Dear Families and Staff,

The first week back from winter break was fantastic, filled with enthusiasm and great energy as we got back into our routines. Our students were engaged and ready to learn, and we spent time re-establishing school and classroom expectations to set everyone up for success in the coming months. Building class culture and relationships through activities in homeroom and Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) classes was also a big focus last week. Our students are already showing a lot of growth and enthusiasm as we work together to strengthen our community.

We are also in the midst of our Winter Benchmark Assessments. Most students completed their MAP Reading test last week, and this week they will take the MAP Math test during their math class. We’re excited to gather this valuable data, which helps us measure student progress and achievements. The Winter F&P assessment window opens tomorrow and runs through the first week of February. This is another opportunity to track student growth, celebrate student successes, and inform our instruction moving forward.

This week, we are also thrilled to welcome Deputy Colbenson from the Mason County Sheriff’s Department. Deputy Colbenson currently works as a school resource officer for Pioneer School District and has been collaborating with us to create some open discussion topics he will help facilitate with our school counselors as part of our SEL curriculum. Deputy Colbenson will be on campus Wednesdays throughout January and February to lead discussions with our students about Responsible Speech. This important work aims to teach students how to:

• communicate thoughtfully and respectfully
• prevent harmful speech
• support healthy debate
• foster conflict resolution skills.

We believe these discussions will help equip our students with the tools to engage in meaningful conversations and build a more inclusive community. If you have any questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to reach out to Mr. Kraft.

A few activities happening this week include:

• PTSO meeting on Tuesday, January 14th starting at 3:00 in the library
• Main focus of this meeting will be planning for the student school social on January 24th. PTSO needs parent support and volunteers to host this event. PTSO will be sending home a flyer early this week with more information and a sign up to volunteer link if you are not able to attend the meeting.
• PLC day Wednesday, January 15th with school dismissing at 1:00
• Martin Luther King Jr. Assembly on Friday, January 17th from 12:55-1:35. It’s a special opportunity to reflect on Dr. King’s legacy and discuss the importance of justice, equality, and service. OMS will reach out to families whose student will be participating or performing in the assembly in case you would like to attend.
• No school on Monday, January 20th, in honor of Martin Luther King Jr. Day.

Thank you for your continued support, and we look forward to another great week!

Mary K. Johnson, Principal

Mike Kraft, Assistance Principal