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To: Superintendents, Principals, Education Partners & Leaders, Charter School Leaders, K-12 Public Information Officers
From: Dr. Charlene Williams, Director of the Oregon Department of Education
Date: November 20, 2024
Re: Recommitting Ourselves to the Promise of Public Education
Dear Oregon Education Partners and Leaders,
We find ourselves in an evolving socio-political landscape that brings both challenges and opportunities to lead with an unwavering commitment to shared values. Across our state, families, educators, and communities are looking to us for steadfast leadership around equity, belonging, and a belief in every scholar.
I know that there is uncertainty about what may come with regard to education changes at the federal level. While we do not yet know the full extent of what those might be, we are closely monitoring information related to Federal Title programs and correlating funding. We do know that education is primarily a state responsibility and we will partner with you to work through any shifts if or when they come. As state leaders and partners, we pledge to support you and to deepen our commitment to meeting the strengths and needs of every child, every family and every community we serve.
Oregon has already made significant investments in its schools, grounded in this shared commitment, and these represent more than just financial resources; they reflect the hopes and expectations of Oregonians who trust us to prioritize the well-being, learning, and success of their children.
We understand the weight of this responsibility and the complexities of the work ahead.
The Oregon Department of Education will continue to monitor developments at the national level, actively collecting information, and working to provide you with the resources, guidance, and advocacy needed to help you meet the moment, continue to address inequities, and foster the success and inclusion of all learners.
Upcoming Support Opportunities
To provide opportunities for direct support and collaboration, we will hold office hours as pertinent information becomes available that impacts schools and districts. These sessions will serve as a space to hear and address your questions, share resources, and co-create solutions tailored to district needs. More information will be coming soon.
Key Resources
Below you will find actionable tools and resources to navigate these times:
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Belonging and Wellness: Resources connected to the Every Student Belongs rule are vital in fostering inclusive environments that support every student’s well-being and learning journey.
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Policy Implications and Leadership Guidance: Articles such as Abolishing the U.S. Department of Education: What Do We Know and Not Know provide critical insights into how we can uphold our values while adapting to external pressures.
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Attendance and Learning: Attendance is foundational to student success. We encourage districts to explore strategies and resources aligned with the statewide attendance improvement effort, as it directly supports engagement and learning outcomes.
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The Rights of All Children: Under federal and state law, all children in the United States are entitled to equal access to a basic public elementary and secondary education regardless of their actual or perceived race, color, national origin, citizenship, immigration status, or the status of their parents/guardians. More information can be found in this Fact Sheet from the federal government and this Guidance from the Oregon Department of Education.
A Shared Path Forward
This is a moment to recommit ourselves to the promise of public education in Oregon: that every student will be seen, valued, and supported to achieve their fullest potential. This is not just our professional duty—it is a moral obligation we share with every community in our state.
In nature, when threatened, gazelles will sometimes form a circle to protect their young, positioning them at the center. The adults face outward, standing together, using their collective strength to defend the herd’s most vulnerable members. In our own way, we too form a circle: around our purpose, standing together to protect the hopes and dreams of every Oregon learner.
Thank you for your dedication, leadership, and partnership. It is through our collective efforts that we will ensure a bright future for all.
In partnership,
Dr. Charlene Williams and the Oregon Department of Education
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