Update from the Middle
April 17, 2026
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April 20: Staff In-Service Day (NO SCHOOL)
May 25: Memorial Day (NO SCHOOL)
June 4: Last Day of School for 6th & 7th Graders
June 5: 8th Grade Farewell (Half Day)
A generous AMS parent is organizing a Teacher Appreciation Potluck as a way for families to show appreciation for our amazing staff.
If you’d like to contribute, please sign up to drop off a dish.
Potluck Details:
- Date: Thursday, May 7
- Drop-off: Before school, no later than 11:15 AM at the AMS front office
- Pick-up: Your containers after school, by 4:00 pm
Please sign up below if you’re able to contribute:
👉 https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0944AAAB2AA6FEC16-63573495-amsstaff
Thank you for helping us recognize the hard work and dedication of our AMS team.
Spend an evening connecting with fellow Cubs while supporting the Ashland Schools Foundation Annual Fund Drive, April 20–25.
Volunteers will help call past donors and school families while enjoying a free catered meal, snacks, and beverages at Bestow in downtown Ashland.
Funds raised go directly toward grants that bring valuable programs, materials, and opportunities into AMS classrooms.
Want to make an even bigger impact?
ASF is also seeking businesses or individuals to sponsor an Outreach Party with a $2,500 matching gift. Sponsors are recognized throughout the evening’s calls and in follow-up communications, helping amplify their support while maximizing donations.
Join in, make an impact, and help support our students. Sign up or learn more today.
Ashland Middle School is teaming up with Southern Oregon Goodwill for a Mobile Donation Drive. Bring your gently used items to AMS and help raise money for our band program while giving reusable items a second life.
Ashland Middle School, main parking lot
April 21, 2:00–5:00 p.m.
April 22, 8:00–4:00 p.m.
Flyer and Guidelines
Attention 8th Graders: Interested in a unique high school learning experience? The Thoreau Program at Ashland High School offers a small learning community where students earn English, Social Studies, and Science credits through project-based learning, reflective practices, and outdoor experiences. The program includes field trips and even a class garden.
Families are invited to attend the Thoreau Open House to learn more, hear student testimonials, and ask questions.
Open House
📅 April 29
⏰ 2:00–4:00 PM
📍 AHS English Building, Room 3
Both teachers will be present to share details and help you decide if the Thoreau program is a good fit.
The time has come to begin planning the 8th Grade Farewell Party and Farewell Ceremony! Please review the attached memo for full details and opportunities to help make this a memorable celebration of your students’ time at AMS.
If you were unable to attend the planning meeting held last Tuesday night, but would still like to help, please:
• Email Karin.Pasche@ashland.k12.or.us
• Send the completed attached form to the office
• Call the office to make a monetary donation for the Farewell Party
Important dates:
• May 6 – Student audition opportunity to perform during the ceremony
• May – Call for 8th grade artists to submit designs for the Farewell Ceremony program cover
• June 4 – 8th Grade Farewell Party, 7:00–8:30 PM (planned by parents)
• June 5 – Last day of school & Farewell Ceremony
Thank you for your support in making this a special event for our 8th graders!
Ashland High School Drama Club is hosting a fun, hands-on workshop just for middle school students on Monday, April 20th from 10:00 AM–4:00 PM at Ashland High School. Students will spend the day building acting skills, playing theater games, and connecting with high school performers.
The cost is $20 per student. To reserve a spot, email andrea.royse@ashland.k12.or.us.
A great opportunity for students interested in theater to learn, create, and have fun.
Looking for a fun and active summer opportunity? The AHS Youth Soccer Camp, hosted by AHS players and coaches, is a great way for students to build skills and enjoy time on the field.
The camp runs June 8–11 from 9:00 AM–12:00 PM at the AHS Turf Field and is open to boys and girls ages 5–13. Registration is $75 by May 15 ($95 after), with all proceeds supporting the Grizzly Soccer Booster Club.
To register or learn more, contact marieuhlhoff@gmail.com.
FACTS
- Regular attendance is correlated with higher achievement rates.
- Regular attendance allows students to stay on grade level, keep up with work, and understand assignments.
- Being at school opens up students to new opportunities to learn academic as well as social skills.
- Attendance helps kids feel connected to their school community.
- Regular attendance sends a message that education is important.
PARENTAL INVOLVEMENT
It is important to take an active role in your child's life. Checking homework, talking about school and making education seem important all lead to good attendance and school success.
Help your student get to school on time every single day by creating a morning routine.
ROUTINES THAT MAKE THE DIFFERENCE
WHAT YOU CAN DO - Set a regular bedtime • Create a solid morning routine • Lay out clothes and pack backpacks the night before • Get an alarm clock for yourself and your child • Wake up with plenty of time to have a stress-free morning • Don’t let your child stay home unless they are truly sick • Complaints of a stomach ache or headache can be a sign of anxiety and not a reason to stay home • If your child seems anxious about going to school, talk to teachers, school counselors, or other parents for advice on how to make them feel comfortable and excited about learning • Develop back-up plans for getting to school if something comes up. Call on a family member, a neighbor, or another parent • Avoid medical appointments and extended trips when school is in session • Make school and education seem of utmost importance to your child
Rogue Valley Bike Swap
Looking for a new bike or ready to pass one along? Join the Rogue Valley Bike Swap on Saturday, April 18 from 12:00–2:30 PM at The Grove in Ashland. Buy, sell, or donate bikes while supporting youth bike safety programs.
More info at RVTD.org/bikeswap
Earth Day Celebration at ScienceWorks
Celebrate Earth Day with a fun, hands-on experience for the whole family at ScienceWorks! Join the community on Saturday, April 18 from 10:00 AM–4:00 PM for interactive science activities, community partners, and outdoor exploration—rain or shine.
It’s a great opportunity for students to learn how small actions can make a big impact on our planet while enjoying a day of discovery and connection.
Battle of the Books – Join the Challenge!
Calling all readers! Jackson County Library Services is hosting a FREE Unofficial Battle of the Books (UOBOB)—and it’s open to all interested students.
Whether you're already on an OBOB team or just love to read, this is a great way to challenge yourself, discover new books, and even win prizes.
📖 The Challenge:
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Read (or listen to) 5 books from a list
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Complete by May 15, 2026
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Earn entries into a drawing for a $50 gift card
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Read multiple lists for extra chances to win
🔗 Learn more and get started: jcls.org/battle
A great opportunity to keep reading strong this spring—encourage your student to jump in.
Ashland Library Teen Events – April
The Ashland Library Teen Department is offering a variety of free, engaging activities this April. All events include snacks and are a great way for students to connect and have fun.
Upcoming Events:
- April 5 (Sunday): Tween D&D, 1:00–3:00 PM
- April 7 (Tuesday): Teen Crafternoon, 4:00–5:30 PM
- April 8 (Wednesday): Video Game Hangout, 2:30–4:30 PM
- April 19 (Sunday): Teen D&D, 1:00–3:00 PM
- April 22 (Wednesday): Pressed Flower Art, 3:30–5:00 PM
For more events and teen resources, visit jcls.org/teens.
Spring Into Safety
This free community event includes hands-on activities, response vehicle tours, and a chance to meet local police, firefighters, and EMS providers. All ages are welcome.
Free Wildfire Education Day at ScienceWorks
Join the community for Sparking Action!, a free Wildfire Education Day on Saturday, May 2 from 10:00 AM–6:00 PM at ScienceWorks.
This family-friendly event features live demonstrations, hands-on activities, workshops, and opportunities to learn practical wildfire preparedness skills. Meet local experts, explore fire safety tools, and discover how to protect your home and community.
Free admission—learn together and prepare with confidence.
Free Parent/Caregiver Class – Collaborative Problem Solving
Parents and caregivers are invited to join a free 6-week virtual class focused on Collaborative Problem Solving®, an evidence-based, trauma-informed approach to helping children manage behavior and build essential skills.
Classes run Tuesdays, May 22-June 26, 11:30am-1:30pm and include interactive learning, practical strategies, and opportunities to connect with other families. Space is limited.
For more information or to sign up, contact training@kairosnw.org or (541) 592-9991.
Math Transitions Camps & Summer Tutorin
Build confidence and strengthen math skills this summer.
LearnIt Studio is offering small-group Math Transition Camps and personalized tutoring to help students start the school year strong.
Learn more and sign up: LearnIt.Studio/summer-programs
Ashland Aerial Arts Summer Camps
Ashland Aerial Arts is offering Summer Camps for ages 6–18 from June 8–July 23, featuring aerial silks and creative movement in a supportive, fun environment.
Early bird discounts are available through April 17.
Register online at ashlandaerialarts.org or contact fly@ashlandaerialarts.org for more information.
Wilderness Quest for 7th–9th Graders
Looking for a meaningful summer adventure? Guided Passages is offering a 5-day backpacking experience in the Marble Mountain Wilderness of Northern California. This unique program blends outdoor exploration with a “Rites of Passage” journey designed to support growth, confidence, and connection during the transition into the teenage years.
Dates: June 16–20, 2026 (5 days / 4 nights)
Participants will explore the backcountry, build skills, and create lasting memories in a supportive, guided environment.
Learn more at: https://guided-passages.com
Dragonfly Studios Art Camps for Girls
Looking for a creative summer experience? Dragonfly Studios is offering engaging art camps for girls ages 7–13, focused on self-expression, design, and hands-on creativity.
Students will explore a variety of materials and techniques while creating unique projects—from room décor to wearable art—in a supportive and inspiring environment.
🔗 Learn more: dragonflystudios.org
A great opportunity for young artists to build confidence, creativity, and skills this summer.
