Superintendent's Update
October 31, 2025
With the current federal government shutdown creating uncertainty about food benefit programs such as SNAP and WIC, we know that there are families within our District community who are concerned about consistent food access.
As a reminder, all Centennial students are able access free and nutritious breakfast and lunch meals at their school locations, with no application process necessary. For November menus and other school nutrition information, visit our website at www.csd28j.org/meals.
Additionally, there are a number of community-based food resources available for families to access as needed, including the Food for Families program at Centennial High School. This bi-monthly food pantry was created by CHS students, and does not require identification or address verification to participate. Food for Families will hold their next food distribution on November 12, 4-5pm, and families with safety concerns can call 971-220- 6679 to arrange an alternative way to receive food safely.
If you need more information about available community food resources, click the button below or visit www.csd28j.org/foodresources to view our updated food resources webpage. We will continue to update this webpage with new resources as more information becomes available.
"How can I help?"
During the week of November 14th, we're inviting the entire Centennial School District community to take a step forward by celebrating Ruby Bridges Walk to School Day. This day honors the incredible bravery of Ruby Bridges, who at age six faced hatred and adversity to walk to school and help desegregate the school system in New Orleans. Her simple act of courage reminds us all that positive change often begins with one brave step. By celebrating this day, we can inspire our students to show kindness and stand up for what is right.
As part of this celebration, Patrick Lynch, Pleasant Valley, and Powell Butte Elementary will be holding Story Walks of the book “I am Ruby Bridges” on their campuses. A Story Walk is an innovative way to promote literacy and physical activity by displaying the pages of a children's book along an outdoor walking trail or path. Sequential pages are mounted on signs, inviting classes to stroll from post to post while reading the story together.
Additionally, the following schools will be hosting walk-to-school events in honor of this celebration:
Wednesday, November 12th: Butler Creek Elementary
Thursday, November 13th: Centennial Middle School and Meadows Elementary are co-hosting a walk to school event
Friday November 14th: Parklane Elementary and Oliver Middle School are co-hosting a walk to school event
To explore the options for your school's celebration, please reach out to our Safe Routes to School Coordinator, Ian Rees, at ian_rees@csd28j.org.
