From the Director

Greetings Madrone Trail Families,

Last weekend my partner and I hiked to Ramona Falls on Mt. Hood. There was a moment when I stood at the bottom of the falls and looked upward, the cold mountain water splashing over the prehistoric rock formations, becoming a mist covering my face and cleansing my soul. The giant falls cascades over ancient basalt, forming honeycomb shaped patterns, chaotic and symmetrical. The sounds from the falls echo in many directions, an overwhelming, rhythmic and glorious encounter. It was an intense moment of connecting with nature that was inspiring, powerful and deep. As we walked down the mountain in silence I reflected upon many things including our presence together at Madrone Trail. I wondered if intentionally leaving my phone behind in the car, in order to have nothing more than an organic experience on this hike, was a result of our time together. There was also a moment when I profoundly felt what an honor and great responsibility it is that you have entrusted us with your children; that you’ve given us the gift of protecting them, and guiding them on their development as spiritual beings. It is no small charge and one that is an incredible blessing. Thank you.

In other news, I am pleased to announce that Kelli Richardson is excited to join the rising 4th grade students next year as their teacher. Mrs. Richardson has had an amazing year with her 8th grade students, and is really looking forward to taking this next class through the grades. I hope to have other hiring updates to share next week. Our part-time woodworking and gardening positions are now posted, please feel free to make those recommendations and referrals!

As always, if you ever have any questions or concerns, or would just like to say hello, please call or stop by any time. 

With gratitude,

Andy Bracco

Director

andy.bracco@madronetrail.org

Re-enrollment Form--DUE NEXT WEEK

Thank you to all the families that have filled out the form already. We have heard from 153 students so far. If you haven't already, please fill out the Re-enrollment form. We need to hear from every student if they are returning or not for the 2024-2025 school year. The form is due by Friday, May 31.

Kitchen Update

NEW! Farm-To-School Committee

Calling all farmers, gardeners, herbalists, food producers, and food justice and sustainability enthusiasts! A group of parents and staff members have established a new committee to lay the groundwork for the establishment of an on-campus farm-to-school program to support our gardening curriculum and tie into the school lunch program. If this speaks to you, we will be busy this summer with projects around campus and starting groundwork for a bigger long-term vision. If you would like to help lead the way or just get your hands dirty with some projects, we would love to have you!

Adopt-A-Veggie

One of our first initiatives is our “Adopt-A-Veggie” program. We have received veggie start donations from Fry Family Farm and Ashland Greenhouses. If you and your students have some extra garden space and would like to care for a veggie this summer, whatever you harvest at the end of summer or in the fall will be used in the school lunch program with your student as one of our featured farmers!

Contact Chef Evan (evan.wilson@madronetrail.org) if interested in either opportunity.

Breakfast & Lunch Program Updates

Last Chance: RSVP by Monday for our Taste Test & Nutrition Q&A Event on May 31st

Join us for an exciting taste testing event and nutrition Q&A session for students, parents and faculty on Friday, May 31st starting at 3:15 pm! Chef Evan and friends will be sampling recipe ideas and accepting feedback for next fall’s menu, followed by a Q&A session to share information about school nutrition requirements, address frequently asked questions, and provide the opportunity for a community discussion about our meal program.

Menu

Biscuits & Sausage Gravy

Chana Masala (vegan, GF)

Beef Kafta (DF) & Falafel (vegan, DF)

w/ Hummus & Tomato-Cucumber Salad

Creamy Acorn Squash Penne Pasta 

w/ Italian Sausage

Port Orford Tuna Melt

Peruvian Quinoa Salad (vegan, DF)

Click here to RSVP (required to attend). We hope to see you there!

Helpers Needed for the Taste Test Event on Friday, May 31

We need a few folks to help serve (arrival time 2:30 if possible) as well as one person to help check people in (arrival time 3 pm).

Contact Chef Evan (evan.wilson@madronetrail.org)

2024-2025 School Calendar

Important dates to note:

• First Day of School: August 26
• Winter Break: December 23-January 3
• Spring Break: March 24-April 4
• Last Day of School: June 5

You can also find a copy of the calendar on the website here.

Sprouts Program 2024-2025

We still have openings for the 2024-2025 Sprouts Preschool Program. Interested families who have not yet filled out the Sprouts Preschool Program Interest Form should fill out the form to get on the list. Once you have submitted the form, the program manager will send further details about the program, teacher bios, cost, etc., for your review so you can make the best decision for your family. Applications will be sent out to families who have submitted their form.

Your child must meet the following criteria to be eligible to apply:

1. Child must be 4 years of age by June 1st, 2024 to be considered for the 24-25 school year. 

2. Child must be potty trained.

3. Child must be able to be away from parents for at least a four hour period.

4. Note: Enrollment into the Sprouts program does not guarantee a spot in Kindergarten

For further questions, please contact the program manager: office@madronetrail.org

Community Offerings

Quote of the Day

Handlettered by Ms. Cori

MADRONE TRAIL PUBLIC CHARTER SCHOOL

www.madronetrail.org

Madrone Trail Public Charter School does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, marital status, sexual orientation, religion, disability, or age in its programs and activities.