Please visit my virtual toolbox and find relaxation, resources, and games! I update it regularly, but please let me know of any links that don't work!
Mia Keliikuli
I'm a school counselor currently living in Oregon with my family on a ranch, where we enjoy the peace and connection that come with rural life. I've had the opportunity to live in California, Hawaii, and now Oregon—each place shaping my perspective and deepening my understanding of diverse communities and student needs.
I hold a Master of Education in School Counseling and began my career in special education. That experience gave me a strong foundation in supporting students with a wide range of abilities and backgrounds. Over time, I was drawn to school counseling, where I could focus even more on helping children grow emotionally, socially, and academically.
I’m passionate about working with kids and helping them find their voice and place in the world. Whether it’s through one-on-one conversations, group work, or school-wide programs, I strive to create a safe, supportive space where every student feels seen, heard, and empowered.
Long Creek Important Dates
October 12-16th is Spirit Week, with a bonfire on wednesday night and a noise parade through town on thursday morning. Come out and make some noise with us as we celebrate HS sports! GO TIGERS!!! Please check your school website for information about dress-up days
Monument Important Dates
October 12-16th is Spirit Week, check the Monument website/facebook page for information about elementary and MS/HS dress up days as they are different. The homecoming games will be played at Monument School on Friday Oct. 16th against Wheeler. The football game starts at 1pm, followed by volleyball at 4pm. GO TIGERS!!
Upcoming Holidays
We have no holiday school closures for the month of October.
October is a month full of colder nights, team sports, and all things fall. Hopefully you have had some time to relax and enjoy family time. Make sure you are taking time to reflect on life with gratitude even if that seems like an impossible task sometimes! Below is a list created by ASCA to highlight awareness throughout the month of October, talk to your children about the parts that resonate with you. This list is a great starting point for parents to foster open communication and family value sharing while teaching valuable lessons about tolerance and acceptance.
Families will receive:
• Financial aid information
• FAFSA and ORSAA guidance
• Live Q&A with financial aid professionals from across Oregon
Sessions will be available in English and Spanish, with additional language support currently being explored.
Families (or you!) can register here: https://bit.ly/PFCE_OR
Students who identify as LGBTQIA can face unique barriers as they choose career pathways and transition to life after high school. A recently updated NCAN article discusses the financial burden of loans and the value of scholarship dollars.
Scholarships:
· Pride Foundation Scholarships: Made eligible to LGBTQ+ student leaders across the Northwest US and includes over 60 scholarships. Application opens October 11, 2026.
· Better Brothers Los Angeles Scholarships: Scholarships are awarded to assist with all academic related costs, range from $500 to $5,000, and are open to Black LGBTQ+ youth across the country. Application will open October 2026.
· Gamma Mu Foundation Scholarships: Scholarships may be used for tuition, books and supplies, or any other college-related costs and range from $1,000 and $2,500. Application will open March 1, 2027.
· National Rainbow College Fund: Many scholarships assume students can be open about their identity. National Rainbow College Fund was designed for those who can’t. Application opens mid-January 2027.
· The Out to Innovate Scholarships are intended for LGBTQ+ undergraduate students pursuing degrees in science, technology, engineering, or mathematics (STEM) programs. We are pleased to announce that Motorola Solutions Foundation has funded the Out to Innovate Scholarships for the 2027-2028 academic year for technology and engineering undergraduate students. Application will open Spring 2027.
· Point Foundation | LGBTQ College Scholarships: The largest LGBTQ+ scholarship-granting nonprofit that lists several scholarship opportunities for students in the community. Scholars not only receive financial support, but also access to multiple leadership development programs, mentorship or coaching, and a community of scholars and alumni. Application opening varies by scholarship.
Use this link to estimate what college will cost at different universities within Oregon. You can factor in living in a dorm or off campus, as well as estimate the cost of basic needs and transportation
https://www.oregon.gov/highered/access/Documents/OSAC/Student%20Budgets.pdf