MLC Newsletter
January 30, 2026
Principal's Message
We have officially made it halfway through the school year and I’m excited to share some wonderful news about our students’ progress so far. Thanks to the hard work of our students and the dedication of our staff, we are seeing strong academic growth across both literacy and mathematics from fall to winter.
Literacy Growth Highlights:
The percentage of focal students of color in grades 2-8 performing in the average to high range on the MAP Literacy assessment increased from 60% in the fall to 75% in the winter.
For all 2x8 students, this increased from 80% to 85% over the same period.
Perhaps even more powerfully, the percentage of focal students performing in the Low range decreased from 40% in the fall to just 17% in the winter.
100% of 4th and 7th grade students met their literacy growth targets.
75% of 5th grade students and 67% of 6th grade students met expected growth targets.
Mathematics Growth Highlights:
Across Kx8, there was an increase in the percentage of students performing early on grade level through mid–above grade level on the i-Ready Math assessment from 8% in the fall to 42% this winter.
The percentage of students performing two or more grade levels below decreased significantly, from 38% in the fall to 17% in the winter.
We look forward to building on this momentum together!
Ashlee
Upcoming Events
February
2/6: Craft Night 5:30-7:00 p.m.
2/10: Caregiver Workshop (Co-Regulation: Find a groove without walking on eggshells) 6:00-7:00 p.m. Join by clicking here.
2/11: Early Release at 12:45 p.m.; PTSA Meeting 6:00-7:30 p.m.
2/16: No School (President's Day)
2/20: Movie Night
2/25: MESD Vaccine Exclusion Deadline
2/26: Dine Out Day at Burgerville (NE MLK) 3:00-9:00p.m.; Kx5 Open House 5:30-6:30 p.m.
Visit MLCPTSA.org and download the online calendar to stay on top of all things MLC. It includes early release days, conferences, no school days and all MLC and PTSA events.
Appreciation for MLC's Counselors
As we celebrate National School Counseling Week, we want to take a moment to recognize and thank two truly exceptional members of our community: Benner and Meredith, MLC’s counselors.
Every day, Benner and Meredith show up for our students with compassion, patience, wisdom, and unwavering support. Whether they are listening, guiding, advocating, or simply being a steady presence, their work has a profound impact on the academic success, personal growth, and well-being of our students.
Their dedication helps make MLC a place where students feel seen, supported, and empowered to thrive. We are incredibly grateful for the care, expertise, and heart they bring to our school community.
Please join us in thanking Benner and Meredith for all that they do, not just this week, but all year long.
How to Talk to Kids About ICE
Caregiver Workshop
PTSA Updates
NEW! MLC YARD SIGNS: You Belong Here Our MLC character traits encourage us to be respectful, compassionate, and courageous, and to live with integrity. We strive to be a welcoming, inclusive community where ALL belong. Pick up one of our new “You Belong Here” yard signs to help share your love of MLC with the broader community. Yard signs are free with a suggested donation of $5-$20. Order yours at MLCPTSA.org or just look for us handing them out at PTSA and school events this month. SPED AFFINITY GROUP: Making Connections Wednesday, February 4, 6-7pm Zoom: Meeting Link HERE | Meeting ID: 837 2799 9740 We are (re)launching a Special Education Affinity Group that is intended to be a safe, supportive space for caregivers to connect, share best practices, problem-solve, find resources, and build community around the unique challenges and joys of special education. We’ll begin with a “Making Connections” kickoff meeting, focused on getting to know one another and hearing what kinds of support families are interested in moving forward. This will be a welcoming, informal space — no expertise or prior involvement required. CRAFT NIGHT: Spread Some Love Friday, February 6, 5:30-7pm MLC Commons | Free Join us for a low-key evening of creativity and connection. Bring your own craft or take part in one of our Valentine’s/Galentine’s Day inspired projects. Fun for the whole family or leave the kids at home and come craft with other caregivers. Drop-ins welcome, but please RSVP to help us plan. MOVIE NIGHT: Save the Date Friday, February 20, 5:30-8pm MLC Auditorium | Free Students will be voting on the film we watch so stay tuned! Come as a family or drop off the kids and enjoy a parents night out.
PARKING CREW: Soccer Season Kicks Off Soon!
The MLC PTSA hosts parking in our school lots for Timbers and Thorns weekend matches and we need volunteers to take money and direct people to spots. This is an easy and fun way to raise money for our school. Shifts are short and we will be there to teach you everything you need to know. Bring a friend or come make new ones. Season starts February 21! See available dates and sign up for a shift HERE. Questions? Contact our coordinators, Nate or Chenney.
Repeat Information
MLC Kx5 Lottery: Please Help Spread the Word!
Synergy ParentVUE & StudentVUE Login URL Changes
The Synergy ParentVUE & StudentVUE login URL has changed. In case that information was lost in the winter rush, a screenshot of what to bookmark is included below.
Here's the new URL: https://or-psd-psv.edupoint.com
Fliers Approved for Distribution
Vaccinations, Health & Wellness:
Multnomah County Student Health Center School Vaccine Catch Up Reminder (by Feb. 25)
When Should Students Stay Home Due to Illness?
There are symptoms of illness that would necessitate keeping students out of school and details when students may return. The guidance is linked here for your convenience.
If your student says they’re feeling sick but doesn’t meet the criteria to stay home, it can be helpful to refer to the district’s illness guidelines to make an informed decision together. Reviewing the symptoms and return-to-school guidance can support both student wellness and consistent attendance.