Celebrating Innovation, Collaboration, and a Busy Spring Season

Last week provided two outstanding examples of what makes McKenzie schools and our broader educational community so special: students proudly sharing their learning and staff coming together to grow professionally.

Our McKenzie Technology Showcase Night was a tremendous success. Families and community members had the opportunity to see firsthand the creativity, problem-solving, and technical skills our students have been developing throughout the year. From digital projects to interactive technology demonstrations, students did an excellent job showcasing their efforts and explaining their learning. Attendance for the event was strong, and it was exciting to see so many families engaging with and celebrating student work. Events like this highlight the power of giving students authentic opportunities to share their learning, build confidence, and take pride in their accomplishments.

Last week also marked the conclusion of this year’s Lane Rural District Collaborative Professional Development initiative. Staff from the five participating districts Blachly, Crow, Mapleton, Marcola, and McKenzie gathered at Marcola School District for the final session of the year. Throughout the year, educators have worked together in professional learning communities focused on collaboration, strengthening instructional practices, and supporting student success in rural schools.

The final session provided staff with time to reflect on the progress and learning that took place throughout the year before transitioning into a fun and celebratory afternoon of team-based games and activities. It was a great way to recognize the hard work of educators across all five districts and celebrate the success of this collaborative initiative. In small rural districts, opportunities for job-alike collaboration are especially valuable, and we are grateful for the partnerships that help make this work possible.

As the busy spring season continues, this week brings another full schedule both on and off campus. State testing also continues, with students in grades 7, 8, and 11 joining elementary students in participating this week. We appreciate the support families continue to provide by helping students arrive rested, prepared, and ready to do their best.

On Monday, we take another important step toward Outdoor School with a Parent Information Meeting at 4:30 p.m. Also Monday, the district and Classified Association will continue the collective bargaining process with a meeting at 4:30 p.m. in the District Office.

On Tuesday, the High School Track Team travels to St. Paul for the Austin Smith Throwers Invite, with events beginning at 3:00 p.m.

Wednesday, the 5th and 6th grade band students will travel to Triangle Lake for a performance opportunity.

On Thursday, the high school track team will host the West Cascade Classic at the McKenzie Community Track and Field. Events begin at 3:00 p.m., and we look forward to welcoming athletes and spectators from across the region.

On Friday, students enrolled in AP Environmental Science will take their AP Exam beginning at 8:00 a.m. We wish them the best as they demonstrate the knowledge and skills they have developed throughout the year. A select group of middle school track athletes will also travel to Corvallis to compete in the Meet of Champions.

Finally, on Saturday, the Middle School Track Team will host the Mountain West League Middle School District Championships at the McKenzie Community Track and Field, with events beginning at 10:00 a.m. Saturday evening, High School Prom will be held at the Vida Community Center beginning at 8:00 p.m.

Thank you to our students, staff, families, and community members for continuing to make McKenzie a place where learning, collaboration, and student success are celebrated every day.