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Good morning, Salem.

Yesterday, we reported on a push by state and local educators to encourage coming to school through calling and sending postcards to Salem families who have improved attendance this school year.

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The effort got a boost Tuesday evening from Gov. Tina Kotek, who joined about two dozen district administrators, union leaders and other educators to make calls.

One of the six parents Kotek called, Sara, reached out to Salem Reporter separately, wondering why she’d gotten a call.

Once we filled her in, she told us, “I was surprised to hear from the governor personally and also really proud of my daughter. A lot of times as parents it can feel like our efforts can go unnoticed so it was really nice to be recognized especially by someone like the governor.”

You can learn more about school district efforts to improve attendance here.

Here’s some of our latest news. Read all our latest coverage anytime on our website.

www.salemreporter.com

Six Salem-Keizer schools will roll out pouches to lock up student phones

Schools across the U.S. are getting more serious about banning cellphones during the school day. McKay and Sprague high schools, and Houck, Stephens, Straub and Whiteaker middle schools will start…

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www.salemreporter.com

In poll, Salem residents say they won’t pay more property taxes for public safety, library or parks

Results of a city-commissioned poll released Wednesday show any city effort to bring a property tax increase to voters would likely fail at the ballot box. Councilors will discuss the…

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www.salemreporter.com

Land Board approves ‘precedent setting’ plan to put Elliott State Forest in a carbon market

A decision which officials said would fight climate change makes Oregon the second state after Michigan to dedicate an entire state forest to storing harmful emissions while selling carbon credits…

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www.salemreporter.com

Salem events from Oct. 17-23: Chemeketa Trunk-or-Treat, Celtic festival, peace workshops

Events in Salem this week include a Celtic New Year festival, a fall book sale at Salem Public Library and continued Halloween haunts and activities.

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