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RSD March Newsletter

Posted Date: 03/27/25 (05:51 PM)


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RSD Newsletter

March 2025

Spring Break!

We hope everyone in the Redmond School District community is enjoying a restful and refreshing spring break! As the seasons change, so does the spread of colds, flu, and other illnesses. This is a great time to focus on taking care of ourselves by prioritizing rest, hydration, and healthy habits.

Our strength as a community comes from looking out for one another. By practicing good hygiene, staying home when feeling unwell, and supporting each other through challenges, we can keep our schools and neighborhoods healthy. We also want to take a moment to recognize the incredible efforts of our school staff, nurses, and families who work hard every day to support student well-being. Your dedication makes a difference, and we appreciate all you do.

Let’s work together to finish the school year strong because when we care for ourselves, we care for our community.
 

In this issue:

March 2025 Superintendent's Message

In this month's message, join Superintendent Charan Cline as he chats with Pia Alliende, District Library Media Specialist, to learn more about Battle of the Books. Find out how this engaging reading competition encourages students to develop a passion for reading and teamwork.
 
A student carries a backpack with the Redmond School District logo and the text '2025-26 Redmond School District Calendar'.

2025-26 Redmond School District Calendar Approved

We’re excited to announce that the 2025-26 Redmond School District calendar has been officially approved by our school board. This provides key dates for the upcoming school year, including the first day of school, and holidays, breaks. We understand how essential it is for families, staff, and students to plan ahead, and this calendar serves as a helpful tool for organizing your year.

You can access the full calendar here: https://redmondschools.org/about/calendar/

A Spanish version of the calendar will be available soon.
 
Two women wearing green shirts with an owl logo stand in front of a wall decorated with an owl and feathers. The shirts say "Be Kind - Be Wise".

Sage Achieves Recognized School Counselor Program (RAMP) Status

Congratulations to Angie Chown and Faith Seals for all of their hard work!

The Recognized ASCA Model Program® (RAMP®) recognizes schools committed to delivering school counseling programs aligned with the ASCA National Model® framework. The RAMP® designation demonstrates to administrators, school boards, families and the community at large that the schools are committed to supporting the mission of the school and district. To date, more than 1,300 schools have earned the RAMP® designation nationally, only 8 of those schools are from Oregon and now TWO are from the Redmond School District.

 Here is the ASCA National Model®. Sage Elementary School’s framework shows evidence of direct and indirect services to students, program planning and improved student outcomes as a result of the school counseling program.

 The ASCA National Model® guides school counselors in the development of school counseling programs that:

  1. Are based on data-informed decision making
  2. Are delivered to all students systematically
  3. Include a developmentally appropriate curriculum focused on the mindsets and behaviors all students need for postsecondary readiness and success
  4. Close achievement and opportunity gaps
  5. Result in improved student achievement, attendance and discipline
 

Manufacturing Program at Redmond High School

We’re excited to spotlight the outstanding Manufacturing Program at Redmond High School, where students develop hands-on skills using industry-standard tools and technology. This program provides a real-world learning experience, helping students gain the expertise needed for high-demand careers in fields such as welding, machining, and engineering.

Freshman Addison Warren shares her passion for the program, highlighting how it has inspired her future goals. Through hands-on projects and mentorship from skilled instructors, students like Addison are gaining the confidence and knowledge needed to succeed in this growing industry.
 

Robotics Competition Recap

The Redmond School District recently hosted a district-wide Robotics Competition at M.A. Lynch Elementary, where students from kindergarten through eighth grade put their coding, engineering, and teamwork skills to the test. After 11 weeks of practice, meeting twice a week, students demonstrated creativity, collaboration, and problem-solving in an exciting competition. Families and supporters filled the building, cheering on the teams as they competed.

Competition Results:

VexGO (Elementary Schools: Flex, McCall, Terrebonne, John Tuck, Lynch, Vern Patrick, Sage, Tumalo)
  • Best Overall Driving: Vern Patrick
  • Best Overall Coding: M.A. Lynch Elementary
  • Best Overall in All Categories: Vern Patrick
VexIQ (Middle Schools: Obsidian, Elton Gregory, Flex, Tuck)
  • Best Overall Driving: John Tuck
  • Best Overall Coding: Elton Gregory
  • Best Overall in All Categories: John Tuck
A huge thank you to all the coaches, volunteers, and families who supported the students throughout this process. Their dedication and encouragement helped make this event a success. Congratulations to all participants on their hard work and achievements.
robotics
 
matthew

Redmond High School’s Matthew Nonato Wins at Project MFG Welding Wars

Redmond High School is celebrating a major victory. Matthew Nonato, a dedicated and skilled welding student, recently took home the top prize at The Project MFG Welding Wars held at the College of Southern Idaho.

This win is no small feat. Project MFG competitions test advanced technical skills through intense, hands-on challenges, pushing students to showcase their precision, problem-solving abilities, and craftsmanship. Matthew’s outstanding performance earned him an automatic spot in the prestigious Project MFG Welding League National Finals in Michigan this June, where he will compete against the best young welders in the country.

Matthew’s success highlights the strength of Redmond High School’s CTE programs, which provide students with real-world skills and pathways to high-demand careers. His achievement reflects his hard work and the dedication of the instructors who prepare students for competitive, high-skill industries.

We are proud to see Redmond students rising to the challenge and making their mark on the national stage. Congratulations to Matthew on this incredible accomplishment. We’ll be cheering you on at the National Finals.
aiden

Redmond High School Junior Aiden Carpenter Advances to Project MFG Finals

Redmond High School junior Aiden Carpenter is making waves in the world of advanced manufacturing! Aiden has secured a spot in the final round of Project MFG, a prestigious competition put on by the Department of Defense to showcase high-level machining skills. As one of the top 16 competitors in the country, Aiden will be heading to Southwest Illinois College (SWIC) at the end of March to compete for cash prizes and national recognition.

Aiden last month entered Project MFG’s National Machining League, a high school-level individual competition focused on CNC machining. In the qualifying round, he was tasked with machining four aluminum parts and mailing them to judges for evaluation. His skill and precision earned him a place in the finals.

Reflecting on his journey, Aiden shared:
“I have competed in machining competitions before, but this is the first year this competition specifically is being held. At its most basic, this opportunity is just an accomplishment to put on my resume, but the value that this has to an employer in modern industry is priceless.”

Beyond the personal achievement, Aiden sees this as a way to highlight the importance of CTE programs and the impact they have on students’ futures. He credits Dan Kernion, Manufacturing/ Engineering Technology Instructor at Redmond High, for being a pivotal mentor in his journey:
“Not to mention the school pride in helping our CTE program grow, but also to show others why programs like ours are so important and why mentors like Dan Kernion can have such a profound impact on our next generation. Without Kernion, I doubt I would even know what machining is. Not to mention he hasn’t just taught me how to have a successful career but also how to be a better person. I couldn’t be more thankful to have someone who is so willing to give so much time and energy into making others’ lives better.”

Aiden will represent Redmond High School and the entire Redmond community at the national finals, competing against the best machining students in the country.
 

M.A. Lynch 4th Graders Make a Difference with Community Partnership

At M.A. Lynch Elementary, fourth-grade students in Natani Chick’s class have been hard at work, not just in the classroom but in their community. With the support of Redmond Kiwanis, these young changemakers created and donated tie blankets to Bethlehem Inn, a shelter serving those in need. This project is part of a larger effort to foster meaningful, project-based learning experiences that connect students with their community.

“As a new teacher in the Redmond School District, I was eager to connect my students with their classroom, school, and city community through meaningful, project-based learning,” Chick shared. “With the passionate support of Kiwanis, our journey began in September when they shared the importance of community partnerships, sparking our first driving question.”

That question—how can we make a positive impact?—led to an inspiring series of student-led projects. In addition to making tie blankets, Chick’s students hosted a kindness-based hot cocoa stand, supported Kiwanis’ food drive, created staff appreciation gifts, and organized a clothing swap.

“The learning has been rich and impactful, and the best part is hearing my students proudly recognize that they are already making the world a better place,” Chick said.

This project was made possible through the generosity and support of Redmond Kiwanis, whose commitment to service continues to inspire young learners. By working together, these students are not only gaining valuable skills but also discovering the power of kindness and collaboration.
A group of children and adults hold up colorful blankets in a classroom setting.
 

Changes Coming to Redmond’s School Zone Speed Limits Here’s What You Need to Know

When everyone returns from spring break, they will notice updates to school zone speed limit signs around town. When students return from spring break, you’ll notice some changes to school zone speed limit signs around town. City of Redmond Public Works crews are rolling out these changes now.

What’s Changing?
The new school zone signs will still require drivers to slow down to 20 MPH—but only when the signs are flashing. Instead of the current static signs, the updated versions will clearly read: “SCHOOL, SPEED LIMIT 20 When Flashing.

Why the Change?
Last October, the City of Redmond’s Traffic Safety Working Group, in collaboration with the Redmond School District, asked the community for feedback on school zone signage. The response was overwhelming—94% of respondents supported switching to “When Flashing” signs.

Where Will You See These New Signs?
A total of 18 school zone speed limit signs are being replaced, specifically in areas where roads are normally 35 MPH or are busy arterial and collector streets. These locations were chosen to enhance safety in high-traffic areas near schools.

How Do These New Signs Work?
  • Large flashing amber lights will indicate when the 20 MPH school zone speed limit is active.
  • The school zone speed limit will only apply during arrival, lunch (high school only), and departure times for each school.
  • Each sign will also feature a radar-enabled driver feedback display that shows drivers how fast they’re going as they enter the school zone. These displays will only be active when the school zone signs are flashing.

Safety First
Redmond Police Department will continue prioritizing school zone safety, increasing enforcement of speeding and distracted driving violations when the signs are flashing. If the lights are on, expect officers to be watching.

How Was This Project Funded?
This project was made possible through grants from the U.S. Department of Transportation - National Highway Traffic Safety Administration via the Oregon Department of Transportation Transportation Safety Office.

So, as you’re driving around Redmond after spring break, keep an eye out for these new flashing school zone signs.
flashsign
 

Bringing Big Ideas to Life in Ridgeview’s Design Technology Classroom

Step inside Cory O’Neill’s Design Technology classroom at Ridgeview High School, where creativity meets craftsmanship. This CTE program provides students with hands-on experience in design, engineering, and fabrication, turning their innovative ideas into real-world creations.

Students in Mr. O’Neill’s class don’t just learn about design. They actively build, test, and refine their projects using cutting-edge tools and techniques. Whether it’s 3D printing, woodworking, or digital modeling, this program empowers students to develop critical problem-solving skills and technical expertise.

Junior Shayanne Akenga explains how the program has given her the confidence to take on complex projects and think outside the box. She appreciates the opportunity to create something from scratch and see it come to life.

The Design Technology program is just one example of how Ridgeview High School is preparing students for future careers in engineering, design, and skilled trades. Stay tuned for more stories showcasing the incredible work happening in our CTE classrooms!
 

EGMS Performs at March Board Meeting to Celebrate Music in Our Schools Month

Eleven EGMS Band students delivered a stellar performance at the March board meeting to celebrate Music in Our Schools Month. Their hard work and dedication were on full display as they showcased their musical talents. A huge congratulations to these talented students for their fantastic job! Your performance was a wonderful reminder of the power of music in education and its importance in shaping well-rounded students. Keep up the great work!
band
 
 

AG shop Skills class at Redmond High School

AG Shop Skills class at RHS is where students are gaining hands-on experience with welding, fabrication, and mechanics. These skills prepare them for careers in agriculture and beyond! Get a behind the scences look and presepective from RHS Senior Kellen Kilgore. 
 

Oregon Battle of the Books


The Redmond School District is thrilled to share some exciting updates from the Oregon Battle of the Books (OBOB) competition. OBOB continues to inspire students, promoting a love for reading while encouraging teamwork, critical thinking, and friendly competition.

We are proud to announce that the Enchanted Readers team from Vern Patrick Elementary recently triumphed at the Region 7B Division 3-5 tournament held at Culver. This incredible team will now represent the Redmond School District at the State Championships in Salem on April 12. Their hard work, dedication, and passion for reading have earned them this well-deserved opportunity.

In addition, the Novel Knights from Elton Gregory Middle School have earned their spot at the State Championships as well. Their achievement is a testament to their love of literature and their commitment to the OBOB program. This marks a fantastic milestone for the middle school division, and we are excited to see how they perform at the state level.

We wish both teams the best of luck as they prepare for the upcoming championships! These accomplishments reflect the incredible talent and enthusiasm our students have for reading and learning. We look forward to seeing all of the future successes these teams will achieve in the world of OBOB and beyond!
A group of young women, wearing blue shirts and medals, pose with a sign that reads 'Oregon Battle of the Books' and a bunch of balloons.
vpobob
 
A basketball hoop with a net, and a photo of a basketball team celebrating their 5th place finish in the state championship. The text reads 'Congratulations, RHS Panthers! 5th in State! We are proud of you!'

Redmond High School Girls Basketball Team Finishes 5th in State

A big congratulations to the Redmond High School Girls Basketball team for an outstanding season. Their hard work and dedication culminated in a well-deserved 5th place finish at the State competition.

Throughout the season, the team showed incredible teamwork, resilience, and sportsmanship. Their performance both on and off the court has made our community proud, and they truly exemplified what it means to represent Redmond.

We are proud of their achievements and look forward to seeing even more success from these athletes in the future. Congratulations again to the Redmond High School Girls Basketball team!
A group of men stand together on a wrestling mat, holding trophies and smiling for a photo.

RHS Wrestling Update: A Historic Achievement for Redmond

The Redmond High School Wrestling team has made history once again! The boys secured their 5th consecutive state trophy with an impressive 4th place finish in the 5A division. Meanwhile, the girls’ team shine brightly, claiming 2nd place and celebrating the victory of two individual State Champions!

This remarkable achievement highlights the dedication and hard work of both the boys' and girls' teams, showcasing the strength and talent within the Redmond High School Wrestling program. Congratulations to all the athletes, coaches, and supporters on this fantastic accomplishment!
 
A crane lifts a large light pole at a sports field, with workers standing nearby.

Redmond High School Stadium Upgrade: New Lights Thanks to the 2020 Bond

Redmond High School has received four new stadium lights, thanks to the 2020 bond. This upgrade helps maintain our facilities and enhances the atmosphere for both players and fans.
A big thank you to our community for making this possible—we truly appreciate your support!
 

Business Education in Action at Ridgeview High School

At Ridgeview High School, business teacher Mike Fanger is giving students hands-on experience that prepares them for the future. His Advanced Marketing class runs the student store, where they apply what they’ve learned about marketing, inventory, and customer service.

Fanger emphasizes learning by doing, helping students gain real-world skills that will benefit them in their careers. The student store is a perfect example of how Ridgeview is blending education with practical experience, setting students up for success beyond the classroom.

 

RSD Spotlight: Margaret Iverson, Office Manager at Tom McCall Elementary

We are thrilled to shine the spotlight on Margaret Iverson, the exceptional office manager at Tom McCall Elementary. Margaret’s positive attitude and unwavering commitment to her colleagues and students truly set her apart. One colleague shared, "She steps in to help with jobs that aren’t even hers—sitting with students who need someone to talk to, taking walks with students, taking on duties that aren’t hers, being the nurse when she is gone, and so much more."

Her kindness and dedication have made a lasting impact on everyone around her. Whether it’s lending a hand with a difficult task or providing a listening ear to a student, Margaret exemplifies the qualities that make RSD such a special place.

We are incredibly grateful for all Margaret does to help make our school community stronger. Thank you, Margaret, for everything you do!

Do you know an RSD employee who deserves recognition? Nominate them for the RSD Spotlight by visiting this link. Let’s continue celebrating the incredible individuals who make our district great!
A woman smiles for the camera in an office setting, with balloons and a nameplate in the foreground.
 
A close-up of pipes and valves in a mechanical room, with a 'Wet Floor' sign and the text 'Redmond School District 2024 Bond Updates'.

Tracking Progress on the 2024 Redmond School District Bond Projects

We are incredibly grateful to the Redmond School District community for your overwhelming support in passing the 2024 RSD Bond. Your investment in our schools will create safer, more modern learning environments, helping students have the resources they need to thrive. This bond represents a commitment to the future of education in Redmond, addressing critical infrastructure needs, expanding opportunities for career and technical education, and enhancing safety and security across all schools.

As we move forward with these exciting projects, we want to maintain transparency and keep you informed every step of the way. This page is dedicated to that goal, offering you a clear view of our progress and plans.

Here’s what you can expect to find:
  • The District’s Bond Planning Calendar – Stay up to date on key milestones and project timelines.
  • A Direct Link to Track Bond Project Progress – Follow along in real time with the tracking spreadsheet to monitor the progress of bond-funded projects.
  • The Latest News and Updates – Get timely updates on construction, improvements, and how these projects will impact our community.
Your support is making a real difference, helping Redmond students have access to safe, high-quality learning spaces for years to come. Thank you for being a part of this journey and for investing in the future of our schools.

We look forward to continuing this journey with you!
 
A hand holds a smartphone displaying the ParentSquare app, with a call to action to download the app from the App Store or Google Play.
A hand holds a smartphone displaying the ParentSquare app, with a call to action to download the app.
 
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