through radio, television, and social media, to highlight significant achievements such as high graduation rates or initiatives like the Sources of Strength mental health and suicide prevention program. Hedberg underscores Bethel School District’s efforts to be more responsive and relevant to its community. “Throughout the last couple of years, we have been intentional about focusing onwhowewant to become and how we best serve our students,” he states.“One way we measure that is through graduation rates. This year, our district-wide graduation rate was at 81%. For a frame of reference, that would compare to the year 2009 at 62%.” Hedberg discusses the importance of foundational skills, emphasizing the district’s commitment to early literacy and the development of perseverance, responsibility, and kindness from elementary through high school. One recent initiative is the Bethel Profile of a Learner, which involved engaging community partners, families, students, and staff members to explore the district’s identity and future direction. With today’s kindergarteners set to graduate in 2036, the district is envisioning what it means to be prepared with the skills required for tomorrow’s jobs. While technology will undoubtedly change, Hedberg says the focus is currently on cultivating perseverance, responsibility, and kindness in students . The application of these skills expand and adapt as students progress through their schooling experiences.“When we talk to our industry partners they say when students graduate and are ready to come to the workforce, they need people that are problem solvers, and that are creative and innovative. Those are all within the higher order skills of perseverance,” he asserts. LOOKING AHEAD Like many school districts in Oregon, Bethel School District has experienced a decline in enrollment, exacerbated by the pandemic and prolonged school closures. This trend has had financial implications since school funding is based on student enrollment. “We’ve had to think deeply about what we value,” Sproles admits. “It’s easy to invest in things when you have extra dollars. When you’re in a restricted funding climate and you have declining enrollment and declining revenue, it shows clear what you truly value.” Bethel has chosen to focus on its commitment to CTE and student success. Sproles asserts,“We are committed to having multiple pathways for students to demonstrate their brilliance.” He notes the value of preparing students for fouryear universities while recognizing the importance of other paths.“We’re creating people who are going to navigate this complex world with flexibility, with a lot of compassion, with a lot of kindness and a lot of creativity,” he portrays.“So, we are making that switch 360 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 05, ISSUE 07
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