Dear MESD Colleagues, Students, Families, and Community,

As we approach the end of the 2022-2023 school year, I would like to take a moment to reflect on the remarkable journey we have undertaken together. It has been an extraordinary year filled with challenges, resilience, and tremendous achievements. As we look back on this school year, we can proudly celebrate the accomplishments and milestones we have achieved together. We continue to embrace innovation and adaptability.

This school year we:

• Launched the East County Bridges program with community partners across the region to (re)engage youth

• Reinstituted Outdoor School to a 6-day overnight program

• Engaged case-by-case on students eligible for record expungements

• Continued to provide structural social skills training, behavioral intervention, and evidence-based academic instruction and support for students

• Completed Equity Audit used to guide our strategic planning process

• Convened Courageous Conversation Training county-wide

• Implemented MESD Equity Teams

• Implemented MESD Affinity Spaces

• Created and launched a district Anti-racism resources website

• Increased participation in Multnomah Educators Rising (Grow Your Own)

• Supported component districts with Student Success Act implementation and ODE’s Integrated Guidance application process

• Restructured HR to increase efficiency with onboarding, recruitment, retention, and development of a culturally responsive workforce

• Provided ongoing support for component districts' curriculum adoption and implementation of best practices in instruction and assessment

• Expanded regional networks to provide additional supports for teachers and district leaders

• Provided relevant information, guidance, safety protocols, and health updates to students, families, and districts across the region

• Launched a new Referral Bonus Program through collaboration with AFSCME/MEA unions

• Launched Fiber-Optic Network, increasing students' home internet speed and access across the region

• Engage in district and county-wide conversations to revise and relaunch MESD’s new strategic plan

• Adopted a new mission and vision

• We are currently implementing “The Blueprint28.” As an organization, we are creating, aligning, and resignifying systems, processes, procedures, and best practices. Through the “Blueprint” we are set to achieve three goals:
  - Goal 1: Creating a High-Quality Learning Experience for All
  - Goal 2: Operationalizing Systems that Engage & Empower Communities
  - Goal 3: Building a Culturally Responsive Workforce

• As part of this journey, we have a new logo that we will launch for the “Back to School” event.

All this work was only possible because of YOU. I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to our dedicated MESD team who have gone above and beyond to ensure that our students received the best possible education despite the uncertainties and disruptions we faced. Your unwavering commitment to our students' well-being and academic growth has been nothing short of inspiring. Thank you for your resilience, creativity, and tireless efforts.

To our incredible students, I am in awe of your adaptability and determination throughout this school year. Your hard work and perseverance have not gone unnoticed, and I commend you for your dedication to your education.

To the parents and guardians, your partnership and support have been invaluable. We truly appreciate your patience, flexibility, and collaboration as we worked together to provide the best educational experience for your children. Your involvement in their education has been vital, and we are grateful for your trust and commitment to their success.

I extend my heartfelt gratitude and appreciation to our esteemed partners who have played an invaluable role in supporting our educational community throughout the year. Your unwavering commitment, collaboration, and generosity have made a significant impact on the success and well-being of our students. We look forward to further strengthening our bond as we work together to shape a brighter future for our students.

As we approach the summer break, I encourage you to take time for rest, relaxation, and reflection. Celebrate your achievements, cherish your experiences, and embrace the sense of fulfillment that comes from completing another school year.

Thank you for your unhesitating belief in the power of education and for being an essential part of this journey.

With immense pride and gratitude,

Dr. Paul Coakley

MESD Superintendent