BOARDMAN, OR -- Morrow County School District kicked off the 2025–26 school year with its annual District inservice, held for the first time at the new, state-of-the-art Sage Event Center. The event brought together educators, staff, and leadership from across the district to celebrate collaboration, recognize excellence, and set a positive tone for the year ahead.
The day began with a coffee meet-and-greet, giving colleagues a chance to reconnect after the summer break. Warm welcomes were delivered by Superintendent Combe, Rosie Delgado, a representative of the School Board, and the presidents of both employee associations. Each emphasized the importance of working together, supporting one another, and building strong, nurturing relationships to ensure student success.
As part of the program, the district honored exceptional staff achievements from the past year. Recognitions included Educators of the Year, Crystal Apple Award recipients, and milestone service awards for employees who have dedicated five or more years to the district, with several staff members proudly celebrating over 31 years of service. These staff members are Cindy Turner (ACH Secretary) 31 years, Tracy Gordanier (RJSHS Ed Assistant) 35 years, Dave Fowler (HJSHS Teacher) 36 years, Karen Griffith-Lunders (IJSHS Library Tech) 37 years, and Jody Marston (RJSHS Registrar/Dept Secretary) 38 years.
A highlight of the day was a keynote presentation by three distinguished district graduates. Reflecting on their 13 years of education in Morrow County School District schools, the graduates shared heartfelt stories about the impact of their teachers and staff, praising their enthusiasm, commitment to accountability, and willingness to give of their time—even during challenging moments.
The MCSD Alumni were (from left to right) Adrian Romero (Irrigon Jr/Sr High, 2015), Weston Putman (Heppner Jr/Sr High, 2016), and Stephanie Madrigal (Riverside Jr/Sr High, 2015).
The inservice concluded with a catered lunch provided by Custom Cravings, giving staff one more opportunity to connect and celebrate the start of a new school year together.
“Our annual inservice is always a celebration of the people who make this district what it is,” said Superintendent Combe. "Starting the year in such an inspiring environment, full of positive energy, recognition, and motivation, sets the tone for the meaningful work ahead."