Strengths of Our District

There’s a lot to be proud of in the Canby School District. We have a new superintendent who is engaged and committed to transparency and working to build trust by keeping the community informed and involved in the district’s work.

It’s clear that we have a community of people who genuinely care - parents, educators, and community members who are willing to put in the time and effort to support our students. This strong foundation of collaboration and shared dedication is essential as we work toward continuous improvement and greater success for all students.

Where We Can Improve

In order to ensure sustained progress, it's critical that we set SMART goals (goals that are specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time bound) that we can use to track and evaluate outcomes. While the district’s strategic plan is a step in the right direction, there’s an opportunity to go further by establishing concrete performance targets. For example, increasing reading proficiency of third graders from 41% to __% by 2029. These goals should include those set by the ODE, such as increasing on time graduation rates to 90% by 2027, but should also be specific to our district's individual needs. Once the goals are established, a structured reporting schedule would be put in place, accompanied by an annual accountability report that highlights progress both district wide and at the individual school level. The final step in this process is ensuring that this information is effectively communicated to the community. Parents shouldn’t have to attend a school board meeting or dig through the Oregon Online Report Card to understand how our district is performing. Instead, these updates should be readily available and delivered through multiple avenues—such as newsletters, parent teacher conferences, and the district website. When families and educators stay informed and actively engaged, they are better equipped to support student achievement and contribute to a unified vision for success.

We need to strengthen support for parents by finding new ways to equip them with the tools and resources they need to help their children succeed. Parents play a critical role in their child’s education, and providing them with accessible, practical resources can make a significant difference in student outcomes. Whether it’s offering workshops, online tools, or clear guidance on how to support learning at home, we need to empower families to be active partners in their child’s education.

On the Horizon

As our school district adopts new curriculum, it's crucial that we pay close attention to the quality of instruction in our classrooms. While updating the curriculum is an essential step, it’s equally important to ensure that teachers are equipped with the resources, training, and ongoing support they need to effectively implement the new materials. The school board must work closely with the superintendent to confirm that our educators have the necessary tools to succeed. Teachers are at the heart of student success, and providing them with the support they need not only enhances their ability to teach but also directly impacts the learning outcomes for students. By prioritizing support for our educators in partnership with the superintendent, we can ensure that the new curriculum translates into meaningful learning experiences for all students.

As a member of the budget committee, I have gained a deep understanding of the fiscal challenges our district is currently facing, including the budget deficit. With the uncertainty surrounding PERS and fluctuating state funding, we may be faced with even tougher decisions in the coming years. It’s crucial that we approach these challenges with careful planning and transparency, making strategic choices about how we allocate resources. I am committed to ensuring that every dollar is spent wisely, with a clear focus on maximizing the impact on student outcomes. By prioritizing fiscal responsibility and transparency, we can navigate these tough times while continuing to support the success of every student in our district.