6th & 7th Grade Parent Volunteers Still Needed - 8th Grade Promotion - June 12

We still need a few volunteers to help support our 8th grade ceremony to celebrate them as they move on to high school! Here is the link to sign up for the remaining spots on Konstella. Thanks for your support!

Get Involved with the 2025–26 PTA!

The new 2025–26 PTA Board is excited to get started and will soon be seeking volunteers and committee chairs for the upcoming school year. There are many ways to get involved and make a difference in our school community—we’d love to have you on board!

Keep an eye on Konstella for updates and opportunities to sign up. More details coming soon!

PPS Bond update We received an update from the Cleveland Design Advisory Group on bus transportation to the Marshall campus as part of the CHS remodel. Transportation to Marshall will be provided by TriMet as opposed to yellow school buses. TriMet will look at options such as increasing frequency of existing lines, tweaking existing routes, and / or potentially adding new route(s) to support. Updates will continue to come through PPS as the project progresses. Thank you!

Join the PTA

Please join the PTA and contribute your voice to the conversation on making this a great school year for our kids and SMS community. Here is the link to join!

www.schoolpay.com/link/sellwoodpta

 

Join Konstella

The PTA uses the Konstella app to keep the parent community up to date with scheduled events, the school calendar, volunteer sign ups and PTA announcements. Here is the link to join!

 

https://www.konstella.com/cd/AXC2Z9

Thursday, June 12th, 8th Grade Promotion

Sellwood Field, 10:30-11:45 am

Please join in celebration of our Sellwood Middle School 8th grade class with a promotion ceremony at the Sellwood Middle School Field. We will have student speakers, our amazing Sellwood Middle School band and choir performing, with a photo booth and light refreshments for families and graduates.

Please keep in mind that the ceremony is outdoors and on the field. While we set up chairs for our 200 8th-graders, we ask that family members bring concert chairs to sit on. You do not need to request tickets, and we invite all to come.

Thank you to Sellwood PTA for sponsoring this event! If you know parents of 7th-graders (or 6th) who would like to volunteer, please advise them to keep an eye on Konstella for sign-ups. It is our practice to ask parents of 7th graders to volunteer, so that parents of 8th-graders can just relax and enjoy the ceremony.

 

Promotion information for siblings:

The entire school will participate in a celebration Clap-Out for our promoting 8th graders at 10:00 AM on Thursday. This will be the opportunity for 6th & 7th graders to say goodbye to friends before they head into their own assembly to celebrate their own promotion to the next grade level.

If you have a sibling who would like to watch the 8th-grade promotion ceremony with you, please check them out at the office after the clap-out (10:15 or so).

 

We look forward to seeing you there!

Oaks Park Amusement Park Field Trip

Oaks park heat:

It will be HOT on Monday and Tuesday for the trips to Oaks Park. (94 degrees on Monday and 88 degrees on Tuesday) We will be walking to and from the park, so please be sure that your students:

 

• have a water bottle
• wear sunscreen
• wear light clothing (black absorbs heat)
• wear walking shoes
• bring a hat with a brim

 

Here are the details of the field trip.

· When:

· 8th graders - Monday, June 9th, 2025, 9:30am – 2:30pm

· 6th/7th graders – Tuesday, June 10th, 2025, 9:30am – 2:30pm

· Transportation: We will be walking both to and from the park. Make sure to wear comfortable shoes! All students will return to Sellwood for school dismissal; no exceptions.

 

· Lunch: Students may: 1. Bring a sack lunch, 2. Request a Sellwood sack lunch, or 3. purchase lunch at OAKS Park. Please note that there can be very long lines and waits for purchasing food at the park. Also, Oaks Park is now only accepting credit, debit, prepaid cards, and mobile pay for onsite payments. From Oaks Park's website: Cash guests, please visit one of our ReadyCard reverse ATMs to load your cash to a prepaid card valid anywhere in the U.S. that accepts Mastercard.

Sellwood has reserved a Picnic Area (students can leave their lunch here during the day). We highly recommend options 1 or 2 for lunch.

· Other Costs: Students can bring a prepaid card (referred to above) for snacks, games. etc.

· Expectations: In order to make sure this experience is safe and enjoyable for everyone, students attending Oaks Park are expected to be on their best behavior and must be responsive to adult direction. We are also expecting that as we come closer to the end of the year, students will continue to meet behavior expectations while at school.

 

· If a student were to receive a serious stage 2-3 referral, between now and the end of the year, that student may not be allowed to attend Oaks Park. Examples of incidents that may merit exclusion from the Oaks Park field trip: fighting, serious disruptive conduct, violation of the PPS drug/alcohol policy, bullying and harassment, physical attack/harm, property damage, etc.

June kicks off the beginning of LGBTQIA+ Pride Month, a time to celebrate love, inclusivity, and the vibrant diversity of our community. In Portland, families and students can participate in various events that honor and support the LGBTQIA+ community. Our own Gay Straight Alliance (GSA) club had a very popular Pride (temporary) Tattoo table at the Sellwood Showcase last night! PDX Parents lists a whole host of events happening in our area including the Indigenous Marketplaces Celebrating Pride tomorrow, Saturday June 7th at two locations! Later in the month (OMSI), will hold their 5th annual PRIDE at the Museum event on Friday, June 20th. Which you can lead right into the always popular Portland Pride Parade & Festival on Saturday, June 21, featuring live music, food, and community activities. Participating in these events not only shows support but also fosters understanding and inclusivity within our community.

Dear PPS Middle Grades families,

PPS is moving to a new Standards-Based Grading System for all 28 middle schools. The purpose is to provide clearer and more meaningful feedback to students. Some of our middle schools are already using this approach, and research supports its benefits. Our K-5 schools have also made progress in this direction with their report cards.

We invite you to visit our middle grades Standards-Based Grading website at pps.net/sbg. There, you can find updates, resources, timelines, materials, and FAQs.

For more information about Standards Based Grading, please review the slide deck linked here.

Standards-Based Grading @PPS Middle Schools

We believe grades are an important way to communicate with students and families. This new system will make it clearer what students need to do to meet academic expectations.

 

If you have any questions, please contact Richard Smith at rsmith5@pps.net. Check the website often for updates. We look forward to working with you during this exciting transition.

Information and Family Supports

 

• This FAQ answers many questions about the steps Portland Public Schools will be taking to safeguard staff and students going forward.

• The Immigrant Legal Resource Center Little Red Card This card is meant to help people assert their rights and defend themselves in many situations. These can be printed out and carried on your person.

• Know Your Rights for Families/Students (Oregon ACLU)

• Immigrant Rights Resources One Pager

The best way to reach us is by email.

Willa Grund is our new school secretary. wgrund@pps.net

Claire Howard (choward1@pps.net) is our principal’s secretary.

Our Sellwood website (pps.net/sellwood) has many “Quick Links” to help you immediately.

The Office Phone Number

The office phone number is 503-916-5656.

When prompted

press 4 for Willa Grund (“Records/Registration”).

press 3 for Claire (Principal’s Secretary).

press 2 for any “Attendance” matter. It’s a designated line just for attendance.

press 5 for Records, Registration.

press 0 for the front counter – answered by students; not a confidential line.

Secured Building

Sellwood is a locked and secure building.

Please ring the doorbell to the right of the main doors to reach the office. We will guide you accordingly.

Picking up your student during the day:

While we understand it is sometimes necessary to pick up your child from school, please try to limit your student’s daytime appointments. If necessary, please ring the bell at the main door and expect to wait while your child is located.

Guides to Help you:

To correct your student’s attendance: Log into ParentVue.

For changes to your student's registration profile in Synergy: ParentVue/StudentVue

Quick Links found on Sellwood’s website (pps.net/sellwood)

Please email wgrund@pps.net for:

Passwords: If you have forgotten your password, have been locked out of your account, or do not have login credentials.

Registration, Enrollment.

ParentVue (if your account has been disabled).

Please email Claire (choward1@pps.net) for:

School Pay.

Bookkeeping/accounting issues.

Administrative Support: Messages or matters of support to the principal or assistant principal.

June 9: 8th Grade Oaks Park Field Trip

June 10: 6th/7th Grade Oaks Park Field Trip

June 12: 8th Grade Promotion - 10:30-11:45 AM

June 12: Last Day of School - Half-day - School Ends 12:30 PM

Link to PPS Calendar for 2025 - 2026

August 26: First Day for 6th-graders - Jump Start Orientation

August 27: First Day for 7th & 8th-graders

6th & 7th Grade Parent Volunteers Still Needed - 8th Grade Promotion - June 12

We still need a few volunteers to help support our 8th grade ceremony to celebrate them as they move on to high school! Here is the link to sign up for the remaining spots on Konstella. Thanks for your support!

Get Involved with the 2025–26 PTA!

The new 2025–26 PTA Board is excited to get started and will soon be seeking volunteers and committee chairs for the upcoming school year. There are many ways to get involved and make a difference in our school community—we’d love to have you on board!

Keep an eye on Konstella for updates and opportunities to sign up. More details coming soon!

PPS Bond update We received an update from the Cleveland Design Advisory Group on bus transportation to the Marshall campus as part of the CHS remodel. Transportation to Marshall will be provided by TriMet as opposed to yellow school buses. TriMet will look at options such as increasing frequency of existing lines, tweaking existing routes, and / or potentially adding new route(s) to support. Updates will continue to come through PPS as the project progresses. Thank you!

Join the PTA

Please join the PTA and contribute your voice to the conversation on making this a great school year for our kids and SMS community. Here is the link to join!

www.schoolpay.com/link/sellwoodpta

 

Join Konstella

The PTA uses the Konstella app to keep the parent community up to date with scheduled events, the school calendar, volunteer sign ups and PTA announcements. Here is the link to join!

 

https://www.konstella.com/cd/AXC2Z9

All student library books are due by Monday, June 2. We always welcome overdue books, so no need to do anything special if books are late. Just put them in the book return so they get properly checked in.

 

If you think a book is lost, please talk to me before paying. And, please, do not purchase replacements. Thanks in advance, Sellwood families!

 

Warmly,

Ms. Tini

Thursday, June 12th, 8th Grade Promotion

Sellwood Field, 10:30-11:45 am

Please join in celebration of our Sellwood Middle School 8th grade class with a promotion ceremony at the Sellwood Middle School Field. We will have student speakers, our amazing Sellwood Middle School band performing, with a photo booth and light refreshments for families and graduates.

Please keep in mind that the ceremony is outdoors and on the field. While we set up chairs for our 200 8th-graders, we ask that family members bring concert chairs to sit on. You do not need to request tickets, and we invite all to come. However, in the case of rainy weather, we may have to hold the ceremony in the gym. We will give families notice of an indoor ceremony one week in advance, when we review the weather forecast. In the event of an indoor ceremony, we ask that families try to limit the size of their group so that we can all fit in the gym.

Thank you to Sellwood PTA for sponsoring this event! If you know parents of 7th-graders (or 6th) who would like to volunteer, please advise them to keep an eye on Konstella for future sign-ups. It is our practice to ask parents of 7th graders to volunteer, so that parents of 8th-graders can just relax and enjoy the ceremony.

 

We look forward to seeing you there!

Is your student experiencing the Spring Learning Slump? We’re down to 13 more school days and at Sellwood we are committed to continue to be learning down to the last day of school. We know that as the weather is nicer, the days are longer and summer seems right around the corner that our students face a lot more distractions that can make it hard to stay focused. This article provides 6 very concrete tips that families can use to help their students avoid the Spring Slump and really utilize these final weeks to set themselves up for success next year!

Oaks Park Amusement Park Field Trip

All students received the Oaks Park permission form for you to sign and return. The permission slips and $18.00 payment should have already been received.

 

Here are the details of the field trip.

· When:

· 8th graders - Monday, June 9th, 2025, 9:30am – 2:30pm

· 6th/7th graders – Tuesday, June 10th, 2025, 9:30am – 2:30pm

· Transportation: We will be walking both to and from the park. Make sure to wear comfortable shoes! All students will return to Sellwood for school dismissal; no exceptions.

 

· Lunch: Students may: 1. Bring a sack lunch, 2. Request a Sellwood sack lunch, or 3. purchase lunch at OAKS Park. Please note that there can be very long lines and waits for purchasing food at the park. Also, Oaks Park is now only accepting credit, debit, prepaid cards, and mobile pay for onsite payments. From Oaks Park's website: Cash guests, please visit one of our ReadyCard reverse ATMs to load your cash to a prepaid card valid anywhere in the U.S. that accepts Mastercard.

Sellwood has reserved a Picnic Area (students can leave their lunch here during the day). We highly recommend options 1 or 2 for lunch.

· Other Costs: Students can bring a prepaid card (referred to above) for snacks, games. etc.

· Due Date for Permission Slips and Payment: Thursday, May 22nd.

· Expectations: In order to make sure this experience is safe and enjoyable for everyone, students attending Oaks Park are expected to be on their best behavior and must be responsive to adult direction. We are also expecting that as we come closer to the end of the year, students will continue to meet behavior expectations while at school.

 

· If a student were to receive a serious stage 2-3 referral, between now and the end of the year, that student may not be allowed to attend Oaks Park. Examples of incidents that may merit exclusion from the Oaks Park field trip: fighting, serious disruptive conduct, violation of the PPS drug/alcohol policy, bullying and harassment, physical attack/harm, property damage, etc.

If you are interested in chaperoning, please provide that information on the permission slip and email Matthew Mortensen (mmortensen@pps.net) and get put on the list. Here is the link to the District Volunteer Background Check Form. https://www.pps.net/volunteer Approval as a volunteer is good for 3 years and they will let you know if you don't need to fill it out again.

Dear PPS Middle Grades families,

PPS is moving to a new Standards-Based Grading System for all 28 middle schools. The purpose is to provide clearer and more meaningful feedback to students. Some of our middle schools are already using this approach, and research supports its benefits. Our K-5 schools have also made progress in this direction with their report cards.

We invite you to visit our middle grades Standards-Based Grading website at pps.net/sbg. There, you can find updates, resources, timelines, materials, and FAQs.

For more information about Standards Based Grading, please review the slide deck linked here.

Standards-Based Grading @PPS Middle Schools

We believe grades are an important way to communicate with students and families. This new system will make it clearer what students need to do to meet academic expectations.

 

If you have any questions, please contact Richard Smith at rsmith5@pps.net. Check the website often for updates. We look forward to working with you during this exciting transition.

Information and Family Supports

 

• This FAQ answers many questions about the steps Portland Public Schools will be taking to safeguard staff and students going forward.

• The Immigrant Legal Resource Center Little Red Card This card is meant to help people assert their rights and defend themselves in many situations. These can be printed out and carried on your person.

• Know Your Rights for Families/Students (Oregon ACLU)

• Immigrant Rights Resources One Pager

The best way to reach us is by email.

Willa Grund is our new school secretary. wgrund@pps.net

Claire Howard (choward1@pps.net) is our principal’s secretary.

Our Sellwood website (pps.net/sellwood) has many “Quick Links” to help you immediately.

The Office Phone Number

The office phone number is 503-916-5656.

When prompted

press 4 for Willa Grund (“Records/Registration”).

press 3 for Claire (Principal’s Secretary).

press 2 for any “Attendance” matter. It’s a designated line just for attendance.

press 5 for Records, Registration.

press 0 for the front counter – answered by students; not a confidential line.

Secured Building

Sellwood is a locked and secure building.

Please ring the doorbell to the right of the main doors to reach the office. We will guide you accordingly.

Picking up your student during the day:

While we understand it is sometimes necessary to pick up your child from school, please try to limit your student’s daytime appointments. If necessary, please ring the bell at the main door and expect to wait while your child is located.

Guides to Help you:

To correct your student’s attendance: Log into ParentVue.

For changes to your student's registration profile in Synergy: ParentVue/StudentVue

Quick Links found on Sellwood’s website (pps.net/sellwood)

Please email wgrund@pps.net for:

Passwords: If you have forgotten your password, have been locked out of your account, or do not have login credentials.

Registration, Enrollment.

ParentVue (if your account has been disabled).

Please email Claire (choward1@pps.net) for:

School Pay.

Bookkeeping/accounting issues.

Administrative Support: Messages or matters of support to the principal or assistant principal.

June 3: 15 Minute Late Start - Staff Meeting Day

June 5: Sellwood Showcase Night - 5:30 to 7:30 PM

June 9: 8th Grade Oaks Park Field Trip

June 10: 6th/7th Grade Oaks Park Field Trip

June 12: 8th Grade Promotion - 10:30-11:45 AM

June 12: Last Day of School - Half-day - School Ends 12:30 PM

Link to PPS Calendar for 2024 - 2025

Thank You for Joining Us at Trivia Night!

A heartfelt thank you to everyone who came out to our PTA Trivia Night—especially our incoming 6th grade parents! Your enthusiasm, laughter, and community spirit made the evening truly special. We loved seeing everyone mix, mingle, and show off some serious trivia skills. Here's to more fun nights ahead—thank you for being part of it!

Great News: The PPS Bond Has Passed!

We’re thrilled that the new PPS Bond has officially passed—thank you to everyone in our community who supported this vital investment in our schools!

As part of the bond, Cleveland High School will be rebuilt with state-of-the-art facilities, offering a vastly improved learning environment for future students. The earliest ground could be broken is the 2026–2027 school year. In preparation, the 2025–2026 school year will be dedicated to readying the Marshall campus, which will serve as Cleveland’s temporary home during construction.

To manage costs wisely, PPS plans to take a three-year approach to the rebuild, helping save on overtime expenses. Bus transportation will be provided from Cleveland neighborhoods to Marshall, and planning is underway to determine convenient pickup locations.

To help students and families get acquainted with Marshall, tours and community activities will be planned throughout next year. We’re excited for you to experience the upgraded facilities—significantly better than what we have today at Cleveland—and to build excitement for what’s ahead.

This is a big step forward, and we’re so grateful to be on this journey with all of you!

Volunteers Still Needed - 8th Grade Promotion - June 12

Dear Fabulous 6th & 7th Grade Parents,

It's that special time of year again! Our 8th graders are about to spread their wings and fly off to high school, and we want to make their promotion ceremony UNFORGETTABLE!

But here's the deal... we need YOUR help so our 8th grade parents can actually sit back, relax, and enjoy watching their kiddos shine! (They've earned it after surviving middle school, am I right?!)

We still need volunteers to help hand out diplomas and clean up after the ceremony. Here is the link to sign up for the remaining spots on Konstella. Thanks for your support!

Get Involved with the 2025–26 PTA

The new 2025–26 PTA Board is excited to get started and will soon be seeking volunteers and committee chairs for the upcoming school year. There are many ways to get involved and make a difference in our school community—we’d love to have you on board!

Keep an eye on Konstella for updates and opportunities to sign up. More details coming soon!

Join the PTA

Please join the PTA and contribute your voice to the conversation on making this a great school year for our kids and SMS community. Here is the link to join!

www.schoolpay.com/link/sellwoodpta

 

Join Konstella

The PTA uses the Konstella app to keep the parent community up to date with scheduled events, the school calendar, volunteer sign ups and PTA announcements. Here is the link to join!

https://www.konstella.com/cd/AXC2Z9

All student library books are due by Monday, June 2. We always welcome overdue books, so no need to do anything special if books are late. Just put them in the book return so they get properly checked in.

 

If you think a book is lost, please talk to me before paying. And, please, do not purchase replacements. Thanks in advance, Sellwood families!

 

Warmly,

Ms. Tini

Thursday, June 12th, 8th Grade Promotion

Sellwood Field, 10:30-11:45 am

Please join in celebration of our Sellwood Middle School 8th grade class with a promotion ceremony at the Sellwood Middle School Field. We will have student speakers, our amazing Sellwood Middle School band performing, with a photo booth and light refreshments for families and graduates.

Please keep in mind that the ceremony is outdoors and on the field. While we set up chairs for our 200 8th-graders, we ask that family members bring concert chairs to sit on. You do not need to request tickets, and we invite all to come. However, in the case of rainy weather, we may have to hold the ceremony in the gym. We will give families notice of an indoor ceremony one week in advance, when we review the weather forecast. In the event of an indoor ceremony, we ask that families try to limit the size of their group so that we can all fit in the gym.

Thank you to Sellwood PTA for sponsoring this event! If you know parents of 7th-graders (or 6th) who would like to volunteer, please advise them to keep an eye on Konstella for future sign-ups. It is our practice to ask parents of 7th graders to volunteer, so that parents of 8th-graders can just relax and enjoy the ceremony.

 

We look forward to seeing you there!

Is your student experiencing the Spring Learning Slump? We’re down to 13 more school days and at Sellwood we are committed to continue to be learning down to the last day of school. We know that as the weather is nicer, the days are longer and summer seems right around the corner that our students face a lot more distractions that can make it hard to stay focused. This article provides 6 very concrete tips that families can use to help their students avoid the Spring Slump and really utilize these final weeks to set themselves up for success next year!

Oaks Park Amusement Park Field Trip

All students received the Oaks Park permission form for you to sign and return. The permission slips and $18.00 payment should have already been received.

 

Here are the details of the field trip.

· When:

· 8th graders - Monday, June 9th, 2025, 9:30am – 2:30pm

· 6th/7th graders – Tuesday, June 10th, 2025, 9:30am – 2:30pm

· Transportation: We will be walking both to and from the park. Make sure to wear comfortable shoes! All students will return to Sellwood for school dismissal; no exceptions.

 

· Lunch: Students may: 1. Bring a sack lunch, 2. Request a Sellwood sack lunch, or 3. purchase lunch at OAKS Park. Please note that there can be very long lines and waits for purchasing food at the park. Also, Oaks Park is now only accepting credit, debit, prepaid cards, and mobile pay for onsite payments. From Oaks Park's website: Cash guests, please visit one of our ReadyCard reverse ATMs to load your cash to a prepaid card valid anywhere in the U.S. that accepts Mastercard.

Sellwood has reserved a Picnic Area (students can leave their lunch here during the day). We highly recommend options 1 or 2 for lunch.

· Other Costs: Students can bring a prepaid card (referred to above) for snacks, games. etc.

· Due Date for Permission Slips and Payment: Thursday, May 22nd.

· Expectations: In order to make sure this experience is safe and enjoyable for everyone, students attending Oaks Park are expected to be on their best behavior and must be responsive to adult direction. We are also expecting that as we come closer to the end of the year, students will continue to meet behavior expectations while at school.

 

· If a student were to receive a serious stage 2-3 referral, between now and the end of the year, that student may not be allowed to attend Oaks Park. Examples of incidents that may merit exclusion from the Oaks Park field trip: fighting, serious disruptive conduct, violation of the PPS drug/alcohol policy, bullying and harassment, physical attack/harm, property damage, etc.

If you are interested in chaperoning, please provide that information on the permission slip and email Matthew Mortensen (mmortensen@pps.net) and get put on the list. Here is the link to the District Volunteer Background Check Form. https://www.pps.net/volunteer Approval as a volunteer is good for 3 years and they will let you know if you don't need to fill it out again.

Got school Spirit? Come to the CHS Cheerleading and Mascot tryouts!

We are looking for energetic and enthusiastic cheerleaders/mascots. No experience is required to attend! All genders welcome. Tryouts are May 27 and 28. Cheer/mascot applications are available online or contact Coach Joelle at: Joalexander@pps.net with any questions.

https://forms.gle/cLcR1V1TsmBxZCiy9

The Cleveland Tenacity Dance Team is holding tryouts at the end of the month, opening to incoming freshman. See the flyer below for more details. The corresponding link for the application is: https://shorturl.at/U9htJ

Dear PPS Middle Grades families,

PPS is moving to a new Standards-Based Grading System for all 28 middle schools. The purpose is to provide clearer and more meaningful feedback to students. Some of our middle schools are already using this approach, and research supports its benefits. Our K-5 schools have also made progress in this direction with their report cards.

We invite you to visit our middle grades Standards-Based Grading website at pps.net/sbg. There, you can find updates, resources, timelines, materials, and FAQs.

For more information about Standards Based Grading, please review the slide deck linked here.

Standards-Based Grading @PPS Middle Schools

We believe grades are an important way to communicate with students and families. This new system will make it clearer what students need to do to meet academic expectations.

 

If you have any questions, please contact Richard Smith at rsmith5@pps.net. Check the website often for updates. We look forward to working with you during this exciting transition.

Information and Family Supports

 

• This FAQ answers many questions about the steps Portland Public Schools will be taking to safeguard staff and students going forward.

• The Immigrant Legal Resource Center Little Red Card This card is meant to help people assert their rights and defend themselves in many situations. These can be printed out and carried on your person.

• Know Your Rights for Families/Students (Oregon ACLU)

• Immigrant Rights Resources One Pager

The best way to reach us is by email.

Willa Grund is our new school secretary. wgrund@pps.net

Claire Howard (choward1@pps.net) is our principal’s secretary.

Our Sellwood website (pps.net/sellwood) has many “Quick Links” to help you immediately.

The Office Phone Number

The office phone number is 503-916-5656.

When prompted

press 4 for Willa Grund (“Records/Registration”).

press 3 for Claire (Principal’s Secretary).

press 2 for any “Attendance” matter. It’s a designated line just for attendance.

press 5 for Records, Registration.

press 0 for the front counter – answered by students; not a confidential line.

Secured Building

Sellwood is a locked and secure building.

Please ring the doorbell to the right of the main doors to reach the office. We will guide you accordingly.

Picking up your student during the day:

While we understand it is sometimes necessary to pick up your child from school, please try to limit your student’s daytime appointments. If necessary, please ring the bell at the main door and expect to wait while your child is located.

Guides to Help you:

To correct your student’s attendance: Log into ParentVue.

For changes to your student's registration profile in Synergy: ParentVue/StudentVue

Quick Links found on Sellwood’s website (pps.net/sellwood)

Please email wgrund@pps.net for:

Passwords: If you have forgotten your password, have been locked out of your account, or do not have login credentials.

Registration, Enrollment.

ParentVue (if your account has been disabled).

Please email Claire (choward1@pps.net) for:

School Pay.

Bookkeeping/accounting issues.

Administrative Support: Messages or matters of support to the principal or assistant principal.

May 26: Memorial Day: No School

May 28: Spring Band & Choir Concert @ Cleveland HS 7-9 PM

June 3: 15 Minute Late Start - Staff Meeting Day

June 5: Sellwood Showcase Night - 5:30 to 7:30 PM

June 9: 8th Grade Oaks Park Field Trip

June 10: 6th/7th Grade Oaks Park Field Trip

June 12: 8th Grade Promotion - 10:30-11:45 AM

June 12: Last Day of School - Half-day - School Ends 12:30 PM

Link to PPS Calendar for 2024 - 2025

Oaks Park Amusement Park Field Trip

All students have received the Oaks Park permission form for you to sign and return. If you have not submitted your child’s field trip permission form and the $18 payment, please do so right away. In case your child did not bring home or lost the permission slip, here are pdfs you can use and submit.

6th and 7th grade permission slip

8th grade permission slip

Here are the details of the field trip.

· When:

· 8th graders - Monday, June 9th, 2025, 9:30am – 2:30pm

· 6th/7th graders – Tuesday, June 10th, 2025, 9:30am – 2:30pm

· Transportation: We will be walking both to and from the park. Make sure to wear comfortable shoes! All students will return to Sellwood for school dismissal; no exceptions.

· Cost: $18.00 will include Adrenalin Peak Roller Coaster, Go-Karts, Atmosphere.

o Preferred payment on-line with School Pay. https://pps.schoolpay.com/ Here is the SchoolPay phone number for parent help. 888-886-9729.

o If this presents a financial hardship, scholarships are available. Let us know by emailing Ms. Earle hearle@pps.net or Claire Howard choward1@pps.net

· Lunch: Students may: 1. Bring a sack lunch, 2. Request a Sellwood sack lunch, or 3. purchase lunch at OAKS Park. Please note that there can be very long lines and waits for purchasing food at the park. Also, Oaks Park is now only accepting credit, debit, prepaid cards, and mobile pay for onsite payments. From Oaks Park's website: Cash guests, please visit one of our ReadyCard reverse ATMs to load your cash to a prepaid card valid anywhere in the U.S. that accepts Mastercard.

Sellwood has reserved a Picnic Area (students can leave their lunch here during the day). We highly recommend options 1 or 2 for lunch.

· Other Costs: Students can bring a prepaid card (referred to above) for snacks, games. etc.

· Due Date for Permission Slips and Payment: Thursday, May 22nd.

· Expectations: In order to make sure this experience is safe and enjoyable for everyone, students attending Oaks Park are expected to be on their best behavior and must be responsive to adult direction. We are also expecting that as we come closer to the end of the year, students will continue to meet behavior expectations while at school.

 

· If a student were to receive a serious stage 2-3 referral, between now and the end of the year, that student may not be allowed to attend Oaks Park. Examples of incidents that may merit exclusion from the Oaks Park field trip: fighting, serious disruptive conduct, violation of the PPS drug/alcohol policy, bullying and harassment, physical attack/harm, property damage, etc.

If you are interested in chaperoning, please provide that information on the permission slip and email Matthew Mortensen (mmortensen@pps.net) and get put on the list. Here is the link to the District Volunteer Background Check Form. https://www.pps.net/volunteer Approval as a volunteer is good for 3 years and they will let you know if you don't need to fill it out again.

You're Invited to Trivia Night

Join us for a fun and friendly evening of trivia, laughter, and community spirit—brought to you by the PTA! We especially welcome 5th grade parents and our amazing middle school teachers and staff to come mix, mingle, and show off your trivia skills. The first drink's on us!

Thursday, May 22
6:00–8:00 PM (Trivia kicks off at 6:30)
Eastmoreland Golf Course

Come for the camaraderie, stay for the trivia—see you there!

Volunteers Still Needed - 8th Grade Promotion - June 12

Dear Fabulous 6th & 7th Grade Parents,

It's that special time of year again! Our 8th graders are about to spread their wings and fly off to high school, and we want to make their promotion ceremony UNFORGETTABLE!

But here's the deal... we need YOUR help so our 8th grade parents can actually sit back, relax, and enjoy watching their kiddos shine! (They've earned it after surviving middle school, am I right?!)

We still need volunteers to help hand out diplomas and clean up after the ceremony. Here is the link to sign up for the remaining spots on Konstella. Thanks for your support!

2025-26 PTA Board Update

Congratulations to our new PTA Board for the 2025-26 school year, which was approved at the May general meeting last night. We are very grateful for their willingness to lead the PTA next year and look forward to a great year ahead!

President: Tara Stein
Vice President: Ceri Cundiff
Secretary: Melisa Pierson
Co-Treasurers: Amy Schroeder, Bayra Garfield
Members-At-Large: Amanda Cue, Karen Hansen, Lisa Grandgeorge, Megan Perkins, Meredith Copeland

Join the PTA

Please join the PTA and contribute your voice to the conversation on making this a great school year for our kids and SMS community. Here is the link to join!

www.schoolpay.com/link/sellwoodpta

 

Join Konstella

The PTA uses the Konstella app to keep the parent community up to date with scheduled events, the school calendar, volunteer sign ups and PTA announcements. Here is the link to join!

https://www.konstella.com/cd/AXC2Z9

Got school Spirit? Come to the CHS Cheerleading and Mascot tryouts!

We are looking for energetic and enthusiastic cheerleaders/mascots. No experience is required to attend! All genders welcome. Tryouts are May 27 and 28. Cheer/mascot applications are available online or contact Coach Joelle at: Joalexander@pps.net with any questions.

https://forms.gle/cLcR1V1TsmBxZCiy9

The Cleveland Tenacity Dance Team is holding tryouts at the end of the month, opening to incoming freshman. See the flyer below for more details. The corresponding link for the application is: https://shorturl.at/U9htJ

Our Leadership Class is organizing a Plastic Film Collection through Ridwell, and students can earn points for their 1st period class by bringing in clean, dry plastic film (the stretchy kind). Our goal is to save FIVE big bags of plastic from the landfill!

State testing is just around the corner! Please mark your calendars for the following testing dates:

• Math OSAS - Tues. May 20th & Wednesday May 21st

Students will test in their 1st period Advisory classes in the morning and then continue through the rest of their day with shortened classes. These tests help assess your student’s progress and provide valuable information about their learning. While the results are important, it's essential to remember that these tests are just one part of your child’s educational journey. If you would like to learn more about the Oregon State Assessment System (OSAS) check out the PPS district assessment page here.

We encourage you to help your student prepare by ensuring they get plenty of rest, eat a healthy breakfast, and arrive at school on time. Since phones and smart watches are not allowed in the testing environment these may be good days for students to either leave them at home, or be sure that these devices stay off and away in their locker. Additionally, you can support their confidence by reminding them to do their best, stay calm, and take their time on each test. Together, we can help them succeed!

 

Thank you for your continued support!

Please donate so we can provide a no-cost yearbook to all students on distribution day in June. We will not be selling yearbooks, so rather than purchasing a yearbook, we are asking you to donate. Yearbooks usually cost $20, so your donation would cover the cost of your child's yearbook, and maybe something extra to make sure that everyone can have one. So far we've raised about $5000 of the $10,000 we will need. Look for "Sellwood Yearbook Donation" in SchoolPay. Any amount helps. Sellwood's PTA will be matching donations.

Dear PPS Middle Grades families,

PPS is moving to a new Standards-Based Grading System for all 28 middle schools. The purpose is to provide clearer and more meaningful feedback to students. Some of our middle schools are already using this approach, and research supports its benefits. Our K-5 schools have also made progress in this direction with their report cards.

We invite you to visit our middle grades Standards-Based Grading website at pps.net/sbg. There, you can find updates, resources, timelines, materials, and FAQs.

There will be three family and community engagement events in person and virtually at the Prophet Education Center (501 N. Dixon St.) in the PPS Boardroom. We invite all who have current middle grades students or students entering into the middle grades to these presentations where we will provide updates as well as listen to feedback and answer questions.

 

 

 

Family and Community engagement (Virtual and in person)

 

 

February 13, 2025 5:30 PM - 7:00 PM

 

 

March 13, 2025 5:30 PM - 7:00 PM

 

 

May 8, 2025 5:30 PM - 7:00 PM

 

 

 

We believe grades are an important way to communicate with students and families. This new system will make it clearer what students need to do to meet academic expectations.

 

If you have any questions, please contact Richard Smith at rsmith5@pps.net. Check the website often for updates. We look forward to working with you during this exciting transition.

Information and Family Supports

 

• This FAQ answers many questions about the steps Portland Public Schools will be taking to safeguard staff and students going forward.

• The Immigrant Legal Resource Center Little Red Card This card is meant to help people assert their rights and defend themselves in many situations. These can be printed out and carried on your person.

• Know Your Rights for Families/Students (Oregon ACLU)

• Immigrant Rights Resources One Pager

The best way to reach us is by email.

Willa Grund is our new school secretary. wgrund@pps.net

Claire Howard (choward1@pps.net) is our principal’s secretary.

Our Sellwood website (pps.net/sellwood) has many “Quick Links” to help you immediately.

The Office Phone Number

The office phone number is 503-916-5656.

When prompted

press 4 for Willa Grund (“Records/Registration”).

press 3 for Claire (Principal’s Secretary).

press 2 for any “Attendance” matter. It’s a designated line just for attendance.

press 5 for Records, Registration.

press 0 for the front counter – answered by students; not a confidential line.

Secured Building

Sellwood is a locked and secure building.

Please ring the doorbell to the right of the main doors to reach the office. We will guide you accordingly.

Picking up your student during the day:

While we understand it is sometimes necessary to pick up your child from school, please try to limit your student’s daytime appointments. If necessary, please ring the bell at the main door and expect to wait while your child is located.

Guides to Help you:

To correct your student’s attendance: Log into ParentVue.

For changes to your student's registration profile in Synergy: ParentVue/StudentVue

Quick Links found on Sellwood’s website (pps.net/sellwood)

Please email wgrund@pps.net for:

Passwords: If you have forgotten your password, have been locked out of your account, or do not have login credentials.

Registration, Enrollment.

ParentVue (if your account has been disabled).

Please email Claire (choward1@pps.net) for:

School Pay.

Bookkeeping/accounting issues.

Administrative Support: Messages or matters of support to the principal or assistant principal.

May 21: Early Release 1:45 PM

May 26: Memorial Day: No School

May 28: Spring Band & Choir Concert @ Cleveland HS 7-9 PM

June 3: 15 Minute Late Start - Staff Meeting Day

June 5: Sellwood Showcase Night - 5:30 to 7:30 PM

June 9: 8th Grade Oaks Park Field Trip

June 10: 6th/7th Grade Oaks Park Field Trip

June 12: 8th Grade Promotion - 10:30-11:30 AM

June 12: Last Day of School - Half-day - School Ends 12:30 PM

Link to PPS Calendar for 2024 - 2025

We are looking for 6th and 7th graders who are interested in becoming WEB Leaders next year. We've extended the application deadline to 5/12. 25-26 WEB Leader Application- Sellwood

 

MANDITORY 2 Training Days:

This is when you will meet the other WEB Leaders and learn how to facilitate the small groups you will lead on 6th grade Orientation Day.

• August 20th WEDNESDAY- 9am-1pm in the large gym
• August 21st THURSDAY- 9am-1pm in the large gym

6th Grade Orientation Day: *August 26 TUESDAY-8:30am-1:30pm

This is when you will shine! You and a partner will be put in charge of 8-10 6th graders and run team building activities, give a tour of the school, eat lunch with your 6th grade group, and help 6th graders find their classes and open their lockers.

Follow up events and activities throughout the year. This includes Back to School Night, Spirit Weeks, assemblies, and more!

Join us for the final PTA meeting of the year

Let’s wrap up a fantastic school year together! All members of the Sellwood Middle School community are invited to attend the last PTA meeting of the year, on Thursday, May 15, at 7:00 pm in the SMS library.

Come hear year-end updates, celebrate what we’ve accomplished together, and get a sneak peek at what’s ahead. Whether you’ve been a regular or this would be your first meeting, we’d love to see you there!

You're Invited to Trivia Night

Join us for a fun and friendly evening of trivia, laughter, and community spirit—brought to you by the PTA! We especially welcome 5th grade parents and our amazing middle school teachers and staff to come mix, mingle, and show off your trivia skills. The first drink's on us!

Thursday, May 22
6:00–8:00 PM (Trivia kicks off at 6:30)
Eastmoreland Golf Course

Come for the camaraderie, stay for the trivia—see you there!

Volunteers Still Needed - 8th Grade Promotion - June 12

Dear Fabulous 6th & 7th Grade Parents,

It's that special time of year again! Our 8th graders are about to spread their wings and fly off to high school, and we want to make their promotion ceremony UNFORGETTABLE!

But here's the deal... we need YOUR help so our 8th grade parents can actually sit back, relax, and enjoy watching their kiddos shine! (They've earned it after surviving middle school, am I right?!)

We still need volunteers to help hand out diplomas and clean up after the ceremony. Here is the link to sign up for the remaining spots on Konstella. Thanks for your support!

BottleDrop Blue Bags

Recycle your cans and bottles and support the PTA!

 

Collect and return your empty cans and bottles through the Bottle Drop Blue Bag program. Visit the office at any time to pick up Blue Bags for BottleDrop.

 

Or pick up Blue Bags from SMS community members who have blue bags on their porch. Keep this newsletter bookmarked to easily locate blue bag access points near you:

 

• 7125 SE 21st Ave. (between SE Bybee & Knapp)

• 7645 SE 17th Ave. (between SE Rex & Lambert)

• 3704 SE Ogden (at SE 37th Ave)

• 4922 SE Knapp (between SE 48th & 50th)

• NEW LOCATION ADDED! Wallace Books (7241 SE Milwaukie Ave)

Return your bags to the nearest BottleDrop location and support the PTA! If you have older Blue Bags, you can still return them!

Join the PTA

Please join the PTA and contribute your voice to the conversation on making this a great school year for our kids and SMS community. Here is the link to join!

www.schoolpay.com/link/sellwoodpta

 

Join Konstella

The PTA uses the Konstella app to keep the parent community up to date with scheduled events, the school calendar, volunteer sign ups and PTA announcements. Here is the link to join!

https://www.konstella.com/cd/AXC2Z9

The Cleveland Tenacity Dance Team is holding tryouts at the end of the month, opening to incoming freshman. See the flyer below for more details. The corresponding link for the application is: https://shorturl.at/U9htJ

Our Leadership Class is organizing a Plastic Film Collection through Ridwell, and students can earn points for their 1st period class by bringing in clean, dry plastic film (the stretchy kind). Our goal is to save FIVE big bags of plastic from the landfill!

We have recently discovered students of all ages selling items out of their lockers during the school day. Our investigations have uncovered that students are bringing popular food and beverage items to school and/or taking extra portions of the federally provided free breakfast and lunches and stashing them in lockers to distribute later.

 

Please understand that this is a disruption to our learning environment and is against our school policy. If you have questions, please feel free to reach out to Heidi Earle, our assistant principal. hearle@pps.net

State testing is just around the corner! Please mark your calendars for the following testing dates:

• Math OSAS - Tues. May 20th & Wednesday May 21st

Students will test in their 1st period Advisory classes in the morning and then continue through the rest of their day with shortened classes. These tests help assess your student’s progress and provide valuable information about their learning. While the results are important, it's essential to remember that these tests are just one part of your child’s educational journey. If you would like to learn more about the Oregon State Assessment System (OSAS) check out the PPS district assessment page here.

We encourage you to help your student prepare by ensuring they get plenty of rest, eat a healthy breakfast, and arrive at school on time. Since phones and smart watches are not allowed in the testing environment these may be good days for students to either leave them at home, or be sure that these devices stay off and away in their locker. Additionally, you can support their confidence by reminding them to do their best, stay calm, and take their time on each test. Together, we can help them succeed!

 

Thank you for your continued support!

Please donate so we can provide a no-cost yearbook to all students on distribution day in June. We will not be selling yearbooks, so rather than purchasing a yearbook, we are asking you to donate. Yearbooks usually cost $20, so your donation would cover the cost of your child's yearbook, and maybe something extra to make sure that everyone can have one. So far we've raised about $5000 of the $10,000 we will need. Look for "Sellwood Yearbook Donation" in SchoolPay. Any amount helps. Sellwood's PTA will be matching donations.

Dear PPS Middle Grades families,

PPS is moving to a new Standards-Based Grading System for all 28 middle schools. The purpose is to provide clearer and more meaningful feedback to students. Some of our middle schools are already using this approach, and research supports its benefits. Our K-5 schools have also made progress in this direction with their report cards.

We invite you to visit our middle grades Standards-Based Grading website at pps.net/sbg. There, you can find updates, resources, timelines, materials, and FAQs.

There will be three family and community engagement events in person and virtually at the Prophet Education Center (501 N. Dixon St.) in the PPS Boardroom. We invite all who have current middle grades students or students entering into the middle grades to these presentations where we will provide updates as well as listen to feedback and answer questions.

 

 

 

Family and Community engagement (Virtual and in person)

 

 

February 13, 2025 5:30 PM - 7:00 PM

 

 

March 13, 2025 5:30 PM - 7:00 PM

 

 

May 8, 2025 5:30 PM - 7:00 PM

 

 

 

We believe grades are an important way to communicate with students and families. This new system will make it clearer what students need to do to meet academic expectations.

 

If you have any questions, please contact Richard Smith at rsmith5@pps.net. Check the website often for updates. We look forward to working with you during this exciting transition.

Information and Family Supports

 

• This FAQ answers many questions about the steps Portland Public Schools will be taking to safeguard staff and students going forward.

• The Immigrant Legal Resource Center Little Red Card This card is meant to help people assert their rights and defend themselves in many situations. These can be printed out and carried on your person.

• Know Your Rights for Families/Students (Oregon ACLU)

• Immigrant Rights Resources One Pager

The best way to reach us is by email.

Willa Grund is our new school secretary. wgrund@pps.net

Claire Howard (choward1@pps.net) is our principal’s secretary.

Our Sellwood website (pps.net/sellwood) has many “Quick Links” to help you immediately.

The Office Phone Number

The office phone number is 503-916-5656.

When prompted

press 4 for Willa Grund (“Records/Registration”).

press 3 for Claire (Principal’s Secretary).

press 2 for any “Attendance” matter. It’s a designated line just for attendance.

press 5 for Records, Registration.

press 0 for the front counter – answered by students; not a confidential line.

Secured Building

Sellwood is a locked and secure building.

Please ring the doorbell to the right of the main doors to reach the office. We will guide you accordingly.

Picking up your student during the day:

While we understand it is sometimes necessary to pick up your child from school, please try to limit your student’s daytime appointments. If necessary, please ring the bell at the main door and expect to wait while your child is located.

Guides to Help you:

To correct your student’s attendance: Log into ParentVue.

For changes to your student's registration profile in Synergy: ParentVue/StudentVue

Quick Links found on Sellwood’s website (pps.net/sellwood)

Please email wgrund@pps.net for:

Passwords: If you have forgotten your password, have been locked out of your account, or do not have login credentials.

Registration, Enrollment.

ParentVue (if your account has been disabled).

Please email Claire (choward1@pps.net) for:

School Pay.

Bookkeeping/accounting issues.

Administrative Support: Messages or matters of support to the principal or assistant principal.

April 30: All 8th Grade Field Trip to Cleveland High School

May 8: All 7th Grade Field Trip to the Holocaust Museum/History Museum

May 21: Early Release 1:45 PM

May 26: Memorial Day: No School

May 28: Spring Band & Choir Concert @ Cleveland HS 7-9 PM

June 3: 15 Minute Late Start - Staff Meeting Day

June 5: Sellwood Showcase Night - 5:30 to 7:30 PM

June 9: 8th Grade Oaks Park Field Trip

June 10: 6th/7th Grade Oaks Park Field Trip

June 12: 8th Grade Promotion - 10:30-11:30 AM

June 12: Last Day of School - Half-day - School Ends 12:30 PM

Link to PPS Calendar for 2024 - 2025

Sellwood Garden Tour - June 8 - Calling All Volunteers!

This year’s Garden Tour Fundraiser will be held on Sunday, June 8! The gardens are secured, and now we need your help to make the event a blooming success.

There are many ways to get involved—whether you have time, connections, or creative ideas, we’d love your support. You can find more details and sign-ups on Konstella, but here are a few key areas where we need help:

Sponsorships: Do you own a business—or know someone who does—that would like to sponsor the event? Want to help us reach out to local businesses?

Procurement: We’re collecting items for our raffle baskets. Do you have something to donate, or can you help us gather donations?

Marketing: Help spread the word! We’re looking for support in promoting the event to local media and Portland-area event calendars.

Ticket Sales: Assist with organizing and selling tickets.

Volunteer Coordinator: Help recruit and communicate with our day-of-event volunteers.

This is going to be a fun and meaningful event for the whole community—and with your help, a big success!

 

8th Grade Graduation Yard Signs

Do you have a graduating 8th grader? Let your graduate shine with pride with a Sellwood Middle School yard sign this Spring!

You can place orders here before April 27!

• Go to spirithero.com ➢ Search “Sellwood” ➢ Select your items

• Signs are just $25 each, including design and shipping, with an additional $5 for personalization

• Sellwood PTA will coordinate delivery at the school or porch pick-ups in early May

 

BottleDrop Blue Bags

Recycle your cans and bottles and support the PTA!

 

Collect and return your empty cans and bottles through the Bottle Drop Blue Bag program. Visit the office at any time to pick up Blue Bags for BottleDrop.

 

Or pick up Blue Bags from SMS community members who have blue bags on their porch. Keep this newsletter bookmarked to easily locate blue bag access points near you:

 

• 7125 SE 21st Ave. (between SE Bybee & Knapp)

• 7645 SE 17th Ave. (between SE Rex & Lambert)

• 3704 SE Ogden (at SE 37th Ave)

• 4922 SE Knapp (between SE 48th & 50th)

• NEW LOCATION ADDED! Wallace Books (7241 SE Milwaukie Ave)

Return your bags to the nearest BottleDrop location and support the PTA! If you have older Blue Bags, you can still return them!

 

Join the PTA

Please join the PTA and contribute your voice to the conversation on making this a great school year for our kids and SMS community. Here is the link to join!

www.schoolpay.com/link/sellwoodpta

 

Join Konstella

The PTA uses the Konstella app to keep the parent community up to date with scheduled events, the school calendar, volunteer sign ups and PTA announcements. Here is the link to join!

 

https://www.konstella.com/cd/AXC2Z9

This week in Advisory classes have been talking about different forms of prejudice and how it is related to stereotypes. Many classes reported having some great conversations due to the engagement of the students and their insights from their experiences. One of the most thought provoking activities was from watching this locally made video which provides a thought experiment around the question “What would you do if you witnessed a possible bike theft?” Here’s a link to the video if you would like to check it out for yourself and perhaps continue the conversation at home.

Our Leadership Class is organizing a Plastic Film Collection through Ridwell, and students can earn points for their 1st period class by bringing in clean, dry plastic film (the stretchy kind). Our goal is to save FIVE big bags of plastic from the landfill!

Follow the link for details. https://drive.google.com/file/d/11To_Ste8FX08KXPip6ZQPYAxvVqwJbrK/view?usp=sharing

State testing is just around the corner! Please mark your calendars for the following testing dates:

• Math OSAS - Mon. May 19th & Tues. May 20th

Students will test in their 1st period Advisory classes from 9:15 - 11:20am and then continue through the rest of their day with 30 minute classes. These tests help assess your student’s progress and provide valuable information about their learning. While the results are important, it's essential to remember that these tests are just one part of your child’s educational journey. If you would like to learn more about the Oregon State Assessment System (OSAS) check out the PPS district assessment page here.

We encourage you to help your student prepare by ensuring they get plenty of rest, eat a healthy breakfast, and arrive at school on time. Since phones and smart watches are not allowed in the testing environment these may be good days for students to either leave them at home, or be sure that these devices stay off and away in their locker. Additionally, you can support their confidence by reminding them to do their best, stay calm, and take their time on each test. Together, we can help them succeed!

 

Thank you for your continued support!

Please donate so we can provide a no-cost yearbook to all students on distribution day in June. We will not be selling yearbooks, so rather than purchasing a yearbook, we are asking you to donate. Yearbooks usually cost $20, so your donation would cover the cost of your child's yearbook, and maybe something extra to make sure that everyone can have one. So far we've raised about $5000 of the $10,000 we will need. Look for "Sellwood Yearbook Donation" in SchoolPay. Any amount helps. Sellwood's PTA will be matching donations.

Dear PPS Middle Grades families,

PPS is moving to a new Standards-Based Grading System for all 28 middle schools. The purpose is to provide clearer and more meaningful feedback to students. Some of our middle schools are already using this approach, and research supports its benefits. Our K-5 schools have also made progress in this direction with their report cards.

We invite you to visit our middle grades Standards-Based Grading website at pps.net/sbg. There, you can find updates, resources, timelines, materials, and FAQs.

There will be three family and community engagement events in person and virtually at the Prophet Education Center (501 N. Dixon St.) in the PPS Boardroom. We invite all who have current middle grades students or students entering into the middle grades to these presentations where we will provide updates as well as listen to feedback and answer questions.

 

 

 

Family and Community engagement (Virtual and in person)

 

 

February 13, 2025 5:30 PM - 7:00 PM

 

 

March 13, 2025 5:30 PM - 7:00 PM

 

 

May 8, 2025 5:30 PM - 7:00 PM

 

 

 

We believe grades are an important way to communicate with students and families. This new system will make it clearer what students need to do to meet academic expectations.

 

If you have any questions, please contact Richard Smith at rsmith5@pps.net. Check the website often for updates. We look forward to working with you during this exciting transition.

Information and Family Supports

 

• This FAQ answers many questions about the steps Portland Public Schools will be taking to safeguard staff and students going forward.

• The Immigrant Legal Resource Center Little Red Card This card is meant to help people assert their rights and defend themselves in many situations. These can be printed out and carried on your person.

• Know Your Rights for Families/Students (Oregon ACLU)

• Immigrant Rights Resources One Pager

The best way to reach us is by email.

Willa Grund is our new school secretary. wgrund@pps.net

Claire Howard (choward1@pps.net) is our principal’s secretary.

Our Sellwood website (pps.net/sellwood) has many “Quick Links” to help you immediately.

The Office Phone Number

The office phone number is 503-916-5656.

When prompted

press 4 for Willa Grund (“Records/Registration”).

press 3 for Claire (Principal’s Secretary).

press 2 for any “Attendance” matter. It’s a designated line just for attendance.

press 5 for Records, Registration.

press 0 for the front counter – answered by students; not a confidential line.

Secured Building

Sellwood is a locked and secure building.

Please ring the doorbell to the right of the main doors to reach the office. We will guide you accordingly.

Picking up your student during the day:

While we understand it is sometimes necessary to pick up your child from school, please try to limit your student’s daytime appointments. If necessary, please ring the bell at the main door and expect to wait while your child is located.

Guides to Help you:

To correct your student’s attendance: Log into ParentVue.

For changes to your student's registration profile in Synergy: ParentVue/StudentVue

Quick Links found on Sellwood’s website (pps.net/sellwood)

Please email wgrund@pps.net for:

Passwords: If you have forgotten your password, have been locked out of your account, or do not have login credentials.

Registration, Enrollment.

ParentVue (if your account has been disabled).

Please email Claire (choward1@pps.net) for:

School Pay.

Bookkeeping/accounting issues.

Administrative Support: Messages or matters of support to the principal or assistant principal.

April 30: All 8th Grade Field Trip to Cleveland High School

May 8: All 7th Grade Field Trip to the Holocaust Museum/History Museum

May 21: Early Release 1:45 PM

May 26: Memorial Day: No School

May 28: Spring Band & Choir Concert @ Cleveland HS 7-9 PM

June 3: 15 Minute Late Start - Staff Meeting Day

June 5: Sellwood Showcase Night - 5:30 to 7:30 PM

June 9: 8th Grade Oaks Park Field Trip

June 10: 6th/7th Grade Oaks Park Field Trip

June 12: 8th Grade Promotion - 10:30-11:30 AM

June 12: Last Day of School - Half-day - School Ends 12:30 PM

Link to PPS Calendar for 2024 - 2025

You are invited to a Sellwood Middle School beautification event. Our new native plant garden is beautiful, but still a little bare. It needs wood chips! See the pics below. Come help spread the wood chips on Wednesday, April 23rd. We will start at 1:45 PM when students are released for early dismissal. There will be snacks! We are looking for volunteers who can bring wheelbarrows and/or shovels, so let us know if you are able to help in that way. Look for more information on the PTA Konstella and Instagram.

Sellwood Garden Tour - June 8 - Calling All Volunteers!

This year’s Garden Tour Fundraiser will be held on Sunday, June 8! The gardens are secured, and now we need your help to make the event a blooming success.

There are many ways to get involved—whether you have time, connections, or creative ideas, we’d love your support. You can find more details and sign-ups on Konstella, but here are a few key areas where we need help:

Sponsorships: Do you own a business—or know someone who does—that would like to sponsor the event? Want to help us reach out to local businesses?

Procurement: We’re collecting items for our raffle baskets. Do you have something to donate, or can you help us gather donations?

Marketing: Help spread the word! We’re looking for support in promoting the event to local media and Portland-area event calendars.

Ticket Sales: Assist with organizing and selling tickets.

Volunteer Coordinator: Help recruit and communicate with our day-of-event volunteers.

This is going to be a fun and meaningful event for the whole community—and with your help, a big success!

 

8th Grade Graduation Yard Signs

Do you have a graduating 8th grader? Let your graduate shine with pride with a Sellwood Middle School yard sign this Spring!

You can place orders here before April 27!

• Go to spirithero.com ➢ Search “Sellwood” ➢ Select your items

• Signs are just $25 each, including design and shipping, with an additional $5 for personalization

• Sellwood PTA will coordinate delivery at the school or porch pick-ups in early May

 

BottleDrop Blue Bags

Recycle your cans and bottles and support the PTA!

 

Collect and return your empty cans and bottles through the Bottle Drop Blue Bag program. Visit the office at any time to pick up Blue Bags for BottleDrop.

 

Or pick up Blue Bags from SMS community members who have blue bags on their porch. Keep this newsletter bookmarked to easily locate blue bag access points near you:

 

• 7125 SE 21st Ave. (between SE Bybee & Knapp)

• 7645 SE 17th Ave. (between SE Rex & Lambert)

• 3704 SE Ogden (at SE 37th Ave)

• 4922 SE Knapp (between SE 48th & 50th)

• NEW LOCATION ADDED! Wallace Books (7241 SE Milwaukie Ave)

Return your bags to the nearest BottleDrop location and support the PTA! If you have older Blue Bags, you can still return them!

 

Join the PTA

Please join the PTA and contribute your voice to the conversation on making this a great school year for our kids and SMS community. Here is the link to join!

www.schoolpay.com/link/sellwoodpta

Join Konstella

The PTA uses the Konstella app to keep the parent community up to date with scheduled events, the school calendar, volunteer sign ups and PTA announcements. Here is the link to join!

 

https://www.konstella.com/cd/AXC2Z9

State testing is just around the corner! Please mark your calendars for the following testing dates:

• Math OSAS - Mon. May 19th & Tues. May 20th

Students will test in their 1st period Advisory classes from 9:15 - 11:20am and then continue through the rest of their day with 30 minute classes. These tests help assess your student’s progress and provide valuable information about their learning. While the results are important, it's essential to remember that these tests are just one part of your child’s educational journey. If you would like to learn more about the Oregon State Assessment System (OSAS) check out the PPS district assessment page here.

We encourage you to help your student prepare by ensuring they get plenty of rest, eat a healthy breakfast, and arrive at school on time. Since phones and smart watches are not allowed in the testing environment these may be good days for students to either leave them at home, or be sure that these devices stay off and away in their locker. Additionally, you can support their confidence by reminding them to do their best, stay calm, and take their time on each test. Together, we can help them succeed!

 

Thank you for your continued support!

Please help us congratulate our Sellwood Stars dancers. The Sellwood Stars took 2nd place at the middle school open division. Plus we had

Drill Down Winners- Cory and Sylvie

Super Star Winners- Martine and Oona

Please donate so we can provide a no-cost yearbook to all students on distribution day in June. We will not be selling yearbooks, so rather than purchasing a yearbook, we are asking you to donate. Yearbooks usually cost $20, so your donation would cover the cost of your child's yearbook, and maybe something extra to make sure that everyone can have one. So far we've raised about $5000 of the $10,000 we will need. Look for "Sellwood Yearbook Donation" in SchoolPay. Any amount helps. Sellwood's PTA will be matching donations.

ALSO, Ms. Souther is looking for photos of our Sellwood students in their extracurricular activities. Sports, band, OBOB, debate, chess, dance team, and more are such a big part of student life, and we want to make sure we include those activities if we can. Email photos (higher resolution is better) to Lsouther@pps.net. I'll need them before spring break, please!

Dear PPS Middle Grades families,

PPS is moving to a new Standards-Based Grading System for all 28 middle schools. The purpose is to provide clearer and more meaningful feedback to students. Some of our middle schools are already using this approach, and research supports its benefits. Our K-5 schools have also made progress in this direction with their report cards.

We invite you to visit our middle grades Standards-Based Grading website at pps.net/sbg. There, you can find updates, resources, timelines, materials, and FAQs.

There will be three family and community engagement events in person and virtually at the Prophet Education Center (501 N. Dixon St.) in the PPS Boardroom. We invite all who have current middle grades students or students entering into the middle grades to these presentations where we will provide updates as well as listen to feedback and answer questions.

 

 

 

Family and Community engagement (Virtual and in person)

 

 

February 13, 2025 5:30 PM - 7:00 PM

 

 

March 13, 2025 5:30 PM - 7:00 PM

 

 

May 8, 2025 5:30 PM - 7:00 PM

 

 

 

We believe grades are an important way to communicate with students and families. This new system will make it clearer what students need to do to meet academic expectations.

 

If you have any questions, please contact Richard Smith at rsmith5@pps.net. Check the website often for updates. We look forward to working with you during this exciting transition.

Information and Family Supports

 

• This FAQ answers many questions about the steps Portland Public Schools will be taking to safeguard staff and students going forward.

• The Immigrant Legal Resource Center Little Red Card This card is meant to help people assert their rights and defend themselves in many situations. These can be printed out and carried on your person.

• Know Your Rights for Families/Students (Oregon ACLU)

• Immigrant Rights Resources One Pager

The best way to reach us is by email.

Willa Grund is our new school secretary. wgrund@pps.net

Claire Howard (choward1@pps.net) is our principal’s secretary.

Our Sellwood website (pps.net/sellwood) has many “Quick Links” to help you immediately.

The Office Phone Number

The office phone number is 503-916-5656.

When prompted

press 4 for Willa Grund (“Records/Registration”).

press 3 for Claire (Principal’s Secretary).

press 2 for any “Attendance” matter. It’s a designated line just for attendance.

press 5 for Records, Registration.

press 0 for the front counter – answered by students; not a confidential line.

Secured Building

Sellwood is a locked and secure building.

Please ring the doorbell to the right of the main doors to reach the office. We will guide you accordingly.

Picking up your student during the day:

While we understand it is sometimes necessary to pick up your child from school, please try to limit your student’s daytime appointments. If necessary, please ring the bell at the main door and expect to wait while your child is located.

Guides to Help you:

To correct your student’s attendance: Log into ParentVue.

For changes to your student's registration profile in Synergy: ParentVue/StudentVue

Quick Links found on Sellwood’s website (pps.net/sellwood)

Please email wgrund@pps.net for:

Passwords: If you have forgotten your password, have been locked out of your account, or do not have login credentials.

Registration, Enrollment.

ParentVue (if your account has been disabled).

Please email Claire (choward1@pps.net) for:

School Pay.

Bookkeeping/accounting issues.

Administrative Support: Messages or matters of support to the principal or assistant principal.

April 23: Early Release 1:45 PM

April 30: All 8th Grade Field Trip to Cleveland High School

May 8: All 7th Grade Field Trip to the Holocausts Museum/History Museum

May 21: Early Release 1:45 PM

May 26: Memorial Day: No School

May 28: Spring Band & Choir Concert @ Cleveland HS 7-9 PM

June 3: 15 Minute Late Start - Staff Meeting Day

June 5: Sellwood Showcase Night - 5:30 to 7:30 PM

June 9: 8th Grade Oaks Park Field Trip

June 10: 6th/7th Grade Oaks Park Field Trip

June 12: 8th Grade Promotion - 10:30-11:30 AM

June 12: Last Day of School - Half-day - School Ends 12:30 PM

Link to PPS Calendar for 2024 - 2025

You are invited to a Sellwood Middle School beautification event. Our new native plant garden is beautiful, but still a little bare. It needs wood chips! See the pics below. Come help spread the wood chips on Wednesday, April 23rd. We will start at 1:45 PM when students are released for early dismissal. There will be snacks! We are looking for volunteers who can bring wheelbarrows and/or shovels, so let us know if you are able to help in that way. Look for more information on the PTA Konstella and Instagram.

Sellwood Garden Tour - June 8 - Calling All Volunteers!

We’re excited to announce that this year’s Garden Tour Fundraiser will be held on Sunday, June 8! The gardens are secured, and now we need your help to make the event a blooming success.

There are many ways to get involved—whether you have time, connections, or creative ideas, we’d love your support. You can find more details and sign-ups on Konstella, but here are a few key areas where we need help:

Join Us: Come to our planning meeting on Thursday, April 17 at 6:15 PM in the SMS Library.

Sponsorships: Do you own a business—or know someone who does—that would like to sponsor the event? Want to help us reach out to local businesses?

Procurement: We’re collecting items for our raffle baskets. Do you have something to donate, or can you help us gather donations?

Marketing: Help spread the word! We’re looking for support in promoting the event to local media and Portland-area event calendars.

Ticket Sales: Assist with organizing and selling tickets.

Volunteer Coordinator: Help recruit and communicate with our day-of-event volunteers.

This is going to be a fun and meaningful event for the whole community—and with your help, a big success!

8th Grade Graduation Yard Signs

Do you have a graduating 8th grader? Let your graduate shine with pride with a Sellwood Middle School yard sign this Spring!

You can place orders here before April 27!

• Go to spirithero.com ➢ Search “Sellwood” ➢ Select your items

• Signs are just $25 each, including design and shipping, with an additional $5 for personalization

• Sellwood PTA will coordinate delivery at the school or porch pick-ups in early May

PTA meeting - Thursday, April 17

Please join us for our April PTA General meeting, at 7:00pm on Thursday, April 17 in the SMS Library. We have two guest speakers for this meeting:

• Jamie Incorvia, Cleveland High School IB Coordinator, will be joining us to share information about the IB program at CHS.

• Eddie Wang, PPS Board Member/Chair, will speak on behalf of the PPS Board about the upcoming Bond proposal.

We will also discuss upcoming events and volunteer/board updates for the remainder of the year and as we look ahead to the 2025-25 school year. See you there!

Join the PTA

Please join the PTA and contribute your voice to the conversation on making this a great school year for our kids and SMS community. Here is the link to join!

www.schoolpay.com/link/sellwoodpta

 

Join Konstella

The PTA uses the Konstella app to keep the parent community up to date with scheduled events, the school calendar, volunteer sign ups and PTA announcements. Here is the link to join!

https://www.konstella.com/cd/AXC2Z9

Come celebrate the extraordinary work of our student artists and over a decade of funding for public school arts, with arts performances and an exhibition featuring student honorees from our school!

Portland Public Schools is proud to partner with the Portland Art Museum, our host of the 2025 HeART of Portland: A PPS K-12 Arts Showcase. This premier district-wide annual event kicks off with an evening of student dance, music, and theatre performances, plus the opening of a stunning student visual art exhibition featuring over 100+ works.

 

Sellwood Middle School has two student artists displaying their work, Sailor Singh and Scout Ladd-Zizzo. Help us congratulate Scout & Sailor!

 

🎨 Breaking the Grid: This year's student visual arts exhibition also features a citywide collaborative student art project inspired by the Portland Art Museum exhibition Psychedelic Rock Posters and Fashion of the 1960s. Guided by visual arts educators, students designed posters in the bold, expressive style of the exhibition, reflecting their hopes and dreams for their communities.

Event Details:
📍 Portland Art Museum – Free & open to everyone! 1119 SW Park Avenue
📆 Wednesday, April 16, 2025, Opening Reception
🕔 5 – 7 PM – Free admission to all museum exhibitions (Main Museum)
🖼 6 – 8:30 PM – Student Visual Art Exhibition (Miller Gallery, 1st Floor, Mark Building)
👩🏽 6:30 PM – Superintendent’s Welcome (Kridel Ballroom, 3rd Floor, Mark Building)
🎭 6:30 – 8 PM – Student Performances (Kridel Ballroom, 3rd Floor, Mark Building)

 

 

 

Student Honorees by School Listed Here

State testing is just around the corner! Please mark your calendars for the following testing dates:

• ELA OSAS - Weds. April 16th & Thurs. April 17th

• Math OSAS - Mon. May 19th & Tues. May 20th

Students will test in their 1st period Advisory classes from 9:15 - 11:20am and then continue through the rest of their day with 30 minute classes. These tests help assess your student’s progress and provide valuable information about their learning. While the results are important, it's essential to remember that these tests are just one part of your child’s educational journey. If you would like to learn more about the Oregon State Assessment System (OSAS) check out the PPS district assessment page here.

We encourage you to help your student prepare by ensuring they get plenty of rest, eat a healthy breakfast, and arrive at school on time. Since phones and smart watches are not allowed in the testing environment these may be good days for students to either leave them at home, or be sure that these devices stay off and away in their locker. Additionally, you can support their confidence by reminding them to do their best, stay calm, and take their time on each test. Together, we can help them succeed!

 

Thank you for your continued support!

 

Sign up now for spring PEAK! Registration is through 6 Crickets: https://www.6crickets.com/

The PEAK Program is a series of in-person after school classes open to all Sellwood students. The PEAK program is totally independent of Sellwood Middle School and is under the jurisdiction of PTA. Scholarships are available as the PEAK goal is to include every SMS student. Scholarship request form is here: https://tinyurl.com/PEAKScholarship

Please email sellwoodpeakprogram@gmail.com with any questions. We are always looking for parent volunteers to help us run this program. Please email if you are interested!

Classes this Spring:

• AI: Intro to Machine Learning with Coding with Kids $209 Mondays 4:15-5:15 Spring Session: 4/14-5/9/25 (no class 5/26), (8 sessions) Explore the exciting world of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML)! Join us in this course to discover how AI works by learning key AI and ML concepts such as neural networks, computer vision, and image recognition. You'll also learn how to use modern AI tools effectively, like DALL-E, for tasks like generating artistic images. Additionally, you'll apply coding concepts, such as variables and conditionals, to create your own simple AI models. These models will be used to build interactive Scratch projects, including video filters and touchless games. By the end of the course, you'll understand how AI and ML work, know how to use AI tools for image and story generation, and have the skills to code your own AI-driven Scratch projects.

   

• Acting Class with Ms. Tori! $103 Tuesdays 4:15pm-5:15pm Spring Session: 4/15-5/27 (7 sessions) The class will start with acting games/exercises and community building then focus on scene study and monologue including actor relaxation, breathing, and preparation for rehearsals or performances. Students will have the opportunity to prepare a monologue or short scene to perform at the culminating session. Instructor: Tori Padellford attended the University of Nevada, Las Vegas as a DeVos acting scholarship student and earned a B.A. in Theatre Arts. She also studied at Circle-in-the-Square in New York City. “Ms. Tori” was the library assistant at Lewis Elementary for 20 years. While at Lewis she enhanced the “Drama Club” started by teachers in 2000 and directed/ produced 15 productions involving hundreds of students over the years. Tori continues to act occasionally in local theatre, commercials, film, and television.

   

 

 

 

• Speech and Debate $50 Tuesdays 4:15-5:15 Spring Term: 4/1/25-5/20/25 (Reg still open). The Cleveland High Speech and Debate team is one the largest and most successful programs at the school. Find out why these students love it so much, and build your own debate skills. You will practice speaking and debating skills in preparation for local middle school competitions The Sellwood team will be coached by team captains from Cleveland. Appropriate for both new and returning students.

   

• Marimba $100 Thursdays 4:15-5:15 Spring Term: 4/10-6/5/25.Taught by Ben Kinkley. Curious about African music? Want to share your own ideas with a new music ensemble? Sellwood Marimba is the place for you. Come to learn the basics or build your skills - and definitely come to jam! No experience is necessary. Instruments are provided.

 

In addition to celebrating Arab American Heritage this April we are also celebrating Autism Acceptance Month! We’re proud to celebrate the incredible contributions of our neurodivergent students and staff. At Sellwood, we believe that diversity of thought, experience, and perspective makes our community stronger. Neurodivergent individuals—those whose brains process information in unique ways, including people with autism—enrich our classrooms, conversations, and creativity. You might have noticed our language of acceptance rather than just awareness—a powerful reminder that true inclusion goes beyond recognizing differences. Acceptance creates a deeper sense of belonging, where every student and staff member feels seen, valued, and supported for who they are. If you would like to learn more we encourage you to check out Autism Society of Oregon and the many events they host including the 23rd Anniversary Autism Walk in Portland at Oaks Park on Sunday April 27th!

Please donate so we can provide a no-cost yearbook to all students on distribution day in June. We will not be selling yearbooks, so rather than purchasing a yearbook, we are asking you to donate. So far we've raised about $1500 of the $10,000 we will need. Look for "Sellwood Yearbook Donation" in SchoolPay. Any amount helps. Sellwood's PTA will be matching donations.

ALSO, Ms. Souther is looking for photos of our Sellwood students in their extracurricular activities. Sports, band, OBOB, debate, chess, dance team, and more are such a big part of student life, and we want to make sure we include those activities if we can. Email photos (higher resolution is better) to Lsouther@pps.net. I'll need them before spring break, please!

Dear PPS Middle Grades families,

PPS is moving to a new Standards-Based Grading System for all 28 middle schools. The purpose is to provide clearer and more meaningful feedback to students. Some of our middle schools are already using this approach, and research supports its benefits. Our K-5 schools have also made progress in this direction with their report cards.

We invite you to visit our middle grades Standards-Based Grading website at pps.net/sbg. There, you can find updates, resources, timelines, materials, and FAQs.

There will be three family and community engagement events in person and virtually at the Prophet Education Center (501 N. Dixon St.) in the PPS Boardroom. We invite all who have current middle grades students or students entering into the middle grades to these presentations where we will provide updates as well as listen to feedback and answer questions.

 

 

 

Family and Community engagement (Virtual and in person)

 

 

February 13, 2025 5:30 PM - 7:00 PM

 

 

March 13, 2025 5:30 PM - 7:00 PM

 

 

May 8, 2025 5:30 PM - 7:00 PM

 

 

 

We believe grades are an important way to communicate with students and families. This new system will make it clearer what students need to do to meet academic expectations.

 

If you have any questions, please contact Richard Smith at rsmith5@pps.net. Check the website often for updates. We look forward to working with you during this exciting transition.

Information and Family Supports

 

• This FAQ answers many questions about the steps Portland Public Schools will be taking to safeguard staff and students going forward.

• The Immigrant Legal Resource Center Little Red Card This card is meant to help people assert their rights and defend themselves in many situations. These can be printed out and carried on your person.

• Know Your Rights for Families/Students (Oregon ACLU)

• Immigrant Rights Resources One Pager

The best way to reach us is by email.

Willa Grund is our new school secretary. wgrund@pps.net

Claire Howard (choward1@pps.net) is our principal’s secretary.

Our Sellwood website (pps.net/sellwood) has many “Quick Links” to help you immediately.

The Office Phone Number

The office phone number is 503-916-5656.

When prompted

press 4 for Willa Grund (“Records/Registration”).

press 3 for Claire (Principal’s Secretary).

press 2 for any “Attendance” matter. It’s a designated line just for attendance.

press 5 for Records, Registration.

press 0 for the front counter – answered by students; not a confidential line.

Secured Building

Sellwood is a locked and secure building.

Please ring the doorbell to the right of the main doors to reach the office. We will guide you accordingly.

Picking up your student during the day:

While we understand it is sometimes necessary to pick up your child from school, please try to limit your student’s daytime appointments. If necessary, please ring the bell at the main door and expect to wait while your child is located.

Guides to Help you:

To correct your student’s attendance: Log into ParentVue.

For changes to your student's registration profile in Synergy: ParentVue/StudentVue

Quick Links found on Sellwood’s website (pps.net/sellwood)

Please email wgrund@pps.net for:

Passwords: If you have forgotten your password, have been locked out of your account, or do not have login credentials.

Registration, Enrollment.

ParentVue (if your account has been disabled).

Please email Claire (choward1@pps.net) for:

School Pay.

Bookkeeping/accounting issues.

Administrative Support: Messages or matters of support to the principal or assistant principal.

April 17: PTA Meeting 7-8 PM

April 23: Early Release 1:45 PM

April 30: All 8th Grade Field Trip to Cleveland High School

May 8: All 7th Grade Field Trip to the Holocausts Museum/History Museum

May 21: Early Release 1:45 PM

May 26: Memorial Day: No School

May 28: Spring Band & Choir Concert @ Cleveland HS 7-9 PM

June 3: 15 Minute Late Start - Staff Meeting Day

June 5: Sellwood Showcase Night - 5:30 to 7:30 PM

June 9: 8th Grade Oaks Park Field Trip

June 10: 6th/7th Grade Oaks Park Field Trip

June 12: 8th Grade Promotion - 10:30-11:30 AM

June 12: Last Day of School - Half-day - School Ends 12:30 PM

Link to PPS Calendar for 2024 - 2025

Dear Sellwood Community,

 

My apologies for the late newsletter. I was out sick on Friday and over the weekend.

 

Please read on about current events such as our beautiful newly installed native plant garden, and the two Sellwood artists who will be displaying their artwork at the HeArt of Portland event (opening Reception on April 16th from 5 - 7 PM).

 

Have a great week :-)

 

Sincerely,

 

Jeandre Carbone

Sellwood Principal

Over spring break, our lovely new native plant garden was installed near the school entrance on SE Umatilla. We are so thrilled with this beautification of our campus and are looking forward to watching it grow and fill in over the next months and years. Thank you Mr. Adkisson and Project Green students!

 

Community members are invited to participate in an event in April to assist with spreading wood chips in the garden. The date of the wood chip spreading event has yet to be determined, but we will get the word out as soon as we know.

 

Enjoy the pictures below, or stop by to see it in person!

Come celebrate the extraordinary work of our student artists and over a decade of funding for public school arts, with arts performances and an exhibition featuring student honorees from our school!

Portland Public Schools is proud to partner with the Portland Art Museum, our host of the 2025 HeART of Portland: A PPS K-12 Arts Showcase. This premier district-wide annual event kicks off with an evening of student dance, music, and theatre performances, plus the opening of a stunning student visual art exhibition featuring over 100+ works.

 

Sellwood Middle School has two student artists displaying their work, Sailor Singh and Scout Ladd-Zizzo. Help us congratulate Scout & Sailor!

 

🎨 Breaking the Grid: This year's student visual arts exhibition also features a citywide collaborative student art project inspired by the Portland Art Museum exhibition Psychedelic Rock Posters and Fashion of the 1960s. Guided by visual arts educators, students designed posters in the bold, expressive style of the exhibition, reflecting their hopes and dreams for their communities.

Event Details:
📍 Portland Art Museum – Free & open to everyone! 1119 SW Park Avenue
📆 Wednesday, April 16, 2025, Opening Reception
🕔 5 – 7 PM – Free admission to all museum exhibitions (Main Museum)
🖼 6 – 8:30 PM – Student Visual Art Exhibition (Miller Gallery, 1st Floor, Mark Building)
👩🏽 6:30 PM – Superintendent’s Welcome (Kridel Ballroom, 3rd Floor, Mark Building)
🎭 6:30 – 8 PM – Student Performances (Kridel Ballroom, 3rd Floor, Mark Building)

 

 

 

Student Honorees by School Listed Here

Sellwood Garden Tour - June 8 - Gardens and Volunteers Needed!

The SMS PTA is bringing back our beloved Garden Tour fundraiser on June 8th! This event has been a cherished tradition, and we're excited to showcase some of the beautiful gardens in our community once again.

To make this year's tour a success, we are looking for garden owners in the Woodstock, Westmoreland, Sellwood, Eastmoreland, and Garthwick areas willing to open their gardens to visitors. We plan to feature 5-6 gardens for the event.

All funds raised from ticket sales will directly benefit SMS for classroom supplies and to help fulfill the needs of our students and teachers.

We will need volunteers to make this event a success! We will continue to post volunteer opportunities on Konstella.

If you have a garden you'd like to share, or if you know someone who might be interested, we would love to hear from you! Please email us at sellwoodpta@gmail.com.

Thank you in advance for your help in making this event a success. We can’t wait to showcase the beauty of our community while supporting a great cause!

See’s Candy Spring Sale - Open Now!
We have launched our See’s Candy Spring sale- perfect timing to get all your spring holiday treats and support SMS! Here is the link to purchase.

Join the PTA

Please join the PTA and contribute your voice to the conversation on making this a great school year for our kids and SMS community. Here is the link to join!

www.schoolpay.com/link/sellwoodpta

 

Join Konstella

The PTA uses the Konstella app to keep the parent community up to date with scheduled events, the school calendar, volunteer sign ups and PTA announcements. Here is the link to join!

https://www.konstella.com/cd/AXC2Z9

State testing is just around the corner! Please mark your calendars for the following testing dates:

• ELA OSAS - Weds. April 16th & Thurs. April 17th

• Math OSAS - Mon. May 19th & Tues. May 20th

Students will test in their 1st period Advisory classes from 9:15 - 11:20am and then continue through the rest of their day with 30 minute classes. These tests help assess your student’s progress and provide valuable information about their learning. While the results are important, it's essential to remember that these tests are just one part of your child’s educational journey. If you would like to learn more about the Oregon State Assessment System (OSAS) check out the PPS district assessment page here.

We encourage you to help your student prepare by ensuring they get plenty of rest, eat a healthy breakfast, and arrive at school on time. Since phones and smart watches are not allowed in the testing environment these may be good days for students to either leave them at home, or be sure that these devices stay off and away in their locker. Additionally, you can support their confidence by reminding them to do their best, stay calm, and take their time on each test. Together, we can help them succeed!

 

Thank you for your continued support!

 

Sign up now for spring PEAK! Registration is through 6 Crickets: https://www.6crickets.com/

The PEAK Program is a series of in-person after school classes open to all Sellwood students. The PEAK program is totally independent of Sellwood Middle School and is under the jurisdiction of PTA. Scholarships are available as the PEAK goal is to include every SMS student. Scholarship request form is here: https://tinyurl.com/PEAKScholarship

Please email sellwoodpeakprogram@gmail.com with any questions. We are always looking for parent volunteers to help us run this program. Please email if you are interested!

Classes this Spring:

• AI: Intro to Machine Learning with Coding with Kids $209 Mondays 4:15-5:15 Spring Session: 4/14-5/9/25 (no class 5/26), (8 sessions) Explore the exciting world of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML)! Join us in this course to discover how AI works by learning key AI and ML concepts such as neural networks, computer vision, and image recognition. You'll also learn how to use modern AI tools effectively, like DALL-E, for tasks like generating artistic images. Additionally, you'll apply coding concepts, such as variables and conditionals, to create your own simple AI models. These models will be used to build interactive Scratch projects, including video filters and touchless games. By the end of the course, you'll understand how AI and ML work, know how to use AI tools for image and story generation, and have the skills to code your own AI-driven Scratch projects.

   

• Acting Class with Ms. Tori! $103 Tuesdays 4:15pm-5:15pm Spring Session: 4/15-5/27 (7 sessions) The class will start with acting games/exercises and community building then focus on scene study and monologue including actor relaxation, breathing, and preparation for rehearsals or performances. Students will have the opportunity to prepare a monologue or short scene to perform at the culminating session. Instructor: Tori Padellford attended the University of Nevada, Las Vegas as a DeVos acting scholarship student and earned a B.A. in Theatre Arts. She also studied at Circle-in-the-Square in New York City. “Ms. Tori” was the library assistant at Lewis Elementary for 20 years. While at Lewis she enhanced the “Drama Club” started by teachers in 2000 and directed/ produced 15 productions involving hundreds of students over the years. Tori continues to act occasionally in local theatre, commercials, film, and television.

   

 

 

 

• Speech and Debate $50 Tuesdays 4:15-5:15 Spring Term: 4/1/25-5/20/25 (Reg still open). The Cleveland High Speech and Debate team is one the largest and most successful programs at the school. Find out why these students love it so much, and build your own debate skills. You will practice speaking and debating skills in preparation for local middle school competitions The Sellwood team will be coached by team captains from Cleveland. Appropriate for both new and returning students.

   

• Marimba $100 Thursdays 4:15-5:15 Spring Term: 4/10-6/5/25.Taught by Ben Kinkley. Curious about African music? Want to share your own ideas with a new music ensemble? Sellwood Marimba is the place for you. Come to learn the basics or build your skills - and definitely come to jam! No experience is necessary. Instruments are provided.

 

Happy Arab American Heritage Month! Did you know that in 1978, Oregon became the first state to elect an Arab American governor, Gov. Victor George Atiyeh? In fact, with more than 31,000 Arab Americans living in Oregon our Arab American community is one of the fastest growing in the U.S according to the latest survey published by the Arab American Institute, the Washington, DC-based, nonprofit organization. To learn more and connect with Portland's vibrant Arab American community check out this Travel Oregon post.

We have seen a rise in students bringing Monster Drinks and other highly caffeinated beverages to school. As a whole staff we are working on re-teaching our rule that water is the only allowed beverage in our hallways and our classrooms.If a student has caffeinated beverages in class or the hallways, they will be asked to throw them away. Here is an informative read written by a doctor about the impacts of caffeine on teens.

Please donate so we can provide a no-cost yearbook to all students on distribution day in June. We will not be selling yearbooks, so rather than purchasing a yearbook, we are asking you to donate. So far we've raised about $1500 of the $10,000 we will need. Look for "Sellwood Yearbook Donation" in SchoolPay. Any amount helps. Sellwood's PTA will be matching donations.

ALSO, Ms. Souther is looking for photos of our Sellwood students in their extracurricular activities. Sports, band, OBOB, debate, chess, dance team, and more are such a big part of student life, and we want to make sure we include those activities if we can. Email photos (higher resolution is better) to Lsouther@pps.net. I'll need them before spring break, please!

Dear PPS Middle Grades families,

PPS is moving to a new Standards-Based Grading System for all 28 middle schools. The purpose is to provide clearer and more meaningful feedback to students. Some of our middle schools are already using this approach, and research supports its benefits. Our K-5 schools have also made progress in this direction with their report cards.

We invite you to visit our middle grades Standards-Based Grading website at pps.net/sbg. There, you can find updates, resources, timelines, materials, and FAQs.

There will be three family and community engagement events in person and virtually at the Prophet Education Center (501 N. Dixon St.) in the PPS Boardroom. We invite all who have current middle grades students or students entering into the middle grades to these presentations where we will provide updates as well as listen to feedback and answer questions.

 

 

 

Family and Community engagement (Virtual and in person)

 

 

February 13, 2025 5:30 PM - 7:00 PM

 

 

March 13, 2025 5:30 PM - 7:00 PM

 

 

May 8, 2025 5:30 PM - 7:00 PM

 

 

 

We believe grades are an important way to communicate with students and families. This new system will make it clearer what students need to do to meet academic expectations.

 

If you have any questions, please contact Richard Smith at rsmith5@pps.net. Check the website often for updates. We look forward to working with you during this exciting transition.

Information and Family Supports

 

• This FAQ answers many questions about the steps Portland Public Schools will be taking to safeguard staff and students going forward.

• The Immigrant Legal Resource Center Little Red Card This card is meant to help people assert their rights and defend themselves in many situations. These can be printed out and carried on your person.

• Know Your Rights for Families/Students (Oregon ACLU)

• Immigrant Rights Resources One Pager

The best way to reach us is by email.

Willa Grund is our new school secretary. wgrund@pps.net

Claire Howard (choward1@pps.net) is our principal’s secretary.

Our Sellwood website (pps.net/sellwood) has many “Quick Links” to help you immediately.

The Office Phone Number

The office phone number is 503-916-5656.

When prompted

press 4 for Willa Grund (“Records/Registration”).

press 3 for Claire (Principal’s Secretary).

press 2 for any “Attendance” matter. It’s a designated line just for attendance.

press 5 for Records, Registration.

press 0 for the front counter – answered by students; not a confidential line.

Secured Building

Sellwood is a locked and secure building.

Please ring the doorbell to the right of the main doors to reach the office. We will guide you accordingly.

Picking up your student during the day:

While we understand it is sometimes necessary to pick up your child from school, please try to limit your student’s daytime appointments. If necessary, please ring the bell at the main door and expect to wait while your child is located.

Guides to Help you:

To correct your student’s attendance: Log into ParentVue.

For changes to your student's registration profile in Synergy: ParentVue/StudentVue

Quick Links found on Sellwood’s website (pps.net/sellwood)

Please email wgrund@pps.net for:

Passwords: If you have forgotten your password, have been locked out of your account, or do not have login credentials.

Registration, Enrollment.

ParentVue (if your account has been disabled).

Please email Claire (choward1@pps.net) for:

School Pay.

Bookkeeping/accounting issues.

Administrative Support: Messages or matters of support to the principal or assistant principal.

March 24-28: Spring Break

April 3: End of Quarter 3

April 4: Grading Day - No School for Students

April 7: Planning Day - No School for Students

April 8: First Day of Quarter 4

April 8: 15 Minute Late Start - Staff Meeting Day

April 11: 8th-grade Trip to U of O and OSU

April 17: PTA Meeting 7-8 PM

April 23: Early Release 1:45 PM

April 30: All 8th Grade Field Trip to Cleveland High School

May 8: All 7th Grade Field Trip to the Holocausts Museum/History Museum

May 21: Early Release 1:45 PM

May 26: Memorial Day: No School

May 28: Spring Band & Choir Concert @ Cleveland HS 7-9 PM

June 3: 15 Minute Late Start - Staff Meeting Day

June 5: Sellwood Showcase Night - 5:30 to 7:30 PM

June 9: 8th Grade Oaks Park Field Trip

June 10: 6th/7th Grade Oaks Park Field Trip

June 12: 8th Grade Promotion - 10:30-11:30 AM

June 12: Last Day of School - Half-day - School Ends 12:30 PM

Link to PPS Calendar for 2024 - 2025

Students enrolled in Selwood Middle School’s “Project Green” elective class have undertaken the creation and design of a new native plant garden. This garden will be situated on the north side of the school, next to the gym entrance (Umatilla). The students spearhead this initiative, conceptualized a garden that will enhance the school grounds, and conducted research to identify the most suitable native plants. The Rosemary Price Native Garden will provide students with an educational opportunity to understand the significance of native plants within an urban environment.

The construction of the garden is scheduled to take place from March 24 to March 28. Community members are invited to participate in an event in April to assist with spreading bark chips in the garden.

Sellwood Garden Tour - June 8 - Gardens and Volunteers Needed!

The SMS PTA is bringing back our beloved Garden Tour fundraiser on June 8th! This event has been a cherished tradition, and we're excited to showcase some of the beautiful gardens in our community once again.

To make this year's tour a success, we are looking for garden owners in the Woodstock, Westmoreland, Sellwood, Eastmoreland, and Garthwick areas willing to open their gardens to visitors. We plan to feature 5-6 gardens for the event.

All funds raised from ticket sales will directly benefit SMS for classroom supplies and to help fulfill the needs of our students and teachers.

We will need volunteers to make this event a success! We will continue to post volunteer opportunities on Konstella.

If you have a garden you'd like to share, or if you know someone who might be interested, we would love to hear from you! Please email us at sellwoodpta@gmail.com.

Thank you in advance for your help in making this event a success. We can’t wait to showcase the beauty of our community while supporting a great cause!

See’s Candy Spring Sale - Open Now!
We have launched our See’s Candy Spring sale- perfect timing to get all your spring holiday treats and support SMS! Here is the link to purchase.

Join the PTA

Please join the PTA and contribute your voice to the conversation on making this a great school year for our kids and SMS community. Here is the link to join!

www.schoolpay.com/link/sellwoodpta

 

Join Konstella

The PTA uses the Konstella app to keep the parent community up to date with scheduled events, the school calendar, volunteer sign ups and PTA announcements. Here is the link to join!

https://www.konstella.com/cd/AXC2Z9

Sign up now for spring PEAK! Classes start soon. Registration is through 6 Crickets: https://www.6crickets.com/

The PEAK Program is a series of in-person after school classes open to all Sellwood students. The PEAK program is totally independent of Sellwood Middle School and is under the jurisdiction of PTA. Scholarships are available as the PEAK goal is to include every SMS student. Scholarship request form is here: https://tinyurl.com/PEAKScholarship

Please email sellwoodpeakprogram@gmail.com with any questions. We are always looking for parent volunteers to help us run this program. Please email if you are interested!

Classes this Spring:

• AI: Intro to Machine Learning with Coding with Kids $209 Mondays 4:15-5:15 Spring Session: 3/31-6/2/25 (no class 4/7&5/26, 8 sessions) Explore the exciting world of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML)! Join us in this course to discover how AI works by learning key AI and ML concepts such as neural networks, computer vision, and image recognition. You'll also learn how to use modern AI tools effectively, like DALL-E, for tasks like generating artistic images. Additionally, you'll apply coding concepts, such as variables and conditionals, to create your own simple AI models. These models will be used to build interactive Scratch projects, including video filters and touchless games. By the end of the course, you'll understand how AI and ML work, know how to use AI tools for image and story generation, and have the skills to code your own AI-driven Scratch projects.

   

• Acting Class with Ms. Tori! $103 Tuesdays 4:15pm-5:15pm Spring Session: 4/15-5/27 (7 sessions) The class will start with acting games/exercises and community building then focus on scene study and monologue including actor relaxation, breathing, and preparation for rehearsals or performances. Students will have the opportunity to prepare a monologue or short scene to perform at the culminating session. Instructor: Tori Padellford attended the University of Nevada, Las Vegas as a DeVos acting scholarship student and earned a B.A. in Theatre Arts. She also studied at Circle-in-the-Square in New York City. “Ms. Tori” was the library assistant at Lewis Elementary for 20 years. While at Lewis she enhanced the “Drama Club” started by teachers in 2000 and directed/ produced 15 productions involving hundreds of students over the years. Tori continues to act occasionally in local theatre, commercials, film, and television.

 

• Speech and Debate $50 Tuesday 4:15-5:15 Spring Term: 4/1/25-5/20/25 The Cleveland High Speech and Debate team is one the largest and most successful programs at the school. Find out why these students love it so much, and build your own debate skills. You will practice speaking and debating skills in preparation for local middle school competitions The Sellwood team will be coached by team captains from Cleveland. Appropriate for both new and returning students.

   

• Marimba $100 Thursdays 4:15-5:15 Spring Term: 4/1-6/5/25.Taught by Ben Kinkley. Curious about African music? Want to share your own ideas with a new music ensemble? Sellwood Marimba is the place for you. Come to learn the basics or build your skills - and definitely come to jam! No experience is necessary. Instruments are provided.

As this is the last week of school in the month of March we thought we would share a few more resources that families might find useful to continue the celebration of Women’s History Month. Recently this TEDTalk given by Michele L. Sullivan was shared in some of our Advisory classes. In a talk about perspective, Sullivan shares stories full of wit and wisdom and reminds us that we're all part of each other's support systems. "The only shoes you can walk in are your own," she says. "With compassion, courage and understanding, we can walk together, side by side." If you’re looking for more ways you might take action to celebrate Women’s History Month, check out these 32 ideas from the blog, Good Good Good.

We have seen a rise in students bringing Monster Drinks and other highly caffeinated beverages to school. As a whole staff we are working on re-teaching our rule that water is the only allowed beverage in our hallways and our classrooms.If a student has caffeinated beverages in class or the hallways, they will be asked to throw them away. Here is an informative read written by a doctor about the impacts of caffeine on teens.

Please donate so we can provide a no-cost yearbook to all students on distribution day in June. We will not be selling yearbooks, so rather than purchasing a yearbook, we are asking you to donate. So far we've raised about $1500 of the $10,000 we will need. Look for "Sellwood Yearbook Donation" in SchoolPay. Any amount helps. Sellwood's PTA will be matching donations.

ALSO, Ms. Souther is looking for photos of our Sellwood students in their extracurricular activities. Sports, band, OBOB, debate, chess, dance team, and more are such a big part of student life, and we want to make sure we include those activities if we can. Email photos (higher resolution is better) to Lsouther@pps.net. I'll need them before spring break, please!

Hello Cleveland Families!

 

This Spring we are excited to offer our Cleveland Flag Football League for the 3rd season in a row. This league will allow our youth to maintain their fitness, as well as learn and develop football skills and fundamentals. They will get in-depth coaching from experienced Cleveland Football staff and meet other athletes throughout the Cleveland cluster. Registration has begun and spots are limited.

 

The season begins April 1st and is open to all 4th-8th graders of all genders. There will be 3 Divisions (4th/5th, 6th/7th & 8th). Practices will be held every Tues & Thurs 5:30PM - 7PM at Westmoreland Sports Field, with games every Saturday morning at the Cleveland Sports Stadium. This year the season will end on May 20th, just before Memorial Day weekend.

The fee is $50 or $25 Free/Reduced Lunch. This is due on or before the first official day of practice.

 

Register Here: https://tinyurl.com/4aktmjxh

 

Remember spots are limited so sign up as soon as possible,

 

Go Warriors!

Dear PPS Middle Grades families,

PPS is moving to a new Standards-Based Grading System for all 28 middle schools. The purpose is to provide clearer and more meaningful feedback to students. Some of our middle schools are already using this approach, and research supports its benefits. Our K-5 schools have also made progress in this direction with their report cards.

We invite you to visit our middle grades Standards-Based Grading website at pps.net/sbg. There, you can find updates, resources, timelines, materials, and FAQs.

There will be three family and community engagement events in person and virtually at the Prophet Education Center (501 N. Dixon St.) in the PPS Boardroom. We invite all who have current middle grades students or students entering into the middle grades to these presentations where we will provide updates as well as listen to feedback and answer questions.

 

 

 

Family and Community engagement (Virtual and in person)

 

 

February 13, 2025 5:30 PM - 7:00 PM

 

 

March 13, 2025 5:30 PM - 7:00 PM

 

 

May 8, 2025 5:30 PM - 7:00 PM

 

 

 

We believe grades are an important way to communicate with students and families. This new system will make it clearer what students need to do to meet academic expectations.

 

If you have any questions, please contact Richard Smith at rsmith5@pps.net. Check the website often for updates. We look forward to working with you during this exciting transition.

Information and Family Supports

 

• This FAQ answers many questions about the steps Portland Public Schools will be taking to safeguard staff and students going forward.

• The Immigrant Legal Resource Center Little Red Card This card is meant to help people assert their rights and defend themselves in many situations. These can be printed out and carried on your person.

• Know Your Rights for Families/Students (Oregon ACLU)

• Immigrant Rights Resources One Pager

The best way to reach us is by email.

Willa Grund is our new school secretary. wgrund@pps.net

Claire Howard (choward1@pps.net) is our principal’s secretary.

Our Sellwood website (pps.net/sellwood) has many “Quick Links” to help you immediately.

The Office Phone Number

The office phone number is 503-916-5656.

When prompted

press 4 for Willa Grund (“Records/Registration”).

press 3 for Claire (Principal’s Secretary).

press 2 for any “Attendance” matter. It’s a designated line just for attendance.

press 5 for Records, Registration.

press 0 for the front counter – answered by students; not a confidential line.

Secured Building

Sellwood is a locked and secure building.

Please ring the doorbell to the right of the main doors to reach the office. We will guide you accordingly.

Picking up your student during the day:

While we understand it is sometimes necessary to pick up your child from school, please try to limit your student’s daytime appointments. If necessary, please ring the bell at the main door and expect to wait while your child is located.

Guides to Help you:

To correct your student’s attendance: Log into ParentVue.

For changes to your student's registration profile in Synergy: ParentVue/StudentVue

Quick Links found on Sellwood’s website (pps.net/sellwood)

Please email wgrund@pps.net for:

Passwords: If you have forgotten your password, have been locked out of your account, or do not have login credentials.

Registration, Enrollment.

ParentVue (if your account has been disabled).

Please email Claire (choward1@pps.net) for:

School Pay.

Bookkeeping/accounting issues.

Administrative Support: Messages or matters of support to the principal or assistant principal.

March 24-28: Spring Break

April 3: End of Quarter 3

April 4: Grading Day - No School for Students

April 7: Planning Day - No School for Students

April 8: First Day of Quarter 4

April 8: 15 Minute Late Start - Staff Meeting Day

April 11: 8th-grade Trip to U of O and OSU

April 17: PTA Meeting 7-8 PM

April 23: Early Release 1:45 PM

April 30: All 8th Grade Field Trip to Cleveland High School

May 8: All 7th Grade Field Trip to the Holocausts Museum/History Museum

May 21: Early Release 1:45 PM

May 26: Memorial Day: No School

May 28: Spring Band & Choir Concert @ Cleveland HS 7-9 PM

June 3: 15 Minute Late Start - Staff Meeting Day

June 5: Sellwood Showcase Night - 5:30 to 7:30 PM

June 9: 8th Grade Oaks Park Field Trip

June 10: 6th/7th Grade Oaks Park Field Trip

June 12: 8th Grade Promotion - 10:30-11:30 AM

June 12: Last Day of School - Half-day - School Ends 12:30 PM

Link to PPS Calendar for 2024 - 2025

Dear Sellwood Community,

 

Today, 6th graders went on a "gallery walk" to view our Black History Month door decoration efforts. I have shared one example, from Mr. Shelley's 7th grade ELA class.

 

6th-grade families, Outdoor School starts this Sunday. Please read the drop off and pick up details in the Outdoor School section.

 

Also, don't forget that next Wednesday, March 19th, will be an early release date, at 1:45 PM

 

Finally, please help me give a shout out to the Sellwood Stars, who took home four of ten drill down awards last weekend at a competition in Philomath.

 

Sincerely,

 

Jeandre Carbone

Sellwood Principal

Sellwood Garden Tour - June 8 - Gardens and Volunteers Needed!

The SMS PTA is bringing back our beloved Garden Tour fundraiser on June 8th! This event has been a cherished tradition, and we're excited to showcase some of the beautiful gardens in our community once again.

To make this year's tour a success, we are looking for garden owners in the Woodstock, Westmoreland, Sellwood, Eastmoreland, and Garthwick areas willing to open their gardens to visitors. We plan to feature 5-6 gardens for the event.

All funds raised from ticket sales will directly benefit SMS for classroom supplies and to help fulfill the needs of our students and teachers.

We will need volunteers to make this event a success! We will continue to post volunteer opportunities on Konstella.

If you have a garden you'd like to share, or if you know someone who might be interested, we would love to hear from you! Please email us at sellwoodpta@gmail.com.

Thank you in advance for your help in making this event a success. We can’t wait to showcase the beauty of our community while supporting a great cause!

See’s Candy Spring Sale - Open Now!
We have launched our See’s Candy Spring sale- perfect timing to get all your spring holiday treats and support SMS! Here is the link to purchase.

Join the PTA

Please join the PTA and contribute your voice to the conversation on making this a great school year for our kids and SMS community. Here is the link to join!

www.schoolpay.com/link/sellwoodpta

 

Join Konstella

The PTA uses the Konstella app to keep the parent community up to date with scheduled events, the school calendar, volunteer sign ups and PTA announcements. Here is the link to join!

 

https://www.konstella.com/cd/AXC2Z9

Spring PEAK scholarship requests open! Registration coming soon! See class list below.

 

The PEAK Program is a series of in-person after school classes open to all Sellwood students. The PEAK program is totally independent of Sellwood Middle School and is under the jurisdiction of the PTA. Scholarship request form is here: https://tinyurl.com/PEAKScholarship

Please email sellwoodpeakprogram@gmail.com with any questions. We are always looking for parent volunteers to help us run this program. Please email if you are interested!

 

Classes this Spring:

 

• AI: Intro to Machine Learning with Coding with Kids $209 Mondays 4:15-5:15 Spring Session: 3/31-6/2/25 (no class 4/7&5/26, 8 sessions) Explore the exciting world of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML)! Join us in this course to discover how AI works by learning key AI and ML concepts such as neural networks, computer vision, and image recognition. You'll also learn how to use modern AI tools effectively, like DALL-E, for tasks like generating artistic images. Additionally, you'll apply coding concepts, such as variables and conditionals, to create your own simple AI models. These models will be used to build interactive Scratch projects, including video filters and touchless games. By the end of the course, you'll understand how AI and ML work, know how to use AI tools for image and story generation, and have the skills to code your own AI-driven Scratch projects.

 

• Acting Class with Ms. Tori! $100 Tuesdays 4:15pm-5:15pm Spring Session: 4/15-5/27 (7 sessions) The class will start with acting games/exercises and community building then focus on scene study and monologue including actor relaxation, breathing, and preparation for rehearsals or performances. Students will have the opportunity to prepare a monologue or short scene to perform at the culminating session. Instructor: Tori Padellford attended the University of Nevada, Las Vegas as a DeVos acting scholarship student and earned a B.A. in Theatre Arts. She also studied at Circle-in-the-Square in New York City. “Ms. Tori” was the library assistant at Lewis Elementary for 20 years. While at Lewis she enhanced the “Drama Club” started by teachers in 2000 and directed/produced 15 productions involving hundreds of students over the years. Tori continues to act occasionally in local theatre, commercials, film, and television.

 

• Speech and Debate Tuesdays 4:15-5:15 $50 Spring Term: 4/1/25-6/3/25 (these start and end dates are currently tentative) The Cleveland High Speech and Debate team is one the largest and most successful programs at the school. Find out why these students love it so much, and build your own debate skills. You will practice speaking and debating skills in preparation for local middle school competitions The Sellwood team will be coached by team captains from Cleveland. Appropriate for both new and returning students.

• Marimba $104.50 Thursdays 4:15-5:15 Spring Term: 4/1-6/5 Taught by Ben Kinkley. Curious about African music? Want to share your own ideas with a new music ensemble? Sellwood Marimba is the place for you. Come to learn the basics or build your skills - and definitely come to jam! No experience is necessary. Instruments are provided.

6th Grade Families

Students leave for Outdoor School THIS Sunday! See below for times.

 

Still need gear? The Gear Library is open Sunday, 12-2 pm.

Questions? Reach out to your student's 1st period teacher.

 

Below are the Departure and Arrival Times for the buses to and from Sellwood MS.
Mr. Adam's class ONLY - For Camp Westwind
Sunday, March 16 - Mr. Adam's 6th Graders arrive at Sellwood Parking Lot by 1:00 PM for attendance - Buses will depart at 1:30 sharp
Friday, March 21 - all 6th Graders arrive back at Sellwood at approximately 1:30 PM

All other 6th grade classes (White, Fuhrmann, Olsen, Fisher, Lossner/Jaeger, Casper/Anderson) going to camps: Collins, Angelos, Kuratli, and Namanu
Sunday, March 16 - 6th Graders arrive at Sellwood Parking Lot by 2:30 PM for attendance - Buses will depart at 3:00 sharp

Return Info

Friday, March 21 - all 6th Graders arrive back at Sellwood at approximately 1:30 PM. Please park in the parking lot or on the neighboring streets. Please do not park in front of the school on SE 15th, as it needs to be kept open for buses. Students will be tired and eager to go home to share stories of their Outdoor School adventures.

In honor of Women’s History Month we wanted to spotlight the many great events that our local YWCA offers! Just this month alone they have a number of virtual workshops that cover such topics as: Training for being a Victim-Advocate discussing Privilege & Confidentiality, Savorism in Domestic Violence Work, Anti-Racism Practices,Interrupting & Recasting Harmful Conversations about Race, and understanding the Cycle of Socialization. For all of their workshops they offer a sliding scale and work-trade opportunities. If interested you can get more details on their website.

We have seen a rise in students bringing Monster Drinks and other highly caffeinated beverages to school. As a whole staff we are working on re-teaching our rule that water is the only allowed beverage in our hallways and our classrooms.If a student has caffeinated beverages in class or the hallways, they will be asked to throw them away. Here is an informative read written by a doctor about the impacts of caffeine on teens.

Please donate so we can provide a no-cost yearbook to all students on distribution day in June. We will not be selling yearbooks, so rather than purchasing a yearbook, we are asking you to donate. So far we've raised about $1000 of the $10,000 we will need. Look for "Sellwood Yearbook Donation" in SchoolPay. Any amount helps.

ALSO, Ms. Souther is looking for photos of our Sellwood students in their extracurricular activities. Sports, band, OBOB, debate, chess, dance team, and more are such a big part of student life, and we want to make sure we include those activities if we can. Email photos (higher resolution is better) to Lsouther@pps.net. I'll need them before spring break, please!

Hello Cleveland Families!

 

This Spring we are excited to offer our Cleveland Flag Football League for the 3rd season in a row. This league will allow our youth to maintain their fitness, as well as learn and develop football skills and fundamentals. They will get in-depth coaching from experienced Cleveland Football staff and meet other athletes throughout the Cleveland cluster. Registration has begun and spots are limited.

 

The season begins April 1st and is open to all 4th-8th graders of all genders. There will be 3 Divisions (4th/5th, 6th/7th & 8th). Practices will be held every Tues & Thurs 5:30PM - 7PM at Westmoreland Sports Field, with games every Saturday morning at the Cleveland Sports Stadium. This year the season will end on May 20th, just before Memorial Day weekend.

The fee is $50 or $25 Free/Reduced Lunch. This is due on or before the first official day of practice.

 

Register Here: https://tinyurl.com/4aktmjxh

 

Remember spots are limited so sign up as soon as possible,

 

Go Warriors!

Dear PPS Middle Grades families,

PPS is moving to a new Standards-Based Grading System for all 28 middle schools. The purpose is to provide clearer and more meaningful feedback to students. Some of our middle schools are already using this approach, and research supports its benefits. Our K-5 schools have also made progress in this direction with their report cards.

We invite you to visit our middle grades Standards-Based Grading website at pps.net/sbg. There, you can find updates, resources, timelines, materials, and FAQs.

There will be three family and community engagement events in person and virtually at the Prophet Education Center (501 N. Dixon St.) in the PPS Boardroom. We invite all who have current middle grades students or students entering into the middle grades to these presentations where we will provide updates as well as listen to feedback and answer questions.

 

 

 

Family and Community engagement (Virtual and in person)

 

 

February 13, 2025 5:30 PM - 7:00 PM

 

 

March 13, 2025 5:30 PM - 7:00 PM

 

 

May 8, 2025 5:30 PM - 7:00 PM

 

 

 

We believe grades are an important way to communicate with students and families. This new system will make it clearer what students need to do to meet academic expectations.

 

If you have any questions, please contact Richard Smith at rsmith5@pps.net. Check the website often for updates. We look forward to working with you during this exciting transition.

Information and Family Supports

 

• This FAQ answers many questions about the steps Portland Public Schools will be taking to safeguard staff and students going forward.

• The Immigrant Legal Resource Center Little Red Card This card is meant to help people assert their rights and defend themselves in many situations. These can be printed out and carried on your person.

• Know Your Rights for Families/Students (Oregon ACLU)

• Immigrant Rights Resources One Pager

The best way to reach us is by email.

Willa Grund is our new school secretary. wgrund@pps.net

Claire Howard (choward1@pps.net) is our principal’s secretary.

Our Sellwood website (pps.net/sellwood) has many “Quick Links” to help you immediately.

The Office Phone Number

The office phone number is 503-916-5656.

When prompted

press 4 for Willa Grund (“Records/Registration”).

press 3 for Claire (Principal’s Secretary).

press 2 for any “Attendance” matter. It’s a designated line just for attendance.

press 5 for Records, Registration.

press 0 for the front counter – answered by students; not a confidential line.

Secured Building

Sellwood is a locked and secure building.

Please ring the doorbell to the right of the main doors to reach the office. We will guide you accordingly.

Picking up your student during the day:

While we understand it is sometimes necessary to pick up your child from school, please try to limit your student’s daytime appointments. If necessary, please ring the bell at the main door and expect to wait while your child is located.

Guides to Help you:

To correct your student’s attendance: Log into ParentVue.

For changes to your student's registration profile in Synergy: ParentVue/StudentVue

Quick Links found on Sellwood’s website (pps.net/sellwood)

Please email wgrund@pps.net for:

Passwords: If you have forgotten your password, have been locked out of your account, or do not have login credentials.

Registration, Enrollment.

ParentVue (if your account has been disabled).

Please email Claire (choward1@pps.net) for:

School Pay.

Bookkeeping/accounting issues.

Administrative Support: Messages or matters of support to the principal or assistant principal.

March 16-21: Outdoor School for All 6th-Graders

March 19: Early Release 1:45 PM

March 24-28: Spring Break

April 3: End of Quarter 3

April 4: Grading Day - No School for Students

April 7: Planning Day - No School for Students

April 8: First Day of Quarter 4

April 8: 15 Minute Late Start - Staff Meeting Day

April 17: PTA Meeting 7-8 PM

April 23: Early Release 1:45 PM

April 28: All 8th Grade Field Trip to Bonneville Dam

May 8: All 7th Grade Field Trip to the Holocausts Museum/History Museum

May 21: Early Release 1:45 PM

May 26: Memorial Day: No School

May 28: Spring Band & Choir Concert @ Cleveland HS 7-9 PM

June 3: 15 Minute Late Start - Staff Meeting Day

June 5: Sellwood Showcase Night - 5:30 to 7:30 PM

June 9: 8th Grade Oaks Park Field Trip

June 10: 6th/7th Grade Oaks Park Field Trip

June 12: 8th Grade Promotion - 10:30-11:30 AM

June 12: Last Day of School - Half-day - School Ends 12:30 PM

Link to PPS Calendar for 2024 - 2025

Sellwood Garden Tour - June 8 - Gardens and Volunteers Needed!

We are thrilled to announce that the SMS PTA is bringing back our beloved Garden Tour fundraiser on June 8th! This event has been a cherished tradition, and we're excited to showcase some of the beautiful gardens in our community once again.

To make this year's tour a success, we are looking for garden owners in the Woodstock, Westmoreland, Sellwood, Eastmoreland, and Garthwick areas willing to open their gardens to visitors. We plan to feature 5-6 gardens for the event.

All funds raised from ticket sales will directly benefit SMS for classroom supplies and to help fulfill the needs of our students and teachers.

We are holding a volunteer kickoff meeting on Wednesday, March 12 at 6:00 pm at the Portland Bottle Shop. Please join us to learn more about this event and our volunteer needs. We will continue to post volunteer opportunities on Konstella as well.

If you have a garden you'd like to share, or if you know someone who might be interested, we would love to hear from you! Please email us at sellwoodpta@gmail.com.

Thank you in advance for your help in making this event a success. We can’t wait to showcase the beauty of our community while supporting a great cause!

Join the PTA

Please join the PTA and contribute your voice to the conversation on making this a great school year for our kids and SMS community. Here is the link to join!

www.schoolpay.com/link/sellwoodpta

 

Join Konstella

The PTA uses the Konstella app to keep the parent community up to date with scheduled events, the school calendar, volunteer sign ups and PTA announcements. Here is the link to join!

https://www.konstella.com/cd/AXC2Z9

Hello again from AVID! We are still seeking volunteers to share their career path with students on Fridays during the third period. We're currently booking guest speakers after Spring Break! If you are interested in participating, please feel free to reach out to our AVID teacher, Mx. Veida Lekakh, or fill out an AVID Guest Speaker Interest Form"-

6th Grade Families

If your child is NOT attending Outdoor School, please let their 1st Period teacher know ASAP.

 

Below are the Departure and Arrival Times for the buses.

For Camp Westwind

 

• Sunday, March 16 - 6th Graders arrive at Sellwood Parking Lot by 1:00 PM - Busses will depart at 1:30 sharp
• Friday, March 21 - 6th Graders arrive back at Sellwood at approximately 1:30 PM

 

For Camps: Collins, Angelos, Kuratli, and Namanu

 

• Sunday, March 16 - 6th Graders arrive at Sellwood Parking Lot by 2:30 PM - Busses will depart at 3:00 sharp
• Friday, March 21 - 6th Graders arrive back at Sellwood at approximately 1:30 PM

We have seen a rise in students bringing Monster Drinks and other highly caffeinated beverages to school. As a whole staff we are working on re-teaching our rule that water is the only allowed beverage in our hallways and our classrooms.If a student has caffeinated beverages in class or the hallways, they will be asked to throw them away. Here is an informative read written by a doctor about the impacts of caffeine on teens.

Please donate so we can provide a no-cost yearbook to all students on distribution day in June. We will not be selling yearbooks, so rather than purchasing a yearbook, we are asking you to donate. So far we've raised about $1000 of the $10,000 we will need. Look for "Sellwood Yearbook Donation" in SchoolPay. Any amount helps.

ALSO, Ms. Souther is looking for photos of our Sellwood students in their extracurricular activities. Sports, band, OBOB, debate, chess, dance team, and more are such a big part of student life, and we want to make sure we include those activities if we can. Email photos (higher resolution is better) to Lsouther@pps.net. I'll need them before spring break, please!

Hello Cleveland Families!

 

This Spring we are excited to offer our Cleveland Flag Football League for the 3rd season in a row. This league will allow our youth to maintain their fitness, as well as learn and develop football skills and fundamentals. They will get in-depth coaching from experienced Cleveland Football staff and meet other athletes throughout the Cleveland cluster. Registration has begun and spots are limited.

 

The season begins April 1st and is open to all 4th-8th graders of all genders. There will be 3 Divisions (4th/5th, 6th/7th & 8th). Practices will be held every Tues & Thurs 5:30PM - 7PM at Westmoreland Sports Field, with games every Saturday morning at the Cleveland Sports Stadium. This year the season will end on May 20th, just before Memorial Day weekend.

The fee is $50 or $25 Free/Reduced Lunch. This is due on or before the first official day of practice.

 

Register Here: https://tinyurl.com/4aktmjxh

 

Remember spots are limited so sign up as soon as possible,

 

Go Warriors!

Is your child interested in participating in Track and Field?

If so, we’ve got you covered! Below is a link to our PIL website’s Youth tab, where you can find all the information you need about spring sports for middle school students in your cluster. On this page, you’ll find flyers with details on how to register, documents needed to participate, how to pay and important dates about when/where practice is.

Season is from March 10th to May 10th

Registration closes on March 21st

If you have any questions, feel free to contact the District Athletic Office by email at dbookout@pps.net or by phone at 503-916-3223.

We look forward to seeing your child on the field this spring!

PIL ATHLETICS WEBSITE - YOUTH TAB

 

Thank you, GO PIL!

Our Leadership Class is excited to share this month's "Toilet Talk" flyer, which focuses on Mental Health Awareness. This flyer has been created to help raise awareness about mental health and provide helpful tips for students to take care of their well-being. We aim to spark meaningful conversations and encourage students to prioritize their mental health, not just in school, but in all aspects of their lives.

The flyer will be posted in student restrooms throughout the school in hopes that it sparks reflection and action. We encourage all students to take a moment to read it and consider how they can support themselves and others.

 

A new flyer will be posted every month targeting a different topic relevant to middle school students!