Mapleton approves single-district charter, seeks feedback on draft plan
We invite feedback here or by email (board@mapleton.k12.or.us) on the Mapleton Community School Draft Charter Plan.
On June 8, 2026, the Mapleton School District Governing Board approved transition to single-district charter under the name Mapleton Community School.
This status change is intended to strengthen long-term sustainability, expand educational opportunities for students and families, and continue growing Mapleton’s innovative model of personalized, community-connected learning. Mapleton will continue as a four-day school week with extensive afterschool and Friday School programming.
Importantly, Mapleton Community School will remain a public school open to all students and continue operating under the Mapleton School District Governing Board. The transition will not create a separate school, but instead provide additional flexibility to strengthen programming, increase enrollment opportunities, and better serve rural students and families.
“Our district has spent years building authentic learning experiences where students work side by side with adults to improve their community,” said Superintendent Susan Wilson. “This next step allows us to continue protecting and growing that vision while remaining fiscally responsible and community-centered.”
The draft charter plan highlights Mapleton’s existing strengths, including:
• Project-based learning connected to real community needs
• Small class sizes and personalized instruction
• Career-connected and hands-on learning opportunities
• Dual credit and post-secondary pathways
• Student leadership and public exhibitions of learning
• Strong wellness, advisory, and relationship-based supports
• Partnerships with local organizations, businesses, and regional programs
Offerings include K-12 visual arts, as well as Gardening, Culinary, Business, Media, Electronics, and Construction courses through Mapleton’s unique state-approved Career and Technical Education Community Building pathway. All students regularly complete projects that directly benefit the broader community while developing skills as dynamic communicators, thinkers, innovators, and advocates.
As part of the process, the district is now gathering additional feedback from students, staff, families, community members, and regional partners in order to refine the charter proposal prior to submission to the Oregon Department of Education later this summer.
Additional next steps include:
• Establishing Mapleton Community School nonprofit status as required under Oregon single-district charter law
• Developing and sharing informational and marketing materials
• Launching an enrollment interest form for families considering attendance at Mapleton Community School
• Determining new transportation routes beyond district boundaries.
The district emphasized that the transition is rooted in long-term sustainability and responsible planning. Existing district systems, staffing structures, facilities, and fiscal management practices would remain in place, and any future enrollment growth would further support expanded opportunities for students and families.
More information, draft materials, and opportunities for feedback will be shared throughout the summer through the district website and community communications.
For more information please contact Mapleton School District at (541) 268-4322 or visit the district website at mapleton.k12.or.us
