MHS teacher is a finalist for Excellence in Education award

Marcia Latta — Fri, 17 May 2013 19:28:07 +0000

MHS Social Studies teacher Francesca Morrison is a finalist for the OnPoint Prize for Excellence in Education contest. The winner will be announced on May 22.

Read one of Francesca's award essays.

Francesca received the following announcement from OnPoint this week.

Francesca,

Fourth Annual Summer STEM Camp for Girls

Marcia Latta — Wed, 15 May 2013 14:15:40 +0000

Registration is open for the middle school girls' Science, Technology, Engineering and Math camp at Evergreen Space Museum. The fourth annual STEM camp will run June 17-20 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

McMinnville Rotary Club honors exceptional teachers

Marcia Latta — Sat, 11 May 2013 04:14:34 +0000

On May 10, McMinnville Rotary Club honored several McMinnville teachers for exceptional service to young people.

Rotary Teachers of the Year are selected by the school district based on a staff vote at each school.

The following teachers were introduced by his or her school principal to receive the award.

Pictured from left:

Wascher elementary students raise money, win bet with principal

Marcia Latta — Fri, 10 May 2013 05:30:45 +0000

Story and photo by Debbie Gooch, Wascher Elementary School.

I thought you might like to meet Wascher Elementary School's new superhero!

The goal was to raise $5,000 during the jog-a-thon this year. If the kids were able to meet the goal, our principal, Mr. Crain, said he would dress up in Superman footie pajamas for a school assembly. Unfortunately, the kids came up $400 short....they were heartbroken. But Superman did not dissappoint. Truth, Justice, and the American way prevailed!

Students test science theories at District Science Expo

Marcia Latta — Wed, 08 May 2013 04:00:33 +0000

The best student scientific inquiry in the District was on display at the annual McMinnville School District Science Expo at Evergreen Aviation Museum on Friday, May 3. Eighty students in kindergarten through eighth grade showed their winning science projects. The final judging was done by science education students from Linfield College and district staff members.

See the judging criteria.

National Teacher Appreciation Week is May 6-10. Thank you, teachers!

Marcia Latta — Mon, 06 May 2013 05:04:16 +0000

The important contribution that teachers make to students is recognized officially this week as part of Teacher Appreciation Week. Join students, parents, community members and staff in thanking a teacher for all they do every day.

The official school board proclamation reads:

WHEREAS, today's teachers mold our future citizens through their guidance and education, and

Kindergarten registration is May 9

Marcia Latta — Thu, 02 May 2013 05:38:42 +0000

Parents of children entering kindergarten this fall may register them for school next week. Kindergarten registration will take place at each elementary school on Thursday, May 9, from 3 to 6:30 p.m.

High school FFA students place third in state floriculture competition

Marcia Latta — Mon, 29 Apr 2013 18:03:44 +0000

Photo and story by FFA Advisor Kerry Naylor.

McMinnville High School FFA students competed in the State FFA Floriculture contest in Phoenix, OR. The team placed third.

Members Maggie Ng, Dennis Ng, Tess Scott and Alec DeMarco competed in plant identification, general knowledge test, problem solving, floral arranging, pest and disorders, handling a customer complaint, tool identification, asexual propagation and team activity events.

Middle school students build chicken coops for Casa Verde event

Marcia Latta — Thu, 25 Apr 2013 22:02:15 +0000

Story and photos by David Larson.

April 22-27 is Volunteer Recognition Week

Marcia Latta — Tue, 23 Apr 2013 19:19:00 +0000

Mike McClure, pictured, is a regular volunteer at Grandhaven Elementary School. He does a variety of volunteer work at the school. Here, he greets visitors and monitors the school entrance to assist with school security.

The School Board is recognizing school volunteers this week. They have proclaimed April 22-27 School Volunteer Recognition Week.

MHS Academic and Activities Night is May 1

Marcia Latta — Mon, 22 Apr 2013 21:45:58 +0000

Images and information by Christie Giddings.

McMinnville High School will host an Academic and Activities Night on Wednesday, May 1, from 6 - 8:30 p.m.

Dana Libonati, MHS music teacher, earns Grammy nomination

Marcia Latta — Fri, 19 Apr 2013 14:35:10 +0000

MHS choir director Dana Libonati has been nominated for the first annual GRAMMY Music Educator Award.

The new award will be presented during GRAMMY week 2014. The winner will be selected from 10 finalists recognized for their impact on students' lives.

Patton students awarded grand prize in art and writing contest

Marcia Latta — Wed, 17 Apr 2013 14:18:08 +0000

Story by Kellie Berger. Photo by Scott Phoenix

Eight students from Patton Middle School were named winners in the Sala Kryszek Art and Writing contest.

Students win Friends of McMinnville Public Library Essay Contest

Marcia Latta — Mon, 15 Apr 2013 20:22:19 +0000

Five students from Columbus Elementary School and one student from Grandhaven Elementary school submitted winning essays in the Friends of McMinnville Public Library Essay Contest for students in grades 2 - 5.

See student photos and winning essays.

Second- and Third-Grade Division

First place: Cailin, Columbus: Badger's Bad Mood

Second place: T.J., Columbus: Mythbusters

Memorial team finishes in final four of state Battle of the Books contest

Marcia Latta — Mon, 15 Apr 2013 16:40:36 +0000

Update from Memorial Principal Deborah Weiner:

The Memorial Battle of the Books team competed at the State Finals on Saturday and made it through Round 1 to Sweet 16 to Great 8 to Final 4! (We didn't make it to the semi-finals.) Congratulations to everyone who got us to the TOP 4 in the STATE! Please congratulate Annie, Kaylani, Jordan B. & Lane. They are amazing!

Columbus fourth grader wins regional spelling contest

Marcia Latta — Fri, 12 Apr 2013 18:53:12 +0000

News and photo by Columbus Elementary School Principal Kathi Fowler.

MHS FFA students took top scores at two recent competitions

Marcia Latta — Wed, 10 Apr 2013 17:45:09 +0000

Photos and story by FFA Advisor Kerry Naylor.

MHS FFA students took top scores at two recent competitions

Nursery:

McMinnville High School FFA competed in and took first place in the Lower Willamette District FFA Nursery Contest held at Dayton High School.

Science education newsletter features McMinnville science program

Marcia Latta — Sun, 07 Apr 2013 22:23:54 +0000

McMinnville school district has an excellent science curriculum for students. It is based on the Full Option Science System (FOSS) for grades K-8. FOSS is a research-based science curriculum developed at the University of California at Berkeley. The instruction uses inquiry-based learning, hands-on learning, student-to-student interaction and writing.

The District's program was featured in the FOSS spring 2013 newsletter.

Learn about MHS pathway programs at City Club presentation

Marcia Latta — Tue, 02 Apr 2013 16:16:18 +0000

McMinnville High School students have the opportunity to learn about and begin training for careers through the high school pathway program.

Learn about the school pathway program at the McMinnville City Club on April 9 at the McMinnville Grand Ballroom. The presentation starts at 11:45 a.m.

For more information or to make a reservation for the April 9 program, see the City Club flyer.

MHS students hear lesson about safe driving from national speaker and crash survivor

Marcia Latta — Sat, 30 Mar 2013 22:34:01 +0000

Photos and story by Kerrie Savage.

Oregonian features MHS junior at NW Youth Careers Expo

Marcia Latta — Mon, 25 Mar 2013 05:26:07 +0000

Photo by Faith Cathcart, The Oregonian.

High school students from schools around the state participated in a jobs fair at the Oregon Convention Center on March 19. Students had the opportunity to learn about possible careers, talk to companies about job skills and try their hands at a variety of job-related tasks at the annual NW Youth Careers Expo in Portland.

See the 2013-14 school year calendar

Marcia Latta — Thu, 21 Mar 2013 23:03:19 +0000

The school board recently approved the calendar for the 2013-14 school year, which includes all school breaks and inservice days.

2013-14 School Calendar

Irish Grizzlies fifth-grade girls score big at basketball tournaments

Marcia Latta — Wed, 20 Mar 2013 04:39:33 +0000

Photo and story by Christina McMillan. Pictured: Back row, from left, Kylee Arzner, Grace Bliven, Delaney Kizer (Memorial), Payton Burke (Grandhaven), Megan Bomberger, Emmie Angevine, Gretchen Sorenson (Memorial); on floor, from left, Ellen McMillan and Emily Schorzman (Memorial).

What's happening in McMinnville Schools? Follow Superintendent Russell's Twitter feed

Marcia Latta — Fri, 15 Mar 2013 19:25:52 +0000

Want to find out more about McMinnville programs, staff and students? Follow the superintendent's new Twitter feed. She tweets about activities and programs happening in the District. You can also see links to video updates and staff interviews.

Follow Supterintendent Maryalice Russell on Twitter:

twitter.com/SuptRussell_MSD

Fifth-grade girls win championship basketball game

Marcia Latta — Thu, 14 Mar 2013 04:14:13 +0000

Photo from NewsRegister.com.

The fifth-grade McMinnville Basketball Association (MBA) girls' basketball team won the state championship last weekend against the Shockwaves, a team from South Salem. The game was held in Redmond.

The MBA team is coached by Nile Seibel and Mike Fetch. All of the girls attend McMinnville Schools.

Superintendent Russell's Budget Update

Marcia Latta — Wed, 13 Mar 2013 03:33:56 +0000

Superintendent Maryalice Russell provided a budget update last week. She filmed a video interview about potential budget scenarios for the McMinnville School District based on possible funding levels under discussion at the Legislature.

Click here to see the video if you are viewing from a mobile device.

Third graders learn survival swimming skills at McMinnville Aquatic Center

Marcia Latta — Mon, 11 Mar 2013 04:59:50 +0000

Each year, McMinnville third graders learn an important life skill. They spend a week at the McMinnville Aquatic Center learning to swim.

All elementary schools bring students to the pool for an hour-long lesson. For some students, it's a first exposure to water. For others, it's a chance to practice skills and enjoy the pool.

The program is a partnership between the City of McMinnville and the District.

Thank you, Classified Staff!

Marcia Latta — Thu, 07 Mar 2013 18:15:37 +0000

This week is Classified Employee Week. We are honoring and recognizing the dedicated support staff who serve our students, schools and district.

Author/filmmaker visit entertains, teaches elementary students about sharks

Marcia Latta — Mon, 04 Mar 2013 16:21:14 +0000

In February, students at Buel and Memorial elementary schools enjoyed a fact-filled, fun presentation about sharks by sister/brother educational team Laura and Rob Sams. The siblings started Sisbro Studios, which focuses on providing creative educational programs about the natural world.

MHS student represents Boy Scouts in Washington, D.C.

Marcia Latta — Fri, 01 Mar 2013 05:33:47 +0000

Photo by Boy Scouts of America. Story by News-Register staff.

McMinnville High School student Aaron Clifton is part of a team that presented Boy Scouts of America’s annual report in Washington, D.C., last weekend.

He and seven other Boy Scouts from across the nation spoke to U.S. officials during their Feb. 23-28 visit to the capital. They discussed scouting’s achievements during 2012.

MHS athletes score at state championship events

Marcia Latta — Tue, 26 Feb 2013 15:58:40 +0000

MHS student athletes had outstanding performances in state events this month. The following are results for cheer, wrestling and swimming competitions.

MHS Cheer Team

Photo by Pete Christopher, OregonLive.com

Superintendent Russell congratulates Natl. Supt. of the Year winner

Marcia Latta — Fri, 22 Feb 2013 06:00:45 +0000

Superintendent Maryalice Russell was one of four finalists for the National Superintendent of the Year Award. During an awards ceremny on Feb. 21, Mark Edwards, Superintendent of Mooresville School District in North Carolina, was announced the winner.

Superintendent Russell sends her congratulations to Edwards.

MHS culinary students featured in Oregonian story

Marcia Latta — Tue, 19 Feb 2013 22:27:16 +0000

Photo by Motoya Nakamura, story by Betsy Hammond, The Oregonian

Four MHS student chefs-in-training were recently featured in a Feb. 16 story on OregonLive.com:

Oregon student chefs cook up seriously sophisticated meals, with a little help from pros

EASA students win award to learn helicopter pilot skills from Evergreen

Marcia Latta — Thu, 14 Feb 2013 15:08:07 +0000

Story and photo by Michael Roberson, MHS/EASA Science and Mathematics.

Immunization exclusion day is next week

Marcia Latta — Tue, 12 Feb 2013 15:06:49 +0000

All students must meet vaccination requirements by Feb. 20. Any student who is not up to date on shots by that deadline will not be able to attend school.

There is still time to get required vaccinations. Please check your child's immunization records. Your child's physician can tell you if your child has any missing vaccinations. You can also check this list of required vaccines.

Middle school students perform in regional honor concert

Marcia Latta — Mon, 11 Feb 2013 17:27:14 +0000

Story and photo by Duniway Middle School Music Director Marc Dana.

Volunteers needed for spring and fall robotics teams

Marcia Latta — Fri, 08 Feb 2013 16:49:51 +0000

Schools are seeking parent, community and staff volunteers to coach upcoming Lego Robotics teams.

Western Oregon Waste 2013 Student Calendar Contest Winners

Marcia Latta — Wed, 06 Feb 2013 20:39:37 +0000

Last month, Western Oregon Waste announced the winners of their annual student poster contest. The winning entries are published in a calendar printed by Yamhill County.

The contest is open to students in Yamhill County schools. Prizes are awarded to students at each grade level. Nine students from Memorial Elementary School and Patton Middle School won awards. Their art, pictured below, is featured in the 2013 calendar. The cover art (pictured above) is by Alyssa, a seventh grader at Patton.

District nutrition staff will join dietary panel at community health event

Marcia Latta — Mon, 04 Feb 2013 22:46:18 +0000

Local health and nutrition experts will share tips for healthier lifestyle choices at a free presentation on Saturday, Feb. 9.

Another achievement: MHS has Oregon's fifth highest large-school graduation rate

Marcia Latta — Fri, 01 Feb 2013 17:30:13 +0000

The Oregon Department of Education recently released state graduation rates. McMinnville High School has a 77% on-time graduation rate for the class of 2012, compared to the state rate of 68%.

Students test reading skills in Battle of the Books competition

Marcia Latta — Wed, 30 Jan 2013 21:14:28 +0000

The 2013 Oregon Battle of the Books competition has started. Students will test their reading skills against their peers in school battles around the district through February. The winning school teams will battle each other in a district competition for the right to move on to regionals in March and possibly a state battle in April.

The Oregon Battle of the Books is a statewide voluntary reading motivation and comprehension program sponsored by the Oregon Association of School Libraries.

MHS sophomore travels to Korea for Special Olympics youth summit

Marcia Latta — Fri, 25 Jan 2013 06:09:14 +0000

McMinnville High School sophomore Caitlynn Cantrell has been chosen to represent Oregon at the 2013 Special Olympics’ Global Youth Activation Summit in Pyeongchang, Korea.

Buel, Grandhaven and Memorial share best practices at Model Schools visitation

Marcia Latta — Tue, 22 Jan 2013 05:48:47 +0000

Last week the District's three Oregon Model Schools shared their best practices with more than 88 educators from 16 different school districts during the Model School Visitation day.

Groups of visiting educators spent the morning touring classrooms and programs at two of the three schools. During lunch, they listened to a panel discussion that included Kyra Donovan, Cathy Carnahan, Pattie Waltz and Tony Vicknair.

Catch the lastest news on the MHS student broadcast

Marcia Latta — Fri, 18 Jan 2013 22:58:43 +0000

MHS broadcast students aired their second live newscast this week. The production is part of the school's SOAR program, a partnership with Evergreen Aviation Museum for broadcast and publishing students.

Although the show aired live, it is available to view on the MHS Bruin, the student news site. The next broadcast is scheduled for Jan. 24 at 9:30 a.m.

January is School Board Recognition Month

Marcia Latta — Wed, 16 Jan 2013 14:48:04 +0000

Thank you, School Board Members, for all of the work you do for McMinnville students!

At the School Board meeting on Jan. 14, Superintendent Maryalice Russell read the following proclamation to honor the School Board during School Board Recognition Month:

WHEREAS, school boards create a vision for what students should know and be able to do;

WHEREAS, school boards establish clear standards for student performance;

WHEREAS, school boards ensure that student assessments are tied to established standards;

District invites interested districts to visit Model Schools

Marcia Latta — Mon, 14 Jan 2013 04:59:14 +0000

Grandhaven, Memorial and Sue Buel elementary schools received Oregon Model School designations in August. Model schools serve as examples of effective educational practices that other schools could adopt.

Swingin on a Star fundraiser supports musical programs

Marcia Latta — Wed, 09 Jan 2013 15:22:15 +0000

The annual MHS jazz night fundraiser, Swingin' on a Star, is scheduled for Jan. 19 from 6 – 8:30 p.m. at the McMinnville Community Center. Proceeds will benefit McMinnville school music programs.

For more information, see the flyer or email machighmusicboosters [at] yahoo [dot] com (McMinnville Music Boosters).

Superintendent Russell is a National Superintendent of the Year finalist!

Marcia Latta — Thu, 03 Jan 2013 21:22:51 +0000

Superintendent Maryalice Russell has been selected as one of four finalists for the National Superintendent of the Year award by the American Association of School Administrators.

The award honors the leadership and exceptional contributions to education of public school superintendents. She will travel to Washington, D.C., next week for interviews. The winner will be announced on Feb. 21 at the National Conference of Education in Los Angeles, Calif.

The following is from the press release announcing the finalists:

Patton student wins honorable mention in state holiday card contest

Marcia Latta — Wed, 19 Dec 2012 15:38:40 +0000

This snowman art is by Vincenzo (Victor) Gonzales, a Patton Middle School seventh grader, who won honorable mention in the Oregon Education Investment Board Holiday Card Contest. Victor was honored at a meeting at West Salem High School on Dec. 11 and was personally congratulated by Governor Kitzhaber. His card was published on the OEIB's Twitter account (@ORLearns).

Update about School Safety

Marcia Latta — Mon, 17 Dec 2012 04:03:11 +0000

Read a joint press release update by McMinnville School District and the McMinnville Police Department

The following is a safe schools response from Superintendent Maryalice Russell:

All of us send our heartfelt wishes to those personally involved in the tragedy in Connecticut and hope the families find strength to heal.

MHS students air live TV broadcast this morning

Marcia Latta — Fri, 14 Dec 2012 15:05:32 +0000

Last January MHS Bruin students interested in video production formed a partnership with Evergreen Museum called SOAR Productions that produces a television show for the museum called Take Flight. The shows have been aired on the IMAX Theatre at Evergreen and the McMinnville Community Media channel.

Today, SOAR aired its first live streaming broadcast.

Patton drama students perform bilingual play

Marcia Latta — Wed, 12 Dec 2012 18:43:57 +0000

Story and photo by Patton Middle School Drama Director Emily Ward.

Pictured: Nick Howard (left) plays Duende a silly sprite that gives Pedro, Emmy Martin (right), the magic shoes (Los Zapatos Magicos).

Patton Middle School drama students proudly presents their very first bilingual production, Los Zapatos Magicos de Pedro (Pedro’s Magic Shoes) by Ric Averill.

Duniway student selected for state student council board

Marcia Latta — Mon, 10 Dec 2012 15:00:03 +0000

Congratulations to Duniway eighth grader Maria Martinez for her appointment to the Executive Board of the Oregon Association of Student Councils (OASC). Maria will serve a one-year term with 10 other youth board members and 10 adult board members from around the state.

Read the OASC press release.

McMinnville robotics team wins at first tournament

Marcia Latta — Wed, 05 Dec 2012 14:13:35 +0000

Story and photo by mike [dot] knutz [at] oregonstate [dot] edu (Mike Knutz), Oregon State University Extension Service.

The FIRST LEGO League regional tournament was held Saturday and Sunday, Dec. 1 and 2, at the Evergreen Space Museum. Fourteen of the thirty-six teams that competed were 4-H teams, nine of which were 4-H afterschool Robotics teams from the McMinnville School District.

Bilingual book club boosts reading and language skills

Marcia Latta — Mon, 03 Dec 2012 15:33:36 +0000

Photo by Carolyn Rima.

Four students from each of the District's six elementary schools are in a bilingual book club this year at the McMinnville Public Library.

District is federal Race to the Top finalist

Marcia Latta — Wed, 28 Nov 2012 18:44:35 +0000

The McMinnville School District is one of 61 finalists out of 371 applications for a federal Race to the Top grant award. There were 11 districts from around the state that applied individually or as a group for the $400 million grant program. McMinnville is the only Oregon district to make it to the final selection phase.

The U.S. Department of Education will name 15-25 winners by the end of the year to receive grant awards ranging from $5 million to $40 million.

FFA students hold annual holiday greenery sale

Marcia Latta — Mon, 26 Nov 2012 17:46:46 +0000

Story and photo by MHS FFA Advisor Kerry Naylor.

The annual MHS holiday sale starts this week. Advanced Horticultural students are holding their annual student sale to raise funds for FFA programs and competitions. Order forms are available for holiday wreaths, candle arrangements and swags.

Elementary robotics teams ready for competition

Marcia Latta — Fri, 16 Nov 2012 20:37:48 +0000

Last week, robotics teams from five McMinnville elementary schools tested their programming and robot-building skills at at practice night at Buel Elementary School. Students ran a test course on the competition table, shared their Senior Solutions Project and practiced teamwork skills.

The teams will compete in an Oregon Robotics Tournament qualifying competition on Dec. 1.

There are 10 teams from five schools:

BLT, Buel Elementary School

Fireball Turnaround, Buel Elementary School

Nov. 11-17 is American Education Week

Marcia Latta — Wed, 14 Nov 2012 19:38:19 +0000

The McMinnville School Board recognizes November 11-17, 2012, as American Education Week with the following proclamation:

WHEREAS, public schools are the backbone of our democracy, providing young people with the tools they need to maintain our nation's precious values of freedom, civility and equality; and

Wascher fifth graders see middle school life during tour of Patton Middle School

Marcia Latta — Fri, 09 Nov 2012 18:41:49 +0000

Story and photos by Wascher principal Brian Crain.

Fifth-grade students typically take a middle school tour at the end of the school year. This year, 10 Wascher Elementary School fifth graders got an early view of what they can expect next year. On a recent visit to Patton Middle School, Wascher fifth graders visited classrooms, ate lunch with eighth-grade student leaders and attended the school's annual Veterans Day Assembly.

Patton students' Halloween food drive nets 1,299 pounds of food

Marcia Latta — Wed, 07 Nov 2012 12:43:34 +0000

Story and photos by Patton teacher Emily Ward.

On Oct. 29, Patton theatre students participated in a Halloween food drive. The students are part of the International Thespian Society (ITS), a division of the Educational Theatre Association (EdTA).

District recognized for afterschool robotics program

Marcia Latta — Thu, 01 Nov 2012 21:11:53 +0000

McMinnville School District was recognized on Oct. 29 for partnering with 4-H to provide afterschool robotics.

Mike Knutz, 4-H Youth Development Program and Yamhill County Leader with the Oregon State University Extension Service made the following comments during the awards presentation:

Third graders study science of water at water treatment plant

Marcia Latta — Fri, 26 Oct 2012 17:48:20 +0000

This month, McMinnville third graders visited the McMinnville Water and Light water treatment plant to learn about the science of water.

All third graders visited the water treatment plant to participate in four hands-on science experiment stations. Each station focused on the third-grade engineering and design science standards. Read more about Oregon education standards.

Asante Children’s Choir Performance at Patton Middle School

Marcia Latta — Wed, 24 Oct 2012 00:38:40 +0000

Story by Patton staff members Gary Thorson and Kellie Berger. Photo by Kellie Berger.

Last Friday, Patton Middle School was visited by the Asante Children’s Choir who performed as part of a Global Awareness assembly. The choir consisted of children ages 8-15 who had been left orphaned in East Africa, primarily from the countries of Rwanda and Burundi.

State report card shows "Outstanding" schools

Marcia Latta — Sun, 21 Oct 2012 15:09:14 +0000

Earlier this month, the Oregon Department of Education released its annual State School Report Card with ratings for all schools. Six of McMinnville's nine schools were rated Outstanding, the highest rating. They are among the top 31 percent of schools statewide.

Congratulations, Dr. Russell, Oregon Superintendent of the Year!

Marcia Latta — Tue, 16 Oct 2012 16:39:30 +0000

In a surprise announcement this morning, Superintendent Maryalice Russell was informed of her selection as 2013 Oregon Superintendent of the Year by the Oregon Association of School Executives.

The Superintendent of the Year Award is presented annually to recognize chief administrators who exemplify excellence and achievement in educational leadership. Recipients are nominated by their administrative peers.

Third graders attend Koncert for Kids performance at MHS

Marcia Latta — Wed, 10 Oct 2012 21:07:30 +0000

McMinnville resident and nationally known pianist/composer Mike Strickland entertained district third graders this morning in a concert at McMinnville High School. He was joined on stage by vocalists Aimee Palacios and Jeremy Moll and the MHS Symphonic Choir directed by Robin Pederson. His dog Sadie even helped with a couple of songs.

School Board supports Hands & Words are Not for Hurting Project

Marcia Latta — Tue, 09 Oct 2012 19:57:50 +0000

The 15th annual Hands & Words are Not for Hurting Week is Oct. 21-27. On Oct. 8, the School Board heard a presentation about the project and approved a proclamation of support.

The project aims to reduce abuse and violence through education. As part of the project, students are asked to take the pledge: "I will not use my hands or my words for hurting myself or others." The community is asked to make a commitment to live free of abuse and violence and to join in helping make the dream for peace and freedom become reality.

Parents of young children invited to kindergarten readiness workshop

Marcia Latta — Fri, 05 Oct 2012 22:05:09 +0000

A series of three Ready for Kindergarten workshops will start in October for parents with children ages birth to five years old.

This is the second year of the grant-funded program. In its first year, more than 160 parents attended. The workshop provides parents with tools that include:

Students experience science in the field

Marcia Latta — Mon, 01 Oct 2012 15:45:09 +0000

McMinnville students are learning science by doing hands-on field-based science labs around the community. Each year, students participate in grade-level "science experiences," which focus on a different scientific study in grades one through six. The first experiences of the year brought fourth graders to Miller Woods to study ecology.

Columbus students reduce waste through new recycling program

Marcia Latta — Thu, 27 Sep 2012 17:16:37 +0000

Columbus students and staff are reducing waste by recycling almost everything. The PTA is leading the school-wide efforts that include "upcycling" waste through Terracycle, which provides incentive points to schools and turns waste into new products.

The following is information to parents about the recycling program from Columbus PTA chair CB Mason:

MHS earns recognition for high school college credit program

Marcia Latta — Fri, 21 Sep 2012 14:47:24 +0000

McMinnville High School students earned almost 6,000 college credits last year through Chemeketa Community College's College Credit Now program — more than any high school in the Chemeketa Community College service area.

Healthy school lunches feature locally grown fruits and vegetables

Marcia Latta — Wed, 19 Sep 2012 17:33:47 +0000

McMinnville Nutrition Services have partnered with Ecotrust to get more healthy, local foods into our school lunches.

In the news: Middle schools offer new STEM class for girls

Marcia Latta — Fri, 14 Sep 2012 19:04:57 +0000

A new middle school course at Duniway and Patton middle schools aims to increase girls' participation in STEM courses: science, technology, engineering and math.

Read news coverage about the new STEM classes in the News-Register.

In the news: McMinnville Schools ranked as top performers for student achievement

Marcia Latta — Wed, 12 Sep 2012 19:08:22 +0000

By almost any statewide measure, McMinnville schools are achieving excellence. The district has been recognized recently for several impressive accomplishments:

Plan ahead: Use our list of upcoming key dates

Marcia Latta — Mon, 10 Sep 2012 18:32:48 +0000

The school year is under way, and you can plan ahead with our list of key dates in the school calendar.

Key dates for the 2012-13 school year

September 4: First day of school

October 11: No school: Furlough day

October 12: No school: State inservice day

November 2: No school: Grading/furlough day

November 7: Conferences (evening)

November 8-9: No school: Conferences

Schools welcome students back on first day

Marcia Latta — Tue, 04 Sep 2012 16:33:25 +0000

School started today for McMinnville students. At every school in the district, parents were snapping photos of their children's first day, students were greeting classmates, and school staff were welcoming students back to class.

Read recent news stories from the News-Register about McMinnville School District:

District inservice welcomes staff back for 2012-13 school year

Marcia Latta — Wed, 29 Aug 2012 19:26:37 +0000

McMinnville School District staff started the new school year with a district-wide welcome back inservice that included recognition of staff for years of service, personal accomplishments in the classroom and school-wide accomplishment as part of their school teams.

Find back-to-school information to help you get ready for the start of school

Marcia Latta — Mon, 27 Aug 2012 16:44:29 +0000

School starts on Sept. 4. Our back-to-school resource page has key information to help you get ready for the first day of school.

District receives award for excellence in financial reporting

Marcia Latta — Thu, 09 Aug 2012 19:27:50 +0000

McMinnville School District has been recognized for high standards in government and financial reporting by the Government Finance Officers Association. The district received the Award of Financial Reporting Achievement for its 2011 Comprehensive Annual Financial Report.

The award is the highest form of recognition in the area of governmental accounting and financial reporting. It is based on a demonstrated "constructive spirit of full disclosure to clearly communicate its financial story and motivate potential users and user groups to read the report."

Three McMinnville schools earn recognition for high achievement

Marcia Latta — Mon, 06 Aug 2012 02:24:38 +0000

Congratulations to Grandhaven, Memorial and Sue Buel elementary schools for earning a new state designation as a model school—Title 1 schools with records of high achievement. Title 1 schools are high poverty schools.

The Oregon Department of Education describes model schools as "high poverty schools which are rated in the top 5% (approx.) of Title I schools in the state based on the new rating formula. They are showcased as models of successful student outcomes and will help support other schools through Continuous Improvement Networks."

Students can learn skills at MHS summer soccer camp

Marcia Latta — Tue, 31 Jul 2012 16:52:03 +0000

The MHS girls' soccer team is sponsoring the Grizzly Summer Soccer Camp for boys and girls entering grades 1-12. The camp will be held at Baker Field from Aug. 13-16.

For more information or to sign up, see the camp flyer.

Summer meal program serves children through Aug. 17

Marcia Latta — Thu, 26 Jul 2012 20:24:16 +0000

The summer meal program for children up to age 18 has served up more than 5,000 lunches at Buel and Wascher elementary schools and Duniway Middle School, and 1,000 breakfasts at Duniway and Buel.

Buel Elementary School hosts summer reading program at library

Marcia Latta — Sun, 08 Jul 2012 15:30:49 +0000

For the third summer, the Buel Elementary School library is open for summer reading. The school invites students to come in to read:

Our school library will be open to our students over the summer from 12:30-2:30 p.m. on the following Thursdays: June 28, July 5, 12, 19 and 26 and August 2, 9 and 16.

MEF Starry Night Fundraiser is Saturday

Marcia Latta — Thu, 05 Jul 2012 16:27:36 +0000

McMinnville Education Foundation Starry Night Fundraiser
Saturday, July 7, 2012
6 p.m.
Stoller Vineyards, Dayton, OR

School District Offices Closed: July 4-6

Marcia Latta — Tue, 03 Jul 2012 18:38:50 +0000

The District Office will be closed July 4 for the Independence Day holiday and on July 5-6 for staff furlough days.

The free summer meal program will be open on July 5 and 6.

MHS senior wins spot on cheer team for Les Schwab Bowl

Marcia Latta — Mon, 02 Jul 2012 01:01:15 +0000

On June 23, recent MHS senior Devin Draper cheered at the Les Schwab Bowl at Hillsboro Stadium. He represented McMinnville High School and joined others from across the state for the South Team.

The Les Schwab Bowl is in its 64th year. It features the top graduating seniors from Oregon's 6A and 5A schools. Players are assigned to the North or South teams. The game was played at Hillsboro Stadium on June 23. The South team won with a game score of 21-0.

Free summer meal program starts June 25

Marcia Latta — Mon, 25 Jun 2012 14:50:17 +0000

Students can get free summer meals at three schools this summer. The free meal program is available to children 18 and under at Duniway Middle School, Buel Elementary School and Wascher Elementary School from June 25 to Aug. 17. Breakfast and lunch will be served at Duniway and Buel, and lunch will be served at Wascher. No meals will be served on July 4.

Congratulations and thank you, retirees!

Marcia Latta — Wed, 20 Jun 2012 19:53:56 +0000

This year, 14 staff members retired from the McMinnville School District after years of dedicated service. They were honored in a recent ceremony by the School Board. Congratulations to the following staff and best wishes for a happy retirement!

Pictured (from left): Joseph Huante, Lu Ann Anderson, Jan Davis, Erin Moran, Mark Schoenbein, Barbara Carter.

School's out for summer

Marcia Latta — Mon, 18 Jun 2012 04:30:40 +0000

Summer vacation officially started on June 15. Schools celebrated the end of the year with field day activities. Pictured here are students from Memorial Elementary School.

Duniway students win school peace prize medals

Marcia Latta — Thu, 14 Jun 2012 04:46:43 +0000

Each year, Duniway Middle School awards Peace Prize medals to three students who represent peace and peaceful resolution to situations during their time at Duniway. This year, the awards went to these students:

Renee Myers
Tatum Frey
Leslie Martinez

In addition to the medals, their names will be added to the Peace Garden at the school.

End-of-Year Fun: Grandhaven Kindergarten Trip to Enchanted Forest

Marcia Latta — Tue, 12 Jun 2012 04:32:49 +0000

Schools are wrapping up the school year with fun end-of-year activities. Last Friday, Grandhaven Elementary School kindergarten students traveled to Salem for a day at Enchanted Forest.

The field trip included approximately 93 kindergartners from Grandhaven's two morning and three afternoon kindergarten classes.

Patton Theatre Spotlight: Thespian Student Field Trip and Saturday Dinner Theatre Production

Marcia Latta — Sat, 09 Jun 2012 02:58:56 +0000

It's a busy time for Patton Middle School theatre students. Early this month, students traveled to Portland for an all-day field trip/workshop.

On Saturday, students will showcase their performance skills at a dinner theatre fundraiser to raise funds for the drama program. The production is on Saturday, June 9. The dinner will be catered by Mazatlan Mexican Restaurant. Read more about this event or reserve a seat.

MHS Graduation: Class of 2012

Marcia Latta — Fri, 08 Jun 2012 18:38:16 +0000

The class of 2012 graduated on June 8 at 7 p.m. at Wortman Stadium. For more information, contact McMinnville High School, 503-565-4200.

Newby students explore world cultures through art

Marcia Latta — Wed, 30 May 2012 05:19:40 +0000

Students at Newby Elementary School studied Asian culture through an art literacy unit that spanned several weeks and incorporated art, literature and cultural education.

The program is part of the district's art literacy program which was started three years ago and is in use at all elementary schools. It includes six themes based on continents of the world. At Newby, students have studied Native Americans Africa in the last two years.

Students learn science lessons on first-grade science experience field trips

Marcia Latta — Wed, 23 May 2012 14:43:07 +0000

McMinnville elementary school students benefit from hands-on science field trips to several community locations. This school year, students in first through fifth grades had science experiences at Evergreen Aviation Museum, Miller Woods and the McMinnville Water and Light Treatment Facility.

Attention middle school girls: Sign up for summer STEM camp

Marcia Latta — Fri, 18 May 2012 05:24:35 +0000

There is still time to sign up for the middle school girls' Science, Technology, Engineering and Math camp at Evergreen Space Museum. The third annual STEM camp will run from June 19-22.

See a video interview with participants from last year's camp.

Patton students raise money for Children's Cancer Association

Marcia Latta — Wed, 16 May 2012 17:48:17 +0000

A student play at Patton Middle School has inspired students to raise money for cancer. The next theatrical production, which focuses on students dealing with cancer, will donate proceeds to the Children's Cancer Association (CCA). In addition, one student who is part of the production was inspired to start her own fundraising effort.

Emily Ward, Patton Middle School drama teacher, submitted the following story describing the students' charitable projects:

Community members are welcome at student musical performances

Marcia Latta — Tue, 15 May 2012 17:20:36 +0000

MHS has many talented student musicians and an award-winning music program. In April, several band students were selected to play with the Air Force Academy Band during their performance in McMinnville. Pictured (back row, left to right): Band director Jeff Hornick, students Brendon Walters, Connor Pomeroy, Kyle Morrell, Chris Bradley and 1st Lt. Jason Plosch (Commander, USAFA Band); (front row) students Brooke Clover, Melissa Robles.

Congratulations, Rotary Teachers of the Year!

Marcia Latta — Fri, 11 May 2012 21:58:59 +0000

On May 7, five McMinnville teachers were honored by the McMinnville Rotary Club for exceptional service to young people. Rotary Teachers of the Year are selected by the school district based on a staff vote at each school.

MHS FFA class plant sale fundraiser is today

Marcia Latta — Fri, 11 May 2012 13:08:54 +0000

The annual McMinnville High School FFA plant sale is today from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

Thank you, teachers! National Teacher Appreciation Week is May 7-11

Marcia Latta — Wed, 09 May 2012 19:12:16 +0000

The official school board proclamation reads:

WHEREAS, today's teachers mold our future citizens through their guidance and education, and

Students present scientific experiments at Science Expo

Marcia Latta — Tue, 08 May 2012 16:34:33 +0000

On Friday, May 4, student scientists presented their scientific questions and experiments at the annual District Science Expo at Evergreen Aviation Museum. Each elementary and middle school sent 10 school science fair winners to compete against their peers from other schools. The experiments were judged by students majoring in science fields at Linfield College.

In addition to presenting their projects, the competitors participated in science-related activities at the museum.

Science teacher awarded National Geographic fellowship for arctic expedition

Marcia Latta — Thu, 03 May 2012 04:00:28 +0000

MHS science teacher Jared Larson will travel to the arctic on a National Geographic expedition this summer. He was selected as one of 14 Grosvenor Teacher Fellows for an in-depth exploration of Arctic Svalbard, which is within 600 miles of the North Pole.

The object of the Grosvenor fellowship program is to enhance teachers' geographic learning through direct experience and to bring that knowledge back to their classrooms.

Excerpt from the National Geographic press release:

Cory Eklund named Outstanding Educator by Jaycees

Marcia Latta — Thu, 26 Apr 2012 19:19:54 +0000

The annual McMinnville Jaycees Distinguished Service Awards were announced earlier this month, naming MHS science teacher Cory Eklund Outstanding Educator earlier this month.

Eklund's award was presented by last year's Outstanding Educator, fellow MHS teacher Kerrie Savage.

This excerpt about Eklund was published in the April 18 edition of the News-Register:

MHS FFA Horticulture team places first at state competition

Marcia Latta — Wed, 25 Apr 2012 05:56:37 +0000

Members of the McMinnville Horticulture FFA Contest team competed in the Oregon State FFA nursery competition and placed first for the second year in a row.

Members scored in plant identification, pests and disorders, tool identification, mathematical problem solving and team activity.

Several students also placed in individual contests:

Jeannie Klein: 1st place
Laura Ng: 3rd place
Miranda Gleason: 4th place
Maggie Ng: 18th place
Dennis Ng

Register now for third annual STEM camp for girls

Marcia Latta — Mon, 23 Apr 2012 17:16:13 +0000

Middle school girls can work on their science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) skills at the third annual STEM camp at Evergreen Aviation Museum from June 19-22.

Registration is now open for girls in grades 6-8. The four-day camp provides hands-on instruction in mathematics, engineering, robotics, astronomy and biology.

The camp is sponsored by the Kiwanis Club of McMinnville.

The camp will have a capacity of 75 students. Registration is open until all slots are filled.

Grandhaven team finishes third in state Battle of the Books

Marcia Latta — Thu, 19 Apr 2012 02:50:33 +0000

The Grandhaven Elementary School Battle of the Books team took third place in the state Battle of the Books championship on April 15 at Chemeketa Community College in Salem.

National School Volunteer Week is April 15-21

Marcia Latta — Mon, 16 Apr 2012 15:15:00 +0000

The School Board is recognizing school volunteers during National School Volunteer Week, April 15-21.

Through March of this school year, McMinnville schools have counted a total of of 26,435 hours of volunteer contributions. Volunteers work with students, chaperone field trips, organize school and class events, assist with supplemental fundraising activities, help prepare materials for classroom activities and other duties as needed.

Read the School Board proclamation.

Patton art teacher and students show artwork at Amity Daffodil Festival

Marcia Latta — Thu, 05 Apr 2012 17:32:40 +0000

Last month, several Patton Middle School art students showed their work at the annual Amity Daffodil Festival. The juried art show included daffodil representations in watercolor and ceramics.

OMSI brings Kiddie Chemistry to Grandhaven First Graders

Marcia Latta — Wed, 21 Mar 2012 18:42:38 +0000

Grandhaven first graders became mini chemists on Tuesday during an OMSI Kiddie Chemistry program. The students learned the difference between chemical mixtures and chemical reactions. They conducted experiments to observe changes in color, temperature and states of matter, and they learned basic lab safety procedures.

Planning for next year? See the 2012-13 school calendar

Susan Escure — Thu, 15 Mar 2012 16:53:43 +0000

The school board recently approved the calendar for the 2012-13 school year, which includes all school breaks and inservice days.

2012-13 School Calendar

MHS culinary team places second at state championship competition

Marcia Latta — Wed, 14 Mar 2012 05:19:50 +0000

The MHS culinary competition team took second place out of 23 high school teams at the 2012 Oregon ProStart Culinary Championships in late February.

The culinary teams of four were challenged to create a three-course meal in one hour using two butane stoves. Each team had a compact 10-foot-by-10-foot space to work and maneuver and were observed by a professional "Chef Master."

EASA robotics team wins first place at competition

Marcia Latta — Sat, 10 Mar 2012 18:13:11 +0000

The MHS programming team took 1st place in the annual Willamette University computer programming contest on Saturday. They earned top place by correctly solving 12 of 14 problems designed to cover a range of abilities from novice programmer to upper division college student.

This is the premiere (only large scale) programming competition in the state. This year it drew 17 high schools from around the state; schools as far as Eugene and Bend competed as well as the traditional powers in Beaverton and the metro area.

Thank you, Classified Employees!

Marcia Latta — Tue, 06 Mar 2012 04:18:20 +0000

March 5-9 is Classified Employee Week. We are honoring and recognizing the dedicated support staff who serve our students, schools and district.

Classified employees are the "backbone" of the public school system, providing support and working directly with students, staff, parents, volunteers, business partners and community members.

Classified employees are secretaries, educational assistants, food service workers, custodians, maintenance workers, bus drivers and more.

Thank you, classified staff!

Peer mediator program trains Duniway students to solve conflicts

Marcia Latta — Mon, 05 Mar 2012 04:51:53 +0000

Duniway Middle School now has a new problem solving resource at their disposal: Sixteen peer mediators, recently trained in conflict resolution by professional peer mediation trainer Kathy Beckwith.

Duniway's DunThis program is a two-day training funded by a McMinnville Education Foundation grant as a collaboration with the McMinnville School District and Yamhill County Your Community Mediators.

Patton students join Rachel's Challenge to build kindness

Marcia Latta — Wed, 29 Feb 2012 05:02:47 +0000

Patton Middle School students have joined their peers in schools around the country, including MHS, in a pledge to build a chain reaction of kindness.

The challenge to be kind and compassionate to everyone is an international effort to end bullying and isolation. It is based on the life and writings of Rachel Joy Scott, the first person to die in the April 20, 1999, Columbine High School shootings.

MHS senior Erika Bakner named 2012 Academic All-Star

Marcia Latta — Wed, 22 Feb 2012 04:40:52 +0000

Last Sunday, 36 high school seniors in the Mid-Willamette Valley were honored for academic and extracurricular achievements at an awards reception sponsored by the Statesman Journal newspaper. Senior Erika Bakner represented McMinnville High School and was one of two seniors to also win the Outstanding Essay Award.

Buel builds LRC library with grant from McMinnville Education Foundation

Marcia Latta — Wed, 15 Feb 2012 20:07:36 +0000

Students in the learning resource center at Buel Elementary School are building reading confidence and skill with a new high-interest, lower-level library tailored to their age and ability-level.

MHS cheer team wins third in state and top choreography award

Marcia Latta — Mon, 13 Feb 2012 18:44:22 +0000

See the MHS state championship cheer performance.

The MHS varsity cheer team competed at the OSAA State Cheerleading Championship at Memorial Coliseum on Feb. 11. The team placed third in the coed division with a score of 65.35. They were also the recipients of the Leslie Maley Creative Choreography Award.

Oregon College Access Challenge Grant features successful MHS program

Marcia Latta — Mon, 06 Feb 2012 05:18:22 +0000

The MHS College Credit Now Program is getting noticed. As a leader in dual college credit opportunities in the state and a recipient of an Oregon College Access Challenge Grant (CACG), MHS was featured in the first CACG program spotlight. Here is an excerpt of the feature, which was submitted by district grant writer Jill Long.

Missoula Children's Theatre visits Grandhaven Elementary

Marcia Latta — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 06:43:55 +0000

Grandhaven Elementary students are getting a taste of show business in a week-long actor's workshop that teaches basic performance skills and some life lessons. The school PTA brought the Missoula Children's Theatre to school for motivational school assemblies and the production of a student performance.

Columbus artist in residence teaches African drumming and dancing

Marcia Latta — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 16:21:05 +0000

See a video clip of the student percussion lesson.

This month, Columbus Elementary Students are learning about Ghana through music. Percussion artist and educator Mark Powers, of Powers Percussion, is the school's artist in residence, bringing his African percussion instruments and knowledge of Ghana to the students in his Sights and Sounds of Ghana program.

Thank you, School Board members!

Marcia Latta — Mon, 23 Jan 2012 17:59:13 +0000

January is School Board Appreciation Month. Thank you, School Board members, for all you do for schools!

To honor school board members, Superintendent Maryalice Russell read this proclamation at the Jan. 9 School Board meeting:

WHEREAS, school boards create a vision for what students should know and be able to do;

WHEREAS, school boards establish clear standards for student performance;

WHEREAS, school boards ensure that student assessments are tied to established standards;

Rachel's Challenge encourages acceptance and compassion among students

Marcia Latta — Wed, 18 Jan 2012 19:55:02 +0000

During Diversity Week earlier this month at McMinnville High School, students heard a message about acceptance and compassion toward others. In an all-school assembly, a guest speaker from Rachel’s Challenge spoke about eliminating prejudice, having empathy for others, and starting a chain reaction of kindness and compassion.

School bus collides with minivan; student transported to hospital for evaluation

Marcia Latta — Sat, 10 Dec 2011 00:03:00 +0000

News update:

A mini bus transporting two Memorial School students and a minivan with one school-age child collided after school on Dec. 9, 2011.

The mini bus was tipped on its side. One student from the bus and the minivan driver were transported to the hospital for evaluation.

All parties were treated and released this afternoon.

Grants help fund innovative programs for students

Marcia Latta — Thu, 08 Dec 2011 19:08:55 +0000

Grant awards provide important supplemental funding for educational programs. The McMinnville School District has been very effective at identifying grant programs that would benefit students and submitting successful applications.

The value of grants awarded in 2010-11 totals $8,859,024, providing multi-year funding for programs that include afterschool activities, Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) funding, college preparation and more.

Congratulations Sean Burke, Oregon Assistant Principal of the Year!

Marcia Latta — Tue, 22 Nov 2011 17:05:45 +0000

See a slideshow of this morning's staff announcement.

MHS Assistant Principal Sean Burke was named Oregon Assistant Principal of the Year by the Oregon Association of Secondary School Administrators. His award was announced in a surprise staff meeting on Tuesday morning at the high school.

MHS freshman collect food donations for the Soup Kitchen

Marcia Latta — Mon, 21 Nov 2011 14:59:29 +0000

Every year, one of the MHS small learning communities asks incoming ninth graders to give back to the community. Team Ochoco, one of four smaller learning communities at the school, challenges freshman to collect food and personal hygiene items for the Soup Kitchen at St. Barnabas Episcopal Church,

FFA students start competition year with awards

Marcia Latta — Thu, 17 Nov 2011 15:10:39 +0000

MHS FFA students started their competition season with a second-place sweepstakes win in the Hudson's Bay High School Nursery Landscape competition in Vancouver, Wash., last weekend.

The nursery team also placed third in the Test category; fourth in Landscape Problem Solving; fourth in Nursery Practicum; and second in Plant Identification.

Layfayette community members visit Wascher for American Education Week

Marcia Latta — Tue, 15 Nov 2011 05:18:46 +0000

In honor of American Education Week, Wascher Elementary School invited members of the Lafayette community to a breakfast at the school on Wednesday morning. Principal Brian Crain gave them an overview of Wascher, answered their questions and took them on a tour of the school.

Duniway and Patton middle schools honor veterans at school assemblies

Marcia Latta — Fri, 11 Nov 2011 00:01:56 +0000

See a slideshow of the Veterans Day assembly at Duniway and Patton middle schools.

This week, both of the McMinnville middle schools honored local veterans with their annual veterans day assemblies. Veterans from the community and several from among the staff were the guests of honor during the all-school events, which included musical performances and presentation of colors.

In honor of the Veterans Day holiday, there is no school tomorrow, Nov. 11.

New college access grant helps MHS students earn dual credits

Marcia Latta — Mon, 07 Nov 2011 00:26:49 +0000

McMinnville High School's new Early College Access Project received a $59,120 grant to fund support for students earning college credit while in high school. The grant was awarded by the College Access Challenge Grant program for:

Duniway students share anti-drug messages during Red Ribbon Week

Marcia Latta — Wed, 02 Nov 2011 14:41:35 +0000

Duniway Middle School is celebrating healthy lifestyles with Red Ribbon Week. Communities and schools around the country share drug-free messages during the week. This week, Duniway students will participate in a variety of activities, including a video and lesson during Bridges classes on Tuesday, lunchtime quizzes with prizes and daily “wear your red ribbon” rewards.

Hear MHS musical talent in upcoming performances

Marcia Latta — Mon, 31 Oct 2011 19:34:27 +0000

See a video of MHS sophomore Levi Polasek playing Beethoven's Moonlight Sonata, Third Movement.

McMinnville High School has an award-winning music program. Talented student musicians will show off their musical skills at the fall band concert on Nov. 1 at 7:30 p.m. For more information, contact the school.

MHS Bruin newspaper wins state awards

Marcia Latta — Fri, 28 Oct 2011 14:11:59 +0000

MHS Bruin staff won top honors at the annual NW Scholastic Press Fall Press Day on Oct. 26 at Western Oregon University. The annual event is a day of workshops and speakers for high school journalism students.

Student media is judged in a variety of categories. The Bruin placed first in Best Of Show for Newspaper Division 5A and second in Best Of Show for 5A website division.

Third graders study water cycle at water treatment plant

Marcia Latta — Wed, 26 Oct 2011 18:37:09 +0000

This month, all third graders in the district are participating in a day-long science experience at the McMinnville Water & Light water treatment plant. As part of the fieldtrip, the students learn about the water treatment process and water cycles. They conduct experiments or observe water processes in science stations that include filtration, gravity flow, chemical composition and water treatment operations.

Duniway student leaders raise money with "haunted hallway"

Marcia Latta — Wed, 26 Oct 2011 00:22:55 +0000

Duniway Middle School's student leadership class sponsored a “haunted hallway” last Friday night to raise money for the organization, Blissful Bedrooms, a nonprofit organization that provides bedroom makeovers for young individuals with disabilities.

Life Flight helicopter lands on Grandhaven playfields

Marcia Latta — Fri, 21 Oct 2011 18:25:10 +0000

Grandhaven Elementary School provided a helping hand this morning for an emergency Life Flight transport. The school allowed the helicopter landing on the playfields at about 8:30 a.m. Students were not informed of the landing, which allowed classes to continue without disruption.

Principal Margie Johnson sent the following update to staff:

Fourth-graders visit Miller Woods for science experience

Marcia Latta — Wed, 19 Oct 2011 19:27:18 +0000

Buel Elementary School fourth graders visited Miller Woods this week to study a variety of life science subjects. The trip has an ecology focus with students cycling through five stations:

Clicker tests help teachers focus instruction for each student

Marcia Latta — Wed, 12 Oct 2011 15:48:07 +0000

See a video of students taking a clicker test.

During a recent test in Mr. Horvat's science class, Patton Middle School sixth-graders looked more like they were channel surfing than test taking. The students were using clickers—remote-control-like handheld devices—to answer questions displayed on the SMART Board. After each student answered, the class moved on together to the next question.

Three schools get outstanding ratings on state report card

Marcia Latta — Mon, 10 Oct 2011 14:20:34 +0000

State report cards for 2010-11 have been released. Congratulations to Columbus, Grandhaven and Memorial elementary schools for receiving an "outstanding" rating.

Ratings are based on academic scores, participation on tests, attendance and graduation rates at the high school level.

Kids on the Block after-school program provides learning and fun activities

Marcia Latta — Thu, 06 Oct 2011 14:31:25 +0000

Register your child for Kids on the Block.

When the bell rings at the end of the day, students around the district begin a new set of learning activities in the after-school Kids on the Block program. The program, sponsored in partnership with the district and City of McMinnville, promotes academic and recreational development for elementary students.

MHS graduates share how they earned college credits in high school

Marcia Latta — Mon, 03 Oct 2011 03:53:15 +0000

See a video overview of the MHS College Credit Now program with interviews of graduates from the class of 2011.

Last year McMinnville High School students saved more than $300,000 in college credit costs by taking dual credit courses at MHS. Students can transfer these credits to community colleges or four-year universities after graduating.

Staff liaisons reach out to homeless students

Marcia Latta — Thu, 29 Sep 2011 15:33:32 +0000

At the end of the 2010-11 school year, there were almost 150 homeless students attending McMinnville schools. District homeless liaison staff members ensured that those students had their basic needs met to help them be successful in school.

There are two homeless liaisons: Marci Ingram (pictured), a drop-out prevention specialist, works with students in grades K-8; and Tom Newton, a high school counselor, works with high school students.

Schools welcome families at open house events

Marcia Latta — Fri, 23 Sep 2011 16:25:58 +0000

This week, all McMinnville Schools hosted open house events for students and their families. Schools showed off educational programs, and parents had a chance to talk to teachers and school specialists and try out classroom and library technology.

Grandhaven special education teacher recognized for student achievement

Marcia Latta — Wed, 21 Sep 2011 19:37:00 +0000

Jolene Heinrich has motivated and encouraged her special education students at Grandhaven Elementary School to love reading. Last year, 75 percent of her students met or exceeded state benchmarks for reading. She was recognized for making a difference to her students in the latest newsletter from The Shadow Project:

Teachers Making a Difference

Jump start workshop helps parents prepare kids for kindergarten

Marcia Latta — Fri, 16 Sep 2011 17:06:11 +0000

A series of three child development workshops will start in October. The program is aimed at parents of children from birth to five years old to promote kindergarten readiness.

Parents can learn important information on how children learn and grow, activities to make learning at home fun and age-appropriate toys and learning aids.

Middle and high school orientation program helps new students

Marcia Latta — Mon, 12 Sep 2011 04:53:22 +0000

The start of school went smoothly for students last week thanks, in part, to the help of student leaders. To make the transition to a new grade level easier, student mentors at the middle and high school greeted incoming sixth and ninth graders.

Schools raise memorial "Flag of Honor" for Sept. 11

Marcia Latta — Wed, 07 Sep 2011 19:46:14 +0000

Students at Newby Elementary School joined other Yamhill County schools in a commemoration of Sept. 11, 2001. A school color guard made up of second- through fifth-grade Boy Scouts lowered the American flag and replaced it with a special flag containing the names of all of the people who died on that day.

The flag was donated by the Willamette Valley Medical Center to help schools pay tribute to the victims.

Two of Newby's fifth-grade classes joined the color guard for the ceremony. Principal Mark Hinthorn spoke the following words to his students:

Staff back-to-school meeting celebrates district "superheroes"

Marcia Latta — Fri, 02 Sep 2011 15:29:18 +0000

The new school year kicked off Monday with a welcome-back inservice for staff at McMinnville High School. The theme of the event was "inspiration." Superintendent Maryalice Russell applauded the "everyday superheroes" working for students.

Donate school supplies to Operation Backpack through Aug. 27

Marcia Latta — Mon, 22 Aug 2011 04:55:16 +0000

Operation Backpack is collecting school supplies for children of families in need. The annual school supply drive is sponsored by local churches, services organizations and businesses to benefit elementary students in the McMinnville School District.

Pre-registration for school supplies has filled all 700 slots with a waiting list for additional students. Backpacks and supplies will be distributed on Aug. 27.

For more information, contact Heidi Upmeyer-Vollmer.

School supply drop-off locations:

Summer school students get ready for a new school year

Marcia Latta — Wed, 10 Aug 2011 18:48:34 +0000

Almost 350 students got a jump on the new school year through a two-week summer school program at Newby Elementary School. The grant-funded program allowed migrant and English-Language Learner (ELL) students to get additional academic instruction to prepare them for the new school year.

Grants also funded a middle school science camp for 20 migrant middle school students at Evergreen Aviation Museum.

For more information, contact Kristian Frack, district ELL coordinator.

Kids get summer meals through Aug. 12

Marcia Latta — Tue, 02 Aug 2011 04:01:20 +0000

The McMinnville School District summer meal program has provided free breakfast and lunch to hundreds of children at two school sites this summer. Any child under 18 can receive a free meal at Newby or Wascher elementary school through Aug. 12.

Starry Night event raises funds for McMinnville Schools

Marcia Latta — Sat, 16 Jul 2011 06:49:49 +0000

One of the two main fundraisers for the McMinnville Education Foundation is Saturday, July 23, at Stoller Vineyards. The auction event supports classroom grants for the coming school year.

The foundation is an important partner in our schools, providing learning enrichment opportunities through more than $282,000 in grant awards during the past 13 years.

Middle school students will attend OSU science camp this month

Marcia Latta — Mon, 11 Jul 2011 17:07:21 +0000

Four middle school students from Duniway and Patton were accepted into the ExxonMobil Bernard Harris Foundation Summer Science Camp at Oregon State University. The students are Duniway seventh graders David Cano-Luna and Mac Whitaker and Patton seventh graders Makayla Mendoza and Shante Marin.

Leadership students plant Duniway Middle School garden

Marcia Latta — Wed, 06 Jul 2011 04:24:39 +0000

Duniway Middle School is a little brighter this summer thanks to a new garden on the Michelbook Lane side of the school. Five students planned the project as part of their Leadership Passion Project.

Shay Bristow, Harley Taylor, Katie Coy, and Lillian Hallett raised money, planted the garden and are tending it through the summer.

End-of-Year Fun: Tom Sawyer Days Field Trip

Marcia Latta — Mon, 27 Jun 2011 05:14:25 +0000

Before school ended, Duniway Middle School sixth graders took their literature studies outside with the annual Tom Sawyer Days field trip. The group spent a day at Lower City Park where they made breakfasts of bacon, pancakes, and eggs on buddy burners, hunted for hidden “treasure,” and made ice cream.

The trip is an annual event for sixth-grade students from Duniway and Patton middle schools.

Grandhaven students publish writing in student "treasure" books

Marcia Latta — Tue, 21 Jun 2011 03:21:02 +0000

Grandhaven Elementary School students completed the year by showcasing their literacy skills in a published book. Every year most of the school's third, fourth and fifth graders write, illustrate, and publish their own books. Some of the primary classes publish class books with pages by each student.

The books are Student Treasure Books. The program started at grandhaven in 2005 under the direction of Title I teacher Susan Stubberfield.

Congratulations MHS Class of 2011!

Marcia Latta — Fri, 17 Jun 2011 17:17:55 +0000

On June 10, McMinnville High School celebrated the class of 2011. Approximately 380 seniors received diplomas during the graduation ceremony at Wortman Stadium.

Class highlights include:

Last day at Wascher celebrates students and school history

Marcia Latta — Thu, 16 Jun 2011 14:19:42 +0000

See the video about Josephine Wascher.

On the last day of school, Wascher Elementary School fifth graders received a flower, a certificate and medal, applause from parents and a reminder that they will always be Wildcats.

The students were recognized in an assembly in front of the student body, staff and family members. Principal Brian Crain congratulated each of the students and welcomed them back to visit any time.

Congratulations and thank you, retiring staff members!

Marcia Latta — Wed, 15 Jun 2011 18:17:25 +0000

This year, eight staff members are retiring from the McMinnville School District after years of dedicated service. They were honored in a recent ceremony by the School Board. Congratulations to the following staff and best wishes for a happy retirement!

The retirees were recognized at the June 13 School Board meeting:

MACA ceremony recognizes second graduating class

Marcia Latta — Tue, 14 Jun 2011 05:10:55 +0000

On June 8, 35 graduating seniors received Media Arts and Communications Academy diplomas. The school graduated its second class at the ceremony at the McMinnville Community Center.

The following are remarks from Principal Jim Pierce:

Free summer meal program starts June 20

Marcia Latta — Fri, 10 Jun 2011 21:19:42 +0000

Students can get free summer meals at two schools this summer. The free meal program is available to children 18 and under at Duniway Middle School and Wascher Elementary School from June 20 to Aug. 12. Breakfast and lunch will be served at Duniway, and lunch will be served at Wascher.

Adults may not eat meals served to children, but they may purchase breakfast for $2.50 or lunch for $3.75.

MACA students named community media superstars

Marcia Latta — Wed, 08 Jun 2011 20:21:06 +0000

Media Arts and Communications Academy students Jake Fitzgerald, Trevor Constans, and Logan Brown were recognized by McMinnville Community Media for excellence in video production. The students, led by instructor Liz Randall, have taped each McMinnville City Club meeting this year.

McMinnville School District holds earthquake drill today

Marcia Latta — Wed, 08 Jun 2011 15:50:02 +0000

McMinnville School District is testing earthquake procedures today as part of the Yamhill County Emergency Team Earthquake Preparedness Drill. If there were a real earthquake emergency, you would see the following messages:

THIS IS JUST A COMMUNICATIONS TEST. THERE IS NO EARTHQUAKE!

Duniway student wins national award for promoting respect and acceptance

Marcia Latta — Mon, 06 Jun 2011 21:59:19 +0000

Duniway Middle School student Caitlynn Cantrell has been selected as the national Lovin Compassion Award winner by the Lovin Spoonful Ice Cream Company.

Caitlynn was nominated for her dedication to promoting acceptance and respect for all students.

Duniway students use iPads to support classroom lessons

Marcia Latta — Fri, 03 Jun 2011 20:48:17 +0000

Duniway Middle School is expanding educational opportunities for sixth graders with new technology. The school purchased 30 iPads, a charging cart, headphones, microphones and educational apps with an Ed Tech grant.

Seven sixth-grade core teachers are now incorporating them into their classroom instruction.

Students show skills in MACA Spring Exhibition

Marcia Latta — Thu, 02 Jun 2011 04:30:47 +0000

Last week, Media Arts and Communications Academy students submitted some of their best media work at the school's annual Spring Exhibition. Students at all grade levels presented projects on a variety of topics in four different categories: still image, moving image, communications and computer.

Nutrition Services newsletter lists school year accomplishments

Marcia Latta — Tue, 24 May 2011 18:49:08 +0000

See the Nutrition Services accomplishments for this school year and goals for next in the department Wellness Committee newsletter.

Patton student film is 2011 Youth Silent Film Festival finalist

Marcia Latta — Fri, 20 May 2011 22:35:02 +0000

A group of aspiring filmmakers from Patton Middle School is getting a taste of big screen success. Their film, Cane Killer is one of 45 finalists in the 2011 Youth Silent Film Festival. It will be screened by a celebrity jury pool at a showing in Portland next week.

The jury includes Gus Van Sant, Tom DeSanto, Chuck Palahnuik and Kerry O'Quinn. Cash prizes of $1,000, $500 and $250 will be awarded to the finalists during this showing. Final judging will be in June.

MHS theater students perform "Letters to Lucerne" this weekend

Marcia Latta — Wed, 18 May 2011 22:49:37 +0000

McMinnville High School drama students will close the school theater season with a final play this weekend. Thirteen MHS students will perform Letters to Lucerne in Anderson Auditorium on Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights at 7 p.m. See performance information.

Middle school students bring marching band to town

Marcia Latta — Tue, 17 May 2011 14:14:49 +0000

The combined Duniway/Patton band students participated in this year's Alien Day Parade on Saturday, May 14. There were 130 students from both schools. Middle school band instructor Marc Dana said it was the first middle school marching band in more than 20 years.

"Singlish" helps reinforce English lessons

Marcia Latta — Fri, 13 May 2011 04:56:03 +0000

Newby kindergarten students are dancing and singing and learning English. The English language learner (ELL) students use "Singlish"—music that teaches and reinforces English lessons.

Kindergarten registration is today

Marcia Latta — Wed, 11 May 2011 17:44:56 +0000

Parents of children entering kindergarten this fall may register their children for school at the McMinnville School District’s annual kindergarten registration today, May 12, from 2 to 6:30 p.m. at each of the elementary schools.

Get MHS news at Bruin Online

Marcia Latta — Thu, 05 May 2011 17:00:31 +0000

The MHS student Newspaper, The Bruin, now has an online edition, which will have frequent MHS news updates.

"The Bruin staff is committed to updating the web site daily," said student newspaper advisor Katherine Beyer. "New stories will be posted continuously. There will also be new features coming soon," she said.

Teacher Appreciation Week is May 2-7

Marcia Latta — Mon, 02 May 2011 04:42:41 +0000

Read the School Board proclamation.

MHS students place first in FFA competitions

Marcia Latta — Mon, 25 Apr 2011 20:06:27 +0000

See a horticulture student-produced video for the May 5-6 plant sale.

MHS Horticulture FFA students won top spots at two state contests this weekend. Students competed in the State Nursery competition in Junction City on April 22 and the Floriculture competition in Silverton on April 23.

School Volunteer Recognition Week is April 17-23

Marcia Latta — Wed, 20 Apr 2011 17:42:06 +0000

During School Volunteer Recognition Week, schools are taking time to thank the many parent and community volunteers who contribute to the success of schools, staff and students. Volunteers donate countless hours throughout the school year to provide classroom and individual student assistance, PTA and site council leadership and fundraising support. Thank you, school volunteers!

Read the School Board proclamation.

Sign up now for girls' science, technology, engineering and math camp

Marcia Latta — Mon, 18 Apr 2011 05:36:20 +0000

Registration is now open for the second STEM camp for girls in grades 6-8. The four-day camp provides hands-on instruction in science, technology, engineering and math at the EASA campus at Evergreen Aviation Museum.

MACA students earn college credit for graphic design course

Marcia Latta — Fri, 15 Apr 2011 04:37:32 +0000

MACA Still Image 2 students produced projects with Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator to test their skills. The course provides college credit and is taught by Liz Randall.

The sample designs modernize the American Dollar and design and advertise a new product. See the student samples.

Preschool program gets students ready to learn

Marcia Latta — Wed, 13 Apr 2011 18:13:53 +0000

In Juana Chavez's preschool class at Newby Elementary School, students are not only learning early academic basics; they are learning how to learn. The migrant preschool program focuses on getting students prepared for kindergarten.

Patton students win Western Oregon Waste recycling poster contest

Marcia Latta — Tue, 12 Apr 2011 14:12:36 +0000

Patton Middle School seventh graders German Vera (smiling earth image, left) and Allison Pope ("Why?" image, below) were among the 13 student winners in the 2010 Recycling Awareness Week Poster contest. The posters, which focus on recycling, have been compiled into a calendar by Yamhill County.

Band students qualify for state solo competition

Marcia Latta — Thu, 07 Apr 2011 17:08:06 +0000

Photo by Ashley Stolp, MACA Sophomore

Sophomore David Floratos and senior Jordan Kelsch will represent MHS on tenor saxophone at the 2011 OSAA Oregon State Solo Contest on April 30 at Lewis and Clark College in Portland.

MHS sophomore places first at cheer finals in Florida

Marcia Latta — Mon, 04 Apr 2011 14:52:29 +0000

Sophomore Hannah Lang took first place in the Senior Prep Individuals Division at the AmeriCheer Internationals competition in Florida during spring break. She received a first-place trophy and was interviewed by ESPN. See the video on youtube showing parts of her routine and interview.

Musical Bears take MHS Battle of the Bands title

Marcia Latta — Thu, 31 Mar 2011 18:54:37 +0000

See the video of MHS Battle of the Bands winners, The Musical Bears.

The group includes junior Kyle Chambers, banjo player and lead singer extraordinaire; junior Tim Anderson, out-of-this-world acoustic guitarist; junior Garrett Ewing, jamming on the string bass; and sophomore Penn Sumner, vocals and smokin’ hot fiddle player.The Musical Bears won the annual competition during a “cheer-off” at a school assembly.

Jaycees recognize excellence in service to schools

Marcia Latta — Wed, 30 Mar 2011 04:08:07 +0000

The annual McMinnville Jaycees Distinguished Service Awards recognized contributions from two individuals with a long history of dedicated service to students in McMinnville schools.

Longtime School Board member Francis Charbonnier was named Man of the Year at the awards banquet on March 21. MHS college writing instructor Kerrie Savage was named Educator of the Year.

Francis Charbonnier

Duniway students clear trash at annual beach cleanup

Marcia Latta — Tue, 29 Mar 2011 18:38:30 +0000

On March 26, 37 Duniway Middle School students joined the estimated 3,300 volunteers to clean up Oregon beaches in the SOLV spring beach cleanup.

MHS horticulture videos document student work, promote literacy skills

Marcia Latta — Thu, 17 Mar 2011 15:03:50 +0000

MHS students are using a video camera they received as part of a grant from the Mid-Willamette Education Consortium to showcase their horticulture skills and expand their speaking and literacy skills.The students have produced three videos with their Flip video camera.

MHS FFA team places first in floriculture competition

Marcia Latta — Mon, 14 Mar 2011 17:02:52 +0000

McMinnville High School FFA placed first in the team competition at the FFA floriculture contest this weekend. In individual placement, McMinnville FFA members swept first through sixth place:

Patton drama students take theatre field trip to Portland

Marcia Latta — Wed, 09 Mar 2011 21:22:02 +0000

Earlier this month, 40 Patton Middle School drama students traveled to Portland for a field trip. The students toured Portland Center Stage, spoke to professionals from FUSE Theatre Ensemble and Artists Repertory Theatre (ART) and participated in a stage combat workshop at Portland Actors Conservancy.

Patton team wins regional Battle of the Books title, Grandhaven takes second place

Marcia Latta — Tue, 08 Mar 2011 05:26:45 +0000

Two District teams will advance to state finals in the Battle of the Books reading competition after competing in the regional finals on March 5. Patton Middle School's Fluffy Bunnies team, pictured above, and Grandhaven Elementary School's team, pictured below, will represent the McMinnville School District at the state level in Salem on April 16.

Thank you, Classified Employees!

Marcia Latta — Mon, 07 Mar 2011 18:18:58 +0000

March 7-11 is Classified Employee Week. This week, we are honoring and recognizing the dedicated support staff who serve our students, schools and district.

Classified employees are the "backbone" of the public school system, providing support and working directly with students, staff, parents, volunteers, business partners and community members.

Classified employees are secretaries, educational assistants, food service workers, custodians, maintenance workers, bus drivers and more.

Thank you, classified staff!

Duniway library assistant publishes story in "Chicken Soup" series

Marcia Latta — Mon, 07 Mar 2011 14:27:03 +0000

Deborah Van Dyke, library assistant at Duniway Middle School, recently published a short story, "The Rescue," in the new Chicken Soup for the Soul: My Cat's Life. The book is scheduled for release April 12, 2011.

Deborah has lived in Yamhill County for 24 years and is mother of two daughters, both graduates of McMinnville High School.

Students ready for district and regional Battle of the Books competition

Marcia Latta — Thu, 03 Mar 2011 15:15:18 +0000

On Read Across America Day, Memorial Elementary School's Battle of the Books champs, the Lightning Bolts, could be found in the school library. The team was readying for tonight's District competition at McMinnville High School where all reigning McMinnville teams will compete. The elementary teams will vie to win the District trophy before competing again at regionals on Saturday, and the middle school teams will vie for the right to represent the District at the regional competition on Saturday.

McMinnville Education Foundation grant funds new library books at Memorial

Marcia Latta — Wed, 02 Mar 2011 21:14:49 +0000

The McMinnville Education Foundation awarded more than $40,000 in grants to teachers for student programs last November. Since then, teachers have started using the grant funds for their programs.

"The foundation does so much for us," said Memorial Librarian Joyce Lowry, whose "Going Graphic" grant allowed her to purchase popular graphic novels that would appeal to struggling readers.

Technology makes EASA a SMART Showcase School

Marcia Latta — Wed, 16 Feb 2011 18:32:08 +0000

Technology is a key part of the Engineering and Aerospace Sciences Academy (EASA). The 96 MHS students who are enrolled in the program benefit from the hands-on learning opportunities in the EASA classrooms at the Evergreen Aviation Museum and the state-of-the-art technology.

MHS cheerleaders win state championship rankings

Marcia Latta — Fri, 11 Feb 2011 17:38:33 +0000

UPDATE: Congratulations to the MHS cheer team for the third place win in the coed division at the OSAA State Cheerleading Championship on Feb. 12.

MHS cheerleaders have showcased their school spirit and placed in the top two in competitions since the beginning of the year. The team placed first at competitions at Lake Oswego, Lakeridge, Wilson and Jesuit high schools and second place at Tualatin High School.

Field trip takes middle school girls to Oregon Coast Aquarium

Marcia Latta — Wed, 09 Feb 2011 18:00:39 +0000

On Jan. 27, 40 girls from Patton and Duniway visited the Oregon Coast Aquarium in Newport. The girls took part in a classroom experience where they had a chance to study Oregon coast intertidal creatures including barnacles, sea anemones, and mollusks.

Superintendent's coffee to discuss budget reductions is tonight

Marcia Latta — Tue, 08 Feb 2011 14:56:35 +0000

Please come to a Superintendent's Coffee on tonight at Columbus Elementary School. We want to hear about your budget priorities, and we would like your input on the online budget reduction survey.

MHS Twilighters win jazz honors

Marcia Latta — Fri, 04 Feb 2011 17:52:03 +0000

The McMinnville High School Twilighters won the Clark College Vocal Jazz Festival on Jan. 27 and qualified for regional. The Twilighter rhythm section, Bethany Humlie, Matt Silver, Jordan Kelsch and Alex Bean received Outstanding Musician awards.

"The Twilighters performed extremely well in the final round and won the festival," said choir director Dana Libonati.

Fifth graders learn physics lessons at EASA

Marcia Latta — Mon, 31 Jan 2011 16:34:22 +0000

McMinnville fifth graders are using skateboards to learn physics. A field trip to Evergreen Aviation Museum and help from EASA and MHS students are giving the elementary students a hands-on lesson in friction, gravity and magnetic forces.

Rotary members distribute dictionaries to fourth graders

Marcia Latta — Mon, 24 Jan 2011 16:06:25 +0000

This month, fourth graders area fourth graders got a boost in building their vocabularies with free dictionaries from Rotary International.

The project is a joint venture between the Rotary Club of McMinnville, the McMinnville Sunrise Rotary, and the Rotary Club of Sheridan.

Students speak to astronauts during NASA downlink at Evergreen Aviation Museum

Marcia Latta — Fri, 21 Jan 2011 06:01:42 +0000

Watch a video story from the event.

On Wednesday, Jan. 18, McMinnville students dialed up astronauts for a long-distance conversation about life in space. Students were selected from around the District to participate in a downlink at Evergreen Aviation Museum based on winning essay and drawing entries. Students from all other McMinnville schools watched remotely.

MACA's student-produced videos share positive messages and reminders

Marcia Latta — Tue, 18 Jan 2011 04:18:54 +0000

MACA student announcements are broadcast in school daily via video feed. Students also see video advertisements with helpful reminders about topics such as school pride, responsibility, recycling and other civic messages.

To see some of the student-produced videos, visit the MACA group on the District Vimeo channel.

January is School Board Recognition Month

Marcia Latta — Wed, 12 Jan 2011 18:05:12 +0000

Thank you to the McMinnville Schools Board of Directors!

Janis Braich, Kathy Cabe, Francis Charbonnier, Nicole Obrist, Stan Primozich, Tim Roberts and Larry Vollmer

See the District Proclamation

See the Governor's Proclamation

Budget work session kicks off 2011-12 budget process

Marcia Latta — Thu, 16 Dec 2010 20:10:53 +0000

Due to a decline in state resources, school districts will continue to experience economic challenges. A series of budget meetings is scheduled through June to review budget needs and recommend funding priorities to the School Board for the 2011-12 school year.

At the Nov. 29 meeting, Budget Committee members received background information in a special budget work session.

Oregon Coast Aquarium brings ocean to Buel students

Marcia Latta — Thu, 09 Dec 2010 18:58:23 +0000

Buel Elementary School students didn't go to the ocean, but the Oregon Coast Aquarium brought ocean life to them. During an assembly on Dec. 7, the students learned about marine animals and ocean life, and some helped bring the animal lessons to life by dressing as a barnacle, sea star, anemone octopus.

Plant of the month program showcases MHS horticulture class

Marcia Latta — Sun, 05 Dec 2010 21:02:33 +0000

MHS horticulture teacher Kerry Naylor's students are making their classroom projects available to the public in a five-month plant-of-the-month (POM) program starting this month.

MHS choir students selected for honor choirs

Marcia Latta — Thu, 18 Nov 2010 15:27:25 +0000

Five McMinnville High School Choir students were selected to participate in two honor choir festivals in 2011.

FFA nursery and floral teams earn awards

Marcia Latta — Wed, 10 Nov 2010 15:31:05 +0000

MHS FFA students kicked off the season with competitions on Nov. 5 and 6 in Vancouver, Wash. The nursery team placed fourth in the test category and seventh in sweepstakes out of 17 teams at a nursery contest

MHS Band Director Jeff Hornick honored by National Band Association

Marcia Latta — Mon, 08 Nov 2010 18:32:53 +0000

Last week, Band Director Jeff Hornick was presented with the National Band Association Citation of Excellence for his contributions to bands and music.

Actors teach Patton students lessons about navigating technology and information

Marcia Latta — Wed, 03 Nov 2010 20:03:29 +0000

Last week, Patton Middle School students enjoyed a live performance from the Oregon Children's Theatre with a moral about how to navigate today's information age. The production, called "Texting the Sun," was funded by a grant from Kaiser Permanente.

School phone lines have been restored

Marcia Latta — Wed, 03 Nov 2010 19:08:24 +0000

Update: After a temporary outage due to technical problems, school phone lines have been restored and should be operating in all buildings. If you have problems reaching a school office, call the main district office line for assistance, 503-565-4000.

MACA videos inform and motivate students

Marcia Latta — Wed, 03 Nov 2010 02:53:38 +0000

Every day, MACA students get their news and announcements through student-produced videos. They also see motivational video ads, such as this "Why do you like being a teacher?" video produced by MACA faculty for their students.

Class for Spanish-speaking parents a success

Marcia Latta — Wed, 27 Oct 2010 14:21:38 +0000

A new grant-funded class for parents is providing elementary and middle school instruction for Spanish-speaking parents in the McMinnville School District.

The program from the National Institute for Adult Education (INEA) teaches basic literacy skills and helps parents model study skills for their children.

New grant will help more students prepare for college

Marcia Latta — Tue, 26 Oct 2010 19:06:49 +0000

Thanks to a new grant, more McMinnville graduates will be prepared for college. The one-year $48,500 College Access Challenge Grant Program will fund the MHS and MACA Bridge to College Project, designed to increase the number of students attending college after high school.

Artist teaches brush painting to Memorial students

Marcia Latta — Mon, 18 Oct 2010 18:02:25 +0000

Portland watercolor artist Cindy Lommasson is the fall artist-in-residence at Memorial Elementary School. She specializes in Chinese brush painting, known as sumi-e.

School Board Director Francis Charbonnier honored for 30 years of service

Marcia Latta — Thu, 14 Oct 2010 22:38:42 +0000

At the Oct. 11 School Board meeting, long-time Board member Francis Charbonnier was recognized by the McMinnville Education Association and the Oregon School Employees Association for his years of service to McMinnville School District. MEA named a student scholarship for Francis and OSEA made a donation to the McMinnville Education Foundation in his name.

Memorial students go to outdoor school

Marcia Latta — Mon, 11 Oct 2010 19:23:20 +0000

Last week, Memorial Elementary School students got a taste of the outdoors during outdoor school. About 100 first through fifth graders spent afterschool hours at Metzger Park. The students rotated among hiking, fishing, art, stream life and outdoor cooking stations.

Outdoor school was supported by Memorial and Kids on the Block staff.

Eighth-grade WEB leaders help new students navigate middle school

Marcia Latta — Wed, 06 Oct 2010 19:34:52 +0000

Incoming sixth- and seventh-grade students were welcomed this year by the eighth-grade WEB students, who helped them ease the transition to middle school.

WEB, Where Everybody Belongs, is a nationally-based middle school transition program

District wins $6.7 million federal grant

Marcia Latta — Fri, 24 Sep 2010 03:39:59 +0000

McMinnville schools will get an extra boost from the federal government for student achievement gains. The district was awarded a five-year $6.7 million federal grant for teacher incentive programs.

Cathy Carnahan is National Principal of the Year!

Marcia Latta — Thu, 09 Sep 2010 16:06:57 +0000

In a surprise assembly at Duniway Middle School this morning, Cathy Carnahan was named the National Middle School Principal of the year.

The award was presented by representatives from MetLife and the National Association of Secondary School Principals. Also attending were representatives from the Confederation of Oregon School Administrators, Oregon School Boards Association, City of McMinnville and more.

Buel summer library program keeps students reading

Marcia Latta — Fri, 13 Aug 2010 22:56:13 +0000

During summer vacation, more than 100 students from the Buel Elementary School neighborhood kept up their reading skills by visiting the school library during summer hours every Thursday afternoon.

Duniway's Cathy Carnahan is one of three finalist for National Middle School Principal of the Year

Marcia Latta — Mon, 19 Jul 2010 04:52:11 +0000

See a video of Cathy Carnahan, Finalist for National Middle School Principal of the Year.

Summer meal program serves up breakfast and lunch

Marcia Latta — Fri, 09 Jul 2010 19:51:04 +0000

Three schools are serving up breakfast and lunch to children who are 18 and under as part of the summer food service program. The meals are served at Newby and Wascher elementary schools and McMinnville High School

MHS has cheer and player representation at Les Schwab Bowl football game

Marcia Latta — Wed, 07 Jul 2010 17:12:33 +0000

McMinnville High School had good representation in this year's annual Les Schwab Bowl football game. Graduating seniors Taylor Ulbricht and Ronna Huntley were selected to cheer at the game, and graduating senior Michael Carrillo was selected to play on the South team.

MHS students and staff produce end-of-year videos

Marcia Latta — Tue, 29 Jun 2010 18:16:13 +0000

Two end-of-year videos have been produced by McMinnville High School students and staff members.

"Echoes in the Hallway" by Don Witten and Andrew Murga celebrate the school's centennial year.

"A Legendary Story: Class of 2010" is the 2010 Senior Music Video.

MHS graduating class marks 100th commencement

Marcia Latta — Mon, 21 Jun 2010 17:34:42 +0000

On June 11, 384 MHS seniors graduated, making school history as the 100th graduating class from McMinnville High School.

Congratulations and thank you, retiring staff members!

Marcia Latta — Fri, 18 Jun 2010 22:38:49 +0000

This year, eleven staff members are retiring from the McMinnville School District after years of dedicated service. They were honored in a recent ceremony by the School Board. Congratulations to the following staff and best wishes for a happy retirement!

Duniway Middle School names Peace Prize winners

Marcia Latta — Fri, 18 Jun 2010 03:37:53 +0000

Each year, Duniway Middle School awards medals to three students who represent peace and peaceful resolution. This year, the awards went to students Chloe Zinda, Alexis Ober and Maria Saldana. In addition to the medals, their names will be added to the Peace Garden at the school.

Memorial students win challenge to raise pennies for Doernbecher

Marcia Latta — Sat, 05 Jun 2010 04:41:34 +0000

Elementary school students pitched in their pennies to raise money for Doernbecher Children's Hospital. The McMinnville High School Doernbecher Club challenged elementary students to afundraising drive, which raised $2,500 for the hospital.

Patton seventh graders study habitats at Miller Woods

Marcia Latta — Fri, 28 May 2010 15:04:13 +0000

This week, Patton Middle School seventh graders took their studies outside. The whole class traveled to Miller Woods to wrap up the required environmental studies class with hands-on observations and data gathering.

MHS teacher receives OSU award for work with migrant students

Marcia Latta — Wed, 26 May 2010 18:35:28 +0000

MHS counselor and English Language Development (ELD) coordinator CRentsch [at] msd [dot] k12 [dot] or [dot] us (Cecilia Casillas-Rentsch) received the Harvest of Hope award from the OSU College Assistance Migrant Program (CAMP) for her work to get migrant students ready for and accepted to college.

MHS band students wrap up season with music awards

Marcia Latta — Wed, 12 May 2010 19:20:31 +0000

MHS band students wrapped up a successful music festival season at the State Solo Contest at Linfield College on May 1. Junior John-Martin Paddock placed fourth on Tuba and junior Jordan Kelsch placed sixth in both the Low (Tenor and Baritone) Saxophone and Guitar categories.

MHS Twilighters make their mark in Big Apple music festival

Marcia Latta — Tue, 11 May 2010 17:48:07 +0000

At the end of last month, McMinnville High School's Twilighters traveled to New York to compete in the Big Apple Classic at the College of Staten Island. The students, under the direction of Dana Libonati, topped 25 high school music groups from around the country to win the Grand Champion trophy for the highest festival scores.

Grant will fund science, technology, engineering, math camp for girls

Marcia Latta — Sat, 01 May 2010 00:29:37 +0000

UPDATE: STEM camp is full. To add a student name to the waiting list, contact gcraven [at] msd [dot] k12 [dot] or [dot] us (Gail Craven), 503-565-4004.

This summer, middle school girls can explore a range of exciting subjects in a four-day, hands-on summer camp. The Science, Technology, Engineering, Math (STEM) camp is funded by a grant from the American Association of University Women.

Welcome to the new McMinnville School District Web page

Marcia Latta — Mon, 12 Apr 2010 23:54:40 +0000

The launch of our new Web site is part of our goal to improve the way we communicate with our parents, staff and community members. Through this site, we are expanding our access to program and staff information to help you find the tools you need to get information about your schools.

Tamale sale helps send students to Cesar Chavez Leadership Conference

admin — Tue, 30 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0000

In March, 53 MACA and MHS students attended the Cesar Chavez Leadership Conference at Western State University with help from a tamale fundraiser.