Connecting With the Superintendent
Highlighting important topics & events that matter most!
28 August 2026
Forest Grove School District Families,
Welcome to the 2026-2027 school year! As our doors open, our entire team is eager to welcome our students back to another year of learning, growth, and connection.
We return from a challenging spring, during which we reduced $4.6 million from our operating expenditures and eliminated dozens of positions. We begin this year leaner, but as determined as ever to ensure all students have access to a high-quality life that prepares them for a choice-filled future.
Over the summer, we remained busy and focused on strengthening instruction and student support. More than twenty educators participated in Guided Language Acquisition Design (GLAD) training to enhance learning scaffolds, while summer program staff participated in embedded professional learning focused on the use of evidence-based literacy interventions. We also invested in expanding our capacity to proactively support escalated student behaviors. We are committed to being better every day, and continuing investments in our staff and students is an important part of fulfilling this commitment.
This past week, our staff members have been working tirelessly to prepare classrooms and lesson plans for student arrivals. In every building, there is a palpable sense of energy and commitment.
To give every student the best foundation for academic and social success, consistent attendance is essential. This year, we are launching our 8 or Less = Success attendance campaign to emphasize the impact of being in class every day.
When a student misses school, even a few days at a time can accumulate rapidly:
10 Days a Year: Missing just 10 school days per year across a student's K–12 career adds up to 130 days of missed instruction.
The Impact: That total equals 26 full school weeks, or nearly three-quarters of an entire academic year of lost learning time and peer connection.
Aiming for 8 or fewer absences each school year helps ensure your child stays connected, engaged, and on track for graduation. Look for attendance tracking magnets, resources, and updates sent home throughout the fall.
We are excited for the 2026-2027 school year to begin, and look forward to seeing your children next week!
Respectfully,
Dr. Suzanne West
988 Oregon is a free, direct connection to confidential support for anyone who is struggling. It’s available 24/7, every day of the year. This three-digit number was formerly known as the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. 988 went live in July 2022 in Oregon and nationwide.
What happens when someone reaches out to 988?
When you contact 988, you’ll be connected to a trained counselor who will listen and offer support. You may be asked for your name, phone number or location to help provide the best support or reach you if you get disconnected, but sharing this is optional.
Who is 988 for?
988 is for anyone who is experiencing a mental health or substance use crisis, emotional distress or simply needs someone to talk to. It is also for concerned family members, friends or caregivers seeking guidance or support for someone else.
