Entering April means we are in the home stretch of the 2025–2026 school year, with approximately 48 school days remaining. Our seniors are continuing their preparation to pursue one of our “3 E’s”: Enrolled, Employed, or Enlisted. Students at MHS and Destinations are gearing up for AP testing, while students at Millicoma, Sunset, Lighthouse, and MJHS are preparing for OSAS assessments.

These important milestones provide opportunities for both students and staff to demonstrate their growth, celebrate achievements, and reflect on the hard work that began when our staff returned in August. April is a critical time to put the finishing touches on that preparation, so we encourage all students to make the most of each remaining day.

Gary Roberts

Superintendent

Coos Bay Public Schools

The School Board adopted this calendar at their March 9th meeting.

A more family friendly 'Student Calendar' will be released this later Spring.

Coos Bay School District has expanded music opportunities for students in meaningful ways over the past few years.

Beginning in the 2021–2022 school year, the hiring of Choir Director Brett Aakre and the return of longtime Band Director John Kruse helped revitalize music programs at Marshfield Junior High and Marshfield High School. Since then, student participation has grown significantly. At the high school level, Symphonic Band has increased from 17 students to 58, and Instrumental Technique has grown from 0 to 21 students. Choir programs have also seen strong growth, with Mixed Chorus increasing from 13 to 27 students and Concert Choir from 18 to 38 students.

In addition, the district has expanded music opportunities for younger students by providing a full-time music teacher in each elementary building serving grades 3–6, along with new band opportunities at those grade levels. Along with increased participation, students are earning more recognition and opportunities to perform.

A major highlight ahead is the Marshfield High School band being selected to march in the Pearl Harbor Memorial Parade this December, an incredible honor that showcases the talent, growth, and dedication of our students and staff.

The Oregon Response to Instruction and Intervention (ORTII) is a statewide program that helps schools ensure every student gets the support they need to succeed. ORTII focuses on using student data to guide instruction, strengthening core classroom teaching, and providing extra help as soon as students begin to struggle. The program also supports schools by providing technical assistance, professional learning, and coaching so educators can better meet the needs of all learners—especially in foundational skills like reading.

Since Coos Bay School District joined ORTII in fall 2023, we’ve seen strong progress among our K–6 students. The percentage of students meeting or exceeding grade-level expectations has increased by 9%. In addition, reading scores on state assessments for students receiving special education services have improved by 7%. These gains show that when we provide the right support at the right time, more of our students are able to grow, build confidence, and succeed in school.

 You can learn more about the ORTII program at https://www.oregonrti.org/project-overview.