The District Dispatch

Dear Families and Community Members,

As we move into a new month, I want to revisit a key component of our ongoing efforts to provide the best educational experience for all students: the Professional Learning Community (PLC) Process. This framwork emphasizes collaboration, shared learning, and a commitment to meeting every student's diverse needs.

Central to the PLC process are four critical questions that guide our work:

1. What do we want students to learn?
2. How will we know they have learned it?
3. What will we do if they haven’t learned it?
4. What will we do if they already know it?

These questions are the foundation for thoughtful planning, meaningful assessments, targeted interventions, and enrichments. They ensure that teachers work together to support every learner, whether they need additional help mastering a concept or opportunities to extend their learning further.

As we continue to engage with the PLC process, I am inspired by the dedication and collaboration I see among our educators and staff. Together, we are creating a culture where learning for all is not just a goal — it's a promise.

Warm regards,
Matt Ellis
Superintendent

In the Tillamook School District, we are excited to share our ongoing focus on "The Bookshelf" a framework that represents the essential components of effective teaching. This visual tool guides our educators in aligning instruction and assessment with clear learning goals to support student success.

The two foundational ends of "The Bookshelf" are framed by key questions from the Professional Learning Community (PLC) process:

1. What do we want students to know and be able to do?

2. How will we know they have learned it?

Our work on this initiative began last October with the identification of Guaranteed Standards across grades K-12. Through a collaborative process, our educators categorized learning standards into three distinct tiers:

• Boulder Standards: These are the essential, non-negotiable standards that every student is guaranteed to learn.

• Rock Standards: These provide additional learning opportunities that reinforce and support the Boulder Standards.

• Butterfly Standards: These are valuable learning moments introduced when time allows or when teachable moments arise.

Focusing on these prioritized standards ensures that teaching and learning in Tillamook is intentional, aligned, and impactful. The Bookshelf framework empowers our teachers to collaborate, assess student progress effectively, and guarantee that all students receive a high-quality education built on essential, enduring knowledge.

At the other end of The Bookshelf is the development of common assessments designed to ensure that students have mastered the Boulder Standards—the essential, non-negotiable learning goals guaranteed for all students. Through collaboration and data analysis, teams use these assessments to develop enrichment and intervention plans tailored to meet student needs.

Many Boulder Standards scaffold in complexity over the years. Using common assessments, vertical teams can track and analyze students' learning progression, ensuring consistent growth across grade levels. This comprehensive approach supports each student's educational journey and provides a cohesive, rigorous, and intentional learning experience throughout the Tillamook School District.

The Tillamook School District is currently reviewing and adopting new instructional materials for Science and Health. This selection process is critical in supporting the students to achieve proficiency on the district's Guaranteed Standards. Carefully chosen materials ensure that students access rich, meaningful content that aligns with and promotes achieving these essential learning goals.

In Oregon, instructional materials are reviewed and adopted on a seven-year rotation, with subject-specific evaluations guided by the Oregon Department of Education’s (ODE) rigorous review process. The ODE narrows down instructional options, which district representatives and other stakeholders review and then select to ensure the best fit for our student's needs.

If you're interested in learning more about the instructional materials review process, please contact Assistant Superintendent Kim Lyon or Director of Communications Jennifer Guarcello. We appreciate your ongoing support as we continue to provide high-quality educational experiences for our students.

As winter rolls in with its mix of rain, ice, and some snow, we want to make sure everyone is prepared for whatever Mother Nature throws our way! Here’s what you need to know about school delays and closures:

🕕 Timing is Everything
If we need to delay or close school, we’ll do our best to get the word out by 6:00 AM. You’ll receive updates via:
✔️ District Email (Check your inbox!)
✔️ Remind App (Make sure you’re signed up!)
✔️ Facebook & Website (Follow us for real-time updates!)
🚫 No more School Messenger calls!

🌨 How We Decide
Our trusty team of road warriors hits the streets early to check conditions within the district. If roads are too icy or unsafe, we’ll make the call. If you live outside the district, remember—we base decisions on local conditions, so plan accordingly!

🌊 Rising Waters & Road Closures
Heavy rains? Rising tides? Welcome to winter!
🌧 Highway 101 & Wilson River Loop – These areas can flood, so be ready for possible detours or adjusted start times.
🚗 Driving through water? If roads are open but wet, ensure you have a vehicle that can handle it. No submarines are required, but a little extra clearance helps!

🚧 Landslides Happen
If you live near the rivers or out by the beach, landslides can block your usual route. Know your backup plan in case your normal road isn’t an option.

🚦 Safety First!
Our top priority is keeping students and staff safe. We stay in close contact with local authorities and emergency services to make the best decisions possible. If conditions are dangerous and you feel unsafe traveling, let your supervisor know ASAP.

❄️ Slow Down & Be Prepared
Winter roads can be tricky, so take it easy and remind students to do the same. With any luck, we’ll have a mild winter—but just in case, it’s best to be ready now!

Stay warm and safe, and let’s make this winter season smooth!

February 7, 2025 - February 17, 2025

Join us as we celebrate 72 Years of fundraising!

"Giving is not just about making a donation. It is about making a difference." ~Kathy Calvin

Here is a Sneak Peak of the First Weekend

For additional details and to learn about ALL of the activities, reach out to Activities Coordinator Rachelle Metcalfe at Tillamook High School!

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 7

Freshmen .......... K - 3 Science Camp @ THS Cafeteria; 3:30 pm - 5:00 pm $15 per student

............................ Jr. High Dance @ THS Cafeteria; 8:00 pm - 10:00 pm $10 (Freshman & Jr. High Students ONLY)

Juniors............... East School Activity @ East School; 4:00 pm - 5:30 pm $7 (East School Students ONLY)

Senior ................ Spaghetti Dinner @ Nazarene Church; 4:00 pm -7:00 pm $15 per person

............................ Professional Comedy Show @ Fairview Grange; 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm $25 per person

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 8

All Classes ...........Boys & Girls Basketball Concessions @ THS; 1:00pm

Freshmen .......... Basketball Clinic @ THS Aux Gym; 3:30 pm - 5:30 pm $15 per person

.............................. Volleyball Camp @ TJHS Gym; 4:00 pm - 6:00 pm $15 per person

............................ Car Wash @ Tillamook CO-OP; 9:00 am-2:00 pm; By donation

Sophomores...... Car Wash @ Main Street Pizza; 10:00 am-3:00 pm; By Donation

Juniors ............... Country Breakfast @ THS Cafeteria; 8:00 am - 11:00 am by donation

............................. Fun Run/Walk @ Tillamook Jr. High; 8:3 am $15

Seniors ............... Tumble with Toddlers @ Oregon Coast Dance Center; 1:00 pm - 3:00pm $25 each

............................. Werner Beef & Brew Takeover 4:00 pm - 7:00 pm

............................. 50/50 Raffle @ Basketball Game THS Main Gym

............................Mother/Son Dance @ Jr. High School; $25 per couple, $5 per each additional child

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 9

Freshman........... Chicken Cordon Bleu Dinner @ Nazarene Church; $20 per person

............................. Cornhole Tournament @ Elks Lodge; 12pm - 4pm $60 per 2 person team

Sophomores...... Cabin Coffee Takeover 8:00 am-noon

Juniors ............... Car Wash @ Tillamook CO-OP; 10:00 am-4:00 pm By donation

Seniors ............... Car Wash @ Main Street Pizza; 9:00 am-2:00 pm By donation

............................. Soccer Camp @ THS; 10:00 am $15 per person

............................. Dutch Mill Takeover 11:00 am - 4:00 pm

February is a month filled with heartwarming moments, and we’re not just talking about Valentine’s Day! From academic achievements to athletic competitions and community celebrations, there’s so much to love about what’s happening in our district this month. Whether it’s cheering on our students, engaging in special activities, or spreading kindness, we’re ready to make this February one to remember. Stay tuned for all the details on upcoming events—you’re sure to fall in love with what’s in store.