From The Superintendent's Desk

Why In-Person Education Remains the Heart of Willamina’s Future

As the Oregon Legislative Session approaches, virtual public charter schools and online learning models are once again taking center stage in educational policy debates. Lawmakers and researchers statewide are rightly examining academic outcomes, financial accountability, and the long-term impact of full-time screen learning on K-12 students. Here in Willamina, these aren't just distant legislative topics—they touch the core of our community’s future and our kids' daily lives.

Recently, Willamina School District officially reached Oregon’s statutory 3% cap on in-district students transferring to out-of-district online programs. Enforcing this cap is essential. Under Oregon’s State School Fund formula, every student who transfers to an external virtual school takes approximately $11,000 in state operational revenue out of our local schools. In an era of shrinking statewide student populations, letting local funding drain away directly hurts our ability to support the students who rely on us every day.

The Limits of the Screen

While online platforms can offer convenience, mounting state and national evidence paints a sobering picture of full-time virtual instruction. Comparative data consistently show that students in full-time online programs grow less academically and achieve lower proficiency than their peers in traditional classrooms. The self-paced, isolated nature of digital modules too often lacks the real-time engagement and dynamic feedback that drive true academic progress.

Even more critical is the gap in specialized services. High-quality Special Education (SPED), 504 accommodations, speech therapy, and English language support cannot be effectively delivered through a computer monitor. These vital interventions require physical observation, daily human connection, and tailored rapport—elements virtual programs cannot replicate.

The Irreplaceable Value of In-Person Learning

Education is fundamentally a social enterprise. School builds essential human capabilities that no software program can teach. In our classrooms and hallways, students develop deep peer relationships, build meaningful connections with caring educators, and experience a genuine sense of belonging.

In-person learning reduces digital fatigue and replaces passive screen consumption with active collaboration. For our youngest learners, physical school is where foundational life skills are born—navigating shared spaces, practicing patience, expressing choices, and building daily social habits. For students who need dedicated support, our schools provide reliable, high-touch support tailored to their needs.

Preparing Students for an AI-Driven Future

As artificial intelligence rapidly transforms our world, education's core purpose is shifting. When information can be generated in seconds, simply acquiring facts is no longer enough. The future belongs to those who can critically evaluate information, collaborate effectively, and reason ethically.

Our classrooms are uniquely suited to prepare students for this reality. In physical learning environments, students learn to fact-check sources, identify bias, and separate truth from misinformation. Through real-time debate, group discussion, and hands-on problem-solving, they learn to defend their ideas and understand diverse perspectives. Technology may generate quick answers, but human classrooms cultivate wisdom, judgment, and character.

Looking Ahead

Willamina School District will continue to stand up for our students and public schools. We will enforce state transfer caps to safeguard district resources, communicate openly with our families about the proven advantages of in-person learning, and advocate forcefully with state lawmakers for policies that support brick-and-mortar excellence.

By focusing on strong classroom communities, modern media literacy, and high-touch support, we ensure every student in Willamina receives the well-rounded, human-centered education they deserve.

I enjoy seeing students every day!

Mike Gass 

Superintendent

P.S. Why would you stay home and work when the best cafeteria staff will fix you breakfast, lunch, and a snack?