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Over spring break, 14 students embarked on an unforgettable journey across the United States, landing on the East Coast where they explored the nation’s capital, Washington D.C., before heading north to the Big Apple, New York City.

“The trip was exhausting and totally worth it,” said ORCA Exploring Travel teacher Paula Leifer.

The travelers’ packed schedule began with a nearly 3,000-mile flight to the district nestled between Maryland and Virginia. In the first few days, they explored historic landmarks like the Washington Monument, Arlington National Cemetery, and the Capitol, all while soaking in the beauty of the cherry blossoms blooming across the city.

Before departing D.C., the group made time to visit a few of the Smithsonian museums, some of the most iconic vessels of knowledge in the country. Half of the students toured the National Museum of Natural History, marveling at the massive dinosaur skeletons and cartilage displays, while the other half explored the National Museum of African American History and Culture, one of the Smithsonian’s newer institutions.

Almost immediately, students bonded with one another. “On the first few days of the trip, all the travelers were introduced to each other, and lots of them, including me, made tons of new connections,” said Cassie Rogers, an ORCA sophomore. “Being an online school student does come with its own challenges, however, being able to connect with my peers and classmates on this trip was not one of them.”

From there, the group made their way upstate to New York City– the city that never sleeps. They toured the vibrant streets of Manhattan and wandered through the bright lights of Times Square, where many picked up classic “I LOVE NY” souvenirs to commemorate their time.

In addition to standing beneath towering skyscrapers, they had the chance to see the city from above, ascending one of the tallest buildings in Manhattan– an experience not for the faint of heart or the fearful of heights.

Over the next few days, the adventures continued as they traveled to Ellis Island and caught a close-up view of the Statue of Liberty. They also climbed the famous steps of the Metropolitan Museum of Art (MET) and spent time wandering the galleries of one of the world’s most renowned art institutions, second only to the Louvre in Paris.

One of the most moving parts of the trip was visiting the 9/11 Memorial and Museum, where students had the opportunity to learn about the tragedy that changed the nation more than two decades ago.

“Seeing the 9/11 memorial was quite a heart-wrenching experience that held both sad and fascinating sights to see,” Rogers reflected. “When I walked through that museum, I felt both grief for those who had lost their lives, and their families who had received the news, but I also felt inspired to learn more about the memories of the people who lived through that time, and how it shaped the safety regulations that airports have in place today.”

She added, “I think the value that this museum holds is a place for people to mourn their losses of loved ones, but also to respect those who volunteered time to try and help those trapped people in any way they could, most of whom had also lost their lives in this tragedy.”

On a lighter note, the group attended Boop! The Musical– a lively Broadway production inspired by the classic cartoon character Betty Boop.

“In general, one of my favorite things from the entire trip was the friend group I made," said Lux Reames, an ORCA junior. “We called ourselves the Giggle Gang.”

“The experience as an online student is totally worth it. Meeting all these students and teachers in person felt amazing. We even got to make connections with another school group from Louisiana, and they were also so nice. The entire trip brought a lot of us together, and we made friendships very fast just getting along with each other,” Reames added.

Casey Comstock, one of the supervising teachers on the trip, shared how much joy the experience brought. She will be hosting another Zoom information session on May 22 at 6 PM for families interested in sending their students on next year’s spring trip, which will once again be open to 8th-12th graders.

The trip was a full circle moment for Ms. Comstock, having visited New York her first time with EF Tours, the sponsor of the trip, when she was a high school student. She’s decided on DC & NY as the location again and looks forward to injecting a new batch of students with the desire to travel.

To attend the information meeting on May 22, check out this link to RSVP and view more info.

Overall, the trip was unforgettable.“I am so grateful that I have these memories and friendships to cherish,” Rogers said.

Ms. Leifer echoed the sentiment, adding, “Our school can sometimes feel isolating, with all of us working in our homes, but I know from conversations and from responses to assignments I have given that those friendships made are going to be long-lasting.”

Earlier this month, AP U.S. History teacher Casey Comstock invited Yukiko Nakada Flennaugh, daughter of John Nakada, and Elissa Dingus from the Japanese American Museum of Oregon to present on Japanese-American internment during World War II. 

John Nakada, 94, is a survivor of Japanese-American internment camps. At the age of eleven, Nakada and his family were forced to live for several years in internment camps. Through interview videos by the Densho Digital Repository, students had the chance to learn about Nakada’s personal anecdotes, like the story of how he dug a hole and snuck out of a camp to eat watermelon.

After he returned to his home, Nakada, unlike thousands of other Japanese Americans, didn’t stay silent about the internment camps. He was an active speaker about his life before and after internment camps. His storytelling brings to light the discriminatory treatment he received from people around him when the United States entered World War II and how these relationships shifted after the camps. Nakada’s fear as a child in uncertain times grew into bravery, as he graduated from college and continued his journey of educating younger generations.

“It’s not what you look like, it’s what you have inside.”

- John Nakada

Mrs. Comstock called this experience “a wonderful way to add to their learning experience.”

Learning from stories like John Nakada’s reminds us of the importance of remembering history and honoring the past so we don’t repeat the same mistakes. By listening to those who share their experiences, we gain a deeper understanding of the impact of injustice and the strength of those who lived through it. People like Nakada and organizations like the Japanese-American Museum of Oregon keep these voices and histories alive, teaching us to stand up against injustice.

On April 26, ORCA high school students were invited to Chemeketa Community College’s Eola event space, in Salem, for ORCA’s annual prom. Guests enjoyed three hours of music, dancing, snacks and hanging out.

Students mostly gathered in the main room that served as a dance floor. Tables nearby offered various snacks to fuel the party and there was also space for hanging out, including an exit that led to an outdoor balcony with a stunning view of the Coast Range. 

After arriving at the event, students quickly began to mingle and dance to songs like High Hopes and As It Was. At other times, guests were able to enjoy slower jams like Perfect and Can’t Help Falling In Love. 

Party Doctor, a professional DJ and master of ceremonies, quickly got students going after rounding up four different volunteers of each gender to dance and lip sync to abbreviated versions of the songs of his choice–this left many students laughing, cheering, and recording with their phones.

“More than just a dance—prom was a memory in the making, shared by friends, captured in photos, and felt in every beat,” said sophomore Leesy Lindsay. 

While many were dancing and singing along to the music, others were off to the side with their friends or dates, socializing and having a more relaxing time at the event. 

After dancing for about two hours, the Party Doctor began to play a few slow dance songs, sharing a sweet story about the day he met his wife that left many feeling emotional and sentimental.

“Prom was, undoubtedly, the highlight of the year. So many students came and were enjoying being together with crazy dancing, hanging out on the patio, or just sitting at a table and chatting,” said ORCA Algebra teacher Devon Johnson. “There was something for everyone and it was easy to see that everyone had an amazing night!" 

Whether students were dancing and singing along to every lyric, or watching and just enjoying each other’s company, everybody had a great time at this year’s prom.

Are you interested in elevating your role within the student body and taking on a role of leadership? Well, Student Government’s got just the opportunity for you to join a team of other students committed to making ORCA a better place.

Incoming freshmen and current high school students can apply for one of the nine positions up for grabs with opportunities for those who love to take notes, coordinate events, make graphics, speak in public, and more.

To qualify you must be passing all of your classes, be able to attend weekly Student Government meetings, and commit to playing an integral role in leading your class, per their rules. 

Incoming freshmen may only apply for the Junior Senator Representative position, but are invited to apply to be a student senator in October if they are not chosen for the role. The Vice Presidential role is limited to only incoming juniors and seniors, and the Presidential position invites only rising senior candidates. 

Other positions up for grabs include: Secretary, Student Outreach Coordinator, Virtual Activities Coordinator, SG Media Coordinator, In-Person Events Coordinator, and Public Relations Coordinator. For more information on the responsibilities of these roles, visit this document. 

For those applying to be VP or President, you will be giving a brief speech at an open Student Government meeting on Tuesday, May 6 at 3 p.m. to tell the student body why you are the best fit for the role and other details about your plans to serve the school.

From there, high schoolers can vote on their Vice President and President, with the popular vote determining next year’s leaders of the school. Other positions will be chosen by ORCA’s administrative board and Student Government Advisor, Calla Mapel. 

Applications are due by 3 p.m. on Wednesday, May 7 and applicants are given the option to reapply for multiple positions.

If you have any questions, the form asks that you please reach out to Ms. Mapel or Mr. Pollnow at the following emails: cmapel@oregoncharter.org, jpollnow@oregoncharter.org.

To apply for a position– fill out this form asking about your previous leadership experience, your commitments for next year, achievements, and more.

If you’re an applicant or student interested in voting for your Presidential leaders, stay tuned for more information in the Principal’s Corner on voting and a link to view the speeches.

Get ready to celebrate the end of the year on May 16 in Albany, because this year’s Spring Celebration is coming. So get your yearbooks and yard games out, because we’re only a few weeks away. 

Grades K-12 are invited to this annual end-of-year ORCA celebration. Students are invited to bring their yearbooks to get them signed by their friends and classmates, as well as their favorite teachers. 

Along with that, it is also an opportunity for students to socialize at one of the biggest school events of the year, and play yard games such as bean bag toss and Giant Jenga.

“Spring Celebration is such a fun event and a great way to enjoy different activities and hang out with friends!” shares Student Government President Emily Pennington. Next year’s Student Government President and Vice President will be announced at the event, as done in previous years, so prepare to learn the names of your future leaders before the afternoon draws to a close. 

Whether you’re eager to get to know more of the student body or looking to celebrate the end of a hard-fought academic year, come to Spring Celebration and have fun with others. Interested individuals should check out Field Trip Central for more information and to RSVP.

Hannah Ma, The Current’s former Editor-in-Chief – affectionately known as "Editor-in-Country" and the club’s resident cowgirl – is moving on to the next chapter of her life. As she balances her aspirations in journalism with college life at Portland Community College (PCC), she reflects on the lessons she learned at ORCA and the impact of her time in Newspaper Club.

Returning to the Newspaper Club’s Zoom room, Ma found herself surrounded by familiar faces she hadn’t seen since high school. The experience brought a familiar nostalgia of the tight-knit community she built during her time at ORCA, reinforcing the lasting connections she made.

How has the transition from online high school to in-person college affected her?

Having spent her high school years in an online setting, Ma found the transition to college surprisingly seamless. Her familiarity with online platforms and digital coursework gave her an edge in a college environment where assignments are submitted electronically, and tools like Excel are frequently used in her business studies.

“I think at ORCA and in The Current, I’ve learned a lot of skills like being able to organize my time, manage my time, and prioritize my tasks because there’s a lot of things going on at once,” Ma explains. “You have many classes and many extracurriculars, and if you have a job, it’s a lot to manage.”

While she expected academic rigor, she was taken aback by the sheer number of opportunities available. “I’m still trying to figure it all out, because there’s so many clubs and so many things that I want to do. But, there’s only so much time to do all of it,” she says. The scale of postsecondary education, with its vast resources and specialized coursework, has been a welcome challenge for her. 

How has her experience in journalism connected to her endeavors in business?

Although she’s currently studying business and management, Ma sees clear connections between her major and her writing and editing background.

“Communication and people skills… is a very crucial skill in journalism and also a crucial skill in business, because you’re working with so many different kinds of people,” she states. “And sometimes you’re working with difficult people, so you have to kind of be able to… communicate and deal with those kinds of situations effectively.”

She also highlights the shared emphasis on deadlines, accountability, and adaptability in both fields.

“A lot of things that I love about journalism, I also love about business. I love being able to work with people, and write and communicate,” she continues. “I’m naturally a very curious person, I’m always asking questions like, ‘Why is this happening?,’ ‘How is this happening?,’ So, journalism is a very cool way to quench that thirst for knowledge, and you have the chance to experience… different kinds of people that you probably would have never had the opportunity to do without.”

For Ma, business offers a similar storytelling element – except instead of writing about biopics or spirit week, she’s learning to navigate and communicate with clients and business professionals.

How has she continued with her passions of journalism in a busy college environment?

Though she isn’t actively pursuing journalism at the moment, Ma hopes to return to writing. She has looked into reviving The Bridge, PCC’s former student newspaper that shut down during COVID due to a lack of resources, but knows the difficulty of bringing back a big organization. While she acknowledges the challenge, she remains hopeful, especially with a committee currently working to bring the paper back.

In the meantime, she has joined the Journalism Club, though she describes it as an empty shell. “Journalism is definitely on my mind as I go through college again; I’d love to get back into it.”

Reflecting on her time at The Current, Ma introduces new members to inside jokes and shares stories from her years in the club. She advises aspiring journalists to step outside their comfort zones and explore different writing styles.

“Be open to trying different things: try writing a recap, try writing an opinion article or a review, and that’s the way you get to kind of develop a more well-rounded skill set in writing different kinds of things.”

She discusses the importance of developing a journalistic voice, giving readers a source to trust and look to for entertainment. 

“If you want to go into journalism in the future, then you kind of start building your portfolio in Newspaper Club. It’s a really great opportunity, because you have more flexibility.” She expands on students’ opportunity to venture out of their comfort category, writing something off the beaten path of their usual beat to gain experience. 

She credits The Current staff for shaping her as a writer, providing her with guidance and experience that will serve her well in the future.

How is she adjusting to college life? 

The transition from online school to in-person learning has been both exciting and challenging for Ma. “The funny thing is… during your last 2 years of high school, you tend to feel very settled and comfortable with every aspect of school.”

“But then, suddenly, when you’re a freshman, it’s kind of a unique experience.” First year students go from “knowing everybody and knowing everything about what you’re doing to knowing absolutely nothing.”

Making connections in person has been a welcome change after years of online learning, but some habits have been hard to break. Ma jokes about struggling to remember names without Zoom’s name tags to rely on.

She also acknowledges the difficulty of maintaining friendships from high school but believes that putting in the effort to reach out keeps those relationships strong. A lesson from her dad resonates with her: There’s something to take from every relationship and connection, no matter how quickly fleeting it was.

Where does she see herself in the future?

As for her future plans, Ma is keeping her options open. While she’s completing her general education courses at PCC, she’s considering transferring to Oregon State University, the University of Oregon, or Pacific University.

She acknowledges the prerequisites required to transfer and is actively taking classes to fulfil those requirements. They include Statistics, Intro to Excel, Public Speaking, and Data Analytics – courses she wasn’t expecting but has embraced.

Her math courses have been surprisingly helpful in her business ventures specifically when calculating values like marginal profits or marginal costs, or when thinking about how to price products to maximize revenue. 

Math hasn’t always been her strongest subject, but she now sees its practical applications. She encourages ORCA students to find value in their math classes because her teacher Mrs. Leifer’s saying has held true: math really is important. 

Outside of academics, she’s considering joining an Accounting Club or tutoring Statistics, though she’s taking her time settling into college life. She also hopes to see an Investing Club form at PCC in the future. 

Jogging back to her high school memories, Ma brings up the age-old debate: Is a hot dog a sandwich? It has become her go-to icebreaker in college conversations.

“I think it is part of my life’s purpose to get down to business and really get to the bottom of the situation. I think the whole ‘is a hot dog a sandwich’ debate is going to be the topic of my dissertation, if I ever write one.”

What impact has she made and how does she see the next ten years of her life?

As she moves forward, Ma remains a dedicated reader of The Current and is eager to see the club continue to grow. She leaves the new writers with one final piece of advice: remember the right line spacing for articles because she will notice when she’s reading the paper with her morning coffee.

When asked if she would change anything about her ORCA experience, she doesn’t hesitate to say no.

“ORCA has been a really special place for me. I’ve spent 13 years of my life going here. I started kindergarten at ORCA and I graduated from ORCA. In a sense, it feels like my home… I couldn’t really imagine doing it any other way.”

Looking back, she sees how much she has grown as a student, writer, and person. 

“I think I’m a very different person now as a freshman starting college than I was four years ago as a freshman starting high school. I think that I’ve learned to grow out of my shell a little bit. I’ve also learned to embrace and be comfortable with change.”

“And I think the fact that I joined The Current, is probably the best decision I made in high school. No, I guess… ever,” Ma finishes. 

“I will always be supporting The Current. It has been such a special part of my high school years. I don’t think I will ever forget that.”

On March 10, ORCA students were given a chance to listen to Don Pettit, a veteran NASA astronaut currently orbiting the Earth from the International Space Station. This live broadcast was seen on multiple NASA sites, including NASA TV, NASA Live, and their website. 

Select students were given a window of opportunity to record themselves asking a question for Pettit to answer, with the goal of gaining further insight into the captivating career and daily life of an orbiting astronaut. 

Questions about the International Space Station’s features, space sights, personal experiences and advice permeated the broadcast. One student asked if any of the crew on the International Space Station had seen — with the naked eye or telescope — any planets. “We’ve seen Mercury, Venus, Mars, Jupiter, and Saturn…and don’t forget, we’ve seen planet Earth as well,” Pettit responded. “And we use our telephoto lenses [and] we’ve been able to see the ice caps on Mars, rings around Saturn, and belts on Jupiter.”

Another student asked Pettit why there is no gravity in space. “Actually, there is gravity. The gravity here on Space Station is about twelve to thirteen percent less than on the surface of Earth,” Pettit responded. “However, our orbital motion cancels the local effect of gravity. So you appear to be without gravity, even though you really are well within gravity.” Pettit also went on to say that they prefer the term “weightless” and not zero gravity. 

Throughout the conversation, Pettit gave advice to those seeking a future with NASA and space science and studies. “Study all the cool stuff…and I’m talking about math, science, engineering,” Pettit said. “And when you pop out at the other end from university, then think about applying to NASA and becoming an astronaut. You can arm wrestle me for my job.”

Don Pettit covered all the questions asked by fellow ORCA students, adding his own flair of humor along with his answers and counsel. 

Following the event, The Portland Tribune interviewed two Portland-based ORCA students to hear their experience of asking an astronaut questions. Grace C., a junior, discusses her passion to work in aerospace medicine and Valy L. discusses the feeling of connecting with an astronaut and how “normal” it feels. To view the interview, follow this link. You can also read the Tribune coverage about this event here.

Eight students took part in the 2025 Oregon HOSA State Leadership Conference (SLC) and demonstrated their health knowledge through a mix of hands-on and online activities, competing against 880 students across the state. 

HOSA is a student organization dedicated to future healthcare leaders. 

Hosted in Portland, the SLC brought together health students in many different pathways, ranging from dental practices to medical readings. 

Three Oregon Charter Academy HOSA students placed in the top three in their respective categories, earning them a ticket to Nashville where the HOSA International Leadership Conference (ILC) will be held in June. Over the course of the weekend, Tennessee’s capital will welcome over 12,000 students from all over the world. 

The ILC will provide an invaluable opportunity for ORCA’s top finishers to network with healthcare professionals, experience other cultures and perspectives, and compete at the highest level. The prospect of students’ professional development excites both Dr. Elizabeth Washak and Amy Lee, the advisors of HOSA and also the teachers in attendance at the SLC.

“Competing at HOSA not only sharpens our students’ medical skills but also exposes them to industry leaders and peers from across the country,” said Dr. Washak. “These experiences are invaluable as they prepare for their future careers in healthcare.”

Sophomore Gracey P. placed first in Dental Science, while Brooklynn A., a Junior,  secured third, making the cut for the Medical Assisting competition at the ILC. 

Additionally, ORCA Junior Grace C. outperformed other Oregon students in three categories, bringing home a first-place finish followed by two second-place finishes. She beat out all others in the Medical Reading category, then went on to dominate her way to a second place in Human Growth & Development and another in World Health & Disparities.

“Attending SLC with a group of some of the most supportive and passionate students was an unforgettable experience! I'm incredibly grateful for all the encouragement from my HOSA advisors and chapter members,” Grace C. describes. “Beyond the competition, I loved meeting students from across the state and bonding with a larger ORCA HOSA group this year. We got to cheer each other on, learn together as leaders and teammates, and celebrate our successes!”

“We couldn’t be prouder of how our students represented both Oregon Charter Academy and themselves,” said Ms. Lee. “Their commitment and determination truly showed throughout the competition.”

HOSA is currently recruiting its next generation of health professionals and invites all interested high school students to apply and join a group of dedicated medical students united by the mission of helping others.

For more details, follow the link to the ASCEND Career Technical Education Student Organization page. Additionally, the program will be hosting an information session on April 18 at 9 a.m. in the HOSA Zoom room.

Every year, the Portland Workforce Alliance gathers 6,000 students from over 75 high schools in Oregon and Southwest Washington to participate in the Northwest Youth Careers Expo. The event consists of mock interviews, a community celebration breakfast, and over 200 colleges, employers, and partners representing healthcare, business, technology, and more.

This year, on March 19th, students from Oregon Charter Academy attended the Expo, immersing themselves in career exploration and meeting professionals in fields like healthcare and technology. 

From 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., students went from table to table, learning about how to create informed plans for potential careers and hearing about the experiences of top professionals. Engaging with employers and experienced exhibitors is a valuable experience; according to the Portland Workforce Alliance’s 2025 Expo Resource Guide, the event “shows students the region’s amazing diversity of career opportunities, and offers information on the skills and education needed for those jobs.”

Students in the ASCEND program or who wish to view more information on different career fields can keep an eye out for details on how to attend the 2026 NW Youth Careers Expo and future PWA Career Days.

In January, two ORCA students began the two-month process of competing in an event called Poetry Out Loud. This competition gathers students from around the state of Oregon to share their creative work, competing through a series of regional and state-wide rounds.

“Poetry Out Loud is a space where students demonstrate tremendous courage,” explains Ms. Steph Imig, a Language Arts teacher who has advised ORCA’s poets for several years. “It is so inspiring to witness students find their own voice at the same time that they celebrate the voice of the poem.”

The journey began right after Winter Break, when ORCA students were invited to curate and recite their best poetry selections at the school’s Wilsonville office. This event offered them an opportunity to advance to the next round of the Oregon contest. Senna Alnasser and Dulce Wiles placed first and second, respectively, earning their spots in the State Semifinals.

They continued their success at the State Semifinals and qualified for the State Finals at the Grand Theater in Salem on March 8. Eleven students from across Oregon participated in the final event of Poetry Out Loud, and ORCA made a strong showing with two representatives, Alnasser and Wiles, a record for the school.

Ms. Imig describes the competition at the State Finals as “phenomenal.” Alnasser advanced to the final round, ultimately placing in the top five in the state. With her participation this year, she became the first ORCA student to compete in Poetry Out Loud for all four years of high school.

"I am so proud of Dulce and Senna. Their poetry recitations were beautiful. It was incredible to be a part of their journey over the last several years,” Ms. Imig adds. “Dulce and Senna are both graduating and will be missed, but it will also be fun to see which ORCA students decide to pick up the Poetry Out Loud mantle."

ORCA has many in-person and virtual events for students in all grade levels to attend heading into the spring months. There are several opportunities for families all across the state during the month of April. 

Japanese Internment Guest Speaker (4/10)

This is a virtual opportunity for high school students to join the AP US History class for a presentation held by a guest speaker. The event will run from 10:00-10:50 a.m., and will give students the chance to learn about the experience of being at a Japanese internment camp during World War II. 

MS Swing Into Spring Social (4/18)

This semi-formal event is for middle schoolers to socialize with their peers in person, much like high school’s winter social event. The social, taking place between 4 to 6 p.m. will have dancing, games, and music. For more information and the location of the event, please refer to Field Trip Central. 

5th Grade Outdoor School (4/25)

This annual event for 5th graders will be held in Oregon City from 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. It is a drop-off event, and students will get the chance to explore fun, hands-on activities and hang out with other 5th grade students as they spend time learning outdoors. 

ORCA Prom (4/26)

ORCA’s annual prom will be held in Salem, from 6-9 p.m. It is open to all of high school and students will get to listen to music, dance, and socialize with classmates, as well as dress up in formal attire. The theme is starry night, so be sure to wear your best galaxy-inspired outfits. 

These are just a few of the field trips that are happening in the month of April. To get more information and to RSVP, check out the Field Trip Central.

Prom is right around the corner, and this year’s theme, announced by the high school Student Government, is “Starry Night.” Seniors voted in the months prior for the theme, and “Starry Night” was chosen as the winner. Prom will be hosted from 6-9 p.m. on April 26.

There will be music, snacks, a photo booth, and, of course, dancing. All ORCA high school students are invited and may bring one guest from another registered high school. A permission slip is required and can be found on Field Trip Central.

Details are coming soon to the Field Trip Central, as well as a prom announcement in the video newsletter, so stay tuned for more information. If you are interested in attending, fill out the RSVP form once it becomes available.

ORCA’s annual Spirit Week, hosted by the HS Student Government, kicked off on Monday, February 24, setting the stage for five days of school pride, creative theme interpretations, and out-of-this-world outfits.

Students were challenged to bring their A-game, dressing to impress for a chance to be featured in the monthly newsletter and win a prize. Judged by Student Government, two submissions will win per theme and winners will be announced the week of March 3. 

On Monday, students rummaged through their closets to find clashing patterns and textures to curate the perfect mis-matched outfit, either looking like they’re attempting high fashion or perhaps that all their clothes are in the laundry and they’ve had to work with what remained. 

Tuesday’s theme begged for the opposite — complete symmetry on the color spectrum. Students were asked to dress in all one color, creating the illusion that their clothing pieces blended together. 

Whether from university-bound seniors or college sports fans, Wednesday saw lots of college spirit with many students repping University of Oregon and Oregon State University gear. Beavers versus Ducks debates erupted in classes, but all were united by the promotion of higher education. Teachers repped their alma maters, and some seniors took the chance to announce their future schools in style.

Thursday’s outer space theme was a stellar success, giving students a sneak peek at ORCA’s 2025 prom, Starry Night. From astronauts and aliens to galaxy prints, the school felt like a scene straight out of Star Wars. 

The last day saw pop culture brought to life. Scooby Doo detectives, Hogwarts wizards and witches, and 2000s characters like Cher Horowitz from Clueless popped up in Zoom calls, bringing widely praised movies and series to life. 

Student Government President Emily Pennington summed it up best: “We love seeing all of the submissions that come in and the more participation we have in this incredible event, the more fun it becomes! I hope that ORCA's student body enjoys the themes we have for this year's Spirit Week! I think that they are some of Student Government's best themes yet!" 

Be sure to look out for the winners announced in the monthly newsletter.

This month, ORCA is offering a variety of field trips for students in grades K-12. From regional events across Oregon to a state tournament and career expo, students have an array of opportunities to socialize and gain knowledge.

Here are some of the field trips March has to offer.

Regional Event: Chemistry Club Magic Show & EOU Walking Tour (3/14)

Grab your goggles and safety gear as chemistry students at Eastern Oregon University showcase their “explosive” magic at this in-person event. Open to all students from K-12, this field trip offers an opportunity to interact with biochemistry students at a university level, as well as take a tour of campus. The tour includes a scavenger hunt, giving students the chance to explore the college’s grounds.

NW Youth Careers Expo (3/19)

For grades 9-12, students are given the chance to learn and explore a variety of career opportunities offered in the Portland region, along with the pathways for preparation. This is a golden opportunity for ORCA students to meet with leading employers, colleges, and training programs, while hearing from a diverse group of professionals sharing tips and their experiences.

Science Olympiad State Tournament (3/16)

At the start of the year, ORCA students accepted some unique scientific challenges to overcome. Competing at the state level in Oregon, this tournament will showcase lab experiments, engineering design projects, and knowledge challenges. RSVP so you can turn up and support ORCA’s dedicated Science Olympiad team.

ORCA Hangouts (3/21)

Make friends, play ping-pong, and meet teachers outside of the classroom with these in-person social gatherings. Elementary and Middle School Hangouts occur from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. and the High School Hangouts are from 1-3 p.m. 

These field trips are a small portion of what ORCA is offering in March. To learn more about the events listed, and others that are offered, check out Field Trip Central and RSVP to attend.

Oregon Charter Academy students have the chance to make a lasting impact as Student Leaders at this year’s Fifth Grade Outdoor School. The interest form is now open for students in grades 8-12 who are eager to volunteer for this one-day program, taking place April 25th from 8 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. PST at a forest near Portland.

Outdoor School is a unique opportunity for students to gain leadership experience, work with younger peers, and enjoy a day of hands-on learning in nature. Volunteers will help with field study stations, assist staff with activities, and serve as positive role models for fifth graders.

"We are so excited for our second year of hosting Student Leaders at Outdoor School," said Mrs. Comstock, staff coordinator for the program. "These student volunteers are a huge help to staff, and their energy and involvement make the day so much more fun for everyone."

To qualify, students must be in good academic standing, have a strong attendance record, and be able to arrange transportation to the site. Volunteers must also commit to the full day of Outdoor School and adhere to the event's Code of Conduct. Interested students can sign-up or reach out to Ms. Comstock with questions.

At the March 21 HS hangout, a new opportunity to receive used books – Pages & Pals – will be introduced. Students attending the event are encouraged to bring books to donate at the event. 

Students will have the opportunity to browse books at the table and pick what they would like. They will be able to take home a certain amount of books, which will be determined by the number of donations that are brought. 

Students should aim to bring popular and best-selling titles. The goal is to get popular children’s and young adult books that people want to read, not titles nobody wants anymore. Of course, preferences vary, so students are encouraged to bring any books and series that they enjoyed. 

Alongside that, there will also be a competition to see which high school grade levels can donate the most books. This will be a friendly competition for fun, with no prize currently planned. 

"I'm so excited to have a new way to share my love of reading! I hope that students can find a new book they love and share one as well,” shares Lily Jacobs, an ORCA freshman and the one who created this event. “This event is a perfect opportunity to donate and have a good competition. Good luck ORCA!"

On March 13, ORCA students will get the chance to record questions for astronaut Don Pettit and have them answered live while Pettit is in outer space. ORCA is one of ten schools from around the country that was selected to take part in this program. 

“Every year NASA accepts applications for this program and 10 schools from around the country are chosen to participate,” shares Assistant Principal and NASA Club advisor Dan Vasen. “We've been applying to NASA to participate in this program for the past three years in a row and this year we were finally selected to do it.”

This 20 minute downlink will broadcast to the nationwide NASA+ audience and appear on NASA’s social media channels. ORCA will host an in-person event for students to attend at the Wilsonville facility, along with a virtual option for students at home.

While the group of participating students has already been chosen, students of all grades are encouraged to tune into the event if they have time. This is a helpful resource, even as an observer, if you are interested in being in the STEM field. 

“A goal of ORCA in offering these NASA programs to our students is to increase awareness about career opportunities in STEM fields (science, technology engineering and mathematics), to inspire curiosity in pursuing a career related to aerospace and exploration,” says Mr. Vasen, “and to connect professionals who work in these industries with students who seek to pursue their passions in this realm.”

Music blared. Lights flashed. Brightly colored streamers hung from the ceiling. Games were laid out on tables, waiting to be played. Snacks and refreshments were at-the-ready.

This year’s neon-themed high school Winter Social was on Friday, January 10th, from 4-6 p.m. Attendees dressed accordingly, some in flashy or formal outfits and others dressed casually.

The event took place in two rooms, side by side. One room was for dancing and the other was for games. Games included Apples To Apples, What Do You Meme, and Clue.

“HS Social is turning into half dance, half hangout! It’s really fun, I hope more people come next time!” said ORCA teacher Paula Leifer.

On the other side of Winter Social, the dance was on. One student started breakdancing to “Low” by Flo Rida and another made the crowd go wild with a dance to “Cotton Eyed Joe” by Rednex. Some students took part in a round of the infamous Winter Social “YMCA” conga line, and on “I Knew You Were Trouble” by Taylor Swift, other students even made the floor shake.

“The dancing was splendid!” enthused ORCA freshman Audrey Peterson.

Over 50 students showed up to enjoy the event, from soon-to-be graduating winter semester seniors to ORCA's newest high schoolers.

“The Winter Social is a wonderful opportunity to socialize and have fun!” expressed freshman Sofia D.

“Just have fun!” sophomore Faith Yarbrough exclaimed.

“Yo!” ORCA junior Wesley Robbins explained.

As usual, the final song of the night was Neil Diamond’s classic “Sweet Caroline.” Attendees gathered and sang along to every “bum bum bum.” Students left with good memories, lemon-cucumber water and Doritos in their stomachs, and a handful of songs stuck in their heads.

“Winter social was such a fun event!” Student Government President Emily Pennington told The Current. “All of the dancing, games, and hanging out with friends made this event so special! I am so proud of my Student Government team for all of the planning and preparation that we all put into this event. It turned out amazing and I hope that more ORCA students will come to these events in the future!”

In an online school, live interactions between students and teachers occur less frequently than at a brick-and-mortar school, but they remain essential for building school culture and helping students learn. However, with threaded replies in the chatpod, many have found that it diminishes their learning experience when there are several conversations happening simultaneously.

"Threaded replies take up so much space,” says junior Jalecia R., “and inconveniently affect the chat when someone replies to previously sent messages."

Many students can relate to the frustration of trying to listen to the teacher, while the chatpod rapidly fills with irrelevant or inconsequential topics. With threaded replies added to the mix, students can all carry on with their own, off-topic conversations, even if teachers are trying to rein in the side chat.

“When there is a response to a threaded reply, it puts that conversation back at the bottom of the chat and I miss a lot of ‘on-topic’ conversations and questions that are happening above it,” explains Rachel Kazmierski, a HS math teacher. “I have to stop and ask students to stop replying to that thread and focus on the topic at hand. It's just distracting for me as a teacher to keep up with that along with class discussions.”

While there are a handful of students who do enjoy using threaded replies as a social tool – after all, it’s the fun, social aspect that gets in the way of learning – there are many who don’t appreciate seeing all of the different conversations in the chat. “I would say ‘distracting’ is what the majority of my students would say, too,” Ms. Kazmierski shares. “I've seen it said in the chat that they'd like the side conversations to stop.”

However, the idea of threaded replies isn’t the problem here. It is what they are being used for that can be detrimental to learning. If students were to try and use it more responsibly, it actually could, in fact, enhance class Zoom meetings. For example, when students have questions, or want to add on to what the teacher is saying, it opens up a forum for them to have conversations that are on-topic and relevant to class.

“I will say, if threaded replies were more respectfully used in live class, they could be beneficial,” says Ms. Kazmierski. “When students have a question related to the content of the lesson, replying to that question as a threaded reply would be helpful to the person asking and to others who may have the same question.”

“Threaded replies are really distracting when people are getting off-topic,” shares Payton Khoury, an eighth grade student at ORCA. “But when students are using them for questions about the lesson, it’s really helpful to see their conversations.”

Many students and teachers agree that it is not the threaded replies that are a distraction themselves, it’s the way that they are used that makes it harder for students to learn. 

ORCA social studies teacher Casey Comstock thinks the negatives of the threaded replies outweigh the positives. “They are the WORST!”

Portland Workforce Alliance and The Oregonian held an in-person career day giving high school students the opportunity to learn what it takes to have a career in journalism. Attendees met with  journalism professionals from the largest media company in Oregon. 

The career day started off with a tour of  The Oregonian building while attendees learned about the history of the newspaper. Many students were taken with the “How to reach the youths” white board. The board had multiple slang phrases including rizz, sigma, slay, bruh, frfr, and more. “That's definitely not something I expected to see here,” stated one student. The board caused many laughs.

The group then met and talked with five journalists. Each professional introduced themselves and described what a typical day in their life looked like. “Once, after a football game, I stayed up until 2 a.m. writing about it,” shares Nik Streng, a sports journalist. He went on to explain that a career in journalism often involves more than just working in an office; it requires a lot of time spent outside of it. Streng frequently attends sporting events out of office and stays up late writing about them. 

Julia Silverman, a journalist who specializes in K-12 education, expressed her frustration by saying, “[T]he thing I dislike most is that I can’t just walk into a school and talk to students and teachers.” Silverman understands the need for safety precautions, but she wishes she could interview students more easily. “I've been working on an article about a high school, and I just now received permission to proceed; I first asked back in August,” she explained.

After attendees talked with the journalists, the students then moved on to learning about the best ways to conduct interviews. Students were told tips for a successful interview including:

1. Choose a comfortable location.

2. Make sure you have the tools you need such as recording equipment & a notepad.

3. Come prepared with questions.

“You want to show authority but make the other person comfortable and willing to talk,” one journalist explained.

The Oregonian Career day closed with a mock press conference. It started with someone role-playing the mayor publicly explaining a project idea. Students could ask questions about whether the project was a good investment. The design of the mock press conference gave students an insightful view of what a real media event might look like and how to be prepared to ask productive and meaningful questions. 

Career Days and field trips offer fun ways to learn more about things you are interested in while making friends and meeting new people. See upcoming field trips here on Field Trip Central. Check out what the Portland Workforce Alliance has coming up next on their website here.

NHS and NJHS have officially opened their applications for students interested in joining the club. They will close on January 27, the last day of the first semester.

Members of these long-standing school clubs strive for academic excellence, community service, leadership, and good character. The National Junior Honor Society is open for students in grades 6 through 9 and ORCA’s National Honor Society chapter is available to 10-12th graders. 

In order to qualify for the membership, students must have at least a 3.3 GPA. Applicants must demonstrate 50 hours of community service for NJHS, and 100 hours of community service for NHS. Along with that, the application must be filled out by the due date. Students must meet community service requirements each year to maintain membership.

Students can apply to the club by going to the club homepage and filling out the application form. If you are interested in being considered for membership, here is the interest form. 

“We are super excited to welcome in new members!” shares NHS President Reagan Stanek. “It is a great option for those who are committed to acts of service for the benefit of their communities. We encourage those that are interested to attend one of our meetings and learn more!” 

With the due date for the applications approaching, students are encouraged to submit the form as soon as they are ready to apply.

Lights, camera, yearbook! 

The Yearbook Club is inviting students to submit a headshot photo for inclusion in their grade-level section of this year's physical yearbook, which will be available for purchase later.

"Yearbook photo submissions are due soon! Don’t miss your chance to be

remembered. Submit by April 1st,” says Kelly Ellerman, yearbook advisor. “Emails are being sent out with a link to submit your picture, make sure you ask the observer and check your school Gmail.”

In addition to photos, seniors are asked to submit their personalized quotes by the same deadline. The quotes are limited to 15 words. Examples are provided below.

• "Chase your dreams with passion, live boldly, and make every moment count."

• "The future is unwritten, so grab your pen and create your masterpiece."

• "What feels like the end is often the beginning of something amazing.

• "Stay true to yourself, and the world will embrace your authenticity."

• "Dream big, work hard, and make your mark on the world."

Winter will pass quickly, so start thinking about how you want to be remembered in the 2024-2025 school yearbook. Whether you’re a freshman or soon-to-be graduating senior, now is the time to make your mark on the year and be remembered for many years to come. 

During the month of January, there are many chances for students to hang out with their old friends while also making new ones. There are options for each grade band throughout the state.

ORCA Winter Social (1/10)

This event will be a neon-themed night of board games and dancing for high school students. It will run from 4-6 p.m., and will be a great chance for students to get out their glow-in-the-dark gear, hang out with their peers, and listen to some of their favorite music.

NASA Live Stream: Gaining Traction on the Moon Pt. 2 (1/16)

All middle school students are invited to this NASA event, where they will participate in a workshop to create a small model of a rover made of cardboard. Students will work in teams to create this model, focusing primarily on wheel design. This event will take place from 2-3 p.m. 

Hospitality CTE: Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire in Concert (1/17)

For any students who are interested in learning more about hospitality and/or tourism, this event will be an opportunity for them to explore their possible future career pathway, while also experiencing the magic of the Harry Potter world. The event will run from 8-10 p.m, and tickets must be purchased directly from the Hult Center website. This event is open to students of all grade levels.

Poetry Out Loud (1/24)

This annual event gives high school students the chance to share their poetry in a competition, and two selected students will represent ORCA at the state semifinals. The event will run from noon-2 p.m., and there will be a virtual option for the students who are unable to compete in-person.

These are just some of the virtual and in-person field trips taking place in January. For more information and to RSVP, please check out the Field Trip Central.

In just four months from now, a piece of the ORCA school community will embark on a memorable journey on the East Coast.

Mathematics Instructor Paula Leifer, who taught the Exploring Travel elective last school year, is leading a group of 40 high school students to explore Washington, D.C. and New York City in late March. The trip is organized through EF Explore America and joining is still possible. Here is a sign-up link.

The estimated cost for each student is $3,500, which will include travel, lodging, and meals. Included in this experience is access to a dedicated app, which will provide resources for college exploration. 

“It is my personal hope that this trip gives all of our students the travel bug and will be the start of a life-long desire to travel and learn and experience different places, cultures, and people,” Leifer said. “I want students to come away from this trip with a new appreciation for the manifoldness of our nation.”

Stops on the itinerary include the White House, Lincoln Memorial, Times Square, and the Smithsonian Museums. There will not be much self-guided time as the schedule is packed.

Beyond sightseeing, Leifer emphasized the invaluable life skills students can gain from travel. “Travel is an excellent way to gain skills of fortitude, patience, flexibility, and confidence,” she said.

Looking ahead, a similar trip is already being planned for the 2025-26 school year for a new group of students, with further details coming soon.

Stay tuned for more updates from The Current as we get closer to departure day this spring.

This month, The Waves is opening their submissions, encouraging students to submit literary pieces inspired by the writing prompt of Lost. Students are welcome to turn in their finished pieces starting December 1, and ending December 26.

The Waves releases an issue every other month, each focused on a different theme. Every theme gives a short blurb to assist students with writing, as well as an article with 3 tips to help with the writing process.

“I enjoy running The Waves. The amount of creativity I see when collecting submissions is absolutely wonderful,” shares Taylor Byrne, one of the magazine’s editors. “I enjoy reading through each submission I get for the theme that month. Everyone who has submitted has incredible talent and I can't wait to see more submissions for this month's theme!”

Students are encouraged to submit finished stories with a theme of Lost for this month, up until the deadline of December 26. For more writing inspiration, The Waves offers this expanded blurb tied to the Lost theme: “Overlooked, hidden from the world. Long gone memories and buried secrets. Adrift and forgotten.”

Up until November 1, students were asked to head to the drawing board and propose ideas for new clubs they’d like to see a part of ORCA’s roster. In addition to the many returning ones, students introduced four new clubs this year, ranging from mountain biking to math. 

Here is the full list. 

The Good Deeds Youth Research & Advocacy Club

Students interested in making an impact on the world by advocating for change are encouraged to join The Good Deeds Youth Research & Advocacy Club. 

Attendees can expect to participate in workshops focused on elevator pitches, policy writing, and research methods, and collaborate or do work for organizations such as Good DeEds (global STEM issues), Our Future (climate justice/action), Youth HPV Champions (HPV-related cancer prevention), and the Oregon Based Health Alliance (student health). 

Mathmatica Club

“Math isn’t only a homework assignment, but it’s also an adventure,” states the club description. “With puzzling complexities that are near infinite, unknown angles that need the x-pertise, and with some answers that can go undefined, a whole other world awaits.”

The leaders of Mathmatica propose the question, “Where will your problems take you?” By joining their club, you can expect to cultivate math readiness, consider the usage of math in applications both real and theoretical, as well as games and activities such as Kahoots and other competitions.

Mountain Biking Club

ORCA’s new mountain biking club encourages students passionate about riding to connect with like-minded individuals and share their experiences in the MTB world.

They will explore XC, Enduro, Gravity, Road, Gravel, Track, BMX, and other styles of biking within the club through a variety of activities like Quizlets and Padlets. 

Cubers Club/Puzzlers Unite

Everything related to puzzles is what the Cubers Club hopes to promote. From different Rubix cubes to Jigsaws, the intention is to connect students through thoughtful activities and a focus on strategy. 

Plans include online escape rooms, completing difficult cubes and puzzles, and strengthening critical thinking skills.

Discontinued clubs include: 

• Animal Club (K-5)

• MS STEAM Lab (4-8)

• MS Baking Club (6-8)

• MS Adventure Club (6-8)

• Scrub Club (9-12)

• Runners Club (9-12)

• Biomimicry Design Club (9-12)

• Philosophy Club (9-12)

• Science Olympiad (K-12)

• ORCA Cares Club (K-12)

For elementary students, returning clubs include: 

• ORCA NASA Club

• K-8 Coding Club

• The ORCA Bakers

• Yearbook

• Broadcasting Club

• Chess Club

• 3rd-5th Book Club

• Arts & Crafts Club

• Garden/Farm/Homesteaders Club

• Readers Theater

For middle school students, returning clubs include: 

• ORCA NASA Club

• NJHS

• Newspaper Club

• K-8 Coding Club

• MS Yearbook

• MS Writing Club

• Chess Club

• Spanish Buddies

• Broadcasting Club

• Book Battle

• Garden/Farm/Homesteaders Club

• GSA Club 2.0

• Craft & Chat Club

• Military Leadership Club

• Gamers “R” Us

• Drama Club

• Photography & Film Club

• Music Club

For high school students, returning clubs include: 

• Breakfast Club 2.0 QSA

• Music Club

• ORCA NASA Club

• NHS

• Prayer Club

• Newspaper Club

• Chess Club

• Yearbook

• Spanish Buddies

• Broadcasting Club

• Book Battle

• Drama Club

• Garden/Farm/Homesteaders Club

• Pens & Prose

• Military Leadership Club

• Speech & Debate

• The Book Thieves

• Photography & Film Club

• Gamers “R” Us

To join any of these check out the Clubs page and refer to The Principal’s Corner for student resources in the future. 

With the holiday season around the corner, Student Government is back for another year of Deck the Doors, with submissions opening this December. Whether students celebrate Hanukkah, Christmas, Kwanzaa, another holiday, (or none at all) in this chilly time of year, ORCA’s Student Government invites students to decorate their doors with winter symbols to submit until December 31st.

Submissions for Deck the Doors open on December 1st, with the winner getting a prize and recognition from Student Government and in school announcements. 

“It is an extremely fun and exciting event that we love hosting each year in Student Gov at ORCA!” says Student Government President Emily Pennington. “We love seeing the incredible submissions of ORCA Students decked out winter and holiday themed doors! Make sure to submit a photo of your decked out door for a chance to win a fun prize!”

This is Student Government’s fifth year of doing Deck the Doors and submissions are sure to delight. Check out the Student Government website for more information about the event.

National Honor Society and its junior branch, NJHS, hosted their 4th annual club fair giving ORCA students and staff a chance to show off their unique clubs and recruit new members. 

“We were very excited to see so many students find new ways to connect. We are big fans of all of the clubs here at ORCA and we encourage students who couldn't make it to the event to still go check out the list of clubs and see if there is one they would like to be part of,” stated Daniel West, the NHS/NJHS club advisor.

The club fair started in the Zoom session held by Mr. West, where he explained the purpose of the event and how it works. Students then received a document with links to all the current and newly offered clubs, like Mountain Biking Club, Cubers Club/Puzzlers Unite, and many others, which were visited through their personal Zoom rooms. 

Spanish Buddies discussed starting a multi-cultural and language club next year. They also talked about the similarities between Portuguese and Spanish. Meanwhile, Speech and Debate started off strong with a debate about whether a hot dog is a taco or sandwich. Student Government also had a small debate about whether black is a color or a shade.

One student stated that “Black is a shade, every color that's not in the rainbow is a shade of a color in the rainbow.”

“Black is a color,” countered another. “For example, if you were wearing a black shirt and someone asked you ‘what color is your shirt’ you would say black.” 

In Cubers Club/Puzzlers Unite Club, students were given Rebus puzzles to enhance their abstract thinking skills. The Good Deeds Youth Research & Advocacy Club discussed ways to get involved in the many organizations they partner with, and also shared about opportunities to research at in-person labs. 

Clubs are great extra-curricular options to meet new people and make friends. Look through the clubs your grade has to offer here and be sure to fill out this form if you find a club you would like to join. Curious about other events coming up? Be sure to check out Field Trip Central.

Graduation is the next chapter in a student’s academic career and the time to order your cap and gown is now.

Seniors are encouraged to order their cap and gown by November 20, but an extension can be requested by contacting a senior capstone teacher.

“Our current suggested order date is Wednesday, 11/20,” Heidi Warneke, one of ORCA’s senior capstone teachers says. “This is a suggestion and not a hard cut off date, but it is best to order as soon as you can.”

Students can order their cap and gown directly from Jostens website, but are encouraged to contact Brian Coushay, a Jostens’ representative, to clarify details on how orders are conducted. Cap and gown orders are held until graduation day; however, students will be given the opportunity to request their cap and gown to be sent to their home address.

“All [c]ap and [g]own units are shipped directly to our Jostens rep, Brian Coushay. Brian will bring all of the caps and gowns to ORCA on graduation day, so students will receive them…,” Warneke says. “We do this to ensure that no one forgets anything on that important day. If you have a special circumstance that may require other options, please connect directly with our Jostens rep, Brian.”

Here are the steps to ordering a cap and gown:

1. Go to Jostens’ website here.

2. Scroll to the bottom of the page and click on “Shop all graduation products.”

3. Then, scroll down the page and click on “Cap and gown unit.”

4. Follow the rest of the instructions to add accessories and/or other items, and to checkout.

“This is the only package you must order, as it includes a cap, gown, and a tassel. Anything else you want to order is completely optional,” Warneke says. “Please note that additional shipping costs apply and they may vary.”

Senior cap and gowns are $39, without shipping. Shipping is $11.99, with an additional $2.99 for handling. Additional items and extra fees are not covered by ORCA. Students can pay for their order using online banking, credit or debit card, PayPal account, and PayPal Pay Later.

For low-income families, resources are available for students to buy their cap and gown by contacting their assigned graduation advisor.

For more information regarding how to order a cap and gown, please contact Jostens’ Representative Brian Coushay or a senior capstone teacher. To contact Jostens’ Representative, please check out November’s Senior Newsletter located in the Principal's Corner.

There are many in-person and virtual field trips that ORCA has to offer for students, giving them opportunities to socialize with their peers. 

Here are some of the field trips that are happening in the month of December:

Poetry Out Loud Workshop (12/9)

Designed for students who are going to participate in the Poetry Out Loud Competition, this virtual event is for high schoolers who would like to advance their poetry writing and presentation. It will go from 3-4 p.m, and if time allows, there will also be an opportunity for students to share their work and get constructive criticism from their peers and teachers. Poetry Out Loud is a long-time ORCA tradition, so get involved if you are interested!

Ornament Making at Pottery Co. (12/13)

All students in grades K-12 are invited to this in-person event where students will be able to decorate ornaments with their peers. It will last an hour and a half from 12:30-2 p.m. Families will have to pay a small fee of $5 at the event for each ornament, and an additional fee will be added if shipping is requested.

ORCA Hangouts (12/13)

This monthly event offers time for students to hang out with friends and make new ones, along with playing board games and ping-pong. For elementary and middle schoolers, the event runs from 10 a.m. to noon, and for high schoolers it will go from 1-3 p.m. 

Dream Job: Physical Therapist (12/18)

This virtual event lets students explore the field of physical therapy. Come learn about the skills that will help you be successful in this job. The event is open to middle and high school students and goes from 10-10:45 a.m.

These are all of the field trips happening in the month of December, so check out the Field Trip Central and be sure to RSVP if you are interested in attending any of these events.

NHS/NJHS is hosting its annual club fair on November 15 from 11 a.m. to noon. Students in grades K-12 are invited to attend this virtual event to learn more about all the different clubs that ORCA has to offer this school year.

Students will be invited to join the NHS Zoom room, and from there they will be able to choose breakout rooms of participating clubs, where members and advisors will be waiting to showcase their work and program.

“We are super happy to be able to continue this popular event!” shares NHS President Reagan Stanek. “It’s an amazing opportunity to get first hand information from clubs. We hope to see you there!”

This event will be an opportunity for students to learn more about ORCA’s clubs, whether they are brand new or some of ORCA’s oldest. For more information regarding the club fair, please check out Field Trip Central and RSVP to attend.

Student Government President Emily Pennington has big plans for the student body this year. Citing her desire to amplify student voices, she discusses platforms for student body input, suggestion forms, and events students should keep an eye on.

Pennington’s passion for leadership started in online school when she saw the chance to run for senator. At her previous school, there was no Student Government, so she hadn’t been exposed to a program like this. “I was instantly excited, and when I was accepted I was thrilled to serve in a leadership role and make a difference,” says Pennington.

Now a senior, she’s looking toward a future in Disney Imagineering as a project manager. A big fan of Disney and Star Wars, Pennington spends most of her time outside of school and Student Government learning about project management, traveling, and spending time with her family.

Emily started her leadership journey at ORCA as a senator and worked her way up to president through various roles on the Executive Board. Current Activities Director Reagan Stanek first showed her the senator application form in a live class, and her former advisor and current AVID teacher Stephanie Vitro encouraged her to take the initiative.

“I LOVED being a senator and being a part of Student Government so much that I wanted to know if there was a way that I could make even more of an impact in Student Gov,” Pennington reflects.

She talks about how moving up to the role of Social Media Coordinator, as Student Government’s first, was a humbling opportunity. The following year she continued her journey representing high school senators as the Senior Senator Representative, a position open to HS sophomores-seniors.

“Toward the end of that school year, when the executive board election time came, I had a decision to make. I knew I wanted to make a big impact on [Student Government] in my senior year,” Pennington shared.  “But I was unsure if I wanted to apply for ORCA Student Government president or vice president, knowing that if I didn't get voted in, I may not be on the [executive] board at all.”

Ultimately, she decided to go for the role of president, campaigning her way through ORCA election season, and emerging victorious. “I was thrilled to find out that I was voted into the presidential position, and as I am serving, I am doing my best to make as many positive changes and program additions for ORCA's student body as possible!”

Now as president, she’s focused on the future of Student Government and the improvements she hopes to make to its systems this school year.

“I want to make sure that there’s a prominent student voice in Student Government,” Pennington explains.

“I know a lot of times people think it's just the senators and Executive Board working together and deciding things for the whole school, but I want to make sure that it's known that with what we do, we want to take the voice from the students and use that in our events and all of the initiatives that we do in Student Government.”

She later describes an initiative she is working on with administration to get approved: a suggestion form for ORCA students to share their thoughts on events and general happenings around school.

Her hope is that students feel comfortable enough to share their opinions with the Executive Board and their grade-level senators through these initiatives.

Not only is she looking forward to increased student body involvement, but she’s also looking toward development within Student Government. “I'm hoping to see a lot of teamwork. I know in the past, it was kind of separate, like we have the marketing, events, and newsletter committees, and we can do more collaboration between all of them,” she comments.

Her experience as a senator drives this ambition. “I've learned I can have a voice, and that I can express that, and people will be able to hear me, and that I can help make a difference. And I think everybody else in Student Government, too, our main goal is to make a difference.”

She recalled many highlights from her Student Government years. Among these are working on the “Head in the Clouds” prom and learning from former President Grace Peterson and Vice President Ahnalya De Leeuw.

Emily hopes more students will take up the chance to serve. “I think it's also about having a framework and a good group of people that want to make a difference and want to see improvements in their school, not only by changing old programs, but also by adding new ones.”

She went on to discuss events coming to ORCA, most notably Winter Social, and Prom later in the spring. She wants to take what past ORCA Student Governments have done for prom and build on it this year. “I think definitely taking some inspiration from what's happened in the past with prom,” Pennington notes, while also hoping to take it in a new direction. 

“This year, having an actual venue is going to be something that's different for us, that we haven't done in a while,” she adds. “Theme-wise, I know we're looking into softer themes.”

Pennington also hopes to create monthly events like assemblies for students. One of Student Government’s new plans for this year is hosting ninth-grade assemblies to assist with the transition from middle to high school and provide opportunities for lower classmen to get tips from upperclassmen.

“I have a tremendous amount of gratitude for ORCA and the Student Government program. Student Government has really helped the leadership in me thrive and has let me tap into my creativity when planning our events.”

ORCA’s Drama Club is holding auditions on November 8 and 15 at 2 p.m., for the 2024 production cycle later this month.

Drama Club, the relatively new performing arts club that has attracted everyone from people interested in show business to hard-core theater nerds, is a fun, interactive student body that centers around stagecraft and acting. It’s designed to encourage participation, strengthen speaking and social skills, and help develop confidence.

Every year, the Drama Club puts on a theater production, usually an original play written by one of the members. Last year’s play was Willow in the Woods, written by Chelsia Henry, though it didn’t make it through the whole production.

This year’s play is a rerun of Willow in the Woods, written by Chelsia Henry. It stars Flora Bright on her quest to find her missing friend Willow, while following clues in the middle of the winter.

The roles that students can audition for are, but not limited to:

• Flora Bright

• Narrator

• Noah Bright

• Jade Taylor

• Willow Lakes

• Benny Woods*

Check out the Drama Club if you are interested in auditioning for a part, or reach out to Erika Hand for more information at ehand@oregoncharter.org. 

*This is a tentative list, and not definitive.

On October 18, students from all over the state were invited to Wilsonville for the first ORCA Hangouts of the school year. The HS Hangout took place from 1 - 3 p.m., and the Elementary and MS Hangouts happened earlier in the day, from 10 a.m to noon. The numbers at these hangouts broke records, with over forty students in attendance at both the combined middle school and elementry event and the high school gathering.

The ping-pong table was, as usual, a hotspot at the hangout, with players of every skill level getting involved. “Very chaotic, I'll tell you that!” shares ORCA junior Lexie Loeb. 

While some students played ping-pong, others headed for games such as UNO, Chicken Challengers, Pokemon Monopoly, and chess. Teachers and students alike competed at cards and board games. “What's the opposite of undefeated?” asks ORCA Algebra teacher Mrs. Johnson. “Because that's what I am right now. I've lost every single game I've played so far.”

While some students got competitive in card games, others started keeping score on the ping-pong matches, with some students jokingly betting on the games and others offering play-by-play commentary. 

The next ORCA Hangouts are on November 22, so check out Field Trip Central and RSVP if you are interested in attending.

Starting soon, students who have completed two years of high school foreign language courses with at least an A- each term can join one of ORCA’s new language honor societies.

“This will distinguish students that go beyond the minimum in their Spanish language journey. It is an opportunity to show colleges and potential employers a skill and commitment to understanding other cultures and languages in our ever more connected global economy,” says Spanish teacher Eric Briggs. 

Briggs, as well as French and Spanish teacher Lisa Rollot, will soon be opening chapters of the AATF (American Association of Teachers of French) and AATSP (American Association of Teachers of Spanish and Portuguese) honor societies. They hope that dedicated students will take the opportunity to showcase their commitment to linguistic studies.

“[The Société Honoraire de Français] provides a vehicle to focus activities around French language and Francophone literatures and cultures, and to encourage participation in the annual writing contest and travel grant competition,” the AATF website says.

Scholarships and awards are offered by both AATSP and AATF branches for high-achieving students in chapters nationwide. The ATTSP, in partnership with the Sociedad Honoraria Hispanica (SHH), offers two opportunities for students each year.

The Joseph Adams Senior Scholarship awards $2,000 and $1,000 to exceptional seniors that are interested in pursuing college, university, or secondary education.

The Bertie Green Travel Award provides juniors in the AATSP honor society the chance to travel to a Spanish-speaking country alongside other top students from across the United States. This year, 18 students will travel to the Dominican Republic to experience its culture.

Students who have completed the membership requirements at ORCA will receive an invitation to join their language’s honor society. Those who accept will pay a one-time membership fee and be inducted through a formal ceremony.

No meetings are planned for the first year, but inductees will have the option to organize meetings and events if they choose.

“I hope to grow our world language offerings here at ORCA and encourage all students to study a second language,” French and Spanish teacher Rollot explains. “By publicizing our students' success, I hope to convince our school community that speaking a second language is within their reach. Many students are afraid that it will be a difficult elective and so they don't allow themselves to even try.”

In addition to joining the program, students can wear a Spanish or French honor cord at graduation and order additional regalia representing their language. This achievement can be included on résumés, and for students applying to four-year universities, it signifies the completion of the two-year foreign language requirement often necessary for admission.

“The success of our students who do accept the challenge and succeed should be shared in our school community and should be celebrated at graduation by their families and friends. The ultimate goal is to create lifelong language learners who are able to participate more fully in our highly connected world by not only speaking a second language, but also understanding the culture and history of its people,” Rollot finishes.

For more information on these chapters and requirements, check out the AATSP and AATF websites. If you’re a part of a language program at ORCA currently, keep your grades up and check with your teacher to see if you are eligible to join the chapter.

ORCA held its third annual Anti-Bullying assembly on October 11 to reinforce the school’s commitment to eliminating bullying and promoting inclusivity. As attendees joined the meeting, they were welcomed by Student Government’s Executive Board members.

This assembly proved to be informative and dynamic, providing students with valuable insight on identifying bullying and effective strategies to combat it. The goal was to empower students with the knowledge and tools to stand up to bullying and support their peers.

Hosted by Student Government’s President Emily Pennington, Newsletter Committee Leader Lily Dixon, and Social Media Coordinator Leesy Lindsay, who discussed various aspects of bullying. They educated the audience on the difference between an upstander, someone who actively supports and stands up for victims of bullying, and a bystander, someone who witnesses the bullying but does not take action to stop it. A core theme was the importance of working together and showing support for other students. 

Students participated in a Kahoot game, answering some of the following questions:

• What does it mean to be an upstander?

• What is one thing you can do to support others and include them?

• What percentage of students who are bullied do not report it to an adult? (60%)

• How many students miss school each day in fear of being bullied? (1-in-7)

• What percent of students have seen bullying trends decrease when anti-bullying programs are implemented? (60%)

• What percent of students say they are more likely to intervene after receiving anti-bullying education? (70%)

"One of the main goals of our Student Government is to promote inclusivity and help foster positive and supportive connections between members of the student body," explains Calla Mapel, Student Government's advisor. “The more students we can help bring into the loop, and the more aware we can be of each other and of our larger school community, the more likely we are to be able to stomp out bullying completely.”

ORCA maintains a zero-tolerance policy towards bullying and encourages students to speak with their advisors or other trusted adults if they encounter any issues. In honor of National Bullying Prevention Month, many students wore blue and orange to show their support.

"We are so thankful for those that were able to come to this assembly,” said Pennington. 

“We hope that everyone enjoyed the facts, Kahoot, and the message to spread kindness and do our best to stomp out bullying!” She added, “Our SG team did a great job of working together and presenting this important Anti-Bullying message to our ORCA Community! I am so grateful to my SG team for their incredible work and support."

The assembly concluded with a special thanks from Student Government members, ORCA’s counselors, and all those who attended. It served as a reminder of the importance of unity and support in the fight against bullying.

The Yearbook club is excited to announce that they are now accepting submissions for the 2024-25 yearbook cover design. This year's theme is Retro Flowers, providing students the opportunity to reinvent the goal of achieving artistic interpretations of vibrant, vintage floral designs that capture the spirit of nostalgia and ORCA.

Guidelines:

• Theme: Retro Flowers – think bold colors, groovy patterns, and classic 60s-70s floral aesthetics.

• Format: Digital submissions must be high-resolution (300 DPI) in PDF or PNG format. Hand-drawn submissions should be scanned and submitted digitally.

• Size: 8 x 10 inches (standard yearbook size), front cover only.

• Deadline: All submissions must be turned in by January 31 at 4 p.m. 

• How to Submit: Submit your designs HERE.  

• Eligibility: Open to all high school students in grades 9 - 12. 

Winner's Perks:

• Your design will be featured on the 2024-25 yearbook cover.

• Recognition in the yearbook with a particular artist spotlight.

• A free copy of the yearbook for your portfolio from the yearbook staff.

Get creative, get inspired, and take a trip back in time with refreshing designs. The Yearbook club can’t wait to see how you bring the Retro Flowers theme to life.

For more information regarding the yearbook’s cover submission, please contact Ms. Ellerman.

ORCA provides an array of field trip opportunities, both in-person and virtual, which vary from tours and hikes to high school hangouts and laser tag. These events foster student connections, create long lasting friendships, and immerses students in real-world experiences.

Here are some of the field trips offered in November:

Laser Tag and Games (11/7)

Encouraging participation from all grade levels, spend an hour playing laser tag and other games at Bullwinkle’s with ORCA P.E. and Health teacher Katie Alikin and MS advisory teacher Molly Grove, along with other ORCA students. Students will be required to pay for the games on site; laser tag is $10 per person per game.

BLS Training (ASCEND Students Only) (11/15)

Hosted by ASCEND Medical Teacher Elizabeth Washak, this event is exclusively for ASCEND junior and senior students. It is held on November 15 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. The training will be held in the Portland metro area and you must RSVP to attend.

Board Game Event (11/15)

ORCA K-12 students are invited to join their peers and play a variety of board games. It’s a great opportunity to make friends and meet ORCA teachers including math teacher Jim Keehn. This event is on November 15, from 1 - 3 p.m. It’s in the Portland Metro area and is limited to 50 people. Make sure to RSVP by November 11 to obtain a spot.

Dream Job: Construction Manager (11/19)

Scheduled for November 19 from 10 a.m. to 10:45 a.m., this virtual field trip is designed for middle school and high school students. Hosted by ASCEND Advisor Liberty Lacy and Fred Napolitano of Napolitano Homes, this event offers students a chance to explore the construction industry. Attendees will gain insights into the role of a construction project manager at Napolitano Homes, which operates in North Carolina and Virginia. The event will highlight the essential training and employability skills required for success in this field. Students are encouraged  to come prepared with questions to make the most of this learning opportunity.

This event also meets requirements in the Career STAR 1 course.

Limited to a maximum of 25 attendees, the RSVP deadline is November 18 at 6 p.m.

ORCA Hangouts (11/22)

Join ORCA Health and P.E. teachers Jeremy Vandenboer and Nikki Coleman at ORCA’s Wilsonville office to make friends, play games, and spend time with fellow classmates in-person. Elementary and middle school students are invited to  hang out from 10 a.m. to noon. The  High School Hangout is from 1 - 3 p.m.

The events above are a small portion of what ORCA has to offer. Go through the Principal's corner and head to Field Trip Central, where you can view them by region, grade level, or dates. Make sure to RSVP to attend.

Oregon Charter Academy students and families from all over the state gathered on September 13 at the annual Open House in Mill City to celebrate the beginning of the school year.

Open House takes place at the start of each fall semester, and represents an opportunity for students to meet their peers and connect. ORCA families can gather together, get school merchandise, take student portraits, build community and meet their teachers in-person.

The event also included a book fair, which consisted of a wide range of genres including picture books, young adult books, graphic novels, and more. Many students also went to the ORCA “swag” booth, where they could get wristbands and ORCA t-shirts with the tickets families were given upon arrival.

“It was a blast getting to see everyone in person! It adds so much more community to be able to add faces to the names,” says ORCA freshman Audrey Peterson. “I can't wait for more field trips!”

Attendees paid considerable attention to the booth advertising EF Explore America's upcoming trip to Washington D.C. and New York City that is available to ORCA 8th-12th graders. Many dozens of interested students peppered Ms Comstock and Ms Leifer with questions and signed up to learn more about the six day trip focused on visiting historical sites, memorials and museums. This journey is slated for Spring Break and hosted by Ms. Leifer in partnership with EF Explore America. For more information regarding the trip, click here.

The ORCA Cares Clothing Closet, run by ORCA’s Community Resource team, collected gently used clothing to give to families in need.

“Open House was so much fun!” shares Payton Khoury, an 8th grade student at ORCA. “It was great to meet new people, and to meet some of my teachers!”

The Student Government booth was another highlight of the event. With a few members of the 2024-2025 SG’s Executive Board present to publicize their work, they encouraged students to apply for the student senator position for this school year.

“I enjoyed the Open House because I got to socialize with fellow classmates, current teachers, and even teachers I had in past years,” says senior Senna A. “Plus, it gave me opportunities to explore fun activities that ORCA offers.”

ORCA Graduation took place on June 8 at Cascade Hall, with seniors ending their high school journey in bittersweet fashion.

Students showed up to the Oregon State Fairgrounds that morning and  lined up to get their caps and gowns, along with any special cords or stoles (cloth sashes draped over the robe) they received for their grades or for being a part of certain school programs and groups.

Graduation cords and stoles:

• Top 3% of class: Yellow cord

• Legacy (at ORCA since Kindergarten): White cord

• Student Gov: Red cord

• NHS:  Blue/Yellow cord

• ASCEND: Blue/Green/Orange cord

• AVID: Blue/White cord

• Special stole designs for the Valedictorian and Salutatorians

After rehearsals and lunch, staff arrived, families filled the seats and the program began. Executive Director Allison Galvin opened up the ceremony, repeating a phrase from a mentor teacher: “It is up to you to create the environment you want to live in each day.” She focused on this idea, encouraging students to take charge of their lives. 

Her next piece of advice for graduates tackled the subject of assuming the best of others when communicating. “When we do not assume positive intent, sometimes we let our own concerns, perspectives, experiences, impact how we receive or perceive feedback or a comment.”

Mrs. Galvin finished by congratulating the seniors for entering the next stage of their lives, and thanking them for the legacy they’ve left at Oregon Charter Academy.

Next, student leaders gave speeches to commemorate the special moments from the Class of 2024 before continuing on to the next chapter of their lives.

Last year’s Student Government President Grace Peterson started her speech by acknowledging that high school wasn’t all sunshine and flowers, but there were levels to it. “As someone who grew up watching the Disney Channel, I thought I had a pretty good idea of what high school was going to be like. Elaborately choreographed dances, lots and lots of singing, and endless meaningless, Sharpay drama.”

“You can imagine my surprise when there wasn’t a lot of this, but there was so much...math? High school is hard,” she opined. She went on to list some of the challenges students face in high school, like studying, choosing what they’re going to do for the rest of their lives, taking the SATs, getting a job, and dealing with the sometimes contradictory advice from others. “This adversity is a stepping stone in finding our identity. So yes, high school is hard, but my goodness it’s worth it.”

Peterson went on to discuss the many sleepless nights she was up cramming for a test, but also the nights she stayed up playing video games with friends, listening to music, and laughing at the most “unfunny” jokes ever. 

“You know what? We may not have had elaborate High School Musical style dance breaks, but we did the Macarena at Western Winter, and I definitely think that counts…so perhaps this wasn’t exactly like High School Musical, but this is my musical and I’m honored to stand here today with all of you.”

Next, Valedictorian Isaac Choi and Salutatorians Alena Budko and Caidy Cann were honored on stage for receiving the top three cumulative GPAs in the Class of 2024.

Choi, who in addition to boasting the highest GPA of the graduating seniors, also received the honor of being a National Merit Scholar, commented on his pride in representin the hard work and dedication of the student body. He also earned admission to the highly competitive United States Military Academy at West Point, New York. Choi went through an intense application process to become one of the 1150 cadets who would be attending West Point. 

Over the course of four years he will earn a Bachelor’s Degree of Science and gain knowledge and experience in military training. After he graduates the program, he’ll be commissioned as a second lieutenant in the United States Army and be deployed to lead a group of soldiers and serve our nation. 

Students were asked to join in congratulating him as he embarked on his journey.

After Senior Manager of Counseling Marci Cammann finished the awards portion of the ceremony, the second student speaker of the night, Madison Tulare, addressed the Class of 2024. 

Tulare started by acknowledging the anxiety that came with preparing for a graduation speech and how that symbolically represented the online school experience. “I thought I was going to bail it, and undo it, but [I] decided I can’t let it control me for the rest of my life.” 

She outlined the non-visible achievements students have gone through to make it to the point of graduating, like fighting procrastination, pushing past negativity, and navigating the inevitable challenges of growing up. 

After graduation day is over, Tulare advised, “don’t let anything get into your way.” She went on to tell the students not to “let anyone affect what you want in life; this is your own story.”

Following Tulare’s speech, ASCEND, AVID, and legacy graduates were further honored by District Programs Director John Meyer, Language Arts Teacher Stephanie Vitro, and High School Principal Joe Mogford, respectively. Each of them outlined the additional work and responsibilities these students persevered through to graduate, and what they’ll take away from their experience for future endeavors. 

In the final address from a graduate, Student Government Vice President, NHS Secretary, and legacy student Ahnalya De Leeuw described the adaptability of an ORCA student. She starts by outlining the struggles legacy students overcame in the many years since Kindergarten–battling through the pandemic, being flexible during the wildfires and ice storms, and adjusting to an entirely new school system called Canvas. 

De Leeuw talked about how she witnessed student involvement in clubs foster community and encourage those who might otherwise be silent to share stories, whether it be their own, or something constructed in the realm of fantasy. “These stories are stories in the first place because we cared enough to notice these small moments in the first place, and either literally or figuratively write them, with the people we love.”

“My utmost ask is that you keep telling them in whatever chapter comes next in your lives so I can hear all about them.”

Students earlier in the spring were invited to nominate a teacher speaker. Their choice, 12th Grade Language Arts Teacher Steph Imig, delivered a heartfelt message to the Class of 2024 as the final speaker of the night before students would walk across the stage.

Not long after, High School Principal Joe Mogford and the other school administrators stood in a line, shaking the hands of each graduate before delivering that hard-earned diploma. Students who were not present at the ceremony were also acknowledged by name for a livestream that broadcast the day’s events far beyond the walls of the fairgrounds. 

After every graduate there had received a diploma, the Class of 2024 was invited to turn their tassels to the other side of their cap, a symbol of their transition from high school student to high school graduate. Caps then flew into the air, friends hugged, and the audience came down from the seats to congratulate these former ORCA students.

The start of the new school year brings field trips, some new, some familiar, for students to attend both in-person and virtually. Whether you’re looking to find a weekend activity, or wanting to get more involved in the ORCA community, field trips are a wonderful opportunity to meet peers and teachers.

In the month of October, many field trips are themed around the season of changing leaves and spooky feelings. Let’s take a look at some of these autumn-inspired events.

Live Tour of Monticello– Thomas Jefferson’s Home (10/10)

In this virtual event from 10:00 a.m. to 10:50 a.m., high school students are invited to join Mrs. Comstock and the AP US History class for a virtual tour of Monticello, the longtime home of Thomas Jefferson, the third United States president. Joined by a guide that will lead the class through Monticello in real time, attendees will learn about the architectural beauty of the home and hear the stories of enslaved people that worked on the plantation.

*Students are asked not to skip one of their live classes if it coincides with the time of the field trip.

ORCA Hangouts (10/18)

Returning for the 2024-25 school year, Elementary and Middle School Hangouts will take place from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. High School Hangouts is from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. These hangouts will occur monthly starting in October and students are invited to come play games and hang out with fellow ORCA students and teachers.  

Legends & Tombstones: A Pioneer Cemetery Walk (10/25)

A Salem-Keizer regional event, Legends & Tombstones is open to students in grades K-12 that are looking to explore Oregon’s past and the legends and tales that come along with it. Led by Dr. Eide and Mr. Pollnow, students will tour the cemetery from 1o a.m. to 12 p.m. and immerse themselves in its history and legends.

Fall Fun at Smith Rock (10/25)

Students can enjoy fall fun at either Smith Rock State Park or Smith Rock Ranch with ORCA teachers Mrs. Murphy and Mrs. Johnson. You’ll have the option to select either of the Terrebonne-based choices. At Smith Rock State Park, you’ll get to enjoy an easy hike of no more than two miles around the beautiful grounds. If you choose Smith Rock Ranch, you’ll be able to participate in activities like the corn maze, petting zoo, and pumpkin patch. 

*Please note that for Smith Rock State Park, you’ll have to purchase a day-use parking permit on their site.

*Most activities at Smith Rock Ranch require tokens/tickets that families will have to purchase.

Haystack Rock Tidal Ecosystem Tour (10/25)

A guide at Cannon Beach will be giving ORCA students a live viewing of Haystack Rock from 12:45 to 1:45 p.m. Students will learn about the bird and intertidal ecology of the Marine Garden and Oregon Island's National Wildlife Refuge. This is a virtual event, so all students in grades K-12 can attend.

Many regions in Oregon are offering a field trip at a local pumpkin patch. To find more events or see more details about an activity you’re interested in, please check out Field Trip Central and make sure to RSVP for any trips you plan to attend.

ORCA’s Middle School Student Government will host their second annual Executive Board elections on October 18. 

Students that are interested in applying for one of the five available positions should stay tuned for more information on how and when to apply.

Seventh and eighth grade senators with a record of leadership in their classrooms or communities are invited to apply and campaign for Vice President or President. 

All middle school senators can apply for the roles of Secretary, Activities Director, and Public Relations Officer.

Students in fifth grade will continue to participate in Student Government, but only in the form of the two committees: Activities and Public Relations. 

Leadership positions in MS Student Government are a great way to gain valuable experience  and could even pave the way for leadership in High School Student Government in the future.

The 2023-24 school year is coming to an end, which means saying goodbye to graduating students as they continue to the next chapter of their lives. It also marks the introduction of a new Student Government Executive Board. 

Grace Peterson, the 2023-24 SG President, will be passing the baton to Emily Pennington, and is planning to continue involvement in community government in college. “It has truly been an honor serving as the Student Government President!" Peterson comments. "Working with my Executive Board and the senators has been the experience of a lifetime. I'll never forget it, and I'm looking forward to carrying that with me as I depart for college. Excited for Pennington to step into the role!”

Pennington, previously the Senior Senator Representative and Social Media Coordinator, is moving up to the role of President in her senior year at ORCA. “​​Thank you so much to everyone who came to the speeches and voted," she says. "I am thrilled to have been elected President and I am so excited to work with this incredible new 2024-2025 executive board team!"

“I am going to work hard to make sure that this year, Student Gov hears the voices of all ORCA students, and that next year's events and new programs started are ones that all ORCA students would like to see!” Pennington adds.

Grace Choi, a copyeditor at ORCA’s newspaper, The Current, HOSA President, and former NJHS President, will be shouldering the role of Student Government Vice President. “First of all, thank you to everyone who voted this year!" she says. "I am honored to have the opportunity to serve as the Student Government Vice President. I'm so excited for next year, and there is so much to look forward to this fall! I hope I can create a positive impact on the wonderful ORCA student body."

The rest of ORCA’s 2024-25 Executive Board, appointed by the Student Government advisors, can be viewed below: 

This is a tentative list, and subject to change.

• Secretary: Cassie Rogers

• Activities Director: Reagan Stanek

• Public Relations Officer: Senna Alnasser

• Social Media Coordinator: Leesy Lindsay

• Senior Senator Representative: Avery Khoury

• Junior Senator Representative: Arabella Mullanix

• Newsletter Committee Leader: Lily Dixon

• Marketing Committee Leader: Steliana Strugar

• Event Committee Leader: Bali L.

Returning Executive Board members include Emily Pennington, Grace Choi, Reagan Stanek, Leesy Lindsay, and Lily Dixon.

On May 9, the Presidential and Vice Presidential candidates gave their speeches and encouraged students to exercise their voting rights and ask any questions they may have related to their campaigns. 

Annalaina Yip was the first presidential candidate to present, outlining her appreciation for the school and the friends she’s met throughout her 12 years at ORCA. Her goals included expanding the MS Kindness Campaign to high school, initiating personal development courses like incoming freshmen adjustment and mental health resources, increasing in-person and virtual field trips, and streamlining club advertisements.

In addition to her campaign, she has also co-founded clubs like Spanish Buddies, Biomimicry Design Club, and The Book Thieves. 

Emily Pennington was the second candidate and ran for both president and vice president. She outlined her experience on the Executive Board, previously holding the Social Media Coordinator and Senior Senator Representative positions. 

She aims to encourage student voices and create systems to amplify the student body’s thoughts. She also hopes to increase collaboration between SG, ORCA clubs, and ASCEND, and initiate a student suggestion form.

Pennington is a part of the ASCEND Business & Management pathway and has helped to create a student leadership program within the program. She has also run for the OASC Midwest Representative and has been in Student Government for all three years of her ORCA school career. 

Grace Choi was the last candidate to present and ran solely for VP as a rising junior. She previously held the position of Social Media Coordinator and is also a competitive fencer. 

Her objectives were to support youth mental health, create a resource center for students, and strengthen a system that is efficient for the student body and senators. She has experience with tackling mental health through her HOSA campaign earlier this year.

After the initial speeches, attendees were invited to ask questions regarding improvements and initiatives they’d like to see during the 2024-25 school year.

One student asked the candidates about their intentions to increase the promotion of senator application advertisements and involvement in the fall. Yip was the first to answer, highlighting her interest in utilizing the Canvas global announcements to push out ads more often than the once-weekly updates students receive. 

Pennington hopes to advertise via the Student Government website, govgram, and global announcements. She also emphasizes to the student body that in SG, you can make a difference and your voice will be heard.

Using the influence of clubs and programs was one of Choi’s suggestions. She wants more advertising at the beginning of the year because students may not know where to look.

Next, the candidates discussed their ideas in response to, “How will you bring Student Government into the school at large and clue the student body as a whole into the work you’re doing?”

All three candidates highlighted having more assemblies where student body members could share their thoughts and ask questions when needed. Yip additionally wished for greater mental health advocacy and bridging the gap of communication during those events. Pennington hopes to empower students to talk with their Student Government and have resources to get involved in the future. Choi would like to see transparency between SG and students, talking about her hopes for meeting notes to be public on the site so every student is aware of what their leadership team is doing.

Now addressing just the presidential candidates, one attendee asked about their plan to juggle the heavy workload and responsibility of being the SG President. Yip emphasizes having trust in the team of people around her. Pennington agrees and adds that her consistent love and passion for Student Government, joined with the exceptional team on the Executive Board and the senators, will ease the load and create a balance.

Talking about future programs and events created by Student Government, all candidates outlined their priorities for the 2024-25 school year. 

For Annalaina Yip and Grace Choi, it’s mental health promotion and awareness. Yip talks about the domino effect, with mental health as the first domino, and everything else falling into place after. Choi discusses plans for a resource center and monthly sessions where students can gain knowledge about mental health and be heard. 

Pennington wants to spotlight student voices and start forms where thoughts and ideas could easily be addressed. 

Next, questions rolled in specific to each presidential candidate. Pennington’s question revolved around her ASCEND involvement, and she presented her work of creating a leadership team within the program where students from each branch could bring their ideas to the table for course offerings, field trips, and work. Yip’s question focused on the current Student Government processes and what she’d like to continue in the future. She praised the presidential workshops and voiced her thoughts on how a leader should develop within their role.

Here are the final thoughts from the candidates.

“You’re original, unique. Pursue what you want to pursue. You are your own leader and have the ability to change things,” Yip says.

“Everybody has a voice and everyone should have the ability to voice their opinions freely," adds Pennington. "The betterment of ORCA is for everyone, not just one person."

“Leave today with the thought that you’ll be cared for and a part of the student body," Choi concludes. "SG cares about other people, teacher’s opinions – and we want to hear that."

To get involved in Student Government and support your school community, look out for advertisements on the SG website and govgram (@orcastudentgov) and announcements on senator applications in the fall.

The 2023-24 school year has been a big one for ORCA! Let’s recap all the important events that impacted Oregon Charter Academy this year.

MS Student Government Executive Board

2023 was the very first year middle school students voted for their president. After realizing that ORCA middle school lacked an upper leadership structure for their student legislative body, the MS Student Government was given their own Executive Board. With Emma Davis as President, Milleah N. as Vice President, Solange G.G. as the Public Relations Officer, and Arabella M. sharing the role of Activities Director with Wilder Kersey, the very first MS Executive Board is paving the way for others to gain experience in leading roles. 

Swing into Spring

The MS Student Government hosted its very first middle school social this spring. Students from all across Oregon came to the Wilsonville office on April 26 to participate in this fun event. The first of many, the social event boasted dancing, Apples-to-Apples, drawing contests, board games, and intense ping-pong matches, leaving both teachers and students alike excited for future events.

Kindness Campaign

On February 26, the Middle School Student Government initiated the Kindness Campaign. Elementary and MS students were invited to give props and shout-outs to their fellow peers by submitting messages of appreciation through a Google Form that would send the message to the person’s Gmail inbox. 

MS Peer Tutoring

This was the first year that middle school students could volunteer to offer their peers expert academic advice. A similar program was already available to high school students.

HS Student Government Executive Board 

The high school Executive Board was led by Grace Peterson as President this year, and for the first time ever, both Ahnalya De Leeuw and Reagan Stanek shared the weight and responsibility of Vice President. The rest of the Executive Board, appointed by the advisors, was as follows: Isaac Choi as the Secretary, Leesy Lindsay as the Activities Director, Kenna S. as the Public Relations Officer, Grace Choi as the Social Media Coordinator, Emily Pennington as the Senior Senator Representative, Lily Dixon as the Junior Senator Representative, Cara S. as the Newsletter Committee Leader, Hannah Ma as the Website Committee Leader, and Alexis Ridders as the Event Committee Leader.

Prom 

With Party Dr on the wheels of steel and an intergalactic Star Wars theme, this year’s Prom was a night students will remember even if they travel to a galaxy far, far away. The event featured a soundtrack of iconic party hits, snacks varying from macarons to fruit snacks, and star-studded decor of stormtroopers, Baby Yodas, and droids. Attendees boasted their best prom attire, with some dressed up in Star Wars-themed costumes, and cut a rug on the dance floor. May the Fourth Be With You!

Western Winter

ORCA’s annual Winter Social brought new excitement with a western theme where students dressed up in their cowboy hats and brought their yeehaws, dancing the night away and chatting with their friends while enjoying an assortment of snacks. 

Esports

Esports is on a winning streak this season, breaking school records and advancing to the playoffs. This spring season, four ORCA teams qualified for their respective playoffs and The Stardust Crusaders continued their playoff run through to the semi-finals in Overwatch 2. They were ranked #5 going into the playoffs, marking the highest an ORCA team’s ever been ranked going into the tournament. 

Senior Scholarships 

The class of 2024 is full of overachieving students. 

ORCA senior Ahnalya De Leeuw received the 2024 ACTE scholarship, awarded to students in CTE programs across the state. As a student in the ASCEND Business & Management pathway, she shares that the program has “truly made me feel supported in my college and career search,” supporting her educational pursuit in communications and entrepreneurship. “This path will help me continue the marketing and leadership experiences I engaged in at ORCA during my college life and career,” she says. 

Isaac Choi is another scholarship recipient this year, winning the highly competitive National Merit Scholarship. This is an impressive accomplishment only attained by a small percentage of students across the nation. 

Hania Mhamdi was also awarded the QuestBridge scholarship and matched with Wesleyan University, where she will attend with a full-ride scholarship in the fall.

K-12 Hangouts & Ping-Pong

This is the first year ORCA brought the monthly Hangouts to grades K-12, previously opened for middle and high school levels. Additionally, a ping pong table was added to the Wilsonville facility, creating endless entertainment for student attendees. 

Regional Event Days

This year, ORCA students, staff, and families met across the state for large events at major regional attractions such as the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI), the Evergreen Aviation & Space Museum, and the Tillamook Cheese Factory. These events occurred on a roughly monthly basis.

2023-2024 at ORCA was a time of many firsts, and it is hard to believe that it is over. Maybe you’ll suggest the great idea that makes next year even more memorable. 

‘Tis the season for graduation caps to fly and students to get all teary-eyed reminiscing on their time in high school. Discussing future plans, sweet memories, and tips for the next generation, here are some thoughts from ORCA’s class of 2024.

From living on the coast of Tunisia to owning a salon, ORCA seniors have clear and big dreams for their future.

As former Student Government President Grace Peterson forecasts for her future, “I see myself stable in my career, working at the state Capitol, happily happy with my dog.” Peterson will be attending Portland State in the fall to major in Political Science, hoping to use her talents and degree to make a difference in her community.

Other students are looking to pursue a degree in the arts. Lucille Dias, an aspiring entrepreneur, plans to minor in photography and says she hopes “to take professional photos at concerts as a side job.” To make a steady income, she hopes to open up her own laundromats and vending machines.

Another ORCA senior, Ava Chandler, plans to go into film production. “I plan to attend Emerson college in Boston, majoring in Film and Media Production,” she says. “I was honored with their Trailblazer Merit Scholarship.” 

The list of plans is truly diverse. Some seniors will be majoring in rhetoric and media, studying to become a phlebotomist, going to automotive trade school, and more. Reminiscing on their days at Oregon Charter Academy, students divulged how online school has prepared them for their future education and careers. 

“Being in a virtual school provided the flexibility and resources I needed to create my own schedule, develop organization and time management skills, and become self-sufficient, all of which are skills that will serve me well in college and a job,” comments Hannah Ma, the former Editor-in-chief of The Current. She hopes to continue her path of journalism, but will also be studying Business Management at Portland Community College soon.

Other students have programs like AVID and ASCEND to thank for their success and skills. “The ASCEND CTE program helped me get in-depth learning in Computer Science and challenge myself through rigorous coursework,” says future forensic scientist Zainab Fatima.

Bryan Osmon adds, “AVID's emphasis on critical thinking and organization enhanced my ability to navigate online learning and take ownership of my studies.” Now, he’s seeking a degree in computer engineering at Portland State University.

Additionally, seniors advise the younger generation of students to value their Senior Capstone projects, teachers, and classes that build the foundation for future endeavors.

“First, be kind to yourself,” Danielle Mannion advises. “Try your best, but don't beat yourself up if you don't quite do as well as you'd like.” Though she’s not quite sure where she’ll end up ten years from now, she knows she’ll be doing what she thinks is right, surrounded by her friends and family.

Furthermore, ORCA seniors encourage younger grades to ask for help and take advantage of the resources provided to them like peer tutoring, teacher guidance, and note guides. “There's no shame in needing some extra guidance,” Nora Fox encourages. Applying their learnings to the future, they hope to live life to the fullest and spend time adventuring. 

Other seniors place importance on their freshman and sophomore years of high school. “Work hard as a freshman and a sophomore; you'll want more free time as a senior and a junior,” Grace Peterson advises. “You won't actually have free time, but that time will go for a job, clubs, or other activities, so do as much as you can as a freshman or sophomore.”

Though the class of 2024 is looking toward the future, getting ready for college, apprenticeships, and their future careers, they’re still taking the time to remember the fond memories of their past at ORCA and helping those nearing the end of high school.

Former Student Government Vice President Ahnalya De Leeuw thinks back to all the fun she had in high school: “Being passed the mic to sing Journey at prom, dressing up every day during spirit week, talking to astronauts through NASA club, making each other laugh in Pens & Prose, and Dr. Rollot bringing us beignet at high school hangouts are all lifelong memories.” 

In addition to spending her time majoring in Rhetoric Science at Lewis & Clark College, De Leeuw hopes to travel, continue painting murals, present at local open mics, and continue her journey in government, this time in her local community.

Hania M., a recipient of the QuestBridge scholarship, reminisces farther back to her eighth-grade GT Lit class. “That group of nerdy kids who obsessed over our next read has been something I constantly think back to, because I feel like I learned a lot about myself once I found my little nook in ORCA.” She adds that they still keep in touch and are all amazing friends.

Many ORCA seniors made their literature class an honorable mention, discussing Denny’s and more fun. One senior comments that their favorite memory was “eating Bilbo with my literature class and all our other inside jokes and deep discussions.”

Change may be inevitable, and the class of 2024’s experience will surely be different than the class of 2028 or 2031, but ORCA seniors have learned this change through their experience. Addressing past generations and the differences from back in the day, students share what they’d tell adults about Gen Z. 

“Our world is very different than it was when you were a kid. Change is hard, but important. Be flexible, ask questions, and be open-minded to new things,” says Elijah L., the captain of ORCA’s League of Legends Esports team and soon-to-be a Linn Benton college roadrunner.

Some students point out the differences technology has brought, specifically in relation to our school. “Well, for one, I'm graduating from an online school which I feel like wasn't that normal for our parents or grandparents,” says Emily Graham, a future psychology major at Chemeketa Community College, and dedicated babysitter.

“We're not just floating through life. We're taking the initiative and we're going to fight for our place here,” Felix Bullock states. Bullock believes that online school has a lot of similarities to how college functions, both in how students attend classes and in how they’re forced to be self-reliant on time management and structure.

The 2023-2024 school year was an eventful one for ORCA seniors, from Western Winter to Spirit Week and Prom. Looking back, here are some things students want to share about their final year of high school. 

Desirae Hastings, an aspiring cosmetology student, states, “There [are] so many things. Right now I am thinking probably the northern lights.” Hastings hopes to open her own salon or at least work with good clientele in ten years.

“I will be telling future generations how grateful I am for having had the opportunity to be part of the ORCA community,” says Desirée King, an aspiring veterinary assistant.

Many ORCA seniors thanked their teachers for making their high school experience so valuable.

“I will be telling future generations about the important lessons I learned in Mr. Keene's Language Arts classes," a student comments.

“Special shout-out to: Beth Washak, Devon Johnson, Mark James, Amy Lee, Kelsey Stone, Erica Hand, [and] Susanne Eide,” Mannion adds. “You're the best!”

“I always got help back from every educator, and I am forever grateful for that,” says Aubrey Chaides, who sees themselves happy in ten years' time.

“No matter how small you might think of yourself in the world, you always have a place in the classroom,” shares Zahraa Taha, an aspiring professor. “You are important, always.”

“This wasn't High School Musical, and it wasn't easy, but my goodness it was worth it!” Peterson concludes.

A long time ago, in a galaxy far, far away…

ORCA brought high schoolers an out-of-this-world prom on May 4. With a space theme to commemorate Star Wars Day, the ORCA facility was transformed into a galaxy of neon, disco, and lightsabers. 

Everyone showed up in their best attire for the occasion, some dressed in formal gowns and tuxedos, with others boasting Star Wars-themed costumes. 

Students were greeted with black-gold stars and balloons hanging overhead as they walked up to the second floor, where the party venue was held. Walking into the prom room was like stepping into a Star Wars galaxy – fairy lights lined the ceilings, drapes of clouds and stars decorated the walls, and even stand-up props of stormtroopers and Baby Yodas were present. 

As prom went on, the dance floor filled up, and conversations grew louder as students made fast friends, joined dance circles, and crowded the photo booth, which showcased space-themed backdrops and props. 

The snack table also offered a colorful display of cookies, popcorn, chips, crackers, and fruit snacks, which many attendees enjoyed while hanging out around the tables. The macarons were a particularly delectable hit. 

The DJ and professional party producer, Party Dr, turned one of the rooms into a galactic dance floor, illuminated by freedom lights and neon lightsabers. The Star Wars atmosphere was brought to life with a soundtrack of the iconic movie theme songs and a mix of classic party hits. 

The Party Dr brought a spirit of zest and energy to prom, initiating dance circles, limbo lines, and hula hoop activities that made the festivities all the more lively. 

“As a producer of events, this is one that I must say [is] the top of the top for proms,” said the Party Dr. “You know why? Because everyone allowed themselves to be themselves.” He shared his excitement about how everyone had a good time, adding that putting together these events is his job and passion.  

This year’s prom was notably one of the most lively events yet. 

Students gathered around dance circles singing along to “Don’t Stop Believing” and “Bohemian Rhapsody” while showing off their disco moves in a vivacious dance battle. An epic rickroll, courtesy of Student Government’s senior prank, even had many singing and dancing along. 

Among the vigorous dance-offs and party songs, students were to enjoy a slow dance to “Perfect,” later ending the night off with a final song of “Party in the USA.” 

ORCA senior Cara S. shared that her favorite part of the event was meeting new people and having fun conversations. “And no judgment for bad dancing,” she added jokingly. 

While socializing in the other room, many students and chaperones spent their time playing board games and buzzing with animated conversations, including debates over the best Star Wars movie. 

Revenge of the Sith and The Empire Strikes Back were among the most popular contenders for Star Wars fans. 

Prom attendee Felix Bullock mentioned that A New Hope was his favorite. “I think it’s nice to see the beginning of where it all started, but at the same time, knowing that it was supposed to be a standalone and that there were so many things that changed in the process in the second movie... It’s very obvious that the creative process was in flux and that was very cool.” 

Meanwhile, Ahnalya De Leeuw, the Student Government Co-VP, shared her thoughts on Rogue One: “I love a good sad movie, but at the same time it has a lot of action and it’s got a lot of the heart of the universe, but still a very interesting standalone.”

Prom’s social aspect was certainly a highlight for many, as students and chaperones alike shared that meeting each other in person was one of their favorite parts of the event. 

“The best part of prom was getting to see the decorations all up and everyone having a great time,” commented Leesy Lindsay, the Student Government Activities Director. This was her first year being in charge of prom planning. 

De Leeuw mentioned that she had a great time planning prom with the Student Government team – and that they only went “two hours over schedule” while decorating, she added with a laugh. 

The three-hour party was a blast, leaving all attendees and chaperones abuzz with energy and filled with new memories. Many seniors mentioned that prom made their last year even more special, feeling like the rebellion after the battle on Endor. 

“I’m a little bit in denial about the fact that it’s my senior prom,” De Leeuw said. “But looking back, this will always be the one I remember... It’s a wonderful night and so beautiful.” 

As the night came to a close, Student Government’s Nova Hughes gave a closing speech, thanking attendees and chaperones for coming while congratulating the Dance Committee and the Party Dr for their hard work planning a successful prom. This year was ORCA’s biggest prom yet. 

For some attendees and first-time prom-goers, the thought of attending such a large social gathering might seem daunting at first. But these events help us appreciate the sense of community and connections we can build at ORCA.

With this sentiment, Student Government advisor Calla Mapel recounted an anecdote about helping a nervous student who initially didn't know anyone at prom.

“As many of you can imagine, and have experienced, it's really scary to find yourself in a social situation in which you know absolutely no one,” Ms. Mapel said. “And double that if you're all dressed up in clothes you wouldn't ordinarily be wearing, feeling a little silly and exposed!”

“Within moments of walking in the door, another student complimented my student's dress, and I could see her visibly relax a little bit,” she continued. “Then, as I started to introduce her to a few members of our amazing Student Government and she was met with such warmth and kindness, I saw her relax more.”

Finally, cut to the end of the night, the student was cutting a rug on the dance floor, surrounded by many members of her school community and feeling joyful and comfortable enough to get into the prom spirit.

“We may not all know each other, but events like prom remind us that we are still all connected,” Ms. Mapel concluded. “We are all members of ORCA – one of the most unique, special, and generous communities that I have ever been privileged to be a part of.”

Student Government

During the week of May 13-24, high school students voted in their new Student Government president and vice president for the 2024-25 school year. The election results, along with the new Executive Board, were announced at Spring Celebration on May 31. 

A tentative list of the 2024-25 Executive Board is featured below: 

• President: Emily Pennington

• Vice-President: Grace Choi

• Secretary: Cassie Rogers

• Activities Director: Reagan Stanek

• Public Relations Officer: Senna A.

• Social Media Coordinator: Leesy Lindsay

• Senior Senator Representative: Avery Khoury

• Junior Senator Representative: Arabella Mullanix

• Newsletter Committee Leader: Lily Dixon

• Marketing Committee Leader: Steliana S.

• Events Committee Leader: Bali K.

For more details on the Student Government elections, check out this article. 

NHS & NJHS

Members of the National Honor Society and National Junior Honor Society voted for their next student leaders on June 5. 

Here is the 2024-25 leadership board: 

• NHS President: Reagan Stanek

• NHS Vice President: Grace Choi

• NJHS President: Wilder Adele Kersey

The NJHS Vice President will be confirmed soon.

HOSA

On April 30, HOSA selected their new student leaders for the 2024-25 school year. 

The 2024-2025 HOSA officers are featured below:

• President: Grace Choi

• Vice-President: Gracey Pennington

• Secretary: Riley Mullanix

To see the nominations and voting, please check out HOSA’s slideshow here. Check out this presentation for more information regarding the club and how to get involved.

Interested in joining HOSA? Be sure to fill out the student interest form. 

On the nights of May 10-11, Oregon saw a magnificent phenomenon in the sky: the northern lights. 

With recent high levels of solar activity, the aurora borealis was on full display for most northern regions in the country, and sky spectators from across the state came to see this rare cosmic phenomenon. 

The northern lights, or aurora borealis, are created when energized particles from the sun hit Earth’s upper atmosphere. As the planet’s magnetic field redirects the solar winds towards the poles, these charged particles collide with gasses in the upper atmosphere, creating tiny flashes that fill the sky with colorful dancing lights. 

These dazzling lights shows are also visible toward the south pole, known as aurora australis.

However, the aurora isn’t always clearly visible to the naked eye, especially in areas with high light pollution. It might take a camera – adjusted to the night mode setting – to see the pink and green hues in the sky. 

The cinematic northern lights are not often visible in Oregon but are common occurrences in regions closer to the north and south poles, showcasing some of the many marvels of the universe.

ORCA’s 2024 Spring Celebration marked the end of the school year with a day filled with sweet treats, public recognition of school achievements, and carnival-style fun. On May 31, students and families from across the state converged on the Linn County Fairgrounds for this annual extravaganza. 

A large and lively crowd lined up in front of the entrance of the fairgrounds, and at noon, the gates opened as students began to join in activities, including scavenger hunts and yard games, while also enjoying popcorn and snow cones.

Along with the carnival games, many students also received their yearbooks, and there was soon a frenzy of blurb-writing and signature-signing. 

“It was so much fun and I really enjoyed seeing my friends,” says freshman student Faith Y. “I even got my yearbook and had all of my friends sign it!”

The book giveaway also displayed literature for all reading levels that students can take home. Shakespeare's plays, picture books, and classics like The Outsiders were all among the selection. 

At the Student Government table, students entered a raffle to win one of three Baby Yoda plushies. The booth also gave away promotional fliers for various ORCA clubs and programs. 

It wasn’t all just about fun. Attendees learned about First Aid and CPR from some of our medical science instructors and the importance of postsecondary planning with Enroll Enlist Employ. 

The AVID booth celebrated the culture of college with a display of various college flags and maps, while the ASCEND table had brochures and fliers for those interested in learning more about the Career and Technical Education programs. FFA was also present to promote their organization.

Attendees also took time to recognize the hard work of some of ORCA’s students at the induction ceremony of the National Honor Society, the National Junior Honor Society, and ORCA’s newest honor society, the National Technical Honor Society. 

This year’s NHS ceremony had a theme of Narnia and featured a coronation to honor the new inductees. ORCA teacher Casey Comstock was a staff speaker, and students from NJHS and NHS each discussed our values of scholarship, leadership, service, and character. Students were also able to decorate foam crowns at the NHS booth after the ceremony.

“It was an honor to speak to the value of leadership alongside my fellow NHS and NJHS members,” shares ORCA senior Ahnalya De Leeuw. “Scholarship, service, and character are incredible attributes, and as a graduating senior, I'm so excited to meet our new inductees and legacy at ORCA, alongside welcoming our newly elected officers board!”

NHS and NJHS also conducted a successful food drive, where students and families were able to contribute canned foods to donate to food banks across the state. 

ORCA’s Community Resource team presented their Clothing Closet, which allowed families to find new homes for gently used clothing items that have been generously donated at events throughout the year. 

Younger students enjoyed bringing some color into their lives at the face painting booth and preparing for their automotive future on Oregon’s highways and byways with spirited games of Red Light/Green Light. The Dora-themed bounce house was another popular attraction. 

“It was so much fun. I had a great time seeing my friends and teachers,” comments attendee Audrey Peterson. “I was running around so much that I spilled my snow cone all over me, which was good because it was so hot out.” 

“Spring Celebration was a very fun and memorable event,” added eighth grader Maya M. “My favorite part of it was getting to meet and talk to my friends who live hours away.” 

The lively event came to a close at 3 p.m., and many students and families left with new friends and cherished memories to celebrate the school year.

On May 17, students met in ORCA teacher Kelsey Stone’s Zoom room for the 2024-25 Battle of the Books, along with a Scattergories competition. 

Individually, Ahnalya De Leeuw took first place, Kailey C. took second place, and Danielle Mannion took third place. The champion team was Team 1 with De Leeuw and Mannion.

Many students participated in individual Scattergories battles as well, winning their places on the scoreboard and titles. The leadership board is featured below:

1. Supreme Scrambler: Aiyla N. (44 points/6 rounds)

2. Category Connoisseur: Ahnalya D. (41 points/6 rounds)

3. Word Wizard: Sophia B. (23 points/2 rounds)

4. Scattergories Savant: Ms. Stone (21 points/2 rounds)

Ms. Stone will award the winners trophies for both categories, which students can pick up at Spring Celebration. For those unable to attend, arrangements can be made to receive the trophies by mail. 

“I absolutely loved the book selections this year, especially We Can Be Heroes,” says ORCA senior Ahnalya De Leeuw. “This was my fourth year participating, and it was magical to finish off my senior year this way. If you love to read, play Kahoot and word games, and work both independently and as a team, I highly recommend checking out Book Battle next year!”

Both a French and Spanish teacher at ORCA, Lisa Rollot has deep roots in language immersion. Studying world languages has been a guiding passion in her life that she says has helped shape her experiences.

Coming from a Cajun background, her mom’s first language was French, and she was treated poorly at her American school because she couldn’t speak English well. “She told me how she came home from her first day of first grade and cried because she had a list of words to learn in English,” Rollot explains. “She had no idea what anything meant.” Because of this, her mom didn’t want Dr. Rollot and her sister to learn French and possibly endure the same treatment. 

Still, they went back to Louisiana in the summers and watched as their mom spoke French to family members. “My sister and I felt left out and frustrated because we could not speak with many members of our family who only spoke French. We both decided that we would learn French in school, which is what we did.”

Now Dr. Rollot’s husband is French, from Dijon in the region of Burgundy, and her children proudly hold dual citizenship between the United States and France. “We have raised our three children to be bilingual and bicultural by living in the US and France during their youth.” 

After living in Paris for five years, her family moved to Oregon, and her kids are enjoying their teachers, whom they say are better than the teachers in France. Every other year, they return to France to visit family and friends, and this year they’ll be going for a specific event. “This summer we are looking forward to attending the Olympic Games in Paris.”

After discovering a love of languages, she started learning Spanish through friends in Arizona, where she grew up, and eventually grew fluent in that tongue as well.

Dr. Rollot believes in connecting with other language speakers and learning the heritage and culture behind any language you want to study. “No AI companion can teach you these things,” she adds. “You have to have real world experience to be able to understand and communicate with people.” 

Because learning a world language is so much more than vocabulary and grammar, she urges students to immerse themself in the culture so they can formulate their thoughts in a way that will encourage a connection between themselves and a native speaker.

“My wish is that all of my students have the opportunity to expand their world by learning a second language.”

In March, students taking French I and II had the chance to partake in ORCA's French Contest. For the first time, Spanish I and II students were also able to join ORCA’s Spanish contest for second-language learners and heritage speakers. 

ORCA teacher Lisa Rollot curated the tests based on the National French and Spanish Contests, which are taken by over a million students each year in levels 1-5 of language study. The tests assessed students’ abilities in reading, listening, grammar, vocabulary, and general cultural knowledge.

The tests were free for students and offered flexibility in time to take them. Students received extra credit for participating, and the top three participants in each level were awarded a medal for their accomplishments, along with bragging rights until next year. 

Psalma Cortés-Martínez, first-place winner of the Spanish Contest for heritage speakers, shared that she had a fun experience with other students speaking the language fluently and at advanced levels. “Participating in the contest definitely showed me how many people know and love the Spanish language,” she said, adding some words of congratulations to the contestants, “Todos ustedes hicieron un trabajo increíble. ¡Felicidades y sigan usando español para siempre! Y que tengan un buen día todos.”

“As a student, I always participated in contests,” says Dr. Rollot. “They were fun and motivated me to work harder to do better the following year.”

Her goal in creating the ORCA world language contests is to validate her students who are working hard to develop their language skills, she explains. “I am very pleased by the success of my students on these proficiency tests which proves that they are competitive with their peers internationally. I intend to continue the contests in the future.”

If you're eligible, be on the lookout for the French and Spanish contests next year.

"So make the friendship bracelets. Take the moment and taste it... You've got no reason to be afraid"

On May 22, Student Government President Grace Peterson hosted the last Presidential Workshop of the school year, aiming to highlight the theme of community.

As the meeting commenced, attendees were greeted by Peterson and other officials on the Executive Board.

“What is your opinion, or view, or perspective on what [community] is?” Peterson asked, addressing all of the attendees. 

Students answered thoughtfully about their own community and how it impacts their lives.

“Community can be a large group, or small!” an attendee said. “Just a group of two or more people that share a common interest.”

“It's a congregation of people who all serve to lift each up and benefit everyone,” another student added.

Afterwards, Peterson proceeded to the activities section, where she asked the attendees to experience what community is like by finding three things they all have in common. Students were given three minutes to talk amongst themselves in the main room, where they shared their similarities in disliking grapefruit, loving dogs, and highlighting the lovable traits of their President.

When the three minutes came to a close, Peterson steered the students’ focus back to the presentation and what lay ahead.

Attendees later joined with other activities, community-bonding discussions, tips and tricks on forming effective connections, and a Q&A session. Throughout the presentation, Peterson stressed the importance of acknowledging that individuals can foster communities in several different ways and that “you don’t have to be in a leadership position to do it.”

“Everyone is a leader in their own way, and everyone has the opportunity to set up a community,” Peterson said. “It's not just when [or] whether you have a title or position to go with it. It's really about what you want to do with it.”

When the meeting wrapped up, many attendees applauded Peterson’s workshops and expressed their gratitude towards the extraordinary support from this year’s Student Government Executive Board.

“This workshop was amazing and [it] definitely helped give me some ideas on how to build my own little community,” one patron commented.

For more information regarding Student Government, please visit their website.

Students from across the state came together on May 17 in Wilsonville for the monthly hangouts, the last ones of the 2023-24 school year. The Elementary and MS Hangouts took place from 10 a.m. to noon, and the HS Hangout happened during the usual afternoon time slot of 1-3 p.m.

Some people set out immediately to the ping-pong table, with participants of all skill levels giving it a try. “Apparently, I can ping-pong... kind of,” comments Abbi Dilley-Gumm, a first-time player. 

“We're not playing ping-pong,” jokes another Hangout participant. “We're playing chaotic!”

Other students went to play games such as Bubble Talk, where someone had a “10 vampire giraffe sidekicks” card, while others immersed themselves in Guess Who games, but with names with real people replacing the character cards. 

“It was emotional for me because it was my last High School Hangout before I graduate,” says ORCA senior Kenna S. “As always, I had lots of fun while I played games with a few of my friends. I am so thankful for the teachers who put on the event each month.”

The high school students weren’t the only ones having a unique hangout experience. The elementary school students enjoyed a delightfully messy science experiment with ORCA teacher J.R. Pollnow that involved cola bottles. 

Students left the ORCA Hangouts with plenty of fun memories to end the school year. Be sure to keep an eye out for monthly events starting up again in the fall.

Over the summer, the Portland Workforce Alliance is hosting two career mentoring camps open to students entering grades 10-12 in the fall of 2024. These events take place in the morning, and stipends are available. The deadline for priority consideration is May 31, but applications are still open after then. 

Summer Career Academy (June 24-27)

The Summer Career Academy is a part of a paid four-day career mentorship program that connects students with women working in government, construction, healthcare, and human resources. Attendees will have the opportunity to develop job search skills and learn about the experiences needed to advance in the workforce. All high school students are welcome. However, the program is tailored for those who identify as female, gender expansive, or non-binary. 

These morning events will end at 12:30 p.m. and lunch and light snacks will be provided. Those who attend will receive a $200 stipend upon completion. 

Check out this link for more information and to apply.

Creative Careers Mentor Program (July 15-18) 

Through this four-day paid career mentorship, students can explore creative jobs in design, marketing, and business. Those who attend will get a behind-the-scenes glimpse of Portland creative agencies like Wieden+Kennedy and practice their skills through hands-on activities, all while being coached by professionals. 

Each morning event will end around 12:30 to 1 p.m. and include lunch and light snacks. TriMet passes for transportation assistance will be available for attendees, and at the end of the program, they will receive a $200 stipend. 

To learn more about this opportunity and apply, check out this link. 

Both of these PWA career mentoring camps provide wonderful opportunities for students to learn more about their chosen career paths, connect with field professionals, and get an idea of what it’s like to work in some highly desirable fields.

ORCA’s “Refer A Friend” program is back! From May 1 through October 4, families can refer new students to ORCA and receive a $25 Amazon gift card for every new student enrolled.

Additionally, for referring five new people, students can win an additional $100 Amazon gift card. And after referring 10 students, ORCA families earn a fifth-generation Apple iPad Pro.

Even if you’re not returning next year, you can still refer friends and claim prizes. It is up to the enrolling students to let ORCA know who referred them, so make sure your friends remember to put your name down. 

To read about eligibility, extended dates, and terms and conditions, you can check out this page. 

To show support for the school community and win prizes, students can invite their friends to the world of online schooling.

It’s time to cast your ballot for Student Government Executive Board elections!

On May 9, grades 8-12 are welcome to attend the presidential debate. All presidential and vice presidential candidates will present their campaign in a short speech and answer questions. Voting for the new President and Vice President will open from May 13-24.

“Student involvement is the heart and soul of Student Government and we need your vote!” says Reagan Stanek, the Student Government co-vice president. “We highly encourage high school students to drop in and listen to presidential and vice presidential candidate speeches. This is a great start to figure out who you want to vote for. The students elected will represent the student body and we want all of you to be a part of it!”

The winning candidates are the students who will be leading and representing the student body in the 2024-25 school year, and it’s critical to have your voice heard. Voting in the elections is a great opportunity to get involved and get to know the people who may be your Student Government President and Vice President. 

A few of the Student Government candidates are promoting their campaign. 

Emily Pennington, a current junior, is running for the presidential and vice presidential positions. “To me, leadership is helping to amplify the voices of others and making sure that changes are made based on what all students feel would be helpful,” she says. “I want to create new systems to ensure that everyone at ORCA gets a say, and an opinion in our events, programs, and field trip offerings!”

“Since middle school, both ORCA and Student Government have given me the opportunity to represent others and learn to speak for myself,” says Grace Choi, a candidate for Vice President. “As I approach junior year, I hope to give back to the ORCA community through more mental health promotion and volunteering opportunities!"

The inclusion of these quotes does not imply endorsement by The Current. A full list of the candidates will be announced next week during the elections.

After all the candidates’ speeches and a Q&A segment, the voting form will be sent out in the following days. Results will be announced right around Spring Celebration on May 31. 

Calla Mapel, the Student Government advisor, expresses her excitement for the upcoming elections. As she explains, the elected president has a unique opportunity to have an important impact and influence on the school, acting as a guide for the student community. The members of Student Government help facilitate growth through the creation of new events and programs, as well as the way they model leadership and connect with the student body. 

“I can't wait to see what amazing ideas and visions next year's executive board members will come up with,” she says. “I look forward to seeing them work hard to bring their plans to fruition and make our school community stronger.”

For more information regarding the candidates and their campaigns, stay tuned to the Student Government website.

Prepare for an epic end of the school year because Spring Celebration is coming to Albany on May 31. 

ORCA’s Spring Celebration is an annual school-wide event with games, crafts, and carnival fun. From noon to 3 p.m., all ORCA students will have the opportunity to socialize with their classmates and participate in ORCA-related activities to celebrate the end of another school year. Lawn games, crafting tables, snow cones, and a book fair are all popular parts of the event. 

Students who ordered the 2023-24 yearbook may be able to pick up their purchase at the event if supplies allow and participate in the annual end-of-the-year tradition: yearbook signing. 

ORCA families will also have the chance to give back to the community by donating to a food drive. 

Student Government and the National Honor Society (NHS) have been working hard to help plan this event for the whole school. NHS will host their annual induction ceremony on stage to introduce their new members to the program. Student Government is also announcing and celebrating their new 2024-24 high school Executive Board at the event. 

“Spring Celebration is one of my favorite events to attend!” shares Grace Peterson, the Student Government president. “You get to do a final farewell to the school year and see friends and teachers. It's a great way to celebrate and welcome the start of summer. You get to be outside, and soak up some sun, another added bonus for sure! It's a super fun event, and I can't wait to see everyone there!” 

Be sure to check out the Field Trip Central for more details and fill out the RSVP form if you would like to attend this event. Check out this article to see how last year’s Spring Celebration went.

Community and collaboration are taking center stage in this upcoming Presidential Workshop on May 22. 

From 2-3 p.m., Student Government President Grace Peterson will present her third virtual workshop, this time centered around building community and fostering a positive environment. With a Taylor Swift theme, the event will feature interactive activities for students to ask questions and gain hands-on learning. 

“Community is a very broad term that's always thrown around, especially in a school setting,” Peterson explains. “My workshop breaks down what the textbook definition is and what a personal definition can look like, and from there, you can find the best way to build one.” 

This workshop covers different ways to be a leader for your own community and inspire positive change. As Peterson explains, “A sustainable, positive community is a good one, but it's very unlikely you're just going to stumble into one by accident. It's like a garden, you have to put in a lot of effort before getting tomatoes.”

These workshops aim to promote student engagement and encourage connections within the school community. Students can also find resources after the event with additional information and support. 

Peterson has previously hosted two ORCA workshops, “Better Than Revenge” and “Speak Now,” which have helped students develop public speaking skills and communication. After the success of those events, she is excited to return with her newest workshop to support the ORCA community. 

“I'm really grateful for all the folks who have shown up to my previous two workshops,” she says. “Their energy and faith really impacts me and I can't thank them enough. ‘You're Not On Your Own, Kid’ will be the last workshop I present for ORCA, and I'm really glad of the community we've built with these.”

The virtual event is open to grades 6-12, and the Zoom link can be found on Field Trip Central. For any questions on the event, please don’t hesitate to contact Student Government or President Grace Peterson. 

Do you know how to walk on your hands? Are you a professional pianist? Can you make Minute Rice in 58 seconds?

If you can do any of those things or something else weird, wacky, or unbelievable that you want your classmates to see, look no further. ORCA’s very own National Honor Society has announced its second annual talent show, where students of all ages can showcase and even flaunt their unique talents for the whole school to see.

The NHS Talent Show is not just about entertainment; it's a celebration of our school's diverse and vibrant community. This event provides a platform where students can express themselves, share their passions, and inspire one another, a testament to the creativity, dedication, and hard work of ORCA students.

“The Talent Show is an amazing opportunity to show your talents, no matter [how] big or small,” says NHS President Kenna S. 

The Talent Show will take place virtually on May 24 from 12 - 1 p.m. Entries will be accepted through video recordings. Make sure to have adult supervision during the filming. All submissions must be under three minutes.

For more information regarding the NHS/NJHS Talent Show, please check out this flyer and RSVP at Field Trip Central to attend. Here is the link to the terms and conditions, and for any questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to reach out via the NHS contact form. 

The annual Oregon HOSA State Leadership Conference (SLC) took place from April 1-3 at the Hyatt Regency Hotel in Portland. Oregon Charter Academy’s HOSA is just one chapter of an international organization with over 4,500 branches, and it is a student-led association of future health professionals. 

With seven competitors participating in ten rigorous competitions, the chapter showcased exemplary dedication and talent. The conference was filled with exciting activities, networking, and keynote speakers. Students attended workshop sessions on aerospace medicine, healthcare in America, and medical training programs. There were also exhibitors from the Oregon Air National Guard, American Red Cross, National Psoriasis Foundation, and other organizations. Overall, SLC offered a multitude of opportunities for students to immerse themselves in the world of healthcare.

Out of the seven participants, five students remarkably qualified for the International Leadership Conference (ILC) that will be held in Houston, Texas from June 26-29. What's even more commendable is that these five students clinched top positions in the competitions they participated in against hundreds of other students across the state. 

Among the standout performers were Cara S. and Grace C., who secured third and first place, respectively, in Human Growth & Development. Gracey P. showcased her expertise by placing first in Dental Science and fourth in Dental Terminology. Genevieve B.M. impressively earned second place in Dental Terminology, and Alexis R. excelled in Personal Care, with first place in the competition.

In addition to their outstanding achievements, Grace C. will be honored at the ILC for her contribution of over 50 hours of volunteer work for the American Red Cross this year. Both Grace and Cara’s stellar grades also earned them spots on the prestigious National Health Science Honor Roll.

ORCA HOSA’s President Cara S. applauded the HOSA members, adding that they represented ORCA very well while “making a big name for ourselves in an overwhelmingly successful competition.” 

The achievements of these students are a testament to their dedication and hard work as they gear up to compete in the International Leadership Conference. ORCA's HOSA chapter continues to foster the next generation of healthcare professionals with numerous opportunities for real-world experiences and leadership activities. 

HOSA advisors Amy Lee and Elizabeth Washak are proud of the hard work and commitment each of these students demonstrated to obtain these recognitions. 

“I cannot express how proud I am of each individual student that participated and/or competed this year,” Ms. Lee shared. “Their hard work and dedication truly paid off. I hope they pause to soak up this huge accomplishment and give themself a well-deserved pat on the back.”

To learn more about HOSA and the opportunities available to ORCA students, join ORCA’s HOSA Hype on May 21 at 2 p.m. 

ORCA fifth graders got their hands dirty Friday morning. On April 26, close to fifty students convened in Oregon City for the annual Outdoor School, ready to immerse themselves in the majesty of nature, and the looming rain was kind enough to stay mostly at bay. 

“We are fortunate to have a fantastic venue with Hopkins Demonstration Forest allowing us to host on their site,” said Todd Shaffer, ORCA’s Elementary School Principal. “The location and event truly allow our students to experience the ‘Oregon Outdoors’ as well as come together as a fifth-grade class.”

As Mr. Shaffer explained, this year, the event incorporated teachers from all levels and had student volunteers assist for the first time. Middle school and high school students were encouraged to sign up to be mentors and guides as well, growing the role of community in this event. 

“Watching our older students guide our younger students was so much fun and truly speaks to the community feel we want here at ORCA,” he added. 

Ahnalya De Leeuw was a high school senior who helped serve as a guide. “I loved seeing the fifth graders get excited about guessing and sketching the animals and moving across the forest and through activities,” she said. 

After separating into groups, students joined different stations, including first aid, animals, survival, nature art, plants, and preservation. 

Students were able to practice CPR with a mannequin at the First Aid station. They also learned about the many uses of a bandana, including ways to use it as a bandage if you sustain injuries. 

The survival station taught necessary outdoor safety skills. It covered the basics of being in the woods and what to do in an emergency, focusing on nature treatment, and even included a guide to using compasses. Students learned essential skills for real-life situations, like what to do when lost.

The animal station was another popular area where students learned about animal classification and identified different animal tracks. This station taught the fifth graders about this region's interconnected ecosystems. 

“It was really great to get to see my friends and the animal identification was really fun!” said Norah R., an attending student. 

Similar to the animal station, the plant station taught all about plant identification and their importance in the ecosystem. 

Casey Comstock, one of the teachers at the event, laughed about a fond memory. “During the plant identification station, one of the 5th graders found a slug on her plant sample. I picked it up, tossed it into the bushes, and then pretended to lick my hand. The 5th graders were thoroughly grossed out.” Ms. Comstock also coordinated the crew of older students who showed up to volunteer. 

With a tight connection to elementary science, the preservation station also tied in well with Earth Day, which was recently on April 22. Teacher Kris Brown led a discussion about the value of preserving natural land, with a focus on wildlife refuges and conservation. 

The nature art station was a quiet, relaxed area where students were able to draw or write about the natural world. They were able to take a pause and rest, all while enjoying the nature all around them. 

“We heard big calls during our art and writing activity and avoided most of the rain while still hearing it sweep across the park,” De Leeuw said. 

Every moment of the event was packed full of fun activities, important lessons, and fond memories for everyone included. 

“It may have been rainy, but we hardly noticed because we were having so much fun!” said Elizabeth Malain, another teacher attending the event. “Watching my students meet in person and become such good friends throughout the day was a highlight for me.” 

“Outdoor School was so fun,” Executive Director Alison Galvin added. “I just love it.” 

Mr. Shaffer concludes, “It is our sincere hope that we can continue to receive support from teachers across the board at ORCA as well as involve our student volunteers as they, along with our fifth-grade team and location, made for a special day and special event that was enjoyed by many.”

After arriving at ORCA’s Wilsonville office, the message “follow the flowers” hung overhead as students entered the Swing into Spring Social that took place on April 26.  The middle school Swing into Spring Social had been carefully put together by the K-8 Student Government. Activities included a photo booth, a vivacious playlist, and an intense game of table tennis, all while being fun and accessible to many middle school students. 

The gathering began to gear up as the partygoers started to mingle. Teachers and students alike shared jokes and conversations, and the hangout went full blast when a group of people found their way to the dance floor and flaunted their moves. In the other room, several heavily competitive ping-pong matches had commenced, causing peers to stop and stare as the athletes’ priority of just having fun quickly melted into win-or-face-humiliation.

Still, others found a unique way to party, with several large groups sitting around tables, laser-focused on the tabletop board games laid out in front of them. Student Government members ran from room to room, encouraging others to join the dance party, where, of course, the classic tradition of the YMCA conga line was being practiced.

In the corner of the dance room, as students rested from dancing, the snack table was subjected to many raids. Unfortunately, the fruit snack packages were impossible to open, so many students resorted to using the pen that this reporter from The Current had brought to break open the stubborn bags. 

"It was truly heartening to see our regular hangout attendees and some new faces in crowd," shared Tianna Sigloh, the MS Student Government advisor. "Thanks to the collaborative efforts of our dedicated student government members, the event was a resounding success. This inaugural social was a fantastic experience for everyone involved, I hope that this is the first of many." 

After surveying those attending the event, Student Government scored an average of two for the social, one being the best and 10 being the worst. Full of fun, dancing, and an unexpected rickroll, the Swing into Swing MS Social was definitely one of the highlights of the ORCA school year.

Candidates, are you ready?

On April 15, Student Government opened their applications for the upcoming 2024-25 Executive Board. An open Student Government meeting was held on April 18 for students to bring their questions about the elections.

As students trickled into the Zoom room, Grace Peterson, the Student Government’s President, kicked off the meeting with a few Would You Rather questions to rev up participation before starting the presentation. Once it commenced, Peterson walked through the main points, including the Executive Board positions, the upcoming elections, and Student Government’s Instagram and website, which was then followed by a Q&A session at the end. 

As the Executive Board introduced each position, many participants asked questions about what duties were involved. 

One attendee asked, “What roles do you feel have a larger workload, and which roles have a smaller workload?” 

Student Government officials briefly described what a typical week in their role looks like, highlighting the importance of all these positions working together to operate Student Government effectively. Other commonly asked questions included how long candidate speeches had to be and the requirements for leadership experience in Student Government. 

Afterward, Peterson spotlighted the Student Government Instagram (@orcastudentgov) and website. With visual highlights of their latest posts, attendees got a glimpse of their marketing process and how they use it to connect with the school community. 

“Hearing each of my [Student Government] friends recap our projects and roles was an empowering reflection on how far we've come and all the opportunities available to those running [in the] election this year,” said Ahnayla De Leeuw, Student Government’s co-Vice-President.

Before the presentation ended, students got a behind-the-scenes look at how a typical Student Government meeting is run and learned about the process of planning school-wide events and activities.