Dec. 5, 2022 — When the Mapleton School Board met for its regular November meeting, its most significant business was the introduction of a new middle and high school principal, Joy O’Renick. She joined the district at the beginning of this school year. O’Renick will co-principal with Superintendent Sue Wilson while Brenda Moyer will be principle at the elementary school.

O’Renick joined the meeting via video and introduced herself to the board.

“Thank you for letting me come to Mapleton,” the new principal said. “It’s been such a great experience so far and I’m really excited to become more and more a part of the community.”

Look for a full introduction to O’Renick in a future edition of the Siuslaw News.

On Nov. 16, as is the case each meeting, the student representative to the board, Caleb Lewis, prepared a report on the goings on at the high school. He could not attend, as he was at basketball practice, but the board was most interested in his report on Mapleton High’s popular yearbook class. His report explained that this year, the yearbook would include all students in the Mapleton School District, grades preschool to 12.

“Our yearbook class has been working on making sure all grades are represented and that the yearbook shows off our wonderful Mapleton community,” wrote Lewis.

His report was read by Mapleton Superintendent Sue Wilson.

The board also discussed the Nov. 14 Ruby Bridges Walk to School, that was organized by Mapleton teacher and coach Vanessa Clemons. The board was unanimous in its approval of the event.

“It was fun to see the community come out together and to see the kids learn about Ruby Bridges throughout the week,” said Wilson.

Late in the meeting, Wilson mentioned that the district is still searching for an assistant boys basketball coach. Though the season has already started. the paid position is open until filled. Those that are interested should contact Athletic Director Carrie Dean at [email protected].

The final significant order of business was the required annual review of the Mapleton’s Student Investment Account. This is funding for schools to help build equity and serve all students. Wilson explained that she is required to provide an annual update on what the account is used for throughout the district.

To view the full annual report, go to, www.mapleton.k12.or.us/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/SIA-21_22-Annual-Report.pdf.

The Mapleton School Board meets on the third Wednesday of each month at 6 p.m. at Mapleton High School. To view the November meeting in full go to youtu.be/qFdGKWQQnhw.