Midyear Goals: Attendance, Engagement, and Planning for the Future

As we head into the second semester, this point in the school year is a great moment for students, families, and schools to pause, reset, and refocus Midyear goal setting doesn’t require sweeping changes; often, the most powerful progress comes from strengthening daily habits that support learning, connection, and well-being.

One of the most important habits we can strengthen together is attendance. Across McKenzie School District, our current regular attender rate is 63%, which is well below the state goal of 92%. While many students are coming to school consistently, this number also tells us there is real opportunity for improvement during the second half of the year. We are encouraged by bright spots in our kindergarten and third grade classes that are currently at 84% regular attendance. These students are building a strong foundation for a bright future, and it shows what’s possible when strong routines take hold.

Attendance matters because it is closely tied to student success. Missing just 1.5 days per month places a student at risk of being chronically absent, and those missed days quickly add up. As families set midyear goals, making school attendance a priority whenever students are healthy and able is one of the most effective ways to support learning. When challenges arise, communication with the school helps us work together to find solutions.

In addition to academic and attendance goals, students continue to benefit from participation in athletics and school activities that build teamwork, responsibility, and school pride. This week brings several chances to cheer on our Eagles.

On Monday, February 2, Middle School Boys Basketball hosts Eddyville at 4:30 p.m. On Tuesday, February 3, High School teams host Riddle, with JV boys at 4:00 p.m., boys varsity at 5:30 p.m., and girls varsity at 7:00 p.m. On Thursday, February 5, High School teams travel to Eddyville, with games beginning at 4:30 p.m. Friday, February 6, is a Teacher Professional Development Day, with our Friday Program in session. On Saturday, February 7th, High School teams play host to Oakridge with JV boys at 2:00 p.m., varsity girls at 3:30pm and varsity boys at 5: 00 p.m.

Many community members have also asked thoughtful questions about school budgets, especially as neighboring districts face reductions. Across Lane County, districts like Eugene School District 4J, Springfield Public Schools, and South Lane School District are working through declining enrollment, higher personnel and benefit costs, and the end of one-time federal funds. At this time, McKenzie School District is not experiencing a midyear budget shortfall and is not implementing midyear staffing reductions. Our budget remains balanced despite facing similar external pressures.

Looking ahead, we are mindful that the state Wildfire Affected School Grants will expire at the end of the current school year. If our enrollment does not grow, we may need to make thoughtful plans and possible adjustments for the next fiscal year. As a proactive step, the district has launched an outreach effort to attract new students, both on campus and through McKenzie’s UpRiver online program. Our administration will continue to watch enrollment and revenue trends closely and keep the Board and our community updated as we move into the next budget cycle.

As we move through the second half of the year, I am grateful for the commitment of our students, staff, families, and community. With clear midyear goals, strong attendance, and thoughtful planning, we are well positioned to finish the year strong and prepare responsibly for the future.