12/2/25 From The Superintendent's Desk

Staying Focused, Planning for the Future, and Celebrating Community

Maintaining Focus for the Finish Line

The holiday season is exciting, but it brings unique challenges to staying on track. We are emphasizing focus over the next 15 school days leading up to the holiday break. Since the semester officially concludes during the second week of January, an effective effort now will prevent unnecessary stress in the new year.

We encourage students to:

Review Attendance: Ensure all assignments and projects are submitted before the winter break.
Utilize Resources: Take advantage of office hours and after-school help sessions.
Set Goals: Work with teachers and counselors to set specific academic goals for the last few weeks of the semester.

Future Forward: College Essay Workshop at Linfield University

We are thrilled to be partnering with Linfield University to provide a crucial opportunity for our college-bound students. On [Insert Specific Workshop Date/Day of Week], approximately 30 selected students will participate in a full-day, intensive college essay writing workshop.

The goal of this day is to demystify the college application process, specifically teaching students how to write a compelling, authentic personal statement.

The Linfield Experience will include:

Essay Strategy Session: Hands-on instruction from Linfield admissions professionals and writing faculty on structuring, drafting, and revising a winning college essay.
Campus Immersion: Students will spend the day on the beautiful Linfield campus, getting a real sense of university life.
Networking Opportunities: They will have dedicated time to talk with current Linfield students and faculty members about various majors, campus culture, and post-secondary pathways.

This partnership is key to our mission of providing robust post-secondary planning options, and we are incredibly fortunate to have a dedicated resource like Linfield University "right down the road" supporting our students.

Community & School Pride Updates

Tip-Off: Winter Sports Seasons Begin!

The gymnasium is buzzing with excitement as our Winter Sports teams officially kick off their seasons this week! We are excited to support our Basketball, Wrestling, and Swimming teams.

First Look: Most teams will open their schedules with away games this week.
Home Debut: Be sure to catch our home openers, which will take place the following week! Check the school's athletic website for the full schedule and specific opponents. Come out and show your school spirit!

The Band is Marching!

Come support our amazing High School Band! They will be performing immediately following the town's holiday parade this Saturday. Their performance will be held at the Fire House—a great way to hear some festive music and cheer on their hard work!

Heartfelt Thanks: Successful Area Coat Drive

We extend our sincere and deepest gratitude to the Towns of Sheridan and Willamina and the tireless Rotarians from both areas. The collaborative coat drive was a resounding success, collecting warm items for families in our community. Your efforts ensure that many of our families will be able to stay warm and comfortable through the coldest parts of this winter. Thank you for your continued dedication to our students and community welfare.

Capping Off Indigenous Recognition Month

What a spectacular way to conclude a positive month of Indigenous recognition! We were immensely proud to see our students perform a moving dance during the halftime show of the Portland Trail Blazers game over the break. The opportunity to share their culture and talent on such a large platform was a powerful experience for everyone involved.

A Grand Holiday Break Ahead

Please be safe and have a grand holiday break with your family and loved ones, however you choose to celebrate it. We look forward to seeing everyone back in January, ready to tackle the conclusion of the first semester!

2026 is just around the corner!

Mike Gass, Superintendent

Willamina Schools

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