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Lost River Jr./Sr. High School is located between the communities of Merrill and Malin, the school sits 24 miles southeast of Klamath Falls, tucked into the endless fields of grain, alfalfa and potatoes. The ground that Lost River sits on was once rich farm ground that grew produce and other agricultural commodities. The school's current student enrollment is 210 +/-, with over 60% of the student body coming from Hispanic descent, 35% from Caucasian descent, and 5% encompassing Native American, Asian, or African American. The last two years Lost River has participated in a federal program that provides breakfast and lunch 100% free to students each school day, due to 80% of our students meeting federal guidelines for poverty. We are a school that is steeped in a rich history of community involvement and support through our 40+ years of educating students. Any given night you can see the communities preparing to attend the many activities and athletic events here at the school. We are fortunate to be part of two communities, in turn these communities part of the school.
Currently, there are 14.5 certified teaching staff with support in the classrooms coming from 3.8 fte in classified educational personnel. The administration in the building is comprised of a Principal and Vice Principal which oversee all aspects of a comprehensive high school from curriculum to athletics/activities. We are a designated Title 1 school which receives additional funding in support of programs, curriculum, resources and materials in math and writing. These funds also provide educational partners that assist with mental health support and referrals.
In recent years Lost River has seen significant turnover in certified as well as classified staff. This is in-part due to the rural setting, lure of bigger metropolis', and residential access. Although this is a significant challenge, students at Lost River have continually achieved high measures in Mathematics and English/Language Arts due to the core group of teachers that have remained in the building, as well as new teachers that possess the qualities of exceptional educators. Additionally, the parent and community involvement in the school and their students education is significant. The culture that persists in the building is built around high standards of student achievement, this is also articulated in the community and at home.
In recent years the main staple of the economy, Agriculture, has seen increased challenges, these are also aspects that the school feels. Significant disputes on allocation of water, price of agricultural commodities, and non-solidified work have lent to a migrant population that is looking for stability. In all, the culture of the school, as well as its communities out-weight the challenges that the economy face's each year. Lost River Jr./Sr. High School has established itself as a school built on success, supported by the communities it serves, and defined as a hidden gem that puts student needs first, with relationships as our foundation. WE ARE LR!
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