During a recent workshop held by the Camas School District School Board on June 9, 2025, discussions centered around enhancing student engagement through practical learning experiences and effective communication strategies.

One of the key topics was the integration of culinary education into the district's programs. Board members expressed enthusiasm for involving students from Cascadia Tech in fine dining initiatives, emphasizing the importance of hands-on learning. The idea is to not only educate students about culinary arts but also to create opportunities for them to participate in serving and setting up events. This approach aims to foster a connection between current students and alumni, potentially incorporating live music performances by former students to enrich the dining experience.

The board also highlighted ongoing conversations with local partners, including ESD 112, to explore ways to incorporate student-created recipes into school programs. This collaboration could lead to employment opportunities for students post-graduation, further bridging the gap between education and real-world applications in the food industry.

In addition to culinary discussions, the meeting included a communications update from Doreen, who reflected on the district's strategic plan launched last August. The plan, encapsulated by the tagline "every student has a story, every story finds a path, and we all belong here," aims to create a more inclusive environment for students. Doreen noted the positive reception of the strategic plan's kickoff video, which was distributed to stakeholders to enhance visibility and engagement.

Overall, the workshop underscored the district's commitment to innovative educational practices and effective communication, aiming to enrich the student experience and strengthen community ties. As the district moves forward, the board remains open to new ideas and collaborations that can further enhance student learning and engagement.