem-Keizer Public Schools is a melting pot of ethnicities,” said Director of Student Equity, Access and Advancement Cynthia Richardson. “We represent so many different cultures in our community, and it’s important to recognize the various ways that we can continue to support the needs of every student.” The event will be held on August 22 at the Career and Technical Education Center (CTEC), from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. CTEC is located at 3501 [...]
2018-08-07T15:21:53+00:00Parents Can Now Verify Student Enrollment Information Online with ParentVUE2018-08-07T15:21:53+00:00August 7, 2018|Salem-Keizer is activating a new feature to make the student enrollment verification process easier for you. Each year, schools send home packets of enrollment information for the following year. The goal is to update any information that is changed to be able to contact parents if needed. This year Salem-Keizer is adding the ability for parents to verify their students’ enrollment information online. This process will be completed through logging on to ParentVUE and verifying the information that you have previously provided. To complete this, at least one parent will need an active ParentVUE account. The attached sheet provides instructions on how to activate your account. If you do not have access to a computer, you can still complete this process at your school. A [...]
2018-08-07T08:19:26+00:00Back-To-School Information for the 2018-19 School Year2018-08-07T08:19:26+00:00August 3, 2018|We're looking forward to a great new school year! Below are links for parents and students to help you prepare for the first day of classes. Let us know if you need more information. Send your questions via our Contact Us page, or call (503) 399-3038 during business hours, Monday-Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Start of School 2018-19 September 4: First day for Grades 6 and 9 September 5: First day for Grades 1-5, 7-8, 10-12 September 12: First day for all Kindergarten Back-to-School Resources Athletic Participation and Student Fees Bell Times (School Start/Stop Times) Bus Routes Bus Basics Video (English) Bus Basics Video (Spanish) Calendars Dress Code Elementary Parent Handbook (English) Enrollment & Registration Find Your Student's School Immunization Requirements Kindergarten Meal Program ParentVUE/StudentVUE [...]
2018-08-02T10:33:09+00:00Salem-Keizer Public Schools and Community Members Join Together to Address Chronic Absenteeism2018-08-02T10:33:09+00:00August 2, 2018|One in three students in Salem-Keizer Public Schools is considered chronically absent If a student misses just two days of school a month, he or she will have lost out on an entire month of instruction by the end of the school year. Continue that path through elementary, and by the end of middle school, that equates to an entire year. On Tuesday, July 31, community members from the cities of Salem and Keizer joined Salem-Keizer Public Schools (SKPS) to address the ongoing issue of chronic absenteeism. The Oregon Department of Education defines chronic absenteeism as missing 10 percent or more school days, which equates to missing just two days of school per month. This year, SKPS will engage community members in ongoing dialogue and [...]
2018-08-02T10:36:41+00:00Resolution Authorizing SKPS as Law Enforcement Agency Withdrawn2018-08-02T10:36:41+00:00August 1, 2018|Following a meeting with representatives from the community, Superintendent Christy Perry made the recommendation to the Salem-Keizer Board of Education that a resolution authorizing SKPS as a law enforcement agency be withdrawn. “What we heard clearly were the possible unintended consequences and their ramifications that this declaration could bring along with it,” said Perry. “We are grateful for our community members for having this frank discussion with us, and we agree with their recommendation.” The recommendation to withdraw the resolution was advocated for by members of the NAACP, Mano a Mano, Latinos Unidos Siempre, faith leaders, educators, parents and students. Board Chair Kathy Goss and Vice-Chair Sheronne Blasi joined in the community dialogue. The Salem-Keizer Public Schools (SKPS) Office of Safety and Risk Management will [...]
2018-08-08T15:26:26+00:00District Seeks Public Input in Possible Boundary Adjustments Through Phone Survey2018-08-08T15:26:26+00:00July 30, 2018|Desplazarse hacia abajo para leer esta historia en español In preparation to utilize the additional space being constructed at some schools in the 2018 bond program, a boundary adjustment process will begin soon. The boundary adjustment process is estimated to take about eight months, with revised boundaries potentially taking effect in the 2019-20 school year. Boundary adjustments may be needed in every high school feeder system to varying degrees; however, the process will not re-boundary the entire district. The McKay High School feeder progression is currently the most crowded and so is predicted to see proportionally more adjustments to relieve the overcrowding and balance enrollment. By comparison, the McNary High School and West Salem High School systems may see smaller adjustments to balance enrollments [...]
2018-08-06T08:19:49+00:00SKEF School Supply Drive August 1-31, 20182018-08-06T08:19:49+00:00July 30, 2018|Support teachers and students by donating classroom supplies during the Salem-Keizer Education Foundations' (SKEF) annual School Supply Drive from August 1-31, 2018. Donations go to SKEF’s School Supply Depot, which offers items free, year-round, to Salem-Keizer schools whose teachers and students need these items to help them be successful in the classroom. Donation barrels are located at donation sites at businesses and organizations around our community. Donations can also be dropped off at SKEF's office at 223 Commercial St NE in Salem. Top Requested Items Baby Wipes • Colored Pencils • Composition Notebooks • Crayons • Dry Erase Pens • Erasers • Facial Tissue • Folders • Glue Sticks • Graph Paper • Index Cards • Markers • Notebook Paper • Rubber Bands • Scissors • Sharpies • Spiral [...]
2018-07-25T10:21:30+00:00With Bond Measure’s Passage, Salem-Keizer Board Hears Process to Ensure Additional Capacity Fully Utilized2018-07-25T10:21:30+00:00July 25, 2018|Feeder system boundaries may be adjusted to anticipate growth After the successful passage of the $619.7 million bond measure, Salem-Keizer Public Schools (SKPS) has begun planning for construction. In 2019, Gubser Elementary, Waldo Middle, Judson Middle, McNary High and North High will begin receiving significant capital construction. In order to utilize increased capacity and ensure the safe progression of construction, the Salem-Keizer Board of Directors reviewed the boundary change process at its July 24 meeting. The boundary change process is being facilitated by FLO Analytics, a consulting firm with expertise in data analysis and experience in assisting school districts with boundary changes. FLO Analytics utilizes research and population forecasting from Portland State University to guide enrollment projections. The boundary change process will take about eight [...]
2018-07-23T15:07:06+00:00Salem-Keizer’s Bonds Sell Quickly in First Issue2018-07-23T15:07:06+00:00July 23, 2018|Demand for bonds helps temper potential construction cost fluctuations. On July 11, Salem-Keizer Public Schools (SKPS) offered close to $385 million in construction bonds for sale in the bond market in its first issue following the approval of a $619.7 million bond measure on May 15. Demand for the bonds was high, and all bonds offered for sale were purchased within 90 minutes of the market opening. “Salem-Keizer is seen as a secure investment, and our bonds are highly rated, which may explain why our bonds sold so quickly,” said Sarah Head, director of budget and finance. “Demand is important because it reduces costs and provides the opportunity to earn premiums on the sales, which helps temper future increases in construction costs.” There were also [...]
2018-08-16T14:15:39+00:00New District Principals Welcomed at Salem-Keizer Public Schools2018-08-16T14:15:39+00:00July 19, 2018|SKPS announces new principal hires and transitions for schools, including the announcement of new director of elementary education. Eight Salem-Keizer schools, including Valley Inquiry Charter School, will see new principals for the 2018-19 school year, sharing a wealth of knowledge and expertise with students and families from various areas in the community. On June 27, Olga Cobb accepted the position of one of three directors of elementary education for the district. Cobb brings 18 years of experience with the district, most recently serving as principal at César Chávez Elementary since 2012. As a director of elementary education, Cobb will join Sandie Price and Heidi Lithchfield to provide leadership to 42 elementary school principals as they develop programs to help students reach benchmarks and higher state [...]
2018-07-18T17:05:44+00:00Salem-Keizer Public Schools Releases 2018-19 Strategic Plan2018-07-18T17:05:44+00:00July 18, 2018|Each year, the district develops a strategic plan to guide decision-making and all district work with a focus on eliminating the opportunity gap for each and every student. Salem-Keizer Public Schools (SKPS) has released the 2018-19 Strategic Plan, which will guide the work of each teacher, administrator, employee and volunteer throughout the coming year. The district’s vision is for all students to graduate prepared for a successful life. This Strategic Plan works in tandem with the district’s equity lens to achieve that vision while working to eliminate the opportunity gap for each and every SKPS student. SKPS leadership believes that success in school should never be predicted by a student's race, national origin, religion, disability, geographic location, economic circumstance, mobility, native language, sexual orientation, gender [...]
2018-07-25T16:43:58+00:00CTEC Announces $250,000 Challenge Grant from the John and Ginger Niemeyer Foundation2018-07-25T16:43:58+00:00July 17, 2018|The John and Ginger Niemeyer Foundation is a supporting organization of the Oregon Community Foundation The John and Ginger Niemeyer Foundation, a supporting organization of the Oregon Community Foundation has offered a significant $250,000 challenge grant to Salem-Keizer Public Schools’ Career Technical Education Center (CTEC). The grant, when secured, will go toward the new Business Development and Leadership program at CTEC. The new program will launch in September and will be named in honor of the Niemeyers. “We are so impressed by what CTEC has accomplished in just three years, and we are so enthusiastic about what the next programs will add,” said the Niemeyers. “CTEC offers an incredible opportunity for young people to gain valuable professional and technical skills that lead to positive futures [...]
2018-07-16T09:20:41+00:002018 Bond Construction Schedule2018-07-16T09:20:41+00:00July 9, 2018|Salem-Keizer’s Construction Services Department has been hard at work planning the sequence of projects funded by the $619.7 million bond approved by voters on May 15. Every school in the district is planned to receive improvements under the bond. Twenty-nine schools are scheduled to receive major capital improvements such as classroom additions, cafeteria expansions, career-technical education spaces, parking and traffic flow renovations and more. While the scope of work and time needed to complete it varies at the 29 schools, each will follow the same general process to move from design concepts to final construction. Step 1: Design Development – 12 months or more, depending on size of project There are three phases in the Design Development process: Schematic Design - When it’s time to [...]
2018-07-03T14:49:22+00:00Salem-Keizer Public Schools Recognized for Outstanding Publications and Digital Media2018-07-03T14:49:22+00:00July 3, 2018| Salem-Keizer Public Schools received national recognition for its outstanding E-newsletter and video production in 2018, awarded by the National School Public Relations Association (NSPRA). NSPRA has honored the best work in school communication for more than 50 years. The SKPS Community Relations & Communications department was awarded honorable mention in publications for its E-newsletter, Monday Minutes, and in electronic media communications for its video production of “McKay’s RECYCL3D Team Sweeps College Competition.” “We are proud to receive the national recognition,” said Director of Community Relations and Communications Lillian Govus. “We have expanded our efforts to celebrate the victories both in and out of the classroom by our students and staff, and these awards reflect the hard work in growing that commitment.” [...]
2018-07-03T12:02:07+00:00Salem-Keizer Board of Directors Elects New Board Leadership2018-07-03T12:02:07+00:00July 3, 2018|The School Board elects Kathy Goss as the new board chairperson and Sheronne Blasi as the new board vice chairperson The Salem-Keizer Public Schools (SKPS) Board of Directors held a special meeting on Monday to elect new board leadership. Kathy Goss was elected as the new board chairperson and Sheronne Blasi was elected as the new board vice chairperson effective today. Both of these positions can be held for up to two years. Kathy Goss has served as a director on the school board since July of 2017 and represents Zone 1. Sheronne Blasi has also served as a director on the school board since July of 2017 and she represents Zone 3. “We are going to make this the best year ever to do [...]
2018-07-02T11:44:37+00:00Salem-Keizer Public Schools Announces Olga Cobb as Director of Elementary Education2018-07-02T11:44:37+00:00July 2, 2018|On June 27, Olga Cobb accepted the role as one of three Directors of Elementary Education for Salem-Keizer Public Schools (SKPS). Cobb began her career with SKPS in 2000 as a bilingual instructional assistant before becoming a community school outreach coordinator. She was also a school office specialist and then a grant coordinator. Cobb served as principal at both Highland Elementary School and Chávez Elementary School for a total of 11 years. She was a commissioner with the Teacher Standards and Practices Commission for five years and led the teacher preparation partnership between Chávez Elementary and two universities in the Salem-Keizer area for the past six years. Before working for SKPS, Cobb worked as a middle and high school teacher and as an adjunct faculty [...]
2018-07-03T16:20:59+00:00Salem-Keizer Public Schools to Offer Free Summer Meals2018-07-03T16:20:59+00:00July 2, 2018|Meals are available for all children Each year, Salem-Keizer Public Schools participates in the Summer Meals Program, which provides free meals to all children ages 1-18, regardless of family income. Free summer meals will be available from June 18 through August 30, though all locations will be closed on July 4. Children are welcome to receive a free meal at any of the listed school sites around the district, as well as at the KROC Center and FACES Family Daycare Literacy & Resource Center. All meals will be prepared without tap water, so the water advisory status does not affect food safety. Both breakfast and lunch will be available at each of the schools. “The Summer Meals Program is a great opportunity for Salem-Keizer Public [...]
2018-06-29T08:23:12+00:00Salem-Keizer Public Schools Recognized for Outstanding Financial Reporting2018-06-29T08:23:12+00:00June 29, 2018|In May, Salem-Keizer Public Schools was awarded the Certificate of Excellence in Financial Reporting, presented by the Association of School Business Officials International (ASBO). ASBO International’s Certificate of Excellence recognizes districts that have met the program’s high standards for financial reporting and accountability. SKPS earned the Certificate of Excellence for its Comprehensive Annual Financial Report (CAFR) for the fiscal year ended 2017. The COE has been honoring school districts for their high-quality CAFRs for more than 45 years. The CAFR informs parents and other stakeholders about the financial and economic state of the district, making it an important communication tool for building trust and engaging with the Salem-Keizer community. “We are proud to be recognized for excellence in financial reporting,” said Superintendent Christy Perry. “Transparency [...]
2018-06-26T10:46:16+00:00Free STEM Summer Camp for Students Ages 14-17 July 30 – August 2, 20182018-06-26T10:46:16+00:00June 26, 2018|This summer, students ages 14-17 have the opportunity to attend a FREE summer camp to explore the areas of science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) July 30 through August 2. The four-day camp provides students with hands-on experience while getting children outdoors, exploring their environment and making new friends. The program is made possible through the support of: NASA Science Mission Directorate Northwest Earth and Space Pipeline (NESSP) Washington NASA Space Grant Consortium Oregon State University Extension Marion County Free for children 14-17 to participate with snacks and lunches provided each day. Space is limited – register today by contacting parent_emily@salkeiz.k12.or.us and emailing the registration form.
2018-06-19T16:06:42+00:002018 Changes to the Oregon Health Plan for Youth 19 and Under2018-06-19T16:06:42+00:00June 19, 2018|The Oregon Health Plan is now open to more children and teens, regardless of immigration status. OHP is free health coverage for Oregonians who meet income and other criteria. It covers services like check-ups, tooth fillings, prescriptions, labs, x-rays and hospital care. Apply to see if you qualify. For more information or to get free help applying from a trusted and OHP-certified community partner, call 1-800-699-9075 or 711 (TTY). You can also go to Oregon Health Plan website for more information. El Plan de Salud de Oregón ahora está abierto a más niños y adolescentes, independientemente de su estado migratorio. OHP es un seguro de salud gratuito para los residentes de Oregón que cumplen con los requisitos de ingresos entre otros. Cubre servicios como chequeos [...]
2018-06-19T12:39:13+00:00Los Estudiantes de Duodécimo Grado de Salem-Keizer Reciben el Premio del Sello de Alfabetización Bilingüe del Estado de Oregon | Salem-Keizer Seniors Honored with Oregon State Seal of Biliteracy2018-06-19T12:39:13+00:00June 14, 2018|Recientemente, el Departamento de Educación de Oregon anunció oficialmente que, hasta esta primavera, 1,014 estudiantes han recibido el reconocimiento del Sello de Alfabetización Bilingüe del Estado de Oregon. Otros estudiantes podrán ser elegibles para recibir esta distinción después de obtener su resultado en el examen de Colocación Avanzada y el examen de Bachillerato Internacional. Este es un reconocimiento para los estudiantes que han demostrado aptitud académica lingüística en una o más lenguas incluyendo el idioma inglés en las cuatro áreas de aprendizaje: lectura, escritura, comprensión auditiva y expresión oral. Los estudiantes deben cumplir con los criterios del año 2018 aprobados por el Consejo Estatal de Educación antes de recibir el Sello de Alfabetización Bilingüe del Estado de Oregon, los cuales aparecen a continuación: reunir todos [...]
2018-06-18T08:48:33+00:00Salem-Keizer Board of Directors Adopts $1.1 Billion 2018-19 Budget2018-06-18T08:48:33+00:00June 13, 2018|The Salem-Keizer Public Schools (SKPS) Board of Directors voted Tuesday to adopt a budget totaling $1,147,797,142. The budget includes construction expenses related to the May 15 voter-approved bond ballot measure. On May 22, the Budget Committee approved the budget. The 2018-19 budget process included: Superintendent’s budget message presented to the Budget Committee on April 24 Revisions to the Superintendent’s proposed budget presented on May 21 Budget Committee meetings accepting public comment on May 8, 15, 21 and 22 School Board budget hearing on June 12 The adopted budget incorporates a conversion of temporary employees into permanent positions. Each year, SKPS budgets a pool of dollars for the hiring of limited-term (temporary) adult assistance (sometimes referred to as one-on-one staff) to work throughout the year with [...]
2018-06-12T07:25:37+00:00City of Salem Drinking Water Advisory Update2018-06-12T07:25:37+00:00June 12, 2018|On Wednesday, June 6, the City of Salem issued a new advisory for vulnerable populations to not consume tap water due to algae blooms in the Detroit Reservoir. This advisory is expected to continue at least through Monday, June 11. This only applies for the City of Salem – not the City of Keizer or for those locations that use well water. Populations affected by the City of Salem Water Advisory: Those under the age of six People with compromised immune systems or pre-existing liver conditions People receiving dialysis treatment, or other sensitive populations Pregnant women or nursing mothers Elderly Pets Due to the generous donations of water that the district has received, we have elected to continue providing bottled water to pre-K through first [...]
2018-06-12T10:40:19+00:00Claggett Creek Student Selected for State of Oregon Art Contest2018-06-12T10:40:19+00:00June 11, 2018|Seventh-grade student from Claggett Creek wins spot in Oregon Health Authority’s 2019 Problem Gambling Awareness calendar Each March, the Oregon Health Authority sponsors a statewide art contest for middle school students during Problem Gambling Awareness Month. This state-wide art search asks students to create informative and unique works of art to display the risks and harmful effects of gambling for a youth audience. Marion County Health and Human Services (MCHHS) held a local preliminary competition, bringing in 87 entries from throughout Marion County. MCHHS works with their staff, community and patients who visit their facility to select the top five works of art to send on to the state competition. Four students from Claggett Creek Middle School were selected in the top five for Marion [...]
2018-06-06T17:38:02+00:00Graduation Schedule for the Class of 20182018-06-06T17:38:02+00:00June 5, 2018|Students in the Class of 2018 will soon be walking across the stage to receive their diplomas. This is a special milestone in the lives of young people and their families. Below are the graduation schedules for each of our high schools and for two programs. For more information about graduation, please visit our Graduation Information webpage. Full Commencement Schedule Early College High School June 7, 2018 | 7 p.m. North Salem HS Auditorium McKay High School June 8, 2018 | 8 p.m. Oregon State Fairgrounds Pavilion McNary High School June 8, 2018 | 2 p.m. Oregon State Fairgrounds Pavilion North Salem High School June 8, 2018 | 7 p.m. North Salem HS Stadium Roberts High School June 6, 2018 | 7 p.m. Elsinore Theater [...]
2018-06-26T10:14:40+00:00Salem-Keizer Celebrates 136 Retirees for 20182018-06-26T10:14:40+00:00June 4, 2018|Congratulations to the 2018 Salem-Keizer retirees! This year, 136 staff members will be retiring with 2,740 combined yeas of experience and service to our students! The list of our retirees can be downloaded below.
2018-06-08T08:57:43+00:00Dwight Roberson Hired as New Community Resource Specialist2018-06-08T08:57:43+00:00June 3, 2018|Dwight Roberson II has been hired as the new Community Resource Specialist in the office of Student Equity, Access and Advancement. Dwight will be working with our middle school and high school students, particularly focusing on at-risk African American students. Dwight's Bio: My name is Dwight Roberson II. I was born and raised in Oxnard, California. I came to Oregon to attend Oregon State University for my undergraduate. I have a B.S. Degree in Liberal Arts focusing on Psychology and Philosophy with a minor in Ethnic Studies, which I focused on African American history and culture. I enjoy fishing, bowling and relaxing at home after a long day. In addition to working as a Community Outreach Coordinator with the Salem-Keizer Public Schools, I am a coach at Corvallis High [...]
2018-05-30T11:02:11+00:00North Salem HS Students Help Plan For Bond Work2018-05-30T11:02:11+00:00May 29, 2018|Students in Antonio Mercado’s leadership class at North Salem High School met last week with architects from BRIC Architecture, Inc. to share their views of what makes North a special place. This conversation and others held earlier with school staff are part of the design development phase for renovations planned at North Salem under the 2018 bond program. Bond renovations at North call for the demolition and replacement of the main gym, locker rooms and most other indoor athletic facilities, as well as the addition of 20 new classrooms, two career-technical education spaces, a satellite commons and much more. One goal of the design process is to make sure the new spaces respect North’s unique culture, history and architecture. The students’ input will help architects [...]
2018-05-23T14:32:36+00:00Salem-Keizer Public Schools Recognizes Students for Turnaround Achievements2018-05-23T14:32:36+00:00May 23, 2018|Middle and high school students receive awards for positive change On Wednesday, May 23 Salem-Keizer Public Schools (SKPS) recognized 21 students from across the district and community in the 2018 Turnaround Achievement Awards. Sponsored by Don and Ann Lebold of Town and Country Lanes, this award recognizes middle and high school students in our district that demonstrate effort, commitment and perseverance in the face of adversity. Recipients of this award have shown personal improvement in their academics, behavior or attitude and continue to implement these qualities in their daily lives. Since 1994, these awards have inspired and motivated more than 400 students to achieve success in their personal, academic and professional lives. “I didn’t think anything really mattered, especially myself,” said one award recipient. “Now, [...]
2018-06-12T15:25:14+00:00Salem-Keizer Budget Committee Approves $1.1 Billion 2018-19 Budget2018-06-12T15:25:14+00:00May 23, 2018|The school district’s budget includes bond funds and new revenue estimates from Oregon Department of Education The Salem-Keizer Public Schools (SKPS) Budget Committee tonight moved to recommend a budget totaling $1,147,797,142. The budget includes bond funds from the May 15 voter-approved ballot measure and new revenue estimates from the Oregon Department of Education. Because the proposed budget sustains operations in the second year of the biennium, the impacts to staffing are not as pronounced as the previous year’s budget. The budget was developed with four guiding priorities: Investing in behavioral learning Providing funding to implement an elementary math curriculum Stabilizing staffing and resources to grow the graduation rate Investing in student health and special education caseloads “This budget includes amendments that will positively impact education [...]
2018-06-08T12:42:08+00:00Now Open – Registration For Jumpstart Kindergarten In Summer Of 20182018-06-08T12:42:08+00:00May 23, 2018|Students entering kindergarten in many of our Title IA-funded elementary schools have the opportunity to attend a free kindergarten preparation program this summer called Jumpstart Kinder this summer. Jumpstart Kinder is August 6–10, 2018, from approximately 8:00 a.m. to noon for the following elementary schools. Jumpstart Kinder Schools Auburn, Bush, Chavez, Cummings, Englewood, Eyre, Four Corners, Grant, Hallman, Hammond, Harritt, Hayesville, Highland, Hoover, Keizer, Kennedy, Lamb, Miller, Morningside, Richmond, Salem Heights, Scott, Swegle, Washington, Weddle, Wright and Yoshikai. Registration Information Children who will turn five on or before September 10, 2018, and live in one of the school attendance areas listed above are eligible for Jumpstart Kinder. See the Registration Form at the bottom of this page. The goal of Jumpstart Kinder is to help students [...]
2018-05-22T15:36:51+00:00Three Salem-Keizer Culinary Programs Compete in Chopped Challenge2018-05-22T15:36:51+00:00May 22, 2018|Claggett Creek Middle, McKay High and South Salem High Compete in Three-Round Culinary Competition at Salem Saturday Market Salem Keizer Public Schools (SKPS) showcased the incredible talent of students enrolled in culinary programs across the district on Saturday, May 19 as part of the “Chopped Challenge” at the Salem Saturday Market. Culinary programs in SKPS are part of the Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs available to students. These programs provide hands-on experiences in career fields students may wish to pursue after graduating from high school. Future chefs from Claggett Creek Middle School, McKay High School and South Salem High School were challenged to participate in culinary challenges as collaborative teams to create appetizers, entrees and desserts for the panel of local judges: City Councilman [...]
2018-05-21T10:52:05+00:00Two Salem-Keizer High Schools Ranked Top 25 in Oregon2018-05-21T10:52:05+00:00May 21, 2018|West Salem High and Sprague High recognized for college readiness Salem-Keizer Public Schools’ very own West Salem High School and Sprague High School are ranked among the top 25 high schools in the state of Oregon according to the “U.S. News and World Report.” Both West Salem High School and Sprague High School received national rankings and were ranked in the top 25 for high schools in Oregon. West Salem High School is ranked 15th in Oregon and has an Advanced Placement (AP) participation rate of 42 percent in a school whose minority enrollment is 31 percent. Sprague High School is ranked 24th in Oregon and has an AP participation rate of 34 percent with minority enrollment being 26 percent of the student population. “We [...]
2018-06-22T15:26:53+00:00Salem-Keizer Voters Approve $619.7 Million School Bond2018-06-22T15:26:53+00:00May 15, 2018|Bond dollars will relieve overcrowding and add science, vocational spaces and more Voters in Salem and Keizer have approved a $619.7 million bond measure referred to the May 15 ballot by the Salem-Keizer Public Schools Board of Directors. The bond will address overcrowding, add space for career-technical education (CTE)/vocational programs, add science classrooms, improve safety and security, improve seismic safety and expand access to technology. The district’s six traditional high schools will be expanded to serve the growing community. Five will expand to serve 2,200 students, and the sixth (West Salem High) to serve 2,100 students. All schools in the district will see improvements under the 2018 bond program. The first five schools scheduled for construction in 2019 are Gubser Elementary School, Judson Middle School, [...]
2018-05-07T13:13:11+00:00Teacher Appreciation Week is May 7-11, 20182018-05-07T13:13:11+00:00May 2, 2018|At the April 10 Board Meeting, the Salem-Keizer Board of Education proclaimed May 7-11, 2018, to be Teacher Appreciation Week. This is a time of recognition for teachers throughout our district and for teachers across the country for the countless hours of hard work and dedication they give to help our students prepare for a successful life. To view the full proclamation from the SKPS Board of Education, please click here. Curious on How to Get Involved? There are many ways to show your teachers how much you appreciate all that they do for you and your child, but to help, we have created a few resources for you! Social Networking Help spread the word about Teacher Appreciation Week on your social media sites. We [...]
2018-05-24T09:14:56+00:00Salem-Keizer Public Schools to Hold “AMA” to Answer Questions on Proposed $619.7 Million Bond2018-05-24T09:14:56+00:00April 30, 2018|On Tuesday, May 1, Salem-Keizer Public Schools (SKPS) will hold a Q&A called Ask Me Anything to answer questions regarding the $619.7 million proposed bond on the May 15 ballot. The bond would address overcrowding, expand career-technical education (vocational) opportunities, expand science classrooms, and increase safety and security in schools. The event will be held on May 1 at noon on Twitter. Parents and interested community members are encouraged to participate and ask questions they may have about the proposed bond. To participate, tweets should be sent to @salemkeizer with the hashtag #AMASKPSBond. Tweets will be received and responded to by Chief Operations Officer Mike Wolfe, who can answer most any question about the proposed bond. More information about the proposed bond is available online [...]
2018-04-23T08:39:13+00:00Salem-Keizer Public Schools to Hold Community Meetings About the Proposed $619.7 Million Bond2018-04-23T08:39:13+00:00April 16, 2018|Salem-Keizer Public Schools will share information about the proposed $619.7 million bond on the May 15 ballot in a series of upcoming community meetings. The proposed bond would address overcrowding, expand career-technical (vocational) education opportunities, expand science classrooms, and increase safety and security in schools. Parents, employees and interested community members are encouraged to attend and learn and ask questions about how the proposed bond would impact schools and the educational environment. Meetings will also will be streamed live on Facebook, www.facebook.com/salemkeizerschools. Meeting dates and locations: April 12 at 6:00 p.m. at North Salem High School, 765 14th St. NE in Salem April 17 at 6:00 p.m. at McNary High School, 595 Chemawa Road N in Keizer April 18 at 6:00 p.m. at South Salem High School, 1910 [...]
2018-04-16T13:14:24+00:00West Salem High School Student Wins Statewide Poetry Competition2018-04-16T13:14:24+00:00April 16, 2018|Sarah Calvin-Stupfel, a senior at West Salem High School, is the winner of the 2018 Oregon Poetry Out Loud: National Recitation Contest competition held last month. Competing against seven other regional finalists from across the state, Sarah memorized and recited her favorite poem, "Degrees of Gray in Phillipsburg" by Richard Hugo. She presented the poem with a heartfelt and articulate delivery. Sarah will be traveling to Washington D.C. on April 24 to compete in the 2018 National Finals at The George Washington University. The Poetry Out Loud program began in 2005 and helps students explore literary history while building their self-confidence through public speaking and research. Sarah’s win has a special meaning for the West Salem High School community. In 2007, West Salem High School [...]
2018-04-13T09:17:00+00:00Business Partner of the Month April 2018 West Salem ACE Hardware2018-04-13T09:17:00+00:00April 13, 2018|Our Business Partner of the Month for April 2018 is West Salem ACE Hardware, nominated by Chapman Hill Elementary School. West Salem ACE Hardware is a family-owned business, and Jeremy and Heidi Mackay believe in giving back to their community. Chapman Hill Principal Rachael Harms says whenever her school calls Jeremy and Heidi asking for support, they always find a way to lend a hand. West Salem ACE Hardware is one of the sponsors of Chapman Hill’s annual Jog-A-Thon fundraiser. Last October, the school raised $17,000 dollars during its jog-a-thon. The money is used to pay for school field trips, and helps teachers purchase school supplies. West Salem ACE Hardware recently donated 35 five-gallon buckets for physical education and music classes. The buckets are used [...]
2018-04-20T09:41:18+00:00FREE CTE Summer Camps 2018 For Middle School Students2018-04-20T09:41:18+00:00April 12, 2018|On Thursday, April 12 the Career and Technical Education program will begin accepting applications for CTE Summer Camps 2018. These summer CTE camps are for students who will be in sixth grade to eighth grade next fall. The free camps are funded through grants from the Oregon Department of Education. "Roadmap to Success" is an immersive and unique summer opportunity that will engage students in one of six different CTE programs designed for their connection to existing and planned CTE programs in Salem-Keizer Public Schools. High school and middle school teachers will lead interactive hands-on camps highlighting CTE programs middle school students can join in high school. Student must be enrolled at Salem-Keizer Public Schools during the 2017-18 school year to be eligible for participation. [...]
2018-04-11T14:34:32+00:00Salem-Keizer Board of Education Proclaims May 7-11, 2018 as Teacher Appreciation Week2018-04-11T14:34:32+00:00April 11, 2018|At its April 10 meeting, the Salem-Keizer Public Schools Board of Education voted to proclaim May 7-11, 2018, as Teacher Appreciation Week. Salem-Keizer Public Schools (SKPS) has more than 2,300 licensed educators who show up every day, ready to serve students. “Our teachers are the backbone of everything we do,” said School Board Chairperson Paul Kyllo. “We need to support them in all they do.” In Salem-Keizer, about 76 percent of our licensed staff carry master’s degrees. Salem-Keizer teachers continue to grow in their practice and take advantage of professional learning opportunities offered through the district. They all play a part in reaching our vision: all students graduate and are prepared for a successful life. Below is a copy of the proclamation. WHEREAS, the education [...]
2018-08-13T14:27:23+00:00Cummings Elementary SMART Readers Are Our Volunteers of the Month for April 20182018-08-13T14:27:23+00:00April 11, 2018|Every Thursday morning from October through May, a group of eight to ten dedicated volunteers gather at Cummings Elementary School in Keizer to read one-on-one with pre-kindergarten through third-grade students who need a little extra help with their reading. The volunteers are known as SMART readers. SMART stands for “Start Making A Reader Today,” and is a statewide program offered in many of our schools. Students at Cummings who need support with their reading get to work one-on-one with a volunteer. Around 25 students get the opportunity every week. Anne Brightwell is the SMART coordinator at Cummings Elementary. She is a retired Salem-Keizer teacher who taught in our district for many years, including at Miller and Four Corners elementary schools. Anne coordinates schedules with the [...]
2018-04-11T14:32:54+00:00The Oregon Department of Education Releases Annual Special Education Report Card for All Oregon Schools2018-04-11T14:32:54+00:00April 10, 2018|SKPS finds areas of success and opportunities for growth The Oregon Department of Education (ODE) recently released its annual special education report card, evaluating each district to the state’s standards for special education services. The data in the 2016-17 report is a compilation of data collected during the 2015-16 academic year. Salem-Keizer Public Schools (SKPS) experienced areas of success as well as opportunities for improvement as represented in the district’s report. Salem-Keizer Points of Pride: The number of students receiving special education services who graduated with a regular diploma in their four-year cohort increased by seven percentage points from the previous year. Although the five-year cohort graduation rate regressed slightly, this is expected as more students achieve graduation within four years. The number of students [...]
2018-04-09T07:02:33+00:00Chris Eddy AVID Educator Award Nominations Due on April 92018-04-09T07:02:33+00:00April 4, 2018|The Chris Eddy Educator Award honors an outstanding Salem-Keizer Advancement Via Individual Determination (AVID) teacher. Any community member, student, parent or co-worker can nominate any Salem-Keizer AVID teacher who meets the criteria outlined below. Nomination Criteria The nominee must: Be a current licensed employee of the district. Have a minimum of three years of experience in Salem-Keizer with AVID. The nomination form (attached below) needs to be received by 5 p.m. on Monday, April 9, 2018. Follow the directions outlined in the nomination form on how to submit your nomination. The Chris Eddy AVID Teacher Award will be announced at and event called the Salem–Keizer Senior AVID Recognition Night on May 9th, 2018.
2018-04-09T08:55:52+00:00Salem-Keizer Public Schools Elementary Teacher Awarded with National Honors2018-04-09T08:55:52+00:00April 3, 2018|Friendly chatter filled the room as family, friends and colleagues gathered at Lee Elementary for what they thought was yet another routine meeting. Unaware that they were gathered in the company of a Hall of Famer, National Teachers Hall of Fame Board Member Mark Andrews began his speech, and Maureen Murphy-Foelkl was soon to be recognized. “This is a special day in Salem, Oregon.” Indeed it was. Each year, five teachers from across the country are selected for induction into the National Teachers Hall of Fame. The NTHF highlights teachers who have impacted their students and served their communities for more than 20 years. Salem-Keizer Public Schools’ (SKPS) very own, Maureen Foelkl, was surprised with the honor on April 2. "Maureen works tirelessly to build [...]
2018-04-09T08:56:57+00:00Salem-Keizer Public Schools Partners with Salem and Keizer Police Departments and the Marion County Health Department for “Screenagers” Documentary Screening2018-04-09T08:56:57+00:00April 3, 2018|Salem-Keizer Public Schools (SKPS) is proud to partner with the Salem and Keizer Police Departments and Marion County Health & Human Services to bring our community two opportunities to view the nationally recognized documentary, “Screenagers,” on April 11 and 24. “Screenagers” is a documentary created by Primary Care Physician Delaney Ruston that delves into the struggles facing our children concerning social media, video games, academics and internet addiction. To view the trailer, please click here. “These events are designed to help us continue an ongoing dialogue with our community,” says SKPS Protection and Prevention Coordinator Debbie Joa. “It’s important that we acknowledge the role that technology plays in the lives of our students and provide families with resources to support safe and healthy use.” Each [...]
2018-04-09T08:59:59+00:00Lee Elementary Students Honored For Science Projects2018-04-09T08:59:59+00:00March 22, 2018|Two teams of students at Lee Elementary School won national recognition this month for science projects they've been working on since September. Both groups got Honorable Mentions in Toshiba's ExploraVision science competition. They were the only students in Oregon recognized in the national contest this year. E-Foods: Laser Dried Provisions Pictured from left: Fourth-grader Luke Stephenson, with third-graders Leah Ioane, Samuel Johnson and Gisabelle Espericueta. In the back row are Lee Elementary Principal Don Hakala, retired Chapman Hill teacher and science advisor Maureen Foelkl with Lee Elementary teacher Pamela Sloan. Concerned about food waste in the school cafeteria, Lee Elementary students wanted to explore how to eliminate it. Led by teacher Pamela Sloan and science advisor Maureen Foelkl, the kids created a project called [...]
2018-04-09T09:01:40+00:00In-District Transfer (IDT) Applications Must Be Turned In March 1 – 31, 20182018-04-09T09:01:40+00:00March 19, 2018|Students who want to attend a school other than their assigned school next fall (2018-2019 school year) must apply for an in-district transfer (IDT) between March 1 and March 31, 2018. This includes elementary, middle and high school students. IDT applications received after March 31, 2018, will not be considered. IDT request forms can be picked up at your student's resident school, and must be completed and returned to the student's assigned school during the application date window. There is no guarantee a transfer request will be approved. Students attending school on an IDT are not eligible for bus transportation. More information on the in-district transfer process can be found on the Student Transfers page on the district website.
2018-04-09T09:02:29+00:00McKay Student Mobilizes Adults to Address Youth Homelessness2018-04-09T09:02:29+00:00March 15, 2018|McKay High School senior Raul Marquez is a young man who decided to set an idea in motion. Raul has been very busy over the course of the last year, working to mobilize adults in our community to address the issue of youth homelessness. Raul is the Royal Scots’ student body president, and a member of the Mid-Willamette Valley United Way Youth Leadership group. In January, after partnering with the Community Action Agency of Salem, he presented a proposal to the United Way board of directors for a shelter to address youth homelessness in Salem and got a $100,000 grant for the project. That grant generated a lot of publicity, and Raul was interviewed by Portland TV stations, by Oregon Public Broadcasting’s “Think Out Loud,” [...]
2018-05-11T08:19:41+00:00Preschool Registration Begins in April2018-05-11T08:19:41+00:00March 15, 2018|If your child will be three- or four-years-old on or before September 10, 2018, April is the time to register for preschool! Early Enrollment for Current Families April 4, 2018, from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.; and from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Open Enrollment for New Families April 10, 2018, from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.; and 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Registration will be held at the preschool office – 6425 Fruitland Road NE • Salem, OR 97317 Copy of birth certificate, immunization records, and $80.00 registration fee (check, cash, or money order is accepted) is required at the time of registration Visit the Preschool webpage to learn more, or call 503-399-3148.
2018-08-06T14:12:24+00:00Chávez Elementary School Awarded the Carmen West Award for Outstanding Progress for English Learner Students in a Dual Language Setting2018-08-06T14:12:24+00:00March 14, 2018|Salem-Keizer Public Schools’ Chávez Elementary School has been recognized by the Oregon Department of Education to receive the Carmen West award for outstanding progress for English learner students in a dual language setting. Chavéz Elementary consists of 590 students, of which 67 percent are classified at English Language Learners. At Chavéz, teachers, staff and students thrive in their diversity and embraces each of the 14 different languages spoken by their student body. Chávez was among the top 10% of schools in four of the five areas of student outcomes evaluated for this award. These outcomes included: Annual Measurable Achievement Objective (AMAO) 1 – growth for English learner students AMAO 2a – students exiting English Language Development (ELD) AMAO 2b – long-term students exiting English Language [...]
2018-04-02T12:58:09+00:00Salem-Keizer Student Services Director Receives Outstanding Administrator Award2018-04-02T12:58:09+00:00March 2, 2018|Salem-Keizer Public Schools (SKPS) Student Services Director Eric Richards was honored with the Outstanding Administrator 2018 award during the Oregon Statewide Transition Conference on March 1. He was recognized for his contributions to the development of vocational special needs education and growth of post-secondary outcomes for students with special needs. “Any individual award is largely a reflection of the excellent work of many colleagues,” said Richards. “This award affirms many staff who are involved in transition planning and the parents with whom they partner. It is also a recognition of the innovative and energetic leadership provided by Coordinators Melissa Glover and Brian Hilsabeck in their work with our Community Transition Program and Independent Living Programs.” The Community Transition Program is designed to support adult students [...]
2018-06-22T08:18:07+00:00Salem-Keizer Public Schools Joins SafeOregon Confidential Tip Line / Las Escuelas Públicas de Salem-Keizer participarán en el programa confidencial SafeOregon2018-06-22T08:18:07+00:00February 28, 2018|On March 1, 2018, Salem-Keizer Public Schools (SKPS) officially joined SafeOregon, a confidential tip line that gives our kids, parents, schools and communities a confidential way to report safety threats or potential acts of violence. Salem-Keizer Public Schools has a sophisticated and proactive intervention system in place for timely interventions. These include the SKPS Office of Behavioral Learning, the Office of Safety and Risk Management, and our Threat Response System that offers step-by-step protocols on preventing and controlling potentially dangerous situations. The SafeOregon tip line adds an additional resource to ensure students and staff have a confidential avenue for reporting and bolsters SKPS’ relationship with law enforcement. This program is run and managed by the Oregon State Police and has proven to prevent acts of violence. [...]
2018-06-27T12:48:43+00:00West Salem CTE Programs Help Students Find Their Passion2018-06-27T12:48:43+00:00February 27, 2018|Mary Short has enjoyed working with preschoolers since her first class in Early Childhood Education, one of five Career and Technical Education programs offered at West Salem High School. West Salem has a preschool that 30 kids attend from 8:30-11:30 a.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays. High school students in the Early Childhood Education program learn how to teach the young children by planning all their activities following best practices in early childhood education. "It's really fun. I get to hang out with the preschoolers, and they are really cute," Mary said. Mary is a senior this year and plans to go to an out-of-state university next fall. Although many students who take Early Childhood Education go on to become teachers, Mary plans to become a [...]
2018-06-27T12:48:09+00:00Kindergarten Registration Now Open For 2018-192018-06-27T12:48:09+00:00February 27, 2018|Kindergarten registration for the 2018-2019 school year opens on Tuesday, February 20! Often thought of as a transition year between home and school, kindergarten prepares your child for a successful academic career and is now considered to many as the first year of school. Children who will be 5-years-old on or before September 10, 2018 are eligible to register for free, full-day kindergarten with SKPS. Research has shown that full-day kindergarten produces long-term educational gains and increases the chances of students reaching high school graduation. To enroll your child, please visit your neighborhood school. Please bring an updated record of your child’s immunizations, proof of residence and your child’s birth certificate with you to register. If you have any questions, please call (503) 399-2632. To learn [...]
2018-02-27T16:30:49+00:00Salem-Keizer Board of Education to Hold Public Hearing on Alternative Contracting2018-02-27T16:30:49+00:00February 27, 2018|On Tuesday, February 27, 2018, The Salem-Keizer Board of Education will hold a public hearing on the Findings of Fact in Support of the Use of Construction Manager/General Contractor Methodology for certain projects planned under the proposed 2018 construction bond. Because of the complex nature and timing of certain projects, the Board has approved architectural and engineering (A&E) work to begin on the first five projects planned for construction under the proposed 2018 bond. The district’s Bond Program Management Team has recommended using a Construction Manager/General Contractor (CM/CG) construction contracting methodology for the most complex, technically and logistically challenging projects. The meeting begins at 7:00 p.m. and will be held at Support Services Center, 2575 Commercial Street SE in Salem. The Board will hear public [...]
2018-02-26T16:00:21+00:00Salem-Keizer FFA Gets “Living To Serve” Grant From National FFA Organization2018-02-26T16:00:21+00:00February 26, 2018|The Salem-Keizer Future Farmers of America chapter in Salem, Oregon has been awarded $1,200 as part of the Spring Semester-Long Living to Serve Grant program. The nationwide program provides grant money to local FFA chapters to support service-learning projects that address needs within the focus areas of community safety; environmental responsibility; hunger, health and nutrition; and community engagement during the fall semester. Salem-Keizer FFA plans to help address hunger, health, and nutrition in the Salem community by using the land at McKay High School to grow fresh vegetables for the community. Since everyone has to eat, the FFA members can bring their culturally diverse neighbors together around healthful, fresh food. Working, harvesting, eating and celebrating together around food can strengthen our community. The Salem-Keizer FFA [...]
2018-02-26T15:36:36+00:00Sprague CTE Classes Teach Practical Life Skills2018-02-26T15:36:36+00:00February 26, 2018|Christina Odell signed up for her first Career and Technical Education class at Sprague High School for practical reasons. She wanted to learn the basics of how cars work. "I thought it would be a good life skill to have, because if my car ever broke down, maybe I could fix it," the high school senior said. But after taking beginner classes her junior year, Christina found she enjoyed studying about automobiles and wanted to learn more. This year she's taking advanced classes. Christina does well in high school. She especially likes applied problem solving in math and science classes. She will major in chemistry in college, but is keeping an open mind about future careers. She wants to attend a community college for two [...]
2018-04-09T07:04:26+00:00OSAA Appeal Decision Received2018-04-09T07:04:26+00:00February 23, 2018|Hearings Officer Michael Gillette has dismissed Salem-Keizer Public Schools’ (SKPS’) appeal against the Oregon School Activities Association’s (OSAA’s) decision to place five schools in a league with the Bend/LaPine School District. In the opinion release Thursday afternoon, Gillette stated there was “no legal basis on which I can sustain the District’s appeal.” After collaborating with a group of parents and community members from across the district, SKPS based its appeal on the following: OSAA did not give the district sufficient notice that SKPS would be placed in a district that included Bend/La Pine The Classification and Districting Committee failed to consider the safety of students, fans and school personnel The Classification and Districting Committee failed to consider the impact to student instructional time The Classification [...]
2018-03-08T15:35:42+00:00All Salem-Keizer Public Schools are Closed Thursday, Feb. 222018-03-08T15:35:42+00:00February 22, 2018|Due to inclement weather, all Salem-Keizer Public Schools will be closed and all afternoon and evening activities are cancelled. All district offices will remain open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. This snow day may be added back in at the end of the school year during the makeup day period. If that is necessary, that announcement will be made at a later date. Please check our website - www.salkeiz.k12.or.us - or social media pages for additional updates. We will provide any notification of a closure or delay with our autodialer, our community newsletter and on our social media.
2018-02-27T15:58:26+00:00North Salem CTE Classes Help Students Get Jobs2018-02-27T15:58:26+00:00February 21, 2018|Drake Romito enjoys creating delicious food. He's a senior at North Salem High School, where he's been studying in the Career and Technical Education Culinary Arts program for the last four years. After graduation, Drake plans to go to culinary school. He wants to start a restaurant that specializes in world cuisine. Drake is working to make it happen. He's a part-time sauté cook at Gamberetti's Italian Restaurant in downtown Salem. Before that, he worked for over a year as a cook at Love Love Teriyaki in Northeast Salem. Drake said the combination of culinary classes at North Salem High School and the work experience he's getting in restaurants has helped build his professional skills. "The CTE classes helped me get the jobs for sure, [...]
2018-02-27T15:58:03+00:00South Salem CTE Programs Inspire Passion In Students2018-02-27T15:58:03+00:00February 16, 2018|Isaac Sheets is passionate about filmmaking and photography. He's a senior at South Salem High School, and plans on attending film school after graduating this spring. Isaac has taken Career and Technical Education classes in Broadcast Journalism since his sophomore year. He is a CTE completer, meaning he's taken all the different levels of filmmaking offered at South Salem. Students in our district who are CTE completers have an amazing 93 percent graduation rate from high school. One of the things Isaac likes about CTE filmmaking classes is they allow him to be creative. In Broadcast Journalism, students use creativity to come up with many different takes on an assignment. Isaac is an International Baccalaureate® student, and enjoys traditional academic studies too. Isaac and three of [...]
2018-04-02T13:01:23+00:00Special Message from Superintendent Perry About School Safety / Estimada comunidad de Salem-Keizer2018-04-02T13:01:23+00:00February 16, 2018|Dear Salem-Keizer Community, With the most recent tragedy in Florida, school safety is on everyone’s mind. It is, without question, our biggest priority. I want to take a moment to share some of the ways we are working to protect our students, staff, and community. Threat Intervention: Our team of specialists partners with agencies across Marion and Polk Counties to identify students who may be exhibiting indicators of potentially being a threat to themselves or others, and we provide wraparound services like mental health support to address those students’ needs. Office of Behavioral Learning: Our children have unique behavioral needs unlike anything we have seen before. This is not unique to Salem-Keizer. Schools across the country are seeing similar patterns of behavior. To help our [...]
2018-03-09T14:48:26+00:00Priority Placement For 8th-graders Signing Up For CTE Programs In High School Next Fall!2018-03-09T14:48:26+00:00February 15, 2018|It’s not too late! If your eighth-grade student would like to be considered for priority placement in a Career and Technical Education program at their home high school as a freshman, be sure to complete the application using the EnrollTrack system by Tuesday, February 20, 2018. Students who apply will be considered for placement in the entry-level course for the CTE program of their choice. Instructions for EnrollTrack are attached below in both English and Spanish. Go to the CTE page of the district website to take advantage of this great opportunity!
2018-04-03T14:32:31+00:00Proposed Elementary Math Adoption Curriculum Available For Review Until March 7, 20182018-04-03T14:32:31+00:00February 14, 2018|At its February 13 business meeting, the Salem-Keizer Board of Education heard the first reading of the recommended elementary math adoption curriculum, Ready Math, Publisher Curriculum Associates. The instruction materials are available for community/parent review and comment at the Lancaster Professional Center, Suite 130, 2450 Lancaster Drive NE in Salem from today through March 7, 2018.
2018-04-02T13:02:05+00:00Salem-Keizer Board of Education Finalizes Bond Measure for May 2018 Ballot2018-04-02T13:02:05+00:00February 14, 2018|At its Feb. 13 meeting, the Salem-Keizer Public Schools Board of Education voted to approve the resolution and ballot title language for a $619.7 million general obligation bond measure on the May 2018 ballot. The Board’s action authorizes the district to file the ballot title with the county elections office to officially place the bond on the May 15 ballot. If passed by voters in May, the bond would benefit all district schools. Details of projects planned for each school are available on the district website at 2018 Bond Measure webpage. Highlights of the bond package include constructing additional space to relieve overcrowding and increase capacity of schools, expanding career-technical/vocational programs in high schools, and adding space for science education and music programs. The proposed [...]
2018-02-14T09:33:29+00:00Volunteers of the Month for February 20182018-02-14T09:33:29+00:00February 14, 2018|Volunteers Bob and Pat Wright are beloved by students, parents and staff at Bush Elementary School. We are very pleased to recognize the couple as our Volunteers of the Month for February 2018. The couple has been volunteering together every Tuesday at Bush Elementary for the last 22 years. They were nominated for last night's Salem-Keizer School Board recognition by Principal Monica Takata. Bob is a retired engineer who worked for 30 years as a bridge designer for the Oregon Department of Transportation. Pat is a retired Salem-Keizer elementary school teacher who taught first and second grade for 20 years at Schirle Elementary and Hayesville Elementary. As a former engineer, Bob is very good at math. He works with students learning their multiplication tables in [...]
2018-02-27T15:59:50+00:00McNary CTE Programs Build Student Confidence In Career Paths2018-02-27T15:59:50+00:00February 12, 2018|Jordan Marshall speaks with poise and confidence when talking about her plans for the future. She's a senior at McNary High School, and wants a career at a magazine or a publishing house. At university, she's planning to major in journalism, with a minor in graphic design. Jordan's mother inspired her to follow an artistic career path that focuses on creativity. "My mom is an artist, so growing up I was always surrounded by art," Jordan said. "Whenever there were art projects at school, even in elementary school, I always felt drawn to those." Since her sophomore year at McNary, Jordan has taken Career and Technical Education courses in graphic design in teacher Todd Layton's program. She also took classes in digital media and in [...]
2018-02-27T16:00:13+00:00McKay CTE Programs Teach Professional Skills2018-02-27T16:00:13+00:00February 6, 2018|February is Career and Technical Education Month®, and school districts across the nation are celebrating by featuring CTE programs making a difference in the lives of students. Salem-Keizer Public Schools offers CTE programs in all six of our traditional high schools, as well as at the Career and Technical Education Center and at Roberts High School. McKay High School senior Henry Trinh is what is known as a CTE completer. He's taken classes in McKay's marketing program all four years he's been in high school. Students who are completers in our CTE programs districtwide have an amazing 93 percent graduation rate. McKay's marketing program covers a wide range of business courses, from Intro to Business to Advanced Banking Management. Introductory courses are taught by teacher Roy [...]
2018-02-01T15:52:59+00:00Roadmap to Your Future2018-02-01T15:52:59+00:00February 1, 2018|Will you be graduating with a Modified Diploma, an Extended Diploma or a Certificate of Attainment? What are your options after High School? PLEASE JOIN US… Wednesday, February 28, 2018 from 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Student Services Center 2575 Commercial St. SE Salem, OR 97302 Representatives from 24J Community Transition Programs, Brokerage Services and Developmental Disabilities Services will be answering any questions you may have. Questions? Or to RSVP please call (503) 399-3101.
2018-01-29T15:25:17+00:00Immunization Exclusion Day | El Día de Exclusión Escolar por no Presentar las Vacunas2018-01-29T15:25:17+00:00January 29, 2018|Immunization Exclusion Day is Wednesday, February 21, 2018. If your child is not up-to-date on the required vaccinations for the State of Oregon or does not have a valid exemption on file, they will be excluded from valuable instruction time per Senate Bill 895. Missed instructional time can be highly detrimental to student success at all levels of education. In research conducted by the Oregon Department of Education, students who experience chronic absenteeism- especially in elementary aged students, have been found to experience higher dropout rates and difficulty in reaching high school graduation. To ensure your student avoids unnecessary exclusion from classes, please review the required vaccinations below and contact your school if you have any questions or the department of student services at 503-399-3101. [...]
2018-01-29T15:19:03+00:00OSAA Appeal Hearing Information2018-01-29T15:19:03+00:00January 26, 2018|The OSAA hearing is set for Monday, January 29 beginning at 9 a.m. in the Board Room at the Student Services Building, 2575 Commercial St. SE, Salem. Closing time of the hearing is not known. Parking will fill up fast, and we recommend carpooling or using a ride-share service. This hearing is open to the public to observe, but as it is a legal proceeding, it will not be open to public comment. Justice Michael Gillette, a retired Oregon Supreme Court Judge, will be the hearings officer in this appeal. English/Spanish interpreters will be available. CCTV will be covering the hearing, and it will be available live on Comcast channel 21, as well as online.
2018-01-26T14:47:45+00:00South Salem Students Win First Shark Tank Video Contest with Starbucks2018-01-26T14:47:45+00:00January 26, 2018|On Thursday, January 25, SKPS Career and Technical Education students studying video production and/or marketing gathered at North Salem High School to participate in the first ever Shark Tank video contest in partnership with Starbucks Coffee. Students were asked to produced a video ranging between :15 - 4:00 minutes in length that will potentially be used by Starbucks, internally to showcase the Volunteer Match or the College Achievement Plan. Each video was evaluated by a panel of judges including Shane Saunders, Chief Experience Officer for Maps Credit Union; Danielle Behtell, Executive Director of the Keizer Chamber of Commerce; Scott Hossner, Co-Owner of Allied Video Productions; and Jessica Borton a Regional Director of Operations for Starbucks. Videos were judged on four criterea including: Audience Awareness - Did [...]
2018-01-25T10:11:06+00:00SKPS Raises Graduation Rates, Lowers Drop-Out Rates2018-01-25T10:11:06+00:00January 25, 2018|Graduation rate is the highest since the state began reporting cohort graduation rates According to the Oregon Department of Education’s recently released graduation rates for the 2016-17 academic year, Salem-Keizer Public Schools (SKPS) increased its graduation rate by nearly two percentage points. Additionally, the drop-out rate decreased by nearly one percentage point. The graduation rates were based on a four- and five-year cohort of students entering the ninth grade in the 2013-14 or 12-13 academic year. The dropout rate reports on students in grades 9-12. “This is no small feat,” said Superintendent Christy Perry. “Our educators are implementing strategies in the classroom that are being supported by a cadre of wraparound services outside the classroom. In Salem-Keizer Public Schools, we are committed to high standards [...]
2018-01-22T09:20:32+00:00Homeschooling Parent Survey2018-01-22T09:20:32+00:00January 22, 2018|If your family is currently homeschooling a child, please complete this QUICK confidential and anonymous parent survey! This survey has been created by parents and community advocates involved in the Marion Polk Family Support, Resources and Training (FRST) Committee and the Creating Opportunities Regional Family Network to get data on why families are leaving local public school settings. This information will support advocacy efforts to improve educational opportunities for local families. Please share with other families who are homeschooling their children! Survey Link: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/JFP8JBK
2018-01-17T10:06:01+00:00Career Night Expo 2018 For Parents and Students2018-01-17T10:06:01+00:00January 17, 2018|Join us for this FREE event that showcases Career and Technical Education opportunities for students in Salem-Keizer Public Schools. Everyone is welcome to come to the event, but parents and their students in 8th, 9th, 10th and 11th grades are especially encouraged to attend! The event is on Thursday, February 1, 2018, from 6 p.m.-8 p.m. at the Salem Convention Center, 200 Commercial Street SE in Salem. Keynote address "Unleashing the Power of the Younger Generation for Massive Results" by national educational expert Mark C. Perna is from 6 p.m.-7 p.m. He will share key strategies for helping today's younger generation achieve more in their educational journey and future career. Don't miss this chance for your students to explore, focus and succeed in the classroom [...]
2018-06-27T12:50:05+00:00Volunteers of the Month for January 20182018-06-27T12:50:05+00:00January 16, 2018|Our Volunteers of the Month for January 2018 are Judee Yerion and Lynnea Lyman, nominated by Principal Aguilar at Liberty Elementary School. Both Judee and Lynnea are retired elementary school teachers, so the hours they share helping teachers at Liberty greatly benefit young students. Judee taught for 55 years before retiring two years ago. For much of her career she worked in Salem-Keizer schools, teaching in both middle and elementary schools. Judee volunteers five days a week at Liberty Elementary. In the mornings, she helps in Mrs. Hubbard’s kindergarten class. Then, in the afternoon, she helps in Ms. Lindsey’s third-grade class. Judee began volunteering at Liberty last September. She says teaching helps keep her young. “I’m doing what I love to do, which is teaching [...]
2018-02-02T14:50:12+00:00New Harvest Church Is Our Community Partner of the Month For January 20182018-02-02T14:50:12+00:00January 11, 2018|Our Community Partner of the Month for January 2018 is New Harvest Church, nominated by Hallman Elementary School. New Harvest Church has been a supporter of Hallman Elementary for many years. They are always finding new ways to help teachers and students, says School Outreach Coordinator Leslie Caudillo. The support New Harvest gives Hallman Elementary is impressive. Here are just a few examples: New Harvest runs an After School Program for 20 students every Tuesday and Thursday. Kids get help with homework, play games and get a snack. New Harvest assists with the SMART reading program. Every Friday afternoon, 10 volunteers spend 90 minutes helping students improve their reading skills. Since Hallman has a dress code, New Harvest donated clothing that meets the student dress [...]
2018-01-10T10:02:40+00:00School Board One Step Closer to Finalizing Bond for May Ballot2018-01-10T10:02:40+00:00January 10, 2018|The Salem-Keizer Public Schools Board of Education moved closer to putting a $619.7 million general obligation bond measure on the May 2018 ballot at its meeting Tuesday night. The bond funds would be used to construct additional space to relieve overcrowding and increase capacity of schools, expand career-technical/vocational programs in high schools, make seismic, safety and security upgrades and address other facility needs in the district. At the meeting, the Board heard the second reading of the proposed $619.7 million bond package and voted unanimously to approve the package. Highlights of the bond package include constructing: 12 new career-technical/vocational education program spaces at high schools 170 new general education classrooms 39 science labs 20 cafeteria additions and/or expansions Nine multipurpose physical education additions Two new [...]
2018-04-02T13:02:58+00:00CTEC Receives $250,000 Donation from the Salem New Car Dealers2018-04-02T13:02:58+00:00January 10, 2018|Through the immense generosity of the Salem New Car Dealers, Salem-Keizer Public Schools’ (SKPS’) Career and Technical Education Center (CTEC) is scheduled to receive a $250,000 donation to help fund the equipment and construction costs for the Autobody Repair and Painting Program. “We are so thankful to the Salem New Car Dealers for making this remarkable investment in our students and in our community,” said Christy Perry, superintendent of Salem-Keizer Public Schools. “Their gift will impact hundreds of students through the years and it will help us prepare students to be college and career ready.” On Thursday, January 11 from 11-11:45 a.m., CTEC will hold a celebratory gathering at the CTEC Autobody Repair and Painting Program located at 3501 Portland Road NE, Salem. This event [...]
2018-01-19T07:27:26+00:00Learning About School Closures and Delays Due to Bad Weather2018-01-19T07:27:26+00:00January 4, 2018|Salem-Keizer Public Schools has many ways for you to learn about bad weather causing school closures or delays. These include announcements on the district website, social media, the SKPS Monday Minutes email newsletter, announcements by local media and phone messages to your home. Decisions about closing or delaying the start time of school are made by district officials by 5:15 a.m. Salem-Keizer Public Schools Website Information about school closures and delays due to bad weather can be found on the district's website. There will be a banner on the homepage of the website announcing school closures or delays. In addition, you can find the latest information on the Emergency Closures webpage. https://salkeiz.k12.or.us/emergency-closures/ FlashAlerts A message is posted to the district's FlashAlerts account as soon as [...]
2018-02-27T11:46:41+00:00Staff Links on New District Website2018-02-27T11:46:41+00:00December 27, 2017|There is a hidden link for staff to access the tools they need to do their jobs. Most content for staff has now been moved off the public website and placed in our intranet for employees, called Insight 24J. See below on how to access those links from the district website. Hidden Staff Menu In the hidden menu for Staff on the homepage you will find links to: The Academy of Teaching and Learning AESOP Absence Reporting Emergency School Closures and Delays Information Employee Self Service - Munis Insight 24J K12 Resources Curriculum & Instruction Library LaunchPAD LEGENDS Outlook Email Login QAM Policies, Procedures and Forms Service Desk Synergy Help Site Synergy SIS/SE Login TalendED Perform
2017-12-22T11:15:26+00:00We’re Hiring at Salem-Keizer Public Schools!2017-12-22T11:15:26+00:00December 22, 2017|Over 35 job seekers attended our "Meet the Employer" event at Salem Goodwill on Lancaster Drive NE yesterday. Our friendly pros from Custodial, Transportation and HR helped them fill out applications and interview for jobs. We are the second-largest employer in Salem, and have many job openings you or someone you know may be interested in!
2017-12-19T15:37:28+00:00GVC Boys Soccer Coach of the Year 20172017-12-19T15:37:28+00:00December 19, 2017|We are pleased to recognize North Salem High School boys soccer coach Rich Swartzentruber. He is the Greater Valley Conference Boys Soccer Coach of the Year for 2017. The School Board honored Coach Swartzentruber with a Spotlight on Success award at its board meeting last week. North Salem made it to the third round of the state playoffs in soccer this year. In those three games, they never trailed an opponent until falling to Grant 2-1 in overtime. Winning the GVC Coach of the Year Award is special because coaches in the league vote on who will be selected. But Rich said the award is not really about him. “When you win a coach’s award, it’s about your players,” he said. “It was really a [...]
2017-12-20T16:44:27+00:00Volunteer of the Month for December 20172017-12-20T16:44:27+00:00December 19, 2017|Our Volunteer of the Month for December 2017 is reading tutor Jeanine Horn-Richie, nominated by Crossler Middle School Principal Kristine Walton. Jeanine is a retired State of Oregon employee, and lives in the Crossler neighborhood. She volunteers on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday mornings in Mrs. Alburn’s 6th grade reading class and in Mrs. Fiscum’s 8th grade reading class. Jeanine said she picked Crossler to volunteer at because she wanted to work with middle school students. “Everyone likes to read with the little kids, but middle school kids often get forgotten,” she said. “I just wanted to be there for them.” Jeanine helps out by doing tasks like reading assessments and coaching students on reading comprehension and test-taking skills. She also works with groups of four [...]
2017-12-19T14:17:20+00:00School Board Holds First Reading of Final 2018 Bond Package2017-12-19T14:17:20+00:00December 18, 2017|Salem-Keizer Public Schools (SKPS) Board of Directors held the first reading of a proposed bond package at its business meeting on Tuesday, Dec. 12. The bond would relieve overcrowding and prepare for future enrollment growth, expand career-technical/vocational programs at all high schools, expand science programmatic offerings at all middle and high schools, enhance safety and security including seismic upgrades, and expand access to technology across the district. The proposed bond package totals $619.7 million and was built following an extensive process to gather community and staff feedback on a base bond proposal totaling $619.2 million. The base bond proposal formed the starting point for Board discussions on the package and was estimated to increase the property tax levy rate between $1.28 and $1.39 per thousand [...]
2017-12-19T14:18:18+00:00SKPS Launches New District Website2017-12-19T14:18:18+00:00December 18, 2017|Salem-Keizer Public Schools (SKPS) today launched a new district website. The new site comes after an involved group of parents and special services providers engaged the district in ways the district can better serve students with special needs and their families. Their input laid the groundwork for an overall site overhaul. “Through a collaboration with parents and service providers, every single school district and ESD website in Oregon was reviewed to provide us with recommendations for developing our new department site,” said Eric Richards, Director of Student Services. “This extensive process narrowed it down to six sites that were most family friendly and/or content rich and looked at their best practices. It is a great example of how our district partners with families to best [...]
2017-12-05T13:18:04+00:00Free Lunch & Activities For Kids & Teens During Winter Break 20172017-12-05T13:18:04+00:00December 1, 2017|Free Lunch & Activities for kids & teens during Winter Break 2017 for ALL children & students ages 1-18 years old. EVERYONE is invited – regardless of family income! Dates December 18, 19, 20, 21, 22 & 27, 28, 29 Times Free lunch and Free activities 12 pm–1 pm Locations Auburn Elementary School Claggett Creek Middle School Cummings Elementary School Four Corners Elementary School Houck Middle School Richmond Elementary School Washington Elementary School For more information contact Nutrition Services at 503-399-3091. Offered in Partnership with Sodexo, Salem-Keizer Public Schools (CACFP), Salem-Keizer Education Foundation and Oregon Dept. of Education-Child Nutrition Programs.
2017-12-19T14:20:24+00:00School Choirs Performing Free Concerts at the Oregon State Capitol2017-12-19T14:20:24+00:00November 20, 2017|Choirs from Salem-Keizer Public Schools’ (SKPS’) award-winning music programs will be performing free, live concerts from November 28 to December 22 at the Oregon State Capitol as part of the Holidays at the Capitol event. West Salem High School’s choir will kick off the event on November 28 at 5 p.m. and will be followed by the Capitol’s annual tree lighting ceremony. Concerts are open to the public. Thirty-two SKPS elementary schools, 10 SKPS middle schools, and all SKPS high schools will be performing this year. Holidays at the Capitol Choir Schedule The schedule is subject to change. Go to OregonCapitol.com to view the current schedule. Nov. 28 5 p.m. West Salem High School Dec. 1 10 a.m. Chávez Elementary School 10:30 a.m. Brush College [...]
2018-01-10T13:44:19+00:00Enrollment growth creates crowding, many schools over capacity2018-01-10T13:44:19+00:00November 17, 2017|In only five years, enrollment in Salem-Keizer Public Schools is predicted to grow by about 1,000 students. That’s approximately the enrollment of two elementary schools or one middle school. When considering past growth, this enrollment projection may seem conservative. In the last school year alone (2016-17), more than 500 new students enrolled in the district. In the five years since the 2012-13 school year, a total of around 2,000 new students have enrolled. “In six of the last seven years, we have seen an increase in new students. The average has been about 350 per year,” said David Hughes, manager of the facilities planning function for the school district. Enrollment growth is expected to continue for at least the next 20 years.
2018-01-10T15:42:08+00:00Crowding in Salem-Keizer makes KPTV news broadcast2018-01-10T15:42:08+00:00November 9, 2017| KPTV's Simon Gutierrez did a story on crowding in our school district featuring Gubser Elementary School in Keizer. Watch the video on the KPTV website and get an inside look at what it's like to teach in a school that serves more students than it was designed to serve.
2018-01-10T15:43:54+00:00Bond Measure “Listening & Learning” Forums Planned2018-01-10T15:43:54+00:00November 6, 2017| The Salem-Keizer School Board is working on a general obligation bond for the May 2018 ballot. The bond measure is not yet final, but it is important for parents, staff and members of our community to have the opportunity to learn about why a bond is needed and how it could benefit our schools. The Listening & Learning sessions will give parents, school neighbors, interested community members, staff and district officials the chance to listen and learn from each other about the process to determine school needs and the School Board’s progress on developing the bond measure. Invitations will be made soon by phone-dialer to parents of students in all schools in each high school feeder system. If you are the parent of an [...]
2018-01-10T13:58:57+00:00Nominees Announced for Crystal Apple Awards 2017!2018-01-10T13:58:57+00:00October 27, 2017| Forty-six local education professionals have been nominated for a Crystal Apple Award—an annual celebration honoring excellence in education in Salem-Keizer. The 2017 list of nominees consists of teachers, instructional assistants, administration, office managers and district support professionals. The 21st annual event is set for Thursday, November 2, 2017, at Salem’s Historic Elsinore Theatre. All nominees will be celebrated at the ceremony, and a chosen number of honorees will receive a Crystal Apple Award. The Crystal Apple Awards Committee have visited each nominee’s school to present them with a nomination certificate and a book bag filled with gifts of congratulations. 2017 Business Partnership Award The Crystal Apple Business Partnership Award will be awarded to a local business or organization that has continuously supported and advocated [...]
2018-01-10T13:59:09+00:00Statement from Salem-Keizer Public Schools Regarding Oregon Schools Activities Association Classification Ruling2018-01-10T13:59:09+00:00October 17, 2017|Larry Ramirez, Director of High School Education: “We at Salem-Keizer Public Schools were disappointed to learn of the Association’s ruling to place our student-athletes in a league that doesn’t meet the criteria for our district – student safety, student instruction, budget and size. We agree that the Bend schools are formidable opponents; however, travel presents safety concerns, impacts to instructional time and at an estimated cost of $700,000 a year, simply isn’t in our budget. We are committed to working with the Bend-La Pine Schools to be creative in our scheduling to minimize impacts to our student-athletes and their families.”
2018-01-10T13:50:52+00:00School Report Cards Demonstrate Salem-Keizer Learning Initiatives Spur Growth2018-01-10T13:50:52+00:00October 10, 2017|Salem-Keizer Public Schools serves one of the most diverse populations in the state, and those unique needs are highlighted in the Oregon Department of Education’s annual Report Cards. Those cards also reflect how student achievement grows through the elementary and middle years and becomes achievement in the high school years. A significant number of our students come to us in kindergarten eager and ready to learn, but needing additional academic growth to catch up with their peers across the state. In addition, one in five SKPS students come to us as English learners. “Our goal is that our elementary schools demonstrate above average growth because we know our students need to achieve more than a year’s growth over one year’s time,” said Superintendent Christy Perry. [...]
2018-01-10T13:59:18+00:00State results demonstrate growth, particularly in middle schools2018-01-10T13:59:18+00:00September 23, 2017|Eighth-graders tested above the state average in language arts and math for the first time in more than a decade. SALEM, Oregon—The Oregon Department of Education today released the 2016-17 state assessment results. For the first time in more than a decade, Salem-Keizer Public Schools (SKPS) eighth-graders tested above the state average in both language arts and math. That growth translated into high school performance, where SKPS students achieved three percentage points higher than the state average in both English Language Arts and Math. “We’re making a shift in how we approach our curriculum in elementary years, and as a result, we’re seeing great improvements in learning and understanding for our students in the middle years and beyond,” said Superintendent Christy Perry. “Many of our [...]
2018-01-10T13:44:30+00:00Final Long Range Facilities Plan document2018-01-10T13:44:30+00:00August 7, 2017|The final draft of Salem-Keizer's Long Range Facilities plan document (PDF) is available to view or download. The Long Range Facilities Plan details the work school facilities need to provide adequate space for projected enrollment growth and to support educational programs. Learn more about the Long Range Facilities Plan, the Citizens Facilities Task Force process and the development of a school bond package for the May 2018 ballot on the Citizens Facilities Task Force page.
2018-01-10T13:44:41+00:00School Board proposes general obligation bond for May 2018 ballot2018-01-10T13:44:41+00:00June 19, 2017| The School Board has approved a base proposal of $619.2 million as general obligation bond package for the May 2018 ballot. The School Board approved the package as a baseline for future conversations as they continue to work with staff and the community to refine the overall number. The package was developed in a lengthy process that began with the development of the district’s Long Range Facilities Plan, which spells out the facility needs of all schools and district facilities. The total of all work included in the plan was estimated at $766 million, which would increase the levy rate an estimated $3 per thousand of assessed value. A group of 18 volunteers from Salem and Keizer served on the Citizens Facilities Task Force and reviewed the items [...]
2018-01-10T13:59:33+00:00Summer Meal Program 20172018-01-10T13:59:33+00:00June 19, 2017|The Summer Meal Program begins on June 19, 2017. Free breakfast and lunch is provided to all kids and teens ages 1–18. Free books are provided with every meal! Dates and times vary according to program sites. Click on the attachment below for the serving locations, dates and times. Should you have any questions please call the Food and Nutrition Service department at 503-399-3091.
2018-01-10T13:59:42+00:00Class of 2017 graduation videos from CCTV Salem2018-01-10T13:59:42+00:00June 16, 2017| High school graduation ceremonies of the Class of 2017 were filmed by our partner Capitol Community Television. CCTV is making the videos available on the its YouTube channel. You can also purchase DVDs of graduations from CCTV's website. Congratulations Class of 2017!
2018-01-10T13:59:49+00:00Mural Contest Winners2018-01-10T13:59:49+00:00June 9, 2017|Marion Soil and Water Conservation District Mural Contest 2017 - Kindergarten and first-grade students in teacher Tracy McLaughlin's class at Bush Elementary School were selected as winners in the Beginning Division of the Soil and Water Conservation District Mural Art Contest. Janice Calkins, Office Coordinator with the Marion Soil and Water Conservation District, awarded Mrs. McLaughlin and her students with their prizes today during an assembly at the school.
2018-01-10T13:59:58+00:00Career Day at Eyre Elementary School2018-01-10T13:59:58+00:00June 9, 2017|Students at Eyre Elementary School participated in a career day this week with many professions represented. See at photo gallery on Facebook » While partnering with the Salem Area Chamber of Commerce, Eyre students were able to hear about professions in the medical field, military, banking, positions working with technology, coaches from Willamette University and also meet with fire fighters and see water get shot of the top of the truck. Eyre Elementary third- through fifth-graders participated in a career fair set up, where they were able to visit more than ten tables with different professionals represented. Eyre Elementary greatly appreciates our community's support in making these events happen for students!
2018-01-10T14:02:14+00:00West Salem’s Parade of Honor at Brush College 20172018-01-10T14:02:14+00:00June 8, 2017| Graduating seniors from West Salem High School returned to Brush College Elementary School yesterday for a Parade of Honor. They reminisced about their grade school days, and inspired the kids to imagine their own future high school graduations. [fvplayer src="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-9GsYcGK-_M&t=8s" width="520px" height="600px"]
2018-01-10T14:00:12+00:00ESOL Endorsement sponsored by Salem-Keizer & Corban University2018-01-10T14:00:12+00:00June 7, 2017|An ESOL Endorsement program, sponsored by Salem-Keizer Public Schools and Corban University, is being offered to Salem-Keizer teaching staff. As the school district in Oregon with the largest number of English Language Learners, our need for teachers to understand and practice effective ESOL teaching strategies is critical to the success of our student population. There are only 24 spots available in this cohort. To reserve your spot and/or to ask questions please email Steve Nelson, Director of Recruitment and Staffing, at: nelson_steve@salkeiz.k12.or.us. WHO: Any licensed classroom teacher in the district (K–12) is invited to participate. The endorsement is a K-12 endorsement WHAT: ESOL Endorsement program sponsored by Salem-Keizer & Corban University WHERE: Courses will be taught on the Corban campus in Salem on Wednesdays (generally 4:30 p.m. [...]
2018-01-10T14:02:01+00:00Sprague’s Sports Medicine CTE program earns national safety award2018-01-10T14:02:01+00:00June 1, 2017|Sprague High School is the recipient of the National Athletic Trainers’ Association Safe Sports School Award for its Sports Medicine program. The award champions safety and recognizes secondary schools that provide safe environments for student athletes. The award reinforces the importance of providing the best level of care, injury prevention and treatment. This is the second time Sprague High School has received this First Team designation. Sprague Principal Craig Swanson said he's pleased the Sports Medicine program, led by Career and Technical Education teachers Amy West and Kimo Mahi, earned national recognition. “Sprague High School is honored to receive this First Team recognition from NATA, and we remain committed to keeping our student athletes safe during physical education classes, team practices and games so they [...]
2018-01-10T14:01:52+00:00School Board hears smaller bond package2018-01-10T14:01:52+00:00May 31, 2017|At the direction of the School Board in response to the results of a community survey, district staff presented a smaller, less expensive list of facility work needed for the Board to consider as a bond package. The survey said that the community is supportive of a bond measure, but had concerns about what it would cost to pay for all the work. During the Citizens Facilities Task Force process, the district’s list of facility needs totaled about $766 million, and included improvements to address enrollment growth and crowding, expand Career-Technical/Vocational education programs, improve safety and security, including seismic safety, and more. The narrowed list still addresses the needs, but includes fewer seismic and ADA projects, fewer classroom additions at middle schools, and includes refined [...]
2018-02-14T09:35:41+00:00Survey results show support for bond, but concerns about cost2018-02-14T09:35:41+00:00May 25, 2017|The Salem-Keizer School Board heard the results of a bond feasibility study at a work session on Wednesday, May 24, 2017. The survey found the community is supportive of a bond, but has concerns about the cost. The next step is to reduce the size and cost of the potential bond package, and present it to the School Board for consideration. The feasibility study took the form of a phone survey that was administered in April. The survey was designed to discover the community’s priorities around facility needs, and the community’s level of support for a property tax increase to pay for the construction. The total amount of work needed in the district is estimated at $766 million, and would require an average property tax [...]
2018-01-10T13:50:07+00:00Growth in Salem-Keizer enrollment expected to continue2018-01-10T13:50:07+00:00May 15, 2017|Salem-Keizer Public Schools’ enrollment has been increasing in recent years, and is expected to continue in the future. With one exception, every year of the last seven has seen an increase in student enrollment. The chart below shows the total number of new students entering Salem-Keizer schools each of the last seven years.
2018-01-10T14:02:42+00:00Chapman Hill’s parent club treats school to coffee2018-01-10T14:02:42+00:00May 3, 2017| Chapman Hill Elementary School's parent club treated the entire school to coffee and smoothies on May 1, 2017 for Teacher Appreciation Week. Superintendent Christy Perry and Elementary Education Director Lisa Harlan helped out by delivering drinks to teachers and staff. “I want to sincerely thank each and every one of you for what you do each day for our students. As licensed educators, your work and your passion to help every student achieve their best is evident. I admire each of you for the gifts you bring to our students and the Salem-Keizer School District.”
2018-01-11T09:29:53+00:00District conducting phone survey2018-01-11T09:29:53+00:00April 24, 2017| Salem-Keizer Public Schools has contracted with a professional public opinion research firm to conduct a phone survey of residents. The survey will help the district learn about the community’s opinions on facility improvements and the possibility of a general obligation bond. The phone survey launched on Tuesday, April 11, 2017, and will continue for the next few days. The survey was ordered by the School Board at its March 21, 2017, meeting in response to a recommendation report from the Citizens Facilities Task Force. The Task Force studied the district’s Long Range Facilities Plan, and recommended that the Board pursue a general obligation bond to pay for the needed improvements. Read more about the district’s facility needs and the recommendation report on the Citizens [...]
2018-01-11T09:33:11+00:00School Board orders bond feasibility study2018-01-11T09:33:11+00:00April 12, 2017|At a special meeting on Tuesday, March 21, 2017, the Salem-Keizer School Board voted to accept the recommendations of the Citizens Facilities Task Force, and instructed staff to move forward with a bond feasibility study. Proceeds from the bond would be used to fund improvements needed at schools and district facilities included in the district’s Long Range Facilities Plan. Over the next few weeks, staff will work with a professional public opinion research firm to perform the feasibility study. The findings of the study will be analyzed and reported to the School Board in late April or early May. The Long Range Facilities Plan lists improvements needed at all schools and district buildings to relieve crowding and provide capacity for student enrollment growth, enhance safety [...]
2018-01-10T15:51:05+00:00School Board hears report on school and district facility needs2018-01-10T15:51:05+00:00March 14, 2017| At its meeting on Tuesday, March 14, 2017, the School Board received a report from the Citizens Facilities Task Force of recommendations for funding the Capital Improvement Plan portion of the district's draft Long Range Facilities Plan (LRFP). The Task Force recommended the Board pursue a general obligation bond to address the needs outlined in the LRFP. The LRFP outlines work needed at schools and district buildings to address capacity needs to serve the growing student enrollment, educational adequacy issues, safety and security needs, aging portables, seismic upgrades, ongoing building condition improvements, and others. A copy of the report is available for download below. More information on the Citizens Facilities Task Force can be found on the Task Force page of the district website. Citizens Facilities [...]
2018-01-10T15:51:55+00:00Task Force prepares recommendation on school facility needs2018-01-10T15:51:55+00:00March 8, 2017|How can the district pay for the renovations, upgrades and increased capacity schools and buildings need? What are those facility needs, and how much will they cost? These, and other facility-related questions have been the focus of discussions at Citizens Facilities Task Force meetings, which began in November 2016. The volunteer group has been working hard to review items in the district’s draft Long Range Facilities Plan, and to review funding options available to the district to pay for the facility work needed. The Task Force held its final meeting on February 27, 2017. The draft plan outlines additions, renovations, repairs, and upgrades needed at schools and district department facilities to accommodate growing enrollment, ensure facilities support educational programs and instructional approaches, plan for non-routineongoing [...]
2018-01-10T14:18:08+00:00Citizens Facilities Task Force February update2018-01-10T14:18:08+00:00February 23, 2017|The Citizens Facilities Task Force has held seven meetings in the last few months to review and discuss Salem-Keizer’s draft Long Range Facilities Plan (LRFP). A final meeting is planned for next week. The draft LRFP includes a long list of facility-related needs in 60 schools in the district, plus all support department facilities such as Transportation Services, and Technology and Information Services. At their recent meetings, Task Force members learned about different methods of funding available to the school district, and the feasibility of each method of funding projects in the Long Range Facilities Plan. Task Force members have also started to formulate their recommendations to the School Board. The enrollment growth subcommittee of the task force has been discussing expanding existing high schools [...]
2018-01-10T14:17:59+00:00Citizens Facilities Task Force continues work2018-01-10T14:17:59+00:00January 25, 2017|Members of the Citizens Facilities Task Force continue to meet and review the district’s draft Long Range Facilities Plan. Two meetings have been held to date in January, and five more are planned over the next six weeks. The Task Force is divided into two subcommittees. The student enrollment growth subcommittee is reviewing enrollment projections and capacity of each of the district’s 65 school buildings. In the last few meetings, the subcommittee has taken a detailed look at each school’s current enrollment and long-range projections to determine future capacity needs. The needs include additional classrooms, gymnasiums, cafeterias, libraries and auditoriums. The need to replace aging portables throughout the district has also been discussed. The school and support buildings subcommittee is reviewing ongoing maintenance needs in the next ten [...]
2018-01-10T14:17:46+00:00Student safety highlights task force work2018-01-10T14:17:46+00:00January 9, 2017|From the Statesman Journal: Community members and Salem-Keizer School District officials are working to address safety, security and enrollment growth in local schools. The district's Citizens Facilities Task Force discussed these topics at its meeting Monday night. The nearly 20-person group will review information in the coming weeks, ask questions and mull over the district's options before they provide the school board with a recommendation to address an increasing need for more space and updated facilities. Read more on The Statesman Journal »
2018-01-10T14:00:52+00:00Citizens Facilities Task Force holds first meeting2018-01-10T14:00:52+00:00December 7, 2016|Members of the Citizens Facilities Task Force held their first meeting on Monday, November 28, 2016. The twenty members of the Task Force were appointed by Superintendent Christy Perry, and represent a cross-section of citizens from the Salem and Keizer communities. At the meeting, the group reviewed the structure and purpose of the Task Force and received an overview of the draft Long Range Facilities Plan. Lisa Harnish, executive director of Early Learning Hub, and Mark Shipman, attorney with Saalfeld Griggs PC, were announced as Task Force co-chairs. The goal of the Task Force is to review and comment on the list of facility needs included in the draft plan, and to make a recommendation to the School Board on how to fund the plan. [...]
2018-01-10T14:00:35+00:00DRAFT Long Range Facilities Plan in development2018-01-10T14:00:35+00:00October 30, 2016|Oregon law requires large school districts to prepare a ten-year facilities plan and submit it to the Oregon Department of Education during the first quarter of each new school year. Salem-Keizer district staff have been working on the plan for several months, and presented an executive summary to the School Board at its October 11, 2016, meeting. The law stipulates what the long-range facilities plan must include, such as population projections by age group, needed physical improvements, financial plans to meet facility needs, and other information. To gather the information needed for the plan, Salem-Keizer staff conducted assessments at each school and support facility, interviewed school principals about the educational adequacy of their buildings, and worked with the Portland State University Population Research Center to develop 20-year enrollment projections. Following [...]
