We’re thrilled to celebrate our own Ryan Huels, principal of Oregon Elementary School, for being featured in a national education blog and for speaking on behalf of the Oregon School District at the Illinois ASCD Pump Up Primary Conference on Friday March 6.

In Education Week’s nationally respected Opinion section, Mr. Huels shared practical ways school leaders can support teachers and prevent staff burnout. He highlighted approaches he uses here in Oregon like reducing and shortening meetings to respect teachers’ time and prioritizing daily visibility in classrooms to better understand student learning and connect with staff.

When asked how it feels to represent our district, Mr. Huels said he’s always glad to take any opportunity to highlight the great work happening here. But he quickly credits the entire Oregon staff for making those stories possible and emphasizes it's not a one man show.

He also explains that "teaching has never been harder and that supporting teachers often means taking things off their plates," even if that means canceling a meeting or replacing it with an email. That kind of intentional support has helped strengthen relationships and make Oregon a place where teachers want to continue their careers.

Mr. Huels also makes it a priority of his to be present in every aspect to students and staff. He attends classes, lunches, recess, and is always in the halls handing out high fives. He notes, " you can't support teachers and kids if you're just hanging out in your office all day." By doing this, staff has given very positive feedback to his ways and enjoy the environment they work in every day.

Thank you once again Mr. Huels!

Here is the link to the EdWeek Blog: https://www.edweek.org/leadership/opinion-12-strategies-administrators-can-use-to-prevent-staff-burnout-and-their-own/2026/02.

Post created by OCUSD Communciation Intern Nole Campos.

In the Headlights: Barb Holaday

Barb Holaday has been a familiar and friendly presence on the “Penguin Bus” for eight years, transporting students—including some of the district’s special needs students—safely to and from school. She started her journey in transportation as an aide for the Penguin route, quickly stepping into the driver’s seat the following year. Since then, she has become an essential part of the team, known for her dedication, humor, and care for students.

Communication is a value Barb holds in the highest regard. She believes strong communication is essential for a safe, smooth, and positive experience for students, aides, and parents alike.

Outside of her transportation role, Barb has an impressive background. She holds two degrees from WyoTec, studying collision and refinishing, trim and upholstery, street rod work, and applied service management. She also spent about five years in Atlanta, working at various body shops and dealerships, including Cadillac and Subaru. Today, she channels that same love of learning and teaching into her family life, enjoying taking her kids sightseeing, teaching them new skills, and encouraging them to try new experiences.

While Barb doesn’t have a favorite movie, musician, or book, her life is full of hands-on creativity, family adventure, and a dedication to her students’ safety and well-being. She does have a favorite baseball team though; she loves the Milwaukee Brewers, although if she wants  to irritate her husband when the Atlanta Braves play the Dodgers she’ll do the Braves chant since they are next in line behind the Brewers.  Her sense of humor, expertise, and commitment make her a treasured member of the district’s transportation team, ensuring every bus ride is safe, smooth, and sometimes a little adventurous.

Holidays: Curling Is Cool Day / Diesel Engine Day / National Banana Bread Day / National Tootsie Roll Day
Fact: There’s only one letter that doesn’t appear in any American state name. (Which letter is it?)

This past Tuesday, 3 of our custodial subs were recognized at the school board meeting for their years of hard work and dedication to the district.
Bill and James would like to personally thank June Danekas, Robin Camplain, and Lonie Sarver for everything they have done, and continue to do, for the district. These 3 are outstanding examples of the district's core values of excellence, integrity, and being people-centered!!

Dear Parents and Guardians,
We would like to inform you that beginning Monday, February 23, your child’s bus assignment and/or pick-up and drop-off times will be changing. These changes will affect the Bear, Cat, Deer, Rabbit, and Squirrel routes.
We understand that adjustments to transportation schedules can be inconvenient, and we sincerely apologize for any disruption this may cause to your family’s routine. These changes are necessary to improve the efficiency and reliability of our transportation services.
Families may log in to PowerSchool or access the My Ride K-12 app beginning Saturday morning to view updated bus stop information and times. Please review the updated transportation details carefully to ensure your child is prepared for the new schedule starting Monday.
If you have any questions or need further clarification, please contact the Transportation Department at 815-732-5300ext. 4032. We are happy to assist you.
Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.

In the Headlights: Kathrina “Kat” Sandrock — Bus Aide, Transportation Department

Transportation Team Spotlight: Kathrina “Kat” Sandrock

Kathrina “Kat” Sandrock serves as a bus aide and plays an essential role in creating a safe, supportive, and welcoming environment for students each day. From the moment students step onto the bus, Kat is there to help assign seats, reinforce bus rules, assist with coats, hats, gloves, and book bags, and ensure student safety by watching for passing vehicles. Just as importantly, she offers comfort and reassurance to students who may be having a difficult morning or challenging day.

Kat has been with the transportation department for one year as of October, and during that time she has found her work to be both challenging and deeply rewarding. She currently works with students on the Penguin bus, a role that has helped shape her growth as much as it has supported the students she serves. “These kiddos have challenged my patience at times,” Kat shares, “but they’ve also helped me become more patient.” One of her most meaningful experiences has been watching students grow and succeed, including seeing them graduate from OCEC Plus and transition into regular classroom settings.

When asked why she chooses the routes she does, Kat explains that it feels less like a choice and more like a calling. Early in her career, she was assigned to many different buses and routes, but she believes the Penguin bus students needed someone consistent, loyal, and supportive. She is proud to be that person for them.

Kat has a heartfelt message for the students and families she serves. To her students, she expresses how proud she is of their growth and looks forward to the positive impact they will make in the world. To parents, she emphasizes that while there may be challenging days, their children are special in countless ways, and she is grateful to be part of their journey.

Outside of her daily responsibilities, Kat brings creativity and unique life experiences to the team. She has traveled to New York to participate in modeling competitions with International Modeling & Talent Agency and enjoys crafting acrylic bouquets, wreaths, and decorative arrangements in her free time. She’s also quick to share a few personal quirks—like her dislike of finding long strands of her own hair everywhere and the importance of students remembering to cover their mouths when they cough.

When it comes to favorites, Kat enjoys the movie Spirit and listens to a wide range of music, with Jensen Ackles, Michael Jackson, and Brandon Lake topping her list.

Through her dedication, compassion, and consistency, Kathrina “Kat” Sandrock makes a meaningful difference each day, ensuring students feel safe, supported, and valued from the very start of their ride.

Fact of the Day: The probability of a blue lobster existing is widely touted as being one in two million.

Holiday(s): National Pancake Week!