
Dear Students and Families,
We have received concerning reports from neighboring school districts and our students about a dangerous trend circulating on TikTok. This trend encourages students to intentionally create electrical short circuits in their Chromebooks by inserting paper clips, pencil graphite, pushpins, folded metallic gum wrappers, aluminum foil, or similar devices into the USB ports.
In the strongest possible terms, we want to emphasize that this behavior is extremely dangerous and poses a serious fire risk. Inserting metallic objects into a Chromebook’s USB port can damage the device, spark or puncture the lithium battery, and potentially cause overheating, fire, or even explosion. Our top priority is the safety of our students and staff, and this kind of activity places children and their households at serious risk.
Please also see the Acceptable Use Policy.
Additionally, we want to remind students that social media trends are not always safe or worth replicating. Many online "challenges" are created for attention and can have serious real-world consequences. Please talk with your children about the importance of thinking critically before engaging in any social media trend, especially those that could harm themselves, others, or school property.
Thank you for your partnership in keeping our school community safe.
TEACH-NW and Marcola School District
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1Jnko-ziXADIkGVopflQPXr2xAkMmeL8Dq2kFmK0mYT4/edit?usp=sharing

🎭 The 39 Steps – Tickets Now Available!
We’re thrilled to announce our upcoming student production of The 39 Steps, a clever and comedic twist on the classic Hitchcock thriller!
📅 Performance Dates:
• Friday, May 9 – 6:30 PM
• Saturday, May 10 – 6:30 PM
• Sunday, May 11 – 2:00 PM (Matinee)
• Thursday, May 15 – 10:00 AM (Matinee)
• Friday, May 16 – 6:30 PM
• Saturday, May 17 – 2:00 PM (Matinee)
📍 Location:
Bob Theater – Top of Building 17, Lane Community College
⏰ Doors open 30 minutes before showtime
🎟️ Ticket Prices:
• Adults – $10
• Youth – $5
Can't attend in person? Watch the show via livestream!
👉 Click here to purchase tickets or access the livestream
https://osp.osmsinc.com/MarcolaOR/BVModules/CategoryTemplates/Detailed%20List%20with%20Properties/Category.aspx?categoryid=NU444
Or simply scan the QR code below to go straight to ticketing:
Come support our student performers in this fast-paced, hilarious, and suspenseful production. We can't wait to see you there!


Check it out-- CTE Tour Video This compilation video highlights students from Pleasant Hill, Marcola, Eugene 4J/Future Build, Crow, Mapleton, and Siuslaw CTE Programs. Please share widely! 🙌 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sJB2WUbhHJE


TEACH-NW Student Council Presents In Honor of Mental Health Awareness Month. 💚 Video production credit goes to Pablo Aleman and Chloe Marksbury. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9CEBAXgnVv8


An action-packed spoof of all things Hitchcock
Performance Dates:
Friday, May 9 - 6:30 PM
Saturday, May 10 - 6:30 PM
Sunday, May 11 - 2:00 PM matinee
Thursday, May 15 - 10:00 AM matinee
Friday, May 16, 6:30 PM
Saturday, May 17, 2:00 PM matinee
Doors open 30 minutes before showtime
Ticket Prices: Adults $10 Youth $5
Held in the Bob Theater, top of Building 17, LCC


2025-2026 Elections!
Student Council's first election day will be taking place on 5/12/25 from 8 am-4 pm. Add it to your calendar and be ready to cast your votes! Votes will be accepted after 8 am and are due by 4 pm Pacific Standard Time! You can cast your votes in the Voting tab under the 2025-2026 Elections page.
Applications for students wanting to apply for officer roles in the Student Council will be made available on 04/07/25 at 8 am Pacific Standard Time. Students applying to be officers must be in 10-12th grade for the 25-26 academic year. Freshmen will be welcome to join as general council members in the fall.
Students will have two weeks after applying to prepare a campaign for the role they applied for.
The week before election day will be campaign week.
For voters, each candidate and their respective campaign will be found in a tab under the 2025-2026 Elections page titled "Candidates".
For more information on elections, the roles & process, and voting, please visit the 2025-2026 Elections page.
https://sites.google.com/teach-nw.com/studentcouncil/updates


Hello Eugene TEACH-NW Families,
The Friends of the Media Center are sponsoring a "Make Your Own Mason Bee Houses & Tubes" program at the Media Center, for all ages. See attached flyer


TEACH-NW 3-5 OBOB team ,“What Was The Question?" made it to the sweet 16 round!



Celebrating Women's History Month
https://www.oregon.gov/ode/about-us/pages/education%20update%20pages/march-2023-education-update.aspx


Applications for the Oregon Senate Page Program are open!
The Honorary Page Program provides students with a unique chance to engage with the legislative process by assisting with Senate Chamber tasks, observing floor sessions, and learning firsthand about the role of the legislature.
Through this experience, students gain a deeper understanding of how the three branches of government intersect and function. Additionally, the program allows them to meet and interact with their senator, members of the Assembly, and key legislative staff.
This long-cherished program is a valuable tool for civic education, offering students a meaningful way to connect with government and inspire future leadership. We can ensure that students from all parts of Oregon have access to this enriching experience. Interested students can learn more by visiting the Senate Honorary Page website or by accessing the application directly.
Key Dates
Applicants are scheduled on a first-come, first-served basis.
Action Needed
If you would like to be an Honorary Page in the Senate, please print out and complete this application on both sides and e-mail it to: Misty.McCord@oregonlegislature.gov.
After receiving the completed application, they will send you confirmation and the date you will participate in the program.
Background Information
The Oregon Senate Honorary Page Program is a long-cherished civics engagement program that dates back to at least the first part of the twentieth century. It offers students an unforgettable opportunity to step into the heart of Oregon’s government and experience democracy in action. Imagine walking onto the Senate Floor, assisting with important tasks like delivering messages to senators, preparing materials for debates, and observing discussions on the laws that shape our state. This program provides students with a unique, hands-on perspective of the legislative process while connecting them with senators, key staff, and the workings of all three branches of government.
From learning how bills are introduced and passed to gaining insight into the day-to-day operations of the Senate, the Honorary Page Program inspires civic engagement and nurtures a passion for public service. Some of Oregon’s current senators even began their journeys in this very program, showcasing its role in shaping the leaders of today and tomorrow.
This opportunity is perfect for youth aged 12-17 and offers a meaningful way to foster a deeper understanding of democracy and create lasting memories. Teachers, parents, and legislators are encouraged to support and promote participation, making this transformative experience accessible to students across the state. Apply today and help shape the future of Oregon, one student at a time!
Contact Us
Applications for the Oregon Senate Page Program will be accepted on a rolling basis.
If you have any questions, please contact Misty McCord, Senate Honorary Page Coordinator at the Secretary of the Senate’s Office at (503) 986-1860 or by e-mail at Misty.McCord@oregonlegislature.gov.

TEACH-NW LCC and Hillsboro Learning Center Families,
Due to the severe weather forecast in person classes at both LCC and the Hillsboro Learning Center are canceled for Thursday February 13th. Given the potential risks, particularly during the commute home, we want to prioritize the safety of our students, families, and staff.
Please note that all virtual classes will proceed as scheduled. We look forward to seeing our students in our virtual courses!
Stay warm!


Black History
Ruth Flowers, Ralph Flowers, and Clifford Flowers with an automobile in about 1920 to 1925. OHS Research Library, Org. Lot 865, folder 3, 007.
Explore and download the Oregon Historical Society’s educational resources related to Black history. Materials include curriculum, units, lessons, and other resources that are sorted by grade level and resource type. Some resources may relate to more than one theme.
https://www.ohs.org/education/curriculum-and-resources/resources-by-theme/black-history.cfm?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery


TEACH-NW 5th grader Thomas Haberstroh won the 24-25 Springfield Arts Commission competition. Way to go Thomas!



Dear TEACH-NW Families,
We want to update you on recent federal executive action regarding a temporary pause on payments for federal grants and other programs. Our understanding is that the Office of Management and Budget has since rescinded this directive.
On the evening of January 30th, the Oregon Department of Education (ODE) provided the following guidance to public schools:
"The Oregon Department of Education (ODE) is closely monitoring the evolving landscape surrounding federal funding and the most recent federal executive orders and their potential impact on education programs across the state."
Our commitment remains unchanged—we are dedicated to ensuring that students and educators continue to have access to the resources they need for success. We are actively working with state and federal partners to clarify next steps and address any necessary adjustments.
At this time, school districts should proceed with program implementation as planned. ODE will provide updates if there are any changes to federal funding."
We thank you for your attention and support. We will keep you informed as we learn more.
- TEACH-NW

Attention High School students and families of Lane County, Registration for Job Shadows through Connected Lane County is OPEN! This FREE experience is open to all high school-aged youth in Lane County. They'll accept registrations from January 7th, 2025 - January 14th, 2025 at 5:00 pm. Space goes fast! Register now! Please copy and paste the link into your browser.
https://clc.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_42UQ2lbTEIKYxVA


TEACH-NW eSports team qualified for the West Coast playoff championships!



November is Native American Heritage Month, a time to honor the rich history, contributions, and enduring legacies of Native American communities. For math teachers in Oregon, this month provides a chance to highlight the nine Essential Understandings of Native Americans in Oregon, showcasing the rich diversity of Native American experiences. The Tribal History/Shared History lessons further enhance this effort, offering a means to integrate these perspectives into the curriculum throughout the school year, deepening students’ understanding of tribal nations’ histories and viewpoints.
More from ODE: https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/ORED/bulletins/3c0ee96


Honoring Our Veterans -
Veterans Day is a time to pause, reflect, and express our deepest gratitude to the men and women who have served in the armed forces. It’s a day dedicated to honoring those who made sacrifices for the freedoms and values we hold dear – and it reminds us of the resilience and courage embedded in the spirit of those who wear a uniform.
Originally known as Armistice Day, Veterans Day was first observed on November 11, 1919, to commemorate the first anniversary of the end of World War I. The armistice between the Allies and Germany was signed that day, marking the end of a devastating conflict that reshaped the world. In 1954, following World War II and the Korean War, Congress officially changed the name of the holiday to “Veterans Day,” honoring veterans of all wars. Unlike Memorial Day, which is dedicated to those who lost their lives in service, Veterans Day celebrates service members, recognizing their courage, resilience, and dedication.
Veterans Day is an opportunity to recognize the sacrifices they and their families have made—sacrifices that extend beyond time served, often leaving lasting impacts on both body and spirit. By honoring veterans, we also acknowledge the courage it takes to serve, protect, and defend the nation, regardless of personal cost.
In 2019, my grandfather Frances Gerding, who at 98, attended his final Veterans Day assembly at Philomath Middle School. Over the years, he attended numerous gatherings in the company of grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He cherished the choirs, bands, and theatrical performances at these assemblies. However, his greatest delight was being surrounded by family on those occasions.


Democracy thrives on active citizen participation - from community organizing to public discourse to voting. While voting stands as one of our most fundamental democratic rights, many K-12 students witnessing the buildup to November's election will not yet be eligible to cast a ballot. However, this moment presents a unique opportunity in social science classrooms to engage students in meaningful civic learning.
This election season offers teachers the chance to help students:
Think historically about electoral implications
Analyze party platforms and candidate promises
Evaluate proposed policies and measures
Understand how social media shapes public opinion
Identify misinformation and disinformation
The 2024 Social Science Standards, updated in June 2024, reflect the intent of Senate Bills 702 and 513 to deepen students' understanding of the foundations of the US Republic and principles of democracy. While civic education is valuable year-round, Tuesday's election provides immediate relevance for these essential lessons.
https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/ORED/bulletins/3bfda9e


TEACH-NW Field Trip to Triskelee Farms
