We’ve Only Just Begun

WLWV school District Unanimously Votes to Keep All Schools Open

The recent decision by the school board to keep all schools open is a resounding victory for our community, and I cannot thank you enough for the passion and dedication that made this possible.

From neighborhood associations and PTA/PTO/PTSA leaders, parents, and even our city council members and our mayor Rory Bialostosky, holding a listening session, it took a collective effort to ensure our schools remain at the heart of our neighborhoods.

This success highlights the incredible power of collaboration, but now is the time to build on our momentum and continue the work that lies ahead.

When Bolton closed in 1999, the song that resonated in the hearts of many was “We’ve Only Just Begun” by The Carpenters. That sentiment feels just as relevant now. This decision is not the conclusion—it’s the beginning of a renewed commitment to ensuring a bright future for our schools and our community.

One Thing You Can Do Right Now

If you’re looking for an immediate way to help, here it is:

Go to Google, Great Schools, and Niche.com and write a review for your school.

Parents moving into the district often rely on these reviews to decide where to live. If we want to fill classrooms and grow enrollment, we need stars online. We already know these schools have so much to offer—now it’s time to tell everyone!

The Work Isn’t Over: What We Can Do in the Coming Months

Take a deep breath. Celebrate. We did it—for now. But challenges still remain: deficits persist, teachers’ jobs are at risk, and a year from now, this issue could resurface.

While we celebrate, it’s vital to stay active and alert. Here’s how we can continue to make a difference:

1. Focus on Fundraising

Small schools thrive when they are well-resourced, and community-driven efforts are key to their success. Let’s collaborate with PTAs, neighborhood associations, and other groups to organize creative and impactful fundraisers. Every dollar counts, and every effort ensures our schools have the tools and opportunities they need to excel.

2. Stay Engaged with the Budget

The next district budget will be critical. Attend meetings, ask questions, and advocate for transparency and accountability. Let’s make sure every decision prioritizes students and classrooms over administrative costs. Vigilance now can prevent hard choices later.

3. Advocate in Salem

Securing adequate funding for education extends beyond our district. Let’s take our message to Salem, working with legislators to ensure that schools across Oregon receive the resources they deserve. Organizing advocacy days is a powerful way to amplify our voices and create real change at the state level.

4. Pay Attention to the Bond

The bond will significantly impact the district’s future. By staying informed and involved, we can ensure that proposed projects and spending truly meet the needs of our students, families, and neighborhoods.

5. Follow Up with Oppenlander Park

Parks like Oppenlander are important to the fabric of our community too. They provide spaces for connection, recreation, and growth. Let’s work with local leaders to ensure these vital spaces are preserved and enhanced for generations to come.

Thank You to Everyone Who Made This Possible

This victory would not have been possible without the countless hours of dedication, support, and advocacy from so many in our community. To the neighborhood associations, city council members, Mayor [Name], PTA/PTO/PTSA members, parents, and all who stepped up to lend their voices and efforts—thank you. You’ve shown the extraordinary power of a united community, and together, we’ve proven what we can accomplish when we stand for what matters most.

This is not the end of our journey—it’s the beginning. Together, we’ve only just begun.