One of the strengths of a small school community like McKenzie is that learning does not stop when the final bell rings. Our gyms, fields, and classrooms continue to buzz with activity well into the evening. Around here, extracurriculars and athletics are not separate from education, they are an essential part of it. This week, as we wrap up several winter seasons and look ahead to spring, it feels like the right time to recognize the important role these opportunities play in our students’ lives.
We are concluding the winter high school basketball season for both our boys and girls teams, along with middle school girls basketball. These student-athletes have represented our school with pride, resilience, and sportsmanship. Their commitment in balancing academics, practices, travel, and games is something to be celebrated. Our middle school boys team will continue their season through March 14th, and we look forward to cheering them on as their season finishes strong.
Spring is just around the corner. High school track practices are set to begin March 2nd, and excitement is building. We are especially grateful for our collaborative and supportive relationship with McKenzie Community Track and Field. Their partnership provides our student-athletes with an excellent venue and reflects the strong community support that makes our programs possible. When school and community work together, students benefit.
Participation in extracurricular activities develops far more than physical fitness or competitive skills. It builds time management, teamwork, leadership, and perseverance. Students learn how to handle success and disappointment, how to contribute to something bigger than themselves, and how to represent their community with integrity. Those lessons stay with them long after graduation.
Attendance and engagement connect closely with extracurricular involvement. Students who participate in activities often feel a stronger sense of belonging and connection to their school. That sense of belonging matters. When students feel connected, they are more likely to attend consistently, stay motivated academically, and invest in their future.
Last week, I had the opportunity to participate in Education Advocacy Day at the State Capitol in Salem. I met with several state representatives and senators to advocate for full funding of the State School Fund for the remainder of the legislative biennium. Like districts across Oregon, we are watching state funding discussions carefully. I encouraged legislators to consider accessing the Education Stability Fund to prevent reductions to the State School Fund. Stable and adequate funding ensures we can continue providing strong academic programs, extracurricular opportunities, and student supports without disruption. Advocacy at the state level is one way we work to protect the experiences our students value so much.
Turning to this week’s events: On Monday, our Middle School Boys Basketball team will host Siletz in the Old Gym at 4:30 p.m. Wednesday, the team will travel to Mohawk for a 4:30 p.m. game. Thursday, we will host area administrators as they continue their professional development work with the Center for Educational Leadership. In the afternoon, EWEB will present Powertown to our fourth graders as an engaging learning opportunity connecting energy, science, and our local community. On Friday, the WATERS Class will be in session.
As we transition from winter to spring sports, I want to thank our coaches, advisors, volunteers, and families who make these programs possible. Extracurricular activities are a team effort in every sense of the word.
Our students benefit tremendously from the opportunities provided both inside and outside the classroom. With strong community partnerships and continued advocacy for stable funding, we will keep working to ensure those opportunities remain available for every McKenzie student.