Cascade School District

Enjoy the last newsletter of the school year! We will be back in September.

CSD Newsletter—June 12, 2026 Cascade Weekly Newsletter Highlights and News from Cascade School District June 12, 2026 Last News...

It's our staff that makes the Cascade Difference! We want to highlight the following staff members for Recognition during the third trimester:

LINDA BRYAN (Cascade Opportunity Center, Classified)

We want to express our sincere appreciation for Linda’s incredible dedication to the Adult Transition Program (ATP). She has done a phenomenal job equipping her students with essential kitchen safety and cooking skills, and the delicious Friday breakfasts they prepare together have truly become a highlight of the week for our staff. Linda’s impact extends well beyond the kitchen. She has successfully brought ATP and OC students together to grow beautiful flower baskets for the community and develop our school garden. She has helped deepen a sense of community among staff and students from all programs across the Opportunity Center.

HANNAH HAWKINS (Cloverdale Elementary, Certified)

We are beyond thrilled to celebrate our amazing PE teacher, Hannah Hawkins! She constantly goes above and beyond to ensure that gym class is fun, welcoming, and an active experience for every single student. From organizing our rock star participation in the Salem Kids Relay to putting together absolute masterpieces for Field Day, her dedication to our kids is unmatched. We absolutely love her infectious energy and boundless enthusiasm. Thank you for everything you do to keep our school moving, smiling, and thriving!

LISA CRAWFORD (Aumsville Elementary, Classified)

For years, Lisa has been the heart and soul of our school’s reading program, bringing an unparalleled expertise and a reputation that is entirely above reproach. She doesn’t just teach children how to read; she has gifted generations of students with a lifelong love for stories and learning. Her wisdom and dedication set the standard for our entire team. As she enters retirement, she leaves behind a legendary legacy of literacy and lives forever changed.

KATIE ELSASSER (Aumsville Elementary, Certified)

It takes a truly special educator to turn a third-grade classroom into a place where magic happens every day. Mrs. Elsasser’s instruction is nothing short of spectacular. She effortlessly turns complex new concepts into joyful moments. Beyond the brilliant lessons, she has a fantastic classroom culture. Her classroom is a warm, inclusive space where every student feels safe to take risks, learn from mistakes, and celebrate one another. Her positive impact will stay with her students for a lifetime!

SAVANNA WILCOX (Turner Elementary, Classified)

Savanna embraces every aspect of her role as a first rate instructional assistant. Not only does she perform her tasks expertly, from teaching RTI groups to working in classrooms, but she also organized events, such as Turner Tie-Dye. She possesses a positive attitude that spreads to anyone fortunate enough to be in her presence.

RACHEL CROFF (Turner Elementary, Certified)

Rachel is an expert instructor who consistently uses effective instructional strategies to propel learning forward. Her students make magnificent growth, while fostering a love of learning in a supportive environment. She is full of positive gratitude, which radiates warmth and is welcomed and appreciated.

EMILY NUNEZ (Jr. High, Classified)

Emily is our first year registrar. She has been a great addition to the team. She has a positive, professional attitude and is easy to work with. She was willing to fill in at the main office while one of our Administrative Assistants was out. We are lucky to have her!!

EMILY BUCZYNSKI (Jr. High, Certified)

Emily is amazing! She is our yearbook teacher, AVID, 8th grade health, and 6th grade PE. She does a little bit of everything – always with a smile on her face. This year she looked into a career/tech school for our AVID class which was a great, new opportunity for our AVID students. She is a great person to have at the Junior High!!

TINA CHRISTENSEN (High School, Classified)

Tina is the rock of the high school! She knows everything, and does everything. She puts on our outstanding graduation and senior events. She is literally irreplaceable!

CRISTINA WILLIAMS (High School, Certified)

Cristina serves in our counseling office and does it all! She works tremendously with our seniors to support and guide them through to graduation. The Class of 2026 will have a tremendously high graduation rate because of her assistance! She is so important to our school!

AND THAT'S A WRAP!!

Have a great summer, Cascade!

It's the last day of school, and perfect weather for field day!

They are having so much fun at Aumsville Elementary, Cloverdale Elementary, and Turner Elementary!

Wednesday night was the 8th grade promotion ceremony for Cascade Junior High School!

Students were recognized for academic achievements, clubs and activities, and athletics. Staff and parents and grandparents loved the chance to honor these students!

Family BBQ and Picnic night at Cloverdale Elementary!

Jump houses, kickball, hot dogs, and fun together for the end of the year.

When school is not in session, Summer Meal Programs can help fill the nutrition gap children may face without access to school meals. Summer Meal Programs include the Summer Food Service Program (SFSP) and the Seamless Summer Option (SSO). Children and teens between the ages of 1 and 18 are eligible to receive meals at no charge under both of these programs.

Use this link to find a summer meal site near you:

https://www.fns.usda.gov/sfsp/sitefinder

The class of 2038 (!?!?!), this year’s kindergarten class, are moving on to first grade!

Congrats to Aumsville Elementary, Cloverdale Elementary, and Turner Elementary kindergartners!

Last week the 7th and 8th grade choir spent a day celebrating their hard work at Oaks Park. They rode rides, played games and enjoyed the sun.

This group worked very hard this year and deserved a day of fun! Catch them perform one last time at 8th grade promotion at Cascade Junior High School on Wednesday night.

Potatoes? As historical figures and pop stars and sports heroes? Yes indeed!

Fourth graders at Aumsville Elementary researched and learned about people they chose, and then represented them using...potatoes!

Parents, Grandparents, and staff members came today to learn from the students.