Family Spotlight
New assessments and restrictions on student technology coming next school year
This next school year will bring big changes for students, teachers and families in how we measure academic growth as well as how we engage with technology tools in classrooms.
The changes include new assessments in reading and mathematics for students in elementary and middle school. These are required by Senate Bill 141, Oregon's 2025 Education Accountability Act.
We also are making some changes in student use of technology, as directed by our School Board. These include reduced access to iPads for elementary students; keeping iPads at school for middle school students; and restricted YouTube access for high school students.
We invite you to learn more about each of these changes in the following letter from Deputy Superintendent Lisa Birk: LETTER ON CHANGES FOR 2026-27
Enrollment trends raise the question: What kind of community do we want to become?
For many in our community, this spring’s budget conversations in Bend-La Pine Schools have felt personal, because they are.
Behind every school or district program reduction due to lower enrollment are real people and real impacts about what our schools will look like for students in the years ahead. And while Bend-La Pine Schools is not alone in making these difficult decisions, that fact offers little comfort. Across Oregon, school districts are reducing staff and scaling back services as costs continue to outpace state revenue.
This moment requires honesty about both our immediate reality and the long-term future facing public education – especially when the call for transparency and accountability is at an all-time high.
Recently, our district commissioned a long-range enrollment forecast from FLO Analytics to better understand the next decade ahead. That document can be found on our website at bls.fyi/future. The findings confirm what many districts across the state are experiencing: enrollment growth has reversed, the proportion of school-aged children in our communities is declining, and the financial pressures facing schools are unlikely to ease on their own.
Pacific Crest Middle School is home to a true standout in physical education, teacher and coach Ashley Wallace, June’s Champion for Students.
Ashley was nominated by 7th-grade science and Design & Modeling teacher Jane Shein, who shared:“Ashley is an expert teacher who makes all students feel welcome in her classes, which is an amazing feat in P.E. She has high standards and inspires students to do their best, work together, and teaches sportsmanship and fair play above all. Ashley spends hours choosing teams for each P.E. unit to help all students grow and find success as part of a team.”
Also being recognized at the June Board meeting is School Resource Officer John Horvath. While Officer Horvath serves our east-side schools during the day, his commitment to students extends far beyond his regular duties.
After noticing broken and abandoned bicycles at Bend Tech Academy (BTA), Officer Horvath took action on his own time. He collected, repaired, and rebuilt the bikes, then donated them to students at BTA and Bend Senior High who needed them most. Officer Horvath, thank you for the compassion, generosity, and heart you bring to Bend-La Pine Schools. We are honored to have you serving our students and families and proud to recognize you with the Above & Beyond the Call of Duty Award.
Congratulations to Ashley Wallace and Officer John Horvath, and thank you for making a difference in the lives of our students every day.
Enjoy a safe and fun summer
As we head into summer break and say, “See you in September,” we’d like to share a few important reminders about e-bike safety. Understanding the rules of the road helps keep riders, pedestrians, and everyone in our community safe.
A few key things to know:
- Oregon law requires e-bike riders to be at least 16 years old.
- E-bikes are not permitted on sidewalks.
- Riders must follow all traffic laws, including riding on the correct side of the road and stopping at stop signs and red lights.
- Some vehicles marketed as e-bikes are actually electric motorcycles capable of speeds over 40 mph. These vehicles are not legal on many roads and trails within city limits.
Most importantly, this is about safety. Whether you're riding an e-bike, walking, driving, or enjoying our trails and neighborhoods, we all play a role in looking out for one another. Ride responsibly, stay alert, be predictable, and follow the rules of the road.
Have a wonderful summer, and we look forward to seeing everyone back together in September!
College readiness testing
It’s never too early to register for college readiness testing in 2026-27. Find all the details on SAT and ACT tests beginning in the fall and learn how you can register.
Summer Resources
As summer break begins, we encourage students to make the most of this well-deserved time off. Take a break from screens, reconnect with family and friends, and enjoy the activities that bring you joy.
Summer Break Checklist
Rest and recharge
Spend time outdoors
Stay active
Unplug from devices
Declutter and refresh your space
Remember, it's always okay to ask for help. Support is available, so don’t hesitate to talk to someone if you’re feeling overwhelmed.
988: If you or someone you love is struggling with thoughts of suicide, call or text 988. You are not alone. Call or text 988 to connect to staff prepared to provide compassionate, accessible care and support for anyone experiencing mental health-related distress.
English: Text or Call 988
Español: Llame 988 or envia “AYUDA” al 988
YouthLine is a free and confidential teen-to-teen help line. Students are encouraged to contact theyouthline.org via phone, text, chat, and email to talk about anything that may be bothering them. Teens are available to help daily from 4-10 p.m. Pacific Time (adults are available by phone at all other times).
Care Solace supports the well-being of our community and can help you quickly find treatment options matched to your needs, regardless of the circumstance. If you or your family members are looking for help with mental health or substance use, this is a complimentary and confidential care coordination service provided by Bend-La Pine Schools.
Call 888-515-0595. Support is available 24/7/365 in over 200 languages.
Visit caresolace.com/bls and either search on your own or click “Book Appointment” for assistance by video chat, email, or phone.
SafeOregon allows students and families to report information that involves students, the safety of their fellow students or their school 24-hours-a-day. With safeoregon.com, students can report anything from vandalism to cyberbullying via text, phone, email or online.
Enjoy your summer—relax, have fun, and take care of yourself!
Important dates and recognitions - June
Pride Month
June 14 - Flag Day
June 19 - Juneteenth
Getting help can be a daunting process. Care Solace provides 24/7/365 mental health care coordination Service for all employees of Bend-La Pine Schools, their family members, as well as our students and their families. Click the button above to connect with Care Solace.
If you need to talk, the 988 Lifeline is here. At the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, we understand that life's challenges can sometimes be difficult. Whether you're facing mental health struggles, emotional distress, alcohol or drug use concerns, or just need someone to talk to, our caring counselors are here for you. You are not alone. Click the button above to learn more.
Student Mental Health
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Family Resources
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Health & Wellness
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School Meals
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Accessing ParentVUE
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Transportation
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For information about board members, meetings and agendas, please visit our School Board page.
Catch up on all the news from the latest School Board meetings. Click here for Dr. Cook's recaps.