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Community Honors 12 Educators and One Business with Crystal Apples
Twelve local educators were honored with a Crystal Apple Award Thursday night during Salem-Keizer’s 23rd annual gala celebration of excellence in education. The recipients, including teachers at all levels and education support professionals, were chosen from a list of 53 nominees, and honored before a full house at Salem’s Historic Elsinore Theatre. Since 1996, the community has come together to honor local educators who go beyond their regular job duties to demonstrate best practices, benefit students and provide them with educational options. Nominations come from community members, students and parents. It is an honor to continue the tradition of celebrating education in this community," said Kelly Carlisle, executive director of the Salem-Keizer Education Foundation. "The teaching professionals we have in our district are truly worthy of this [...]
Spotlight on Success: Kendra Liggett, Walker Middle School Career and Technical Education teacher
Over the years, it has become obvious that Kendra has gone above and beyond in making her classroom a welcoming and electric place to learn. Kendra has made it her mission to get students excited about what the world has to offer after they graduate high school so they continue pursuing their goals. Last year, Walker opened the first middle school Career and Technical Education Paxton-Patterson Lab in the state of Oregon. Kendra teaches five classes of CTE and is already nearing capacity early in its second year. This speaks volumes, not only to the engaging curriculum but also to Kendra’s teaching abilities. With 17 different modules ranging from EMT services, forensics, to structural engineering; the students in the classroom are seeing snippets of future [...]
Free Meals During Autumn Break for Children 1-18!
We want to make sure everyone gets fed this autumn break! Twelve different schools across our district will be providing FREE lunches to kids 1-18 regardless of family income and everyone is welcome! Lunch will be available Nov. 25, 26 and 27 from noon to 12:30 p.m. Free Meal Sites: Bush Candalaria Cummings Englewood Four Corners Grant Hayesville Kennedy Richmond Washington Wright Yoshikai For more information about our free meals program, please contact Nutrition Services at 503-399-3091.
Salem-Keizer Public Schools Board of Directors Approves Native American Heritage Month Proclamation
Caption: Indian Education Program Assistant Shelby Maerz stands alongside Student Representative Madison Cole, Parent Advisory Committee Representative Ulana Cole and School Board Chairperson Marty Heyen to accept the signed proclamation for Native American Heritage Month. At its meeting Tuesday night, the Salem-Keizer Public Schools (SKPS) Board of Directors started the meeting with a land acknowledgement reading and unanimously approved the “Native American Heritage Month” proclamation. This is the first year the Board of Directors has started a meeting with a land acknowledgement reading. Native American Heritage Month is observed in November to celebrate the rich and diverse cultures and traditions of America’s indigenous peoples. It is a time to recognize the important contributions and roles of Native Americans and Alaska Natives. The observance began in [...]
View the List of 2019 Crystal Apple Award Nominees!
This Thursday, Nov. 14, hundreds will gather at the Elsinore Theatre to honor excellence in education at the 2019 Crystal Apple Awards! Hosted annually by the Salem-Keizer Education Foundation, the Crystal Apple Awards honor teachers, education support professionals and administrators who make a difference in the lives of children. Tickets are now on sale for you to come and support the 53 educators nominated for an award this year. View the 2019 Crystal Apple Award Nominees Purchase your tickets Learn more about the Crystal Apple Awards
Salem-Keizer Public Schools to Hold Community Forums Seeking Input on Student Success Act Funds
Salem-Keizer Public Schools is slated to receive more than $35 million from the Student Success Act. Annually, this Student Investment Account can only be used to meet students’ mental or behavioral health needs, and increase academic achievement for students while reducing academic disparities. The district convened a Student Investment Account task force in September, and the group wrapped up its initial phase of work sessions on October 28. Made up of almost 40 members of the community and employees from across the district, the work group honed its focus on specific community teams to address the needs of students who are: Economically disadvantaged Native American English learners Black or African American Experiencing homelessness Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islanders Receiving special education services During November, the [...]
Salem-Keizer Public Schools to Hold Outreach Event for Local Construction Contractors and Subcontractors
Event will feature design/bid/build opportunities in the 2018 bond program Local construction contractors and subcontractors are invited to attend an outreach event on Thursday, November 7, 2019 between 9:30 and 11:00 a.m. at Salem-Keizer’s Central Services Center, 3630 State Street in the Polk meeting room. The event will connect construction firms with school district Construction Services staff and approved general contractors, and will focus on upcoming design/bid/build projects included in the 2018 bond program. Salem-Keizer is in the second year of implementation of the bond program and plans to break ground on 17 construction projects in 2020. Approximately $170 million will be invested in projects in the coming year, of which approximately $71 million dollars will be directed toward hard bid projects. In May 2018, [...]
District Making Progress on Bond Work, Gearing Up for Three-Fold Increase in Projects in 2020
In May 2018, voters approved a bond to fund improvements all across the school district. Through market premiums, earnings on bond proceeds, grants and reimbursements, the total approved bond program has grown from the original, or base bond amount of $619.7 million, to $667.7 million without adding costs for the taxpayer. The district-wide focus of bond work is to relieve overcrowding, improve safety and security, add science labs and expand our career and technical (vocational) education program spaces at our secondary schools. Bond work also focuses on protecting the community’s investment in school facilities. Five schools began construction in 2019. These schools included Gubser Elementary School, Judson Middle School, Waldo Middle School, McNary High School and North Salem High School. Gubser completed construction on time [...]
Weddle Elementary Finds Connection Between Technology and Geography
The excitement was apparent as students and their family members rumbled up the ramp into the cafeteria Thursday night at Weddle Elementary School. Before the cultural literacy and science lessons began the families enjoyed a catered dinner while staff members meandered the room prefacing what was in store for the night. Many students who had attended the week before or even the sessions during the summer had some background knowledge on the Indian education that was going to be discussed. Shelby Maerz, the Program Assistant for Indian Education led the cultural literacy class while Keizer Elementary School Fourth Grade Teacher Terry Tucker led science lessons. Maerz noted that in the previous week the students in attendance learned about the Kalapuya tribe located in Oregon in [...]
McNary Culinary Cooks for 400 at Keizer Community Dinner
What does it take to scale up a recipe for six people and feed 400 hungry guests? About 120 pounds of meatloaf, 50 pounds of potatoes, nine gallons of gravy and a whole lot of green beans. Over the course of three days, 150 culinary students in five of Chef Wendy Bennett's career and technical education classes at McNary High School peeled, chopped, prepared and cooked all the ingredients for the monthly Keizer Community Dinner at St. Edward Catholic Church on Wednesday, October 23, 2019. The home-style meal was all created from scratch. Many who attended said it was one of the tastiest meals ever at the community dinner. Chef Bennett said her culinary students, from beginning freshmen to seasoned seniors, all learned a lot [...]
Salem Area College & Career Fair – Monday, October 28
Join us for the Salem Area College & Career Fair at Chemeketa Community College from 6-8 p.m. on Monday, October 28. Free Admission for ALL $3000.00 in scholarships and free drinks from Dutch Bros Free swag give away from businesses and colleges Representatives from colleges, universities, trade/career schools, employment departments and the military will be on hand to answer questions Questions? Contact Salem-Keizer AVID @ (503) 399-3061 or email us at avid@salkeiz.k12.or.us
CTEC Parents and Students Meet Educators and Industry Professionals at Pathways Night 2019
Career and Technical Education Center students and their families toured CTEC last night at Pathways Night 2019. Students had twinkles in their eyes as they introduced their parents to their teachers and showed off classrooms and labs where they learn new skills every week. Families also got the opportunity to talk with industry partners and representatives from colleges and universities. That gave parents the chance to ask professionals working in career fields about real-world opportunities their students can look forward to after graduation from high school or college. CTEC Principal Rhonda Rhodes says the annual Pathways Night is similar to parent nights at other schools. "We want parents to see the spaces where their students are studying, see the equipment they're working with and meet [...]
School At-A-Glance Profiles Demonstrate Salem-Keizer Learning Initiatives, Special Programs Spur Growth
Although many schools are highly impacted, student achievement grows through elementary, middle and high years, particularly for English learners Salem-Keizer Public Schools (SKPS) serves one of the most diverse populations in the state, and those unique needs are highlighted in the Oregon Department of Education’s annual At-A-Glance School and District Profiles. In SKPS, the data tells the story of how student learning grows through the elementary and middle years and becomes achievement in the high school years. The profiles, released today, show that a significant number of our students come to SKPS in kindergarten needing intentional academic supports to catch up with their peers across the state. SKPS serves more students with disabilities, students who are English learners and economically disadvantaged students than any other [...]
Nominations for the 2019 Crystal Apple Awards Are Now Open!
Do you know a teacher, administrator or classified staff person who goes above and beyond to create a positive learning environment and help kids achieve their dreams? Honor them by nominating them for a Crystal Apple Award. The annual event is set for November 14, 2019 at Salem’s Historic Elsinore Theatre. Salem-Keizer Education Foundation, along with Salem-Keizer Public Schools and the Salem and Keizer Chambers of Commerce, present the awards each year to deserving education professionals who go the extra mile in providing safe and positive learning opportunities for our students. Nominations forms can be found at any school in the district or download from the Salem-Keizer Education Foundation website: www.skeducationfoundation.org. District nominees must have been employed by Salem-Keizer Public Schools for at least three [...]
Spotlight on Success: World Champion Athlete Justin Devereux
Social studies teacher Justin Devereux won gold at the World Masters Weightlifting Championship last August in Montreal, Canada, setting the American record with a 370-pound clean and jerk, making him a back-to-back world champion. What an amazing feat! When he’s not competing against the world’s best, Justin is working with his students at Crossler Middle School. Justin says that teaching is his number one priority, and he gets the same sense of satisfaction helping students reach their goals as he does reaching his own. If it wasn’t enough that he is a world champion athlete, Justin is a US Marine and was on active duty from 2000 to 2004. He is an award-winning, published historian for an article he wrote about wolves in the Willamette [...]
American Indian/Alaska Native Celebration
Come and enjoy a family evening filled with storytelling, music, dancing and dinner. This FREE event is open to all! Register at: http://bit.ly/33nYmNY Special guest: SUPAMAN Willamette University’s Cat Cavern 935 Mill Street Salem, OR 97301
Community Partner of the Month: Oregon Department of Transportation
On Friday, August 30, 2019, at around 4 p.m., two of our buses carrying students from North Salem High School were on their way to Redmond for a football game. That's when one of the buses had a mechanical problem. It happened on Oregon Highway 22, near Marion Forks. Turned out there was an Oregon Department of Transportation crew close by that was there to help, and it came to the rescue. Jose Fuentes and Ricky Paye with ODOT responded with a service truck, got the bus to pull out safely, looked at the problem, went to their shop for parts and repaired our bus. "We have an excellent partnership with ODOT," said Michael Shields, Director of Transportation Services. "We want to express our gratitude [...]
Transportation Hiring Incentives $1,500 to $3,000
Salem-Keizer Public Schools (SKPS) and the Association of Salem-Keizer Education Support Professionals (ASK-ESP) has announced transportation recruitment incentives to attract and retain transportation employees. apply now The transportation recruitment incentive is for new bus drivers who have not been previously employed as a bus driver in SKPS within the year of their new hire date. New bus drivers will receive the following monetary incentives based on time worked over the employee’s first year of continuous employment: “We are thankful to the Association of Salem-Keizer Education Support Professionals for their support of this new incentive structure for our transportation department,” said SKPS Chief Operations Officer Michael Wolfe. “Our bus drivers really make a positive impact each and every day for our students. Like [...]
PSAT Test Is October 16, 2019
The PSAT this year will be held on October 16, 2019. The test will be given at all high schools in our school district, for both 10th & 11th grade students. What is the PSAT? The PSAT is a practice test for the SAT Reasoning Test. The PSAT is also used to qualify for the National Merit Scholarship Program as well as other national scholarship programs. For more information, please check with your school. Make-Up Test There will be a make-up test on October 19 at Waldo Middle School, if for some reason your student will miss the test on October 16. Space is very limited for the make-up test, the cost is $20. Please sign up at the Secondary Education office at 2450 Lancaster Drive [...]
Educators Visit McNary High School for AVID Showcase
Excitement was in the air today at McNary High School as administrators, teachers and students proudly showed off Advancement Via Individual Determination (AVID) strategies during the McNary AVID Showcase. Almost 50 educators came from near and far to hear about how McNary is implementing AVID, to tour classrooms, and to ask questions during a student-led panel discussion. "Educators are here today from across Oregon, and even from Washington state," said Salem-Keizer AVID Coordinator Barb Bamford. "They are here to learn what it looks like to implement AVID schoolwide. Some of the visitors have AVID at their schools now and are looking for ways to improve and enhance. Others are thinking about what it would be like to start AVID at their schools." Last spring, McNary [...]
Salem-Keizer Public Schools Joins with Oregon Vocational Rehabilitation for National Disability Employment Awareness Month Kick-Off
Salem-Keizer Public Schools’ (SKPS) students, leadership and staff stood in partnership with Oregon Vocational Rehabilitation on the front steps of the State Capitol on Tuesday, October 1 for the kick-off of National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM). SKPS Superintendent Christy Perry joined Keith Ozols, Director of Vocational Rehabilitation at the Oregon Department of Human Services, as he read a proclamation to commemorate October as NDEAM in Oregon. Students and staff from Salem-Keizer’s Community Transition Program (CTP) were present for an engaging morning of job readiness and employment-related activities at the Capitol Mall. These activities were planned in coordination with our district’s Office of Student Services, state agency HR Departments, community and industry partners and the Transition Technical Assistance Network to benefit the 200+ students [...]
Indian Education Fall Family Enrichment & Fall Study Hall Nights 2019
Our Indian Education/Title I team will be hosting Indian Education Fall Study Hall and Family Enrichment Nights again this year. They will be held at Bush Elementary and Weddle Elementary schools. See the flyers below for details. Questions? Contact Indian Education at (503) 399-5512.
McNary High School Hosts First Unified Soccer Championship Game
In SKPS, 15 percent of students receive special education services. SKPS works diligently to meet the needs of all students and families regardless of age, color, ability, marital status, national origin, race, religion or creed, sex or gender or sexual orientation or veteran status. McNary High School is connecting students from all backgrounds together through their new unified sports program bringing all students together. This program brings some of the school’s most vulnerable students into the spotlight to train and compete in a variety of team sports alongside their peers. On Tuesday, Oct. 1 the school held their very first unified soccer championship game for their students. “This is a population of students that has been historically separated from their peers,” said Student Services Coordinator [...]
Additional Earnings, Grants Boost 2018 Bond Program
Since the community approved the $619.7 million construction bond in May 2018, Salem-Keizer Public Schools has been able to fund additional projects and add scope to existing projects beyond that promised in the original bond package. Through market premiums, earnings on bond proceeds, grants and reimbursements, the total approved bond program has grown from the original, or base bond amount of $619.7 million, to $667.7 million without adding costs for the taxpayer. Funds have been dedicated to construction projects as recommended through the boundary adjustment process at Eyre, Grant, Kennedy and Miller elementary schools, and Houck Middle School. Design modifications at McKay and South Salem high schools were identified by each school’s design team early in the architectural design process and have also been added [...]
Spotlight on Success: Bus Drivers with the Transportation Department Bring Home Trophies
Members of the Transportation Department’s award-winning Road-eo Team was honored at the September 8, 2019, school board meeting Our bus drivers won multiple awards at the 45th Annual Oregon Pupil Transportation Association State Safety Exercises, held in Eugene on May 4th and June 1st , 2019. The competition emphasizes continuous improvement and safety-focused skills. There was a total of 50 participants from across the state at each of the all-day events. Salem-Keizer was well represented. Here are the results. 1st Place, Over All for the South Willamette Region, James Shaffner 1st Place, Novice Transit category for the South Willamette Region, Christina Davenport 1st Place, Novice Transit category in the State of Oregon, Sarah Earls Other trophy winners from Salem-Keizer Transportation were: 2nd Place, Team Trophy: [...]
Student Cohorts Show Growth in State Assessments Though Overall Performance Lags
Eleventh-Graders Out Perform State in Math and English Language Arts Data released today from the Oregon Department of Education shows that while Salem-Keizer Public Schools (SKPS) students do start off behind their peers across the state on assessment tests in English Language Arts (ELA) and math, cohorts of students demonstrate significant growth, and by 11th grade, students are outperforming their peers across the state. “We know that our students come to us with significant obstacles to learning,” said Assistant Superintendent Linda Myers. “Our students face traumas that don’t help them get a solid foundation, so we put an intentional focus on growth. While we know that these results reflect important aspects of how our students are growing and learning, no single assessment provides the complete [...]
Spotlight on Success: Salem-Keizer Student Has Great Success in Spelling Contests
You could say that Jacob Howard, a sixth-grader at Leslie Middle School, has a way with words. After winning the Salem-Keizer District Spelling Contest last April as a fifth-grade student at Candalaria Elementary, Jacob went on to win the Marion County Regional Contest in May. That qualified him for the Oregon Statewide Spelling Championship at the Oregon State Fair in Salem on August 31, 2019. Challenged by words such as “appraisal” and “symbolize,” Jacob won Second Place in the contest and received a prize of $50. A total of 56 of the best spellers from 27 Oregon counties competed in the event in the elementary school, middle school and high school divisions. Jacob is no stranger to success at the Statewide Spelling Contest. He [...]
Budget Committee Seeks Two New Members
Budget Committee – Community Members Appointment Process The Salem-Keizer School District Budget Committee is a 14-member group consisting of the Salem-Keizer School District Board of Directors and seven community member volunteers appointed by the school board. Community appointees normally serve a three-year term and may apply for additional service. The committee is an advisory group, as established by Oregon statute, to make recommendations to the board regarding the annual operating budget. Candidates for the budget committee must be registered voters and residents of Salem-Keizer School District 24J. The school board makes an effort to have appointees on the committee who represent all areas of the district. Employees, officers and agents of the district are not eligible to serve as community members of the committee. Public hearings [...]
Salem-Keizer Public Schools Board of Directors Approves First-Ever Hispanic Heritage Month and Welcoming Week Proclamation
At its meeting Tuesday night, the Salem-Keizer Public Schools (SKPS) Board of Directors unanimously approved the “Hispanic Heritage Month and Welcoming Week” proclamation. This is the first year the Board of Directors has brought forward such a proclamation. Each year, Americans observe National Hispanic Heritage Month from September 15 to October 15 by celebrating the contributions of Americans whose ancestors came from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean, Central America and South America. The observance begin in 1968 under President Lyndon Johnson and was expanded by President Ronald Regan in 1988. Welcoming Week, which is celebrated this year from Sept. 13-22, provides the opportunity for us to affirm that our communities are stronger when we feel like we belong and the contributions of all are welcomed. In [...]
Eight Additional Students Join the Class of 2019 at McKay High School
Eight diplomas were awarded to new graduates from McKay High School last night at the Salem-Keizer School Board meeting. The students are our final eight graduates in the Class of 2019. Each student was called one-by-one to the front of the board room. Principal Rob Schoepper handed new graduates their diplomas, and they shook hands with Superintendent Christy Perry, school board directors and McKay staff. After that, the beaming graduates showed off their diplomas and celebrated with their proud families and friends. Video courtesy of: Capital Community Television Salem The new graduates didn’t have enough credits to graduate with their peers on June 5 or in the summer on August 1. To help them across the finish line, McKay launched an Extended Credit Recover [...]
Student Support Services Open House 2019
Families visited with district staff at the annual Student Services Open House last night. Parents asked questions about services provided to students in our district, which include supports such as assistive technology, augmentative communication, the Autism Spectrum Disorder Team, the Community Transition Program, the Independent Living program, occupational and physical therapy and more. More than 350 people attended the event. Local and statewide parent advocacy groups that we partner with also had tables at the open house, and spoke with parents about resources and upcoming parent meetings. Our Student Services team is here to serve students with special needs. Visit the Student Services webpage to learn more or to get in touch.
Crystal Apple Award Nominations Open Soon
Nominations for the 2019 Crystal Apple Awards will open on Friday, September 13! Do you know a teacher, administrator or classified staff person who goes above and beyond to create a positive learning environment and help kids achieve their dreams? Honor them by nominating them for a Crystal Apple Award. The annual event is set for November 14, 2019 at Salem’s Historic Elsinore Theatre. Salem-Keizer Education Foundation, along with Salem-Keizer Public Schools and the Salem and Keizer Chambers of Commerce, present the awards each year to deserving education professionals who go the extra mile in providing safe and positive learning opportunities for our students. Nominations forms can be found at any school in the district or download from the Salem-Keizer Education Foundation website: www.skeducationfoundation.org. District [...]
September is National Suicide Prevention Month
This year, our students’ ID cards at the middle and high school levels will look a little different. The physical and psychological safety of our students is without question, our highest priority, and no student should go through a mental health crisis alone. You’ll find hotlines printed on the back of each ID card that students can access 24/7. This year we also have an additional counselor at each high school and offer access to licensed mental health therapists in nearly 30 of our schools. For more, see a News Report By KATU News 2. Resources on SKPS ID Cards 911 - Life threatening emergencies Mental Health Crisis Oregon Youthline National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (English & Spanish) Report a Tip SafeOregon We believe that each [...]
Salem-Keizer Public Schools Board of Directors Revises and Affirms Safe and Welcoming Schools Resolution
At its meeting Tuesday night, the Salem-Keizer Public Schools (SKPS) Board of Directors revised and unanimously affirmed Resolution No. 201920-1, “Safe and Welcoming Schools.” Originally adopted in 2016, the resolution was revised this year to include more explicit language about students’ confidential information and to ensure our students’ learning environments are not disrupted by immigration enforcement actions In part, the resolution states, “Whereas, the School Board is committed to protecting students’ constitutional rights, including their Fourth Amendment right to be free from unreasonable searches and seizures and to access a free public education.” “Nothing is more important than the safety of our students, and that includes their psychological safety,” said Superintendent Christy Perry. “As educators, we focus on trauma-informed care. There is no greater trauma [...]
Back-to-School 2019-20
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. School Offices Open Dates 2019-20 August 14: Elementary School offices open August 13: Middle School offices open Year round: High School offices open year round Start of School 2019-20 September 3: First day for Grades 6 and 9 September 4: First day for Grades 1-5, 7-8, 10-12 September 11: First day for all Kindergarten Back-to-School Resources Athletic Participation and Student Fees Bell Times (School Start/Stop Times) Boundary Maps (Schools) Bus Routes [...]
Free & Reduced Meals in Salem-Keizer Public Schools
How do I apply for free and reduced meals for my child? Children need healthy meals to effectively learn. SKPS offers healthy meals to students every school day. Your children may qualify for free meals or for reduced price meals. All students enrolled at the schools listed below are eligible to receive a healthy breakfast and lunch at school at no charge to your household each day of the 2019-20 school year. Additional meals, snacks or entrees will still be available for purchase. Students who would like to purchase extra food items will need to deposit money in their student account. This program is made possible by the Community Eligibility Provision (CEP) or Provisional 2 program. Community Eligibility Provisional Elementary Schools: Auburn Elementary School Behavior [...]
Gubser Elementary School Celebrates Completion of Construction
Gubser Elementary School will be the first school to substantially complete construction in the 2018 Bond Program! In March 2019, Gubser Elementary School began construction for major renovations and improvements under the 2018 bond program. The work will be substantially complete before the end of summer, and Gubser Elementary will hold a ribbon-cutting ceremony before Labor Day weekend to celebrate! The ribbon-cutting ceremony will be held on Thursday, Aug. 29 at 5:30 p.m. at Gubser Elementary. The celebration will include remarks from elected officials and district representatives, cutting of the ribbon by Gubser Elementary students and a tour of all the changes. Thanks to the community’s support of the 2018 bond, Gubser Elementary has received four new classrooms, a new cafeteria and kitchen, removal of [...]
Salem-Keizer Public Schools Breaks Ground at Waldo Middle School
In 2018, voters approved a $619.7 million bond to fund improvements for Salem-Keizer schools. On Thursday, supporters of Waldo Middle School, including local officials, school board members, community supporters and school staff, gathered to celebrate the groundbreaking of one of the first five schools planned to begin construction under the 2018 bond program. Waldo is the fifth school planned for construction under the 2018 bond program—after North Salem High School, Gubser Elementary School, McNary High School and Judson Middle School respectively. Waldo will receive a cafeteria expansion, four new classrooms, four new science labs and a multipurpose fitness room. The school will also receive seismic improvements, library improvements, increased visibility of the main entry from the front office and much more. “As we kick off [...]
Spotlight on Success: Community Partner of the Month August 2019
When a Spanish language teacher at North Salem High School took an unexpected medical leave last April, it appeared that almost 120 Viking students wouldn’t be able to earn college credits at Western Oregon University. That’s when Adam Whalen and his team at the Willamette Educational Service District stepped in. Adam’s title is Accelerated Learning Manager, and he facilitates partnerships between universities and school districts that allow students to earn credits at both high schools and universities. In order to get the college credits, the 117 North Salem students in four different classrooms needed to take a 28-page assessment test. That test included five sections: listening, speaking, writing, reading and communicative awareness (grammar). Working with Assistant Principal Carlos Ruiz and School Office Specialist Clarita Alverez, [...]
SKPS Welcomes New Leadership Around the District
New district, principal and assistant principal hires, transitions for three additional schools in SKPS The 2019-20 school year brings exciting transitions in leadership for Salem-Keizer Public Schools (SKPS). [Updated Aug. 30, 2019] Chávez and Keizer Elementary Schools | Assistant Principal Teresa Alfaro previously assistant principal at Heritage Elementary in Woodburn Teresa Alfaro earned her first teaching degree in Mexico. Shortly after, she moved to Texas where she completed her second degree. Teresa began her educational career in the United States with Salem-Keizer Public Schools, as an instructional assistant at Weddle Elementary School. She obtained a Master of Arts in Teaching in 2008 and taught at Mary Eyre Elementary as a second-grade bilingual teacher. Her experience in Mexico and in Salem led her to be part of the bilingual [...]
Teachers Meet Kindergarteners This Week At JumpStart Kinder 2019
More than half of Salem-Keizer's elementary schools welcomed kindergarten students to school this week for JumpStart Kinder 2019. For teachers like Cristina Alvarez and Instructional Assistant Maria Marquez at Kennedy Elementary, JumpStart Kinder week gives them a chance to meet their students and to begin developing relationships with their kids' parents. It also lets teachers evaluate their students' academic levels, and make plans on how to best serve them when kindergarten officially begins in mid-September. For students, it's a chance meet their teachers, to learn school routines and to make new friends. We're all looking forward to seeing these youngsters again when kindergarten officially begins on Wednesday, September 11! Kindergarten teacher Cristina Alvarez at Kennedy Elementary works with student on practicing numbers during JumpStart [...]
Salem-Keizer Public Schools Announces New 2019-22 Strategic Plan
As a district, our vision is for all students to graduate prepared for a successful life. To achieve that vision, district leadership worked collaboratively with administrators across the district to develop the new Strategic Plan for 2019-22. All these goals are centered around the district’s focus on achieving equitable student outcomes. We will ensure that all students master grade-level academic standards and attain the behavioral and social-emotional skills needed to thrive. Strategic Plan 2019-22 (English) Strategic Plan Plan 2019-22 (Spanish)
Salem-Keizer Public Schools Releases Updated Student Dress Code
The updates come after students, staff share feedback about dress codes and how they are enforced Last June, five Salem-Keizer Public Schools (SKPS) students provided public comments before the Board of Directors regarding the district’s dress code and requesting updates. Unbeknownst to them, district officials had already begun looking at the dress code and discussing updates with representatives from the student equity committee. With feedback from building administrators, SKPS has updated its dress code. Salem-Keizer Dress Code Salem-Keizer Public Schools expects that all students will dress in a way that is appropriate for the school day or for any school-sponsored event. Student dress choices should respect the intent to sustain a community that is inclusive of a diverse range of identities. The primary responsibility for [...]
JumpStart Kinder August 5-9, 2019
JumpStart Kinder is an opportunity for incoming kindergarteners at Title I schools to make friends and become familiar with school and classroom environments. JumpStart Kinder this summer is August 5-9, 2019. Breakfast and lunch are served for kids attending JumpStart Kinder. Please ensure your student is enrolled at your neighborhood school if you want them to participate in JumpStart Kinder. During the summer, schools are closed, so if your student is not yet enrolled in your neighborhood school, please complete the online enrollment process. Once the online registration process is completed, please call the Title I Department at 503-399-3353 to register your student for JumpStart Kinder. Although the JumpStart Kinder registration window has closed, there are spots available for JumpStart Kinder registration at the schools listed [...]
Waldo Middle School Groundbreaking August 15, 2019
Please join us as we celebrate the start of construction at Waldo Middle School on Thursday, August 15 at 10 a.m. as part of the 2018 Bond Program! RSVP for Waldo Groundbreaking Click image above to download the flyer
SKEF School Supply Drive Aug. 1-31, 2019
The annual Salem-Keizer Education Foundation School Supply Drive is once again happening from Aug. 1–31. Supply barrels are located in participating businesses and community organizations where you can drop off needed school supplies. Your generous donations support kids and teens who need a hand to get the school supplies they need to succeed in school. The School Supply Drive helps ensure every student, every day has the basic tools they need for success. The supplies collected are used to stock the School Supply Depot. The School Supply Depot is a sustainable resource open to every school, classroom, student program, and child in the Salem-Keizer community and beyond. It serves over 43,000 students, more than 66 schools, and is open year-round. With 70% of Salem-Keizer children [...]
CBOC Takes Tour of North Salem High School Construction
On Monday, July 22, the Community Bond Oversight Committee (CBOC) met with the district’s construction management team to take a site tour of construction at North Salem High School. Chief Operations Officer Mike Wolfe, Director of Maintenance & Construction Services Joel Smallwood and Director of Custodial & Property Services David Hughes answered questions about the 2018 bond program, and North’s construction project management team helped explain and answer questions about the construction projects happening in each area of the school. The tour was intended to inform CBOC of the progress of the bond program and assist in their regular report to the school board. For more information on the 2018 bond program, visit the bond projects page on the district website. For more information on [...]
Salem-Keizer Board of Directors Elects New Board Leadership
The Salem-Keizer Public Schools (SKPS) Board of Directors elected new board leadership during their regularly scheduled meeting on July 16, 2019. Marty Heyen was elected as the new board chairperson and Jesse Lippold was elected as the new board vice chairperson effective today. Both of these positions can be held for up to two years. Marty Heyen has served as a director on the school board since July of 2015 and represents Zone 2. Jesse Lippold has served as a director on the school board since July of 2017 and he represents Zone 5. “I am grateful for this opportunity to serve our school board directors,” said Heyen. “I look forward to working together to provide the best possible outcomes for our students and our [...]
Spotlight on Success: Salem-Keizer Music Programs 2018-19
This year marked the 33rd year of the OSAA State Music Championships. During that time, Salem Keizer students have been awarded more championships than all other 6A school districts combined. This is an accomplishment that demonstrates the outstanding teaching that is taking place throughout our district not only at the high school level, but at the middle school level as well, and begins in our elementary schools where all of our students are taught by trained music specialists beginning in kindergarten. At the June 2019 school board meeting, we honored and congratulated our fabulous music students and teachers and gave some highlights from their very busy school year. Representing the South Salem String Octet was Julie Chen. The octet placed 1st at the OSAA State [...]
Salem-Keizer Public Schools Seeking to Fill Positions in Transportation, Custodial and Maintenance Departments
More than 50 positions available with opportunities for same-day interviews Salem-Keizer Public Schools (SKPS) will be hosting a job fair on Monday, July 1 from 4 to 6 p.m. for open full-time and part-time positions in the district’s transportation, custodial and maintenance departments. Interested applicants are invited to meet with hiring managers and learn more about working for SKPS, the second-largest school district in the state of Oregon, which serves more than 42,000 students. The July 1 job fair will be held at Lancaster Professional Center, 2450 Lancaster Drive NE in Salem, Oregon. Education Support Professionals like bus drivers, custodians or maintenance workers impact students each day in their work by maintaining safe learning environments, building relationships and more. “I can’t thank you enough for [...]
Free Summer Meals Available Throughout the Community for Children and Teens Ages 1-18
Parents and guardians who utilized the Summer EBT for Children program last year should have recently received a letter from the Oregon Department of Human Services, outlining upcoming changes. Oregon did not receive funds to offer this program again in summer 2019, which means households will not receive these additional benefits this summer. Salem-Keizer Public Schools is proud to partner with our local agencies to provide free meals for children and teens aged 1-18 throughout our community all summer long. Available for breakfast and lunch, children receive free meals at 11 of our school sites as well as the KROC center and FACES Family Daycare and Literacy and Resource Center. Locations for Summer Meals in Salem and Keizer Starting June, 17 Auburn Elementary Eyre Elementary [...]
Salem-Keizer Public Schools Recognized for Exemplary Work from the National School Public Relations Association
SKPS received honors for bond and attendance campaigns, employee news video Salem-Keizer Public Schools (SKPS) received national recognition for its work in communications, public relations and community engagement, awarded by the National School Public Relations Association (NSPRA). Each year, NSPRA honors the best work in school communication through its annual awards. The SKPS Community Relations and Communications Department for SKPS was awarded two Golden Achievement Awards for its 2018 bond measure awareness campaign, and “Every Day 24J” the district’s awareness campaign to reduce chronic absenteeism. The $620 million bond measure that went before voters was the third largest in Oregon history. In a campaign led by Capital Construction Public Engagement Specialist Karma Krause, the Office of Community Relations and Communications reviewed public opinion research to [...]
Hallman Summer Library Program Gets Visit from Timbers U23 Soccer Players
From late June to early August, students at Hallman Elementary get the chance on Tuesday mornings to participate in the school's Summer Library Program. The youngsters don't just checkout books and go home. Instead, they get to do crafts and activities, along with enjoying snacks. Catholic Community Services of Salem is providing grant money to support this program. Hallman's Summer Reading Program was started last summer by fifth-grade teacher Krystal Bowman. This year, her colleague Jessica Hoffmeister, also a fifth-grade teacher at Hallman, is helping out too. Today, the students got a special treat when two members of the Portland Timbers U23 soccer team—goal keeper Mario Sequeira and midfielder Simon Fitch—along with Media Director Joanna Fields, dropped by to encourage the kids. The players [...]
More Than 400 Additional Students Attended School Regularly in 2018-19
Seventy-five percent of SKPS schools increased their attendance rates from the previous year In Salem-Keizer Public Schools (SKPS), 49 of the district’s 65 schools grew their attendance rates since the 2017-18 school year, and more than 400 additional students are considered to be regular attenders. At the beginning of the 2018-19 school year, SKPS launched “Every Day 24J” to raise awareness with students and families, schools, community organizations and local officials regarding chronic absenteeism. Since the start of the campaign, schools and community organizations have been collaborating to identify barriers to attendance for students across the district. The work has centered around connecting students and families to community resources, providing incentives for positive attendance trends and most importantly, building relationships with each and every student. [...]
Business Partner of the Month: Cobb Hudjohn and “Make Me Tees”
Our Business Partner of the Month is Cobb Hudjohn, nominated by Principal Rachael Harms from Chapman Hill Elementary School. Mr. Hudjohn, whose real name is Jacob, is known as “Cobb” wherever he goes. He is an entrepreneur and is owner/co-owner of several small businesses, including “Make Me Tees,” a Salem-based company that specializes in branding, custom design and printing of T-shirts. Principal Harms says that when he was a child, Cobb was THAT student every teacher dreads having in her class. Cobb says his sixth-grade teacher left the profession because of him. He was an unusual student who learned differently than other kids, which made school a struggle. Fast forward to today, and Cobb is now experiencing school anew through his son, a second-grader at [...]
Walker Middle School Prepares for the Summer with Campus Beautification Project
With summer break officially started, Walker Middle School knew just the way to prepare. Through collaboration with staff, students and community partners, Walker Middle School worked to beautify its campus with landscaping, painting, a new CTE display and even a newly constructed patio and benches out front. “It was a super fun day to serve and work alongside some great people in our community,” said Walker Middle School Principal Paul Myers. “I can’t thank Craig Oviatt and the Salem Dream Center, and our AVID and NJHS students enough for volunteering for this project!”
Three School Offices Relocate for Summer – Campuses Closed
Bond construction is in full swing at North Salem High School, McNary High School and Judson Middle School! The three schools' campuses, plus the Gubser Elementary School and Waldo Middle School campuses, will be construction zones during summer and will be closed to public use. Please see our Bond Construction Campus Closures Fact Sheet for more information. The school offices of McNary, North Salem and Judson are closed Friday, June 14 and Monday, June 17 and will re-open at temporary locations for the summer on Tuesday, June 18. The temporary summer locations and hours are listed below. Judson Middle School Summer office location: Crossler Middle School, 1155 Davis Rd. S, Salem 97306 Hours: Monday through Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Open through Tuesday, [...]
Salem-Keizer Public Schools Breaks Ground at Judson Middle School
In 2018, voters approved a $619.7 million bond to fund improvements for Salem-Keizer schools. Today, supporters of Judson Middle School, including local officials, school board members, community supporters and school staff, gathered to celebrate the ground breaking of one of the first five schools planned to begin construction under the 2018 bond program. Judson is the fourth school planned for construction under the 2018 bond program—after North Salem High School, Gubser Elementary School and McNary High School respectively. Judson will receive a cafeteria expansion, three new classrooms, four new science labs and a multipurpose fitness room. The school will also receive seismic improvements, library improvements, increased visibility of the main entry from the front office and much more. “As construction continues at the first five [...]
Salem-Keizer Board of Directors Adopts $1.2 Billion 2019-20 Budget
The budget includes more than $2 million in additions for staffing in behavior, counseling and social work The Salem-Keizer Public Schools (SKPS) Board of Directors voted 5-1 Tuesday to adopt a budget totaling $1,205,712,966. Director Paul Kyllo voted against it. Director Jim Green was absent. The budget includes more than $2 million in additions for staffing in behavior, counseling and social work. The budget also moves native language specialists and translators to 12-month employees to support programmatic work over the summer. The budget represents an additional $5 million from what was approved by the budget committee due to full funding of the High School Success Funds (formerly Measure 98). The budget was developed with four guiding priorities: Maintain current service level, including our previous investments [...]
Salem-Keizer Public Schools Board of Directors Approves First-Ever Proclamation Celebrating Pride Month
At its meeting Tuesday night, the Salem-Keizer Public Schools (SKPS) Board of Directors voted 6-0 to approve a proclamation recognizing June as Pride Month. Director Jim Green was absent. It was the first time a proclamation of its kind was passed in SKPS. Members of the McNary High Gay-Straight Alliance and the Salem Chapter of PFLAG were on hand to accept the proclamation. Seven members of the community spoke during public comment in support of the proclamation. LGBTQ youth are five times more likely to attempt suicide as compared to straight youth, but having a school with a gay-straight alliance reduces a child’s risk of attempting suicide by 50 percent. Students at schools with gay-straight alliances experience less bullying around gender non-conformity. Federal law [...]
Nearly 2,750 Students Graduate from Salem-Keizer Public Schools
The Class of 2019 was awarded more than $33 million in scholarships Last week, nearly 2,750 students completed high school in Salem and Keizer. The district’s traditional high schools and alternative programs awarded 2,610 diplomas – almost 300 more than the previous year – and 118 GEDs. In addition, the Class of 2019 was awarded $33,567,905 million in scholarships. Individual schools also saw great successes. At McKay High, 490 graduates earned $8.7 million in scholarships. Three students were named Ford Scholars, which covers 90 percent of unmet college costs. The Ford Scholars Program was created to assist students who otherwise would find it impossible, or at least very difficult, to obtain a college degree. Each year, 125 Ford Scholars are selected. In addition, 123 students [...]
Final Week of Regular Classes for 2018-19 School Year
Principal Cochrane and the Lamb Elementary School Patriots wish everyone a "Happy Last Monday" of the 2018-19 school year. Final day for elementary students is Wed., June 12 and for grades 6-11 its Thur., June 13. Here comes summer vacation kids, teens and teachers! ¡La Directora Cochrane y los Patriotas de la Escuela Primaria Lamb les desean a todos un "Feliz Último Lunes" del año escolar 2018-19! El último día para los estudiantes de primaria es el miércoles 12 de junio y para los grados 6-11 es el jueves 13 de junio. ¡Aquí vienen las vacaciones de verano para niños, adolescentes y maestros! Click Here for SKPS Calendars
Parade of Honor: North Salem and South Salem Seniors at Grant Community School 2019
Grant Community School hosted seniors in the Class of 2019 for a Parade of Honor today. Eighteen high school students returned to their former school, including 15 North Salem students and three from South Salem. After photos outside, seniors paraded through hallways filled with cheering students and teachers, led by Principal Marc Morris. Then they gathered in the library and answered questions from fifth-graders and enjoyed refreshments. Congratulations Class of 2019!
West Salem Seniors Return to Chapman Hill Elementary for Parade of Honor
West Salem seniors who attended Chapman Hill Elementary when they were young returned today for their Parade of Honor. First they visited several of their former elementary school teachers' classrooms and talked with students. Then they paraded through the hallways while the kids cheered them on. West Salem's graduation ceremony is Thursday, June 6 at 7:00 p.m. at Oregon State Fairgrounds Pavilion.
McKay Seniors Return to Scott Elementary for Parade of Honor 2019
McKay High School seniors who attended Scott Elementary as children returned to their former school today for their Parade of Honor. They walked through the hallways lined with current Scott students and staff who cheered them on. Congratulations Royal Scots!
Salem-Keizer African American/Black Student Graduation Celebration 2019
Graduating seniors and their families, local and statewide education and community organization dignitaries and clergy celebrated on Sunday, June 2, 2019, at a gathering held at Salem Mission Faith Ministries. The event was sponsored and organized by the Salem-Keizer Public Schools Office of Student Equity, Access, and Advancement. This celebration recognized African American/Black students in the Class of 2019. Master of Ceremonies Dr. Reginald Richardson, Sr. welcomed seniors and their families and other community members to the African American/Black Student Graduation on June 2, 2019. Dr. Richardson is the Vice President of the Salem-Keizer NAACP. Pastor E.D. Mondainé, President of the Portland NAACP, led those gathered in a joyful rendition of the song "Lift Every Voice and Sing" at the beginning [...]
Salem-Keizer Public Schools Welcomes New Leadership Around the District
New district, principal and assistant principal hires, transitions for SKPS schools The 2019-20 school year brings exciting transitions in leadership for Salem-Keizer Public Schools (SKPS). Five schools, including Optimum Learning Environments Charter School will see new principals; and 11 schools will have new assistant principals. New SKPS leadership for the 2019-20 school year District Level | Principal Coach Linda Dougherty, previously principal at Battle Creek Elementary Beginning in the 2019-20 academic year, Linda Dougherty will begin a new role as a principal coach at the district level. Dougherty brings 20 years of experience with the district, most recently serving as principal at Battle Creek Elementary. As a principal coach, Dougherty will support the professional growth goals set collaboratively with principals and level directors focused on [...]
Houck Family Literacy Night May 2019
It was an evening of food, fun and books at Houck Middle School's Family Literacy Night. "Community" was the key word, with over a dozen community partners sharing in the celebration on Thursday, May 30, 2019. Live music and traditional dancing provided the entertainment at Houck Middle School's annual Family Literacy Night. Live music and traditional dancing provided the entertainment at Houck Middle School's annual Family Literacy Night. Live music and traditional dancing provided the entertainment at Houck Middle School's annual Family Literacy Night. Live music and traditional dancing provided the entertainment at Houck Middle School's annual Family Literacy Night. Pictured from left: Language Arts and AVID teacher Paul Johnson, Principal Suzanne Leonard, and Language [...]
Site Preparation for Bond Construction Begins at McNary High School on Monday, June 3
Improvements funded by the 2018 bond are set to begin early at McNary High School! Salem-Keizer’s construction firm on the McNary project, Pence Construction, is ready to move forward with work on the south part of the campus starting Monday, June 3, 2019. Earth movers will start preparing the site of the current soccer and junior varsity softball fields to become the location for the replacement tennis courts, temporary portable classrooms and temporary student parking lot. The tennis courts need to be relocated to accommodate the new classroom addition planned for the north side of the main building. The temporary portable classrooms will provide classroom space for students during the next school year while portions of the main school building are unavailable due to construction. [...]
Spotlight on Success: West Salem Wins Chemeketa Regional Math Contest
More than 130 students from all six of our traditional high schools, plus our Early College High School, along with teams from Blanchet, Central, Chemawa, Dallas, Salem Academy, Silverton, and Regis St Mary, competed in the 38th Annual Chemeketa Regional High School Math Competition on April 12, 2019, at Chemeketa Community College. The contest is organized by Wayne Barber, math professor at Chemeketa Community College. More than 25 volunteers, including the coaches from each high school, facilitate the events. Similar competitions are held throughout Oregon at other community colleges, and serve as the qualifier for the Oregon Invitational Mathematics Tournament state competition. Teams are organized by math level, and consist of two students for each of five levels: Algebra, Geometry, Algebra 2, Pre-Calculus, Calculus. The [...]
Spotlight on Success: Math Teams from Straub and Waldo Middle Schools
Ninety seventh- and eighth-grade students from seven of our middle schools, along with teams from Corvallis and Woodburn, competed in the 36th annual Pentagames Middle School Math Contest earlier this month at Straub Middle School. The Pentagames is organized by volunteer teachers and retired teachers from the Willamette Valley. Straub was one of seven sites across Oregon holding a Pentagames competition on May 3, 2019, and more than 25 volunteers, including 10 Straub AVID 8 students, were on site to facilitate the events on the day of the competition. A Pentagames team consists of three seventh-grade math students, three eighth-grade math students, and three Algebra/Open math students. Students compete in five events that challenge their mathematics knowledge in a variety of formats, both team and [...]
You’re Invited to the Judson Middle Groundbreaking Event! RSVP Requested
The time has come to officially kick off construction at Judson Middle School. The school is located at 4512 Jones Road SE in Salem. The groundbreaking ceremony will take place on Friday, June 14 at 10 a.m., RAIN or SHINE! Attendees will park in the church parking lot off of Jones Road, directly across from the school. Judson's main entrance and exit will be closed for the event. Should you have any questions, please contact 503-399-3038. Click here to RSVP Judson Groundbreaking invite
Register Your Child For Preschool Today
Salem-Keizer Early Childhood programs is now accepting applications. Our programs provide a safe and nurturing environment for children ages 3 to 5 and a variety of pre-school options for all families to help them on the road to success. If your child will be three on or before September 10th he or she will be eligible for many of our pre-school programs. Apply today and give your child and family a head start. For more information or to request an application please call (503) 399-5510 or visit our website at this link. Classes fill up quickly. Apply now! El programa de educacion temprana de Salem -Keizer ya esta aceptando aplicaciones. Nuestro programa provee un ambiente suguro y educativo a ninos de edad [...]
ASK ESP Senior Scholarships 2019
Here are the winners of ASK ESP $500 scholarships for high school seniors graduating in the Class of 2019. Any ASK ESP members who have a relative who is a high school senior can apply each year. This year there were eight applications for the three scholarships. A team of four ASK ESP members selected the winners. Madeleine O'Donnell from South Salem High School is pictured with her mother Andrea O'Donnell, who works at Pringle Elementary as an Instructional Assistant. Madeleine will be attending Oregon State University and plans to study Biological Health Sciences. Claire Adams from South Salem High School is pictured with her mother Barb Adams, who works at Chavez Elementary as an Instructional Assistant, and her father Shawn Adams who is a [...]