KFCS Friday News Flash
May 24, 2024
In this Issue
A note from the Superintendent
Upcoming School, Community Events
- KFCS Headlines
- 2024 Klamath County Health Assessment Survey
- KUHS Alumni
- Phone App Download for District Website
- Join Our Team
- KFCS Board of Education
A note from the Superintendent;
I am writing this note to express my heartfelt thanks to everyone who contributed to
making our District-Wide Barbecue Party on Wednesday, May 22, at Modoc Field a tremendous
success.
First and foremost, I want to extend my deepest gratitude to our incredible Human
Resources team, Renee Clark, Robin Sundseth, Mary Holder, and Billy Victor for their
outstanding efforts in organizing and running the event. Your hard work and dedication ensured
that everything ran smoothly and everyone had a wonderful time.
A special thank you goes out to Daymond Monteith and Scott Olson for cooking the
delicious hamburgers and hot dogs. Your culinary skills were greatly appreciated by all.
I would also like to thank the KFCS Administration for serving the food and ensuring
that everyone was well taken care of. Your willingness to step in and serve demonstrated true
leadership and community spirit.
Cleaning up after such a large gathering is no small task, and I want to acknowledge and
thank everyone who pitched in to help clean up. Your efforts ensured that we left Modoc Field in
great condition and exemplified our commitment to teamwork and responsibility.
A big shoutout goes to our talented KU Digital Media students for serving as D.J.ās for
the event. Your music and entertainment added to the lively atmosphere and helped create a
memorable experience for everyone in attendance.
As we wrap up the 23-24 school year, I want to congratulate and thank all of the KFCS
employees who contributed to making this year such a success. Your hard work, dedication, and
passion for education have not gone unnoticed, and I am deeply appreciative of every one of you.
From my perspective as Superintendent, it was truly heartwarming to see everyone enjoying a brisk afternoon of fellowship and camaraderie. The barbecue party was a perfect way to celebrate the end of our school year, and it was wonderful to witness the strong sense of community and support that defines KFCS.
Thank you once again to everyone who made this event possible and to all who attended.
Warm regards,
Keith A. Brown
Klamath County Rotary Club Valedictorians and Salutatorians Luncheon
Photo, from left to right: Klamath Union High School valedictorians Brooke Nelson, Mercy Lassett-Egbert, Josiah Kupitz, Keely Hall, Ethan Chinander, Klamath Union salutatorian, Dakota Neese, KFCS Superintendent Keith A. Brown and Klamath Union Principal, Tony Swan. KU valedictorians Alyse Perez and Abby Martin are not pictured.
We want to recognize valedictorians and salutatorians in the Klamath Basin after a luncheon put together by Klamath County Rotary Club this afternoon.
Klamath Union High School valedictorians for the Class of 2024 are: Ethan Chinander, Keely Hall, Josiah Kupitz, Mercy Lassett-Egbert, Brooke Nelson and Alyse Perez and Abby Martin (not pictured). Klamath Union salutatorian, Dakota Neese. Klamath Union senior Isabela Coffman and Brooke Nelson each earned a scholarship through Klamath County Rotary.
Coffman earned the Margie Howard Scholarship, a $1,500 scholarship. Nelson, received the Rotary Foundation Scholarship, a $2,000 scholarship.
EagleRidge High School was recognized as well, with Kaitlyn Stacy as the schoolās valedictorian and Summer Buckingham as salutatorian.
KFCS Year-End Barbecue at Modoc Field
As the end of the school year quickly approaches, we want to thank all our staff for their hard work this year as we had a year-end celebration barbecue Wednesday evening at Modoc Field.
Our Human Resources department and KFCS administrators served over 300 hundred hamburgers and hotdogs to our staff. Thank you to everyone who helped make the event as enjoyable as it was.
Memorial Day
Memorial Day is a significant holiday in the United States, dedicated to honoring and remembering the men and women who have died while serving in the U.S. military. Hereās a detailed explanation suitable for a school district community:
The Origins of Memorial Day
- Historical Beginnings:
- Memorial Day originated after the Civil War, a conflict that took place from 1861 to 1865. The war resulted in the deaths of hundreds of thousands of soldiers from both the Union (North) and the Confederacy (South).
- In the years following the Civil War, communities began holding springtime tributes to these fallen soldiers, decorating their graves with flowers and reciting prayers.
- Decoration Day:
- One of the earliest recorded observances was in 1866 in Waterloo, New York, which is recognized as the birthplace of Memorial Day.
- Originally called Decoration Day, the holiday focused on decorating the graves of Civil War soldiers. The name was later changed to Memorial Day to honor all American military personnel who died in all wars.
Evolution and National Recognition
- Expansion Beyond the Civil War:
- After World War I, the holiday evolved to commemorate American military personnel who died in all wars, not just the Civil War.
- This broader focus reflects the nationās gratitude to those who sacrificed their lives in various conflicts, including World War I, World War II, the Korean War, the Vietnam War, and more recent conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan.
- National Holiday:
- In 1971, Memorial Day was declared a national holiday by an act of Congress. It was also moved from its traditional date of May 30 to the last Monday in May to create a three-day weekend for federal employees.
Traditions and Observances
- Flags and Flowers:
- On Memorial Day, American flags are placed on the graves of military personnel, and flowers are often laid at these sites. This practice helps ensure that those who sacrificed their lives are not forgotten.
- Moments of Remembrance:
- At 3:00 PM local time, a National Moment of Remembrance is observed. Americans are encouraged to pause for a minute of silence to reflect on the sacrifices made by fallen soldiers.
- Parades and Ceremonies:
- Many communities hold parades featuring veterans and military personnel. Speeches, musical tributes, and other ceremonies are also common, providing opportunities for education and reflection.
The Importance of Memorial Day
Memorial Day is more than just a long weekend; it is a time for Americans to reflect on the cost of freedom and the sacrifices made to preserve it. By participating in Memorial Day activities and traditions, we ensure that the stories and sacrifices of our fallen soldiers are remembered and honored, fostering a sense of national unity and respect for those who served.
This day serves as a powerful reminder of the bravery and dedication of the men and women who have fought to protect the liberties and values of the United States. Itās an opportunity for communities, especially in school districts, to educate younger generations about the importance of remembering and honoring our nation's heroes.
KU Athletics: Spring Sports, Track and Field
The Class 4A OSAA State Track and Field Championships had countless Pelicans coming away with medals and honors last weekend at Hayward Field in Eugene.
Below you can find each participant with their placing and finish times.
DayQuan McKay:
2nd (Place) High Jump 6-04
2nd 400 m. 49.59 PR
7th Long Jump 19-11.75
8th 200 m. 22.81
Isa Coffman:
3rd 3000 m. 10:44.79 PR
7th 1500 m. 4:56.82 PR
Hazel Squibb:
4th High Jump 4-11.75
10th 800 m. 2:32.10 PR
Maddie Smith:
13th Shot Put 29-02.75
13th Discus 86-01
Andi Harmon:
8th High Jump 4-11.75
Carter Harmon:
5th 800 m. 1:59.22 PR
Leona Higgins:
13th 1500 m. 5:12.92 PR
King Vaugn:
13th Javelin 131-05
Jacob Martin:
Pole Vault - state qualifier 3ā above his PR - top 13 in the state.
Klamath Union Girls Tennis
Photo: 4A/3A/2A/1A-SD3 Special District 3 Champion, Patricia Dougherty.
Congratulations to Klamath Union High School Girls Tennis for an outstanding season on the courts and last week's 4A/3A/2A/1A-SD3 Special District 3 competition. A big thank you goes toward coaches Dale Dougherty and Jeanne Landrum for their coaching leadership with the athletes.
State competition information
Competing in the OSAA Class 4A/3A/2A/1A Girls Tennis State Championships this week are Patricia Dougherty in singles and Alyse Perez and Cassidy Bogatay in the doubles tournament.
Dougherty won her quarterfinals matchup against Valley Catholic's Sami Shivakumar and will face Philomath's Bailey Bell Saturday before a possible championship match later in the day.
Perez and Bogatay lost in their first-round match in the state doubles championships Thursday. The Klamath Union duo fell in the consolation quarterfinals Friday.
Photo: Klamath Union girls tennis head coach, Dale Dougherty, Cassidy Bogatay, Alyse Perez and Jeanne Landrum.
Klamath Union Boys Tennis
Klamath Union High School Boys Tennis placed second at districts with six of their members making it to the semifinals and finals. Doubles team No. 1, Logan Norton and Wyatt Jensen, placed third overall; allowing them a spot at state.
Congrats to those who competed in the district competition: Bryce Petersen, Mason Dawson, Elliott Huntoon DeRoche, Logan Norton, Wyatt Jensen, Jack Jensen, Lucas Perez, Joseph Wagstaff and Moroni Wagstaff.
State competition
Norton and Jensen competed in the OSAA 4A/3A/2A/1A Boys Tennis Doubles State Championships, which started Thursday, May 23. After their first-round match, the duo fell into the consolation bracket after a loss to Marist Catholic's Cohen Aguero and Eli Mildren.
Norton and Jensen will look to win the consolation bracket after beating Madras' Juan Olivera and Matias Ruiz Jr. in the consolation bracket quarterfinals Friday afternoon.
Norton and Jensen will play in the consolation semifinals Saturday with their opponent to be determined.
Klamath Learning Center Students Visit Klamath Community College Job Fair
Here are a few photos from Career Day at Klamath Community College Thursday, May 24. Klamath Learning Center invited seniors and graduates (several underclassmen graduating early) to attend this year's event.
KU DECA Members Earn Recognition at DECAās International Career Conference
KLAMATH FALLS, OR ā Klamath Union High School (KU) DECA members earned the
organizationās highest honors at DECAās annual International Career Development Conference
(ICDC) in Anaheim, CA on April 27-30, 2024.
Students receiving recognition at the international level were:
Cassidy Bogatay Sales Project 3rd Place (Team)
Lina Stanfield Sales Project 3rd Place (Team)
Brooke Nelson Sports and Entertainment Marketing Team Decision Top 20 (Exam)
Alyse Perez DECA, Inc. Scholarship $5,000 Scholarship
KU DECA took 10 team members to Anaheim and competed in six events with KU placing in
two of the six events. Seniors Cassidy Bogatay and Lina Stanfield placed 3rd overall in the
Sales Project event. Senior Brooke Nelson placed top 20 and earned an exam medal in Sports
and Entertainment Team Decision. Senior Alyse Perez was awarded a $5,000 scholarship from
DECA, Inc.
KU DECA Advisor, Joel McPherson, said of this yearās competition, āMy first DECA ICDC as an
advisor was exciting. Witnessing our students on stage, their names echoing amid cheers, filled
me with pride. It's more than just awards; it's about seeing their preparation and dedication pay
off, their confidence soaring. KU DECA's triumph is a journey where success is not just a
destination but a relentless pursuit fueled by passion.ā
Two senior DECA teammates, Bogatay and Stanfield, concluded their DECA journey on a high
note. Despite not placing at ICDC last year, their dedication and persistence yielded success
this year. Reflecting on their achievement, KU DECAās president Stanfield expressed, āThe
feeling of getting on the international stage with my partner Cass was unlike any other, seeing
that our hard work and countless hours paid off felt so relieving but nothing compares to the
support we felt from the rest of our chapter and the joy that we all took part in.ā
The other KU members competed well and earned significant scores, but the competition was
fierce. The rest of the KU DECA team included:
ā Alyse Perez & Brooke Nelson - Sports and Entertainment Marketing Team Decision
ā Hali Ganong & Paetyn Eckert - School-Based Enterprise (Food Operations)
ā Eleanor Rodriguez - Quick Serve Restaurant Management
ā Jacob Martin - Hotel and Lodging Management
ā Aeris Saindon - Restaurant and Food Service Management
ā Carter Harmon - Thrive Leadership Academy
KU DECA would like to thank our many sponsors for making this trip possible.
ā Bogatay Construction
ā Howardās Meat Center
ā PourHorse Mobile Cantina
ā Tucker & Gailis Dental
ā Oregon Institute of Technology
ā EcoSolar and Electric
ā Rocky Mountain Construction
ā BDI Industrial Supply
ā ZCS Engineering
Contact: Joel McPherson
541-883-4763
Ponderosa Students of the Week
Oliver Case
Sawyer Olsen
Lily Mae Warrior
Aaliyah Pedroz
Living Love Forward
Pelican, Conger Apparel Order
The Pelican Elementary School Booster Club has partnered with Elite Apparel to provide students and families Pelican swag. A portion of each order's proceeds will go back to Pelican Elementary. You can order right from the Elite Apparel website: https://eliteappareloregon.com...
When your order is ready, you will be notified and then can pick it up in the Pelican front office. Help support your school and shop local!
Look through flyers for the Conger Spirit Wear online store, as well as a thank you to SmithBates.
The direct link to the store is here: http://conger.orderpromos.com/
2024 Klamath County Health Assessment Survey
Community Health Assessment survey (English)
Community Health Assessment survey (Spanish)
KUHS Alumni
The new district website has an Alumni page for graduates of KU. This past week, six KU alumni sent us updates on their lives since they graduated. Take a look on the KU Alumni page on the district website. And, if you are an alumni, be sure and send us YOUR update!
Follow KFCS on Facebook & LinkedIn, Search "Klamath Falls City Schools"
EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES - JOIN OUR TEAM!!
Apply for a District Job Opening
Become a Substitute Teacher or Paraprofessional in our District
PARENT LINKS
Click Here for the Family Friendly 2023-2024 School Year Calendar - English
Click Here for the Family Friendly 2023-2024 School Year Calender - Spanish
Synergy SIS Portal
Electronic Flyers for Your Students School
Thrillshare
How Will I Know if School is Cancelled?
KFCS Board of Education
Andrea Jensen, Zone 1, Roosevelt - andrea.jensen@kfcityschools.org
Andrew Biggs, Zone 2, At-Large - andrew.biggs@kfcityschools.org
Vanessa Bennett, Zone 3, Conger - vanessa.bennett@kfcityschools.org
Kathy Hewitt, Zone 4, Mills - kathy.hewitt@kfcityschools.org
Trina Perez, Zone 5, Pelican - trina.perez@kfcityschools.org
Patrick Fenner, Zone 6, At-Large - patrick.fenner@kfcityschools.org
Ashley Wendt-Lusich, Zone 7 At-Large - ashley.wendt-lusich@kfcityschools.org