Frequently Asked Questions

Most commonly asked questions are listed here with answers and resource links.

Where do I find emergency and school closure information?

All parents and guardians will receive an auto-dial phone call in the event of an emergency. Information will also be shared on the district’s website, through FlashAlert, and through Linn-Benton ALERT Emergency Notification System.

For more information about how we communicate with families in emergency situations, visit the school district’s Emergency and School Closure Notification page.

Who do I call if my student will be missing school?

Please call the attendance hotline: (541) 757-5988

When your child is absent for either a full or partial day, it is very important to report the absence to the office by 8:15 am the day of the absence. In the interest of student health and safety, the office staff will phone parents or contacts who have not reported to us.

When leaving a voice message, please include

  • your name
  • student’s name
  • teacher
  • nature of the absence

If you are prearranging an absence for another day, please include the date of the absence. As always, you are welcome to phone Beth Roberson, McKenzie Rakes, or Kirsten Mills at the main office number 541-757-5987 for assistance.

Where do I register my student for riding the bus?

Bus transportation is provided to and from school from designated stops within the school attendance area. You can register your student(s) to ride the bus on the Student Transportation page on the district website.

Bus routes and schedules can also be found at the above link.

What if my student loses a personal belonging at the school?

A student’s belongings, such as jackets, sweaters, gloves, hats, and boots, should be marked with first and last names. Misplaced items are stored in the Lost & Found. Items that remain unclaimed are donated to Vina Moses at winter, spring, and summer breaks.

Will my student receive homework?

Upon reviewing available research, there are many questions and concerns regarding traditional homework specifically for elementary-age children. We believe the primary purpose for learning beyond the school day is to support foundational skills, such as reading, and provide an opportunity to practice responsibility in preparation for later grades. Therefore, traditional homework is not assigned at Letitia Carson.

The most important element of extending learning outside of school in elementary school is reading. The goal of reading at home is to foster a love of reading. Unless specified, the student is encouraged to read whatever material or genre they enjoy. The classroom teacher may recommend a certain number of minutes. Shared reading, such as reading with a parent/guardian or sibling, is highly encouraged.

We believe the extension of learning beyond the school day should be as authentic as possible and be supported by families. Rich learning activities such as cooking, exploring nature, playing board games, and communicating at meals are necessary for whole-child development. Children need time for play, family activity, and a good night of sleep.

Occasionally, projects relating to subjects introduced in the classroom may have home connections which allow the student to further investigate a specific topic. Support at school with time and materials will be provided if needed to help students access project-based learning.

Optional additional opportunities to extend learning may be provided for families as needed/desired.

How can I stay informed?

News and announcements, as well as our weekly newsletter Wildcat Weekly, are sent via ParentSquare. If you are not receiving emails from us, please contact the main office.

We regularly post news items that can be found on our homepage and on our News page here.

How can I be involved at school?

There are many ways to volunteer — in the classroom, in the Volunteer Center, on field trips, at special events, and more! There is a good chance that your skills and interests can be aligned with a volunteer activity!

If your schedule prevents you from volunteering during school hours, the Volunteer Center can pair you with some at-home jobs.

For more information, please visit our Get Involved page.