Dear Roseburg community,

As we approach Thanksgiving, I want to share my gratitude for the partnership that sustains our schools. Every day, families, educators and community members work together to help our students grow, and that shared commitment is one of Roseburg’s greatest strengths.

For our families, please know how much we value the trust you place in us. You are your children’s first and most important teachers. Their routines, confidence and curiosity all begin with what you nurture at home, and we are honored to join you in that work. Partnership can take many forms. Sometimes it is a quick exchange with a teacher about how a child is doing. It is working together to build consistent attendance habits. And it is a conversation with a counselor or principal about a child’s social or emotional needs, or looking together at what a child is excited to learn next. These everyday interactions help us understand your child more deeply and respond in ways that support their success.

To our staff, thank you for the heart, skill and patience you bring to our students each day. Your belief in their potential shows in the way you encourage them, challenge them and celebrate their progress.

And to our broader community, thank you for the many ways you show up for our students. Whether you partner with us on career pathways, support enrichment programs, volunteer your time or simply encourage the young people in your life, you help create the foundation that allows our students to thrive. 

I also want to offer reassurance at a time when conversations about education in Oregon can feel discouraging. Test scores matter, as they reflect traditional study skills and retention, but they are only one measure of success. We are implementing systems that will strengthen instruction and increase achievement as we also ensure that students are gaining skills that meet the demands of business and industry. Our goal is to prepare students for the real world, where curiosity, character, critical thinking skills and collaboration shape their futures.

Through our partnerships with Umpqua Community College and local industry leaders, we are integrating relevant, real-world learning experiences directly into our classrooms. Our Career Pathway dual credit courses saved students and families more than $880,000 in college tuition last year, and that momentum continues this year. We are also proud to be working toward a first-of-its-kind high school facility on UCC’s campus to expand access to hands-on learning and future opportunities.

With a shared commitment to our students, we see progress every day in their confidence, determination and growing sense of capability. Thank you for your continued partnership, and for the support you extend to our schools throughout the year. I hope the days ahead bring rest, connection and joy to you and those you love.

With gratitude,

Jared Cordon

Superintendent