Charter School Moving Forward
The Whitmore Classical Academy continues progress toward its future home in Florence. The school is awaiting the close of escrow on the former Rite Aid building, and Siuslaw Valley Charter School board member Chuck Trent says they expect that to happen in early December. Initially, there were hopes the new space would allow enrollment through seventh grade. But Trent says architects and builders have determined that won’t be possible, at least for now.
“Working with the architects and builders it looks like the maximum we’re going to be able to get in there is 5th grade.”
Chief Operating Officer Jennifer Waggoner says while they are currently interviewing for a Head of School, they’re also beginning outreach for teaching staff.
“We’ll initially just be accepting cover letters and resumes to start and when we have a Head of Schools they’ll kind of take it to the next point of interviewing and we’ll be able to put together benefit packages.”
She says they plan to hire teachers for grades K-3 and a physical education instructor. The target opening date for Whitmore Classical Academy is September of 2026.
Caregiver Month
November is National Caregiving Month, and advocates in Oregon are recognizing the vital role of family caregivers — including many right here in Florence and Lane County. New data shows nearly a quarter of Oregon adults, about 790,000 people, provide unpaid care for older relatives, friends, or children with disabilities. A report from AARP Oregon found more than 40 percent of caregivers face financial strain, and many experience high emotional stress. State Director Bandana Shrestha says caregivers are the backbone of long-term care, providing nearly 9 billion dollars in unpaid support each year. AARP is hosting events this month to connect caregivers with resources, and Shrestha reminds families: caregivers deserve support and appreciation all year long.
Providing Mortgage Assistance
DEVNW and its nonprofit lending partner Community LendingWorks continue to help keep families housed here on the Oregon Coast, including in Florence. When traditional lending falls short, CLW provides fair and affordable loan options that protect homeownership and support financial stability. Recently, a local family was just weeks from foreclosure after falling behind on payments. With no mortgage assistance funds available, DEVNW stepped in and worked with CLW to create a short-term loan that halted the foreclosure and kept the family in their home. DEVNW says it’s an example of the power of community partnerships to protect dignity and strengthen neighborhoods. So far in 2025, Community LendingWorks has provided more than $1.8 million in lending statewide to support housing and small businesses.