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Oregon Achieves... Together!
A Message from the Director of the Oregon Department of Education, Dr. Charlene Williams
Dear Education Community,
February is Black History Month
This month offers us a valuable opportunity to celebrate and deepen our understanding of the rich contributions of Black Americans throughout our history. And while the legacies of Black individuals should be integrated into each month, I encourage each of you to take part in activities and events celebrating Black History to honor the achievements and legacies of Black leaders, artists, educators, and community members.
Celebrate Career and Technical Education
This month is also Career and Technical Education (CTE) Month. It’s an opportunity to elevate and celebrate the accomplishments of Oregon’s CTE Programs.
- Students completing two credits in an approved CTE Program of Study significantly exceeded the statewide average, graduating at a rate of 97.7 percent.
- CTE Program numbers around Oregon are growing. In 2022-23, Oregon schools hosted a total of 1,029 CTE Programs of Study. The number now stands at 1,114. Here’s a quick snapshot of recent growth:
- 2022-2023: 1,029
- 2023-2024: 1,074 (+45)
- 2024-2025: 1,114 (+40)
- CTE helps learners make meaning and connect their education journey with future aspirations. While it is well known that CTE Concentrators (2 or more credits in an approved CTE Program of Study) graduate at a rate significantly higher than that of all students, learners who take even a single CTE course experience higher graduation rates. CTE helps learners succeed by tapping into passion and opportunity.
Learn more about CTE in Oregon HERE.
Leading in Times of Change & Uncertainty
The past few weeks have been a roller coaster—full of challenges, moments of uncertainty, and the constant balancing act of navigating different perspectives. In times like these, I find wisdom in the words of Elena Aguilar, who reminds us that “Resilient leaders cultivate the ability to sit with discomfort, listen deeply, and move forward with courage.” This work asks a lot of us—not just in skill, but in heart.
We are often called to lead in spaces where people see the same situation through vastly different lenses. It can be exhausting, but it is also the work of bridge-building, of staying grounded in our values while holding space for complexity. In moments of tension, clear communication, deep listening, and a commitment to understanding are the tools that keep us moving forward together.
I want to acknowledge the energy, patience, and care you’ve poured into this year so far. It hasn’t been easy, but it matters. Your ability to show up for each other, to keep asking thoughtful questions, and to remain focused on the bigger picture- high quality learning for each and every scholar - is what makes this state and its communities strong.
Let’s take a deep breath and find moments to recharge. In the wise words of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., "I have decided to stick with love...hate is too great a burden to bear."
Thank you for all you do.
In Love and Justice,
Dr. W
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 As we celebrate Black History Month, we have a valuable opportunity to deepen our students' understanding of the rich contributions, achievements, and ongoing legacy of Black Americans throughout our nation's history. This month offers a special chance to highlight often-overlooked narratives, celebrate Black excellence across all fields, and engage students in meaningful discussions about equity, justice, and representation.
We encourage educators to go beyond traditional approaches by incorporating Black history and achievements into their regular curriculum throughout the year. Consider exploring local Black history, featuring contemporary Black leaders and innovators, and connecting historical events to current social movements
Many teachers and schools honor the accomplishments of Black pioneers and key historical figures during Black History Month. Attend an event celebrating Black History around the state and check out the resources for use throughout the year.
Check out the resources for Black History month...
Each February we celebrate Career and Technical Education (CTE) and the benefits that students realize through participation in programs that help them develop technical skills, employability skills and self-awareness about their employment career options. Early career exploration provides valuable insights into individual interests and aptitudes, enabling students to align their passions with an appropriate CTE program. Now is also a great time to energize students to consider participating in a CTE program of study during forecasting.
Did you know that for the Class of 2024, learners who took two or more credits in a CTE Program of Study graduated at a rate of 97.7%? That's 15.9 percentage points higher than the statewide average! Considering that CTE learners complete high school with direct knowledge of their interests, aptitudes and career options, CTE is a clear choice for Oregon learners.
More about promoting CTE Month...
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 We are pleased to share two key updates on Oregon’s 2024 State Summer Learning Grant programs funded through House Bill 4082 (2024).
These reports, companions to the HB 4082 Final Study, reinforce our commitment to sustainable funding for afterschool and summer learning. They highlight program impact while advancing efforts to secure ongoing investment and strengthen community partnerships for equitable, high-quality expanded learning statewide.
Thank you for your leadership in ensuring students have access to these critical opportunities. Please reach out to the ODE Summer Learning Team with any questions.
The Elevating Voices in Education (EVE) Workforce Survey is now open.
What You Need to Know
All Public Education Providers* are required to provide staff with an opportunity to participate in the EVE Workforce Survey.
The EVE Workforce Survey is an anonymous and confidential survey designed to gather insights from the public education workforce about their workplace experiences in order to supply actionable information to the state and districts.
The law requires licensed, classified, and contracted staff members to be informed of and provided an opportunity to complete the EVE Survey, but staff participation in the EVE Survey is voluntary.
The survey will be open from February 4 - March 21, 2025.
More information on the survey...
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 Be sure to check out our X page and follow us to stay up-to-date on everything that's happening in education in Oregon!
Online Report Card Released
Last month, Governor Tina Kotek and ODE announced the launch of the Online Report Card that makes crucial K-12 public education data more accessible for students, families and community members.
“In the past, despite the availability of the data, the public couldn’t easily access and understand how their schools were doing. That changes today,” said Governor Kotek. “I believe Oregon’s future depends on the success of its students. The online report card shows that we’re focused on outcomes and transparency.”
More about the Online Report Card...
The Power of Physical Education: Boosting Students’ Minds, Bodies, and Spirits
Physical education (PE) is more than just a break from the classroom; it’s a cornerstone of student success. Regular physical activity has profound benefits for students academically, physically, and emotionally.
On the academic front, studies show that physical activity enhances focus, memory, and problem-solving skills. A quick game of basketball or a brisk walk during PE can recharge students’ minds, helping them tackle their next lesson with greater clarity.
More about the power of PE...
ODE In the News
George Fox University profiled an alumnus and Regional Teacher of the Year Christa Rohrbach who teaches at Jefferson County Middle School in Madras.
OSBA News reported on the Summer Learning Report that ODE released the first week of February.
available to the public through ODE's Online Report Card.
Student Spotlight
KJDY Radio in John Day talked with students at Grant Union High School who serve as Lunch Buddies at an elementary school once per week.
The Oregonian sat down with 2025 Oregon Kid Governor Rosie Lanenga from Riverdale Grade School in Portland to talk about her platform focused on climate change.
The Salem Reporter featured Salem-Keizer students who run a custom woodshop after school to hone the skills they learn in their residential construction CTE program.
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