Newsletter Knowledge

Welcome to the 2024-2025 school year and what a great year we have had so far! As the first year of the Oldham-Ramona-Rutland consolidated school district, last year our district experienced a great deal of change. A new school district, a new school board, a new administration, and a new identity created an environment ripe for the inevitable – yet necessary – change. This school year will be no different when it comes to the inevitability of change. Aging buildings required that we locate all 6th – 12th grade students in one location. Additionally, multiple retirements as well as previous staff moving on to other opportunities required the hiring of many new staff members. These are only a few of the factors that have been and will continue to be the impetus for adjustments during this current school year. Moreover, ongoing reflection on best practices for establishing the most effective and efficient environment for student learning and success will translate into more change as we move forward.

While the future direction of ORR has not been fully determined, the outcome of the Opt Out Vote on Sept. 17th will further cement the course we will take while pursuing the shared vision of our district: “To build a school family that helps each member write their own success story.”

For those who dislike change, I share the words of renowned American psychologist Abraham Maslow: “In any given moment we have two options: to step forward into growth or step back into safety.”

I recognize the appeal of staying within the boundaries of what feels familiar and safe. However, clinging to only what we know and are comfortable with can prevent us from discovering new possibilities and achieving even greater success. I challenge each of you to embrace change as an opportunity, not a threat. Step into the unknown. Face challenges with courage and gratitude for circumstances that could very well be the catalyst for discovering your full potential.

#RaiderPride

October 2024

In the October 9th, 2023, Edutopia article, “How to Get Over the October Slump,” the author states that the month of October “is when we start to see students become more comfortable in our classrooms (as we would want them to), and behaviors start to become more evident. . .”

This reality certainly presents a dilemma for teachers, parents, and students. On the one hand, we want our students to feel at ease and at home in our classrooms because it creates an environment conducive to learning and personal growth. Students who feel comfortable in our classrooms will be more engaged, experience more academic success, and feel valued and respected. An environment that is comfortable will promote creative and critical thinking and it will build resilience and independence in our students.

On the other hand, while we work to build welcoming and comfortable environments for our students, challenges can arise from students becoming too comfortable. For example, students can lose focus and become less disciplined, leading to a more casual attitude towards learning and completing assignments. Students might develop a reduced respect for boundaries, test the limits of classroom rules, and become less mindful of appropriate behavior in school. Too much comfort could also cause students to become resistant to challenging learning experiences. They might avoid situations that push them out of their comfort zone, which really can limit their potential for growth.

Parents can play a crucial role in helping teachers strike the right balance between comfort and discipline in the classroom. Consistently reinforcing respectful behavior at home makes students more likely to carry this mindset into the classroom, even if they feel comfortable. Encouraging accountability helps students understand that comfort in the classroom doesn’t mean a lack of effort or discipline. Finally, parents can maintain open communication with teachers to understand classroom expectations and any behavioral issues. This collaboration allows parents and teachers to work together in addressing challenges related to over-comfort in the classroom.

Just as October weather strikes a harmonious balance between warmth and crispness, educators and parents must work together to foster an atmosphere where students feel at ease yet understand the importance of effort, accountability, and pushing themselves beyond their comfort zones. By maintaining this important balance, we can help students thrive academically and grow as individuals.

While gratitude is something we should practice every day, November brings it to the forefront of our thoughts like no other time of year. Consequently, I find myself reflecting on the privilege of serving the Oldham-Ramona-Rutland School District and the communities within it. Robert Braathe once said, “Gratitude and attitude are not challenges; they are choice.”  These words carry particular meaning as we approach a pivotal moment in the future of our school district: the bond vote on December 10th.

The outcome of the December 10th bond vote will leave a lasting impact on the ORR School District for generations to come. If the bond passes, we will have the opportunity to build a new school on Highway 81 and 223rd Avenue, an ideal location to meet the needs of all students in our district. If the bond does not pass, the school will be built in Ramona, where we will continue our commitment to providing a quality learning environment.

No matter the outcome, we have much to be thankful for. I am thankful for the dedication of our teachers, who inspire our students daily; for the parents who trust us with their children’s education; and for community members who care deeply about the future of our district.

As we approach this important vote, let’s remember that attitude and gratitude are indeed choices. Gratitude helps us to focus on what unites us: a shared belief in the importance of education. Attitude empowers us to move forward with optimism and determination, knowing that our choices today form the future.

I encourage every registered voter in the ORR School District to participate in this critical bond vote. This is your opportunity to help create a legacy of excellence for our students, no matter where the new school is built. Thank you for your continued support, your involvement, and your belief in the power of education.

With Gratitude ~ Superintendent Dawn Hoeke

As we enter the Christmas season, a time of joy, hope, and renewal, I can’t help but reflect on the exciting developments within our school district. Just as the holidays encourage us to look ahead with optimism and gratitude, our school board has made decisions that promise a brighter future for our students, staff, and school community.

At the December school board meeting, the board voted to transition our district to a 4-day school week beginning next fall. While change always comes with challenges, we are confident that this move will benefit our district as we work together for successful implementation. More and more school districts have and are moving to a 4-day school week as it can enhance learning opportunities, provide for flexibility, and support teachers by allowing additional time for planning and professional growth.

Additionally, the board approved a building plan. Construction will soon begin on a new PK-12 school in Ramona, expanding upon the existing elementary school. This project illustrates our vision for a unified, modern, educational environment where all students can thrive from preschool through high school graduation. By investing in much-needed, state-of-the-art facilities, we are not only addressing current needs but also laying a strong foundation for the district’s future.

Christmas is a season of giving and gratitude, and these developments are gifts to our school community. They are the result of dedicated efforts from many – our board members, staff, and many community stakeholders – working together with a shared vision for the future. These decisions remind us of the importance of coming together, much like families do during the holidays, to support one another and build something meaningful.

With the spirit of hope and collaboration, together we can embrace these changes with enthusiasm and determination, knowing that they reflect our district’s commitment to excellence and shared values.

From all of us in the ORR District, we wish you a joyous Christmas and a Happy New Year! Thank you for your continued support and partnership in making our schools exceptional places for learning and growth.

Sincerely,

Superintendent Dawn Hoeke

Happy New Year!! As we step into 2025, I can’t help but consider the importance of the year ahead. According to Chinese astrology, 2025 is the Year of the Snake – a symbol of transformation and renewal. The snake’s ability to shed its skin reminds us of the importance of letting go of the old to make way for the new.

While the idea of renewal is often associated with any new year, the symbolism of the snake feels particularly fitting for the ORR community. Over the past year and half, we’ve faced challenges that have asked us to honor traditions while considering the possibilities of the future. This is no small task. Change can be difficult, especially when it feels like we’re leaving behind all that is familiar.

BUT – just as the snake sheds its skin to grow, we should embrace the change necessary to continue building a strong foundation. Letting go doesn’t mean forgetting – it means creating space for new opportunities that enrich our legacy.

As we move into this new year, let’s hold tight to the values and memories that define us while opening our hearts and minds to innovation and progress. The Year of the Snake offers us a chance to transform, adapt, and renew our commitment to “building a school family that helps each member write their own success story.”

Here’s to a year of growth, resilience, and unity!!

Wishing you many Blessings in 2025~

Superintendent Hoeke

As we move through the heart of winter, our district has seen a significant rise in illnesses, including influenza and strep throat. When students and staff are out sick, it not only impacts their well-being but also affects learning and school operations. Keeping our school community healthy is a team effort, and we appreciate your help in preventing the spread of illness.

Here are some key reminders and tips to support the health and well-being of our students and staff:

• Stay Home When Sick – If your child has a fever of 100°F or higher, has been vomiting, or has diarrhea, please keep them home until they are symptom-free for at least 24 hours without medication. This helps prevent the spread of illness to others.

• Practice Good Hand Hygiene – Encourage frequent handwashing with soap and water, especially before meals and after coughing or sneezing. Hand sanitizer is a good alternative when soap isn't available.

• Cover Coughs and Sneezes – Remind your child to use a tissue or their elbow when coughing or sneezing to prevent germs from spreading.

• Stay Hydrated and Eat Well – A balanced diet and plenty of fluids help boost the immune system and keep students feeling their best.

• Get Plenty of Rest – A good night’s sleep is essential for a strong immune system. Make sure your child is getting enough rest each night.

• Consider Vaccinations – Flu shots and other recommended vaccines can help protect against serious illness.

While taking care of our physical health is important, so is taking care of one another. As February celebrates President’s Day, I would like to share what President George W. Bush once said, "America is a great force for freedom and prosperity. Yet our greatness is not measured in power or luxuries, but by who we are and how we treat one another. So we strive to be a compassionate, decent, hopeful society."

During challenging times—whether facing illness, adversity, or everyday struggles—let’s remember that kindness and compassion define who we are. A simple act of generosity, an encouraging word, or helping a friend can make a lasting impact. Together, let’s create a school community that is not only healthy but also supportive, understanding, and full of hope.

Thank you for your ongoing commitment to our students, staff, and community. Let’s continue  working together to make the rest of the school year a supportive, strong, and healthy one!

Superintendent Hoeke