Back to School

Welcome Back Eagles!

McKenzie Families,

I hope you had a wonderful summer and found some time to relax and recharge.

We’re so excited to welcome you back for the 2025–26 school year.

This year is full of opportunities to learn, grow, and connect. Whether you’re stepping onto campus for the very first time, moving up to a new grade, or returning for your senior year, we’ll be cheering you on every step of the way.

To kick things off, we’re hosting a Meet the Teacher Night on Thursday, August 28, from 4:30–6:00 p.m. We’d love to see you there.

During Meet the Teacher Night, seniors and their parents are invited to the ASPIRE Kickoff Meeting with Corey Christensen and Lacey Joy in Room 3 of the high school from 5:00–6:00 p.m. This session will cover important post–high school planning, including FAFSA, OSAC, college applications, scholarships, and what to expect throughout the year.

Reminder: There will be no early release on Thursdays and no school on Fridays. All K–12 students will attend school Monday through Thursday from 8:00 a.m. to 3:55 p.m.

New Cell Phone & Device Policy

To support student focus, safety, and learning, McKenzie River Community School has adopted a new cell phone and personal device policy in compliance with Oregon Executive Order No. 25-09.

Cell phones must remain put away and out of sight during the school day, from the first bell until dismissal.
Students may bring laptops or tablets for approved academic use under staff direction, but personal use of devices during class time is not allowed.
Smart watches are permitted only if they are not a distraction.
Headphones/earbuds may only be used with staff approval for academic purposes.

If families need to reach a student during the school day, please call the school office, and messages will be relayed. Thank you for supporting a focused, distraction-free learning environment for all students!

Executive Order No. 25-09

Sports Physical Reminder

Families of student-athletes, please remember that middle and high school students must have an up-to-date physical to participate in sports. These expire every two years.

You’ll find more important details and key dates listed below.

See you soon,

Lane Tompkins

Superintendent

Consent for On-Site Dental Hygiene Services

Advantage Dental is partnering with McKenzie Elementary School to help keep our students healthy and cavity-free!

Licensed dental hygienists from Advantage Dental will be on campus throughout the school year to offer preventive dental services to students.

These services are a great supplement but not a substitute for regular visits to the dentist.

To participate, please scan the QR code below to complete the required consent form.

Thank you for helping us support student health!

Scan this code for the consent form

McKenzie Elementary School

Scan this code for McKenzie High School

Introducing UpRiver Online

McKenzie School District is excited to announce the launch of UpRiver ONLINE, a new K–12 charter school program now enrolling for the 2025–2026 school year.

UpRiver ONLINE is designed for Oregon families seeking a flexible and personalized learning option.

This program strives to provide students with the freedom to learn from anywhere while staying connected to a supportive school community.

Program highlights:

• Open to all K–12 students in Oregon

• Individualized learning plans tailored to each student

• Certified teachers and dedicated staff support

• Curriculum and technology allotments available

• Opportunities for outdoor education and hands-on learning

• Strong connection to the McKenzie River area and community

UpRiver ONLINE gives students the tools to succeed in a setting that fits your family’s lifestyle and learning goals.

To learn more, visit mckenziesd.org or contact upriverinfo@mckenziesd.org