April 21, 2022

Dear Families,

            I just am amazed at how fast the school year is going! It is so much fun to be in school and surrounded by the caring students you send to us each day. I am impressed with how kind students are to their classmates and how hard everyone is working to make sure students are learning as much as they possibly can!

            In the winter, caregivers and students in grade 3-5 took a survey to provide us with valuable feedback. This feedback allows us to see how we can improve and what areas we are doing well in. I created a slideshow for you to view summarizing some of this feedback. Feel free to watch this when you have a moment.

            It is nice to be in the season of spring. Some of our fifth graders are on a field trip today to Zenger Farms and we have other grade levels planning trips to OMSI and the Oregon Zoo! Spring also is a time for blooming and changes. Our school garden is beginning to come to life. Tonight, new kindergartners will visit the school, participate in fun activities and see the classrooms. 

            Another change that is happening at Menlo Park is we are getting a new mascot. This will be revealed on June 9^th. We plan to have a family picnic on that evening. Tonight, I have invited our new Principal, Sarah Phillips, to attend our Connect to Kindergarten event. Ms. Phillips will officially begin on July 1^st, 2022, but will be working alongside me in events and planning often over the next couple of months. Many of you know that I have decided to retire on June 30^th, 2022. I am looking forward the new chapter of my life as well, but do know I will miss the Menlo Park Community. It feels good knowing you will be in good hands.

            Let’s end the school year strong by having good attendance, staying healthy and enjoying each day of learning at Menlo Park!!

Fondly,

Kellie Burkhardt, Principal