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# Back to School: Preparing the Next Generation for Success
- URL: https://www.canbychronicle.com/back-to-school-preparing-the-next-generation-for-success/
- Published: 2026-09-01T08:00:13.000Z
- Updated: 2026-09-01T08:00:12.000Z
- Author: The Canby Chronicle

*By State Representative Matt Bunch, For The Canby Chronicle*

As another school year begins, I want to wish the Class of 2027 and every student, teacher, school employee, and family across House District 51 a successful and rewarding year. The start of a new school year is always filled with excitement, new opportunities, and the chance for a fresh start. It's also a reminder of the important role education plays in preparing the next generation for success.

Every student deserves the opportunity to receive a quality education that equips them with the knowledge and skills they'll need for life after graduation. Whether a student's goal is attending college, earning a technical certification, joining the military, or entering the workforce, our education system should provide a strong foundation that helps them reach those goals.

That foundation begins with academic achievement. Reading, writing, mathematics, science, and critical thinking are the building blocks of future success. When students master these core subjects, they gain confidence, develop problem-solving skills, and become better prepared to meet the challenges of higher education and today's evolving workforce. We must continue focusing on improving academic outcomes and ensuring every student has the opportunity to reach their full potential.

At the same time, success doesn't look the same for every student. Oregon's economy depends on skilled workers across a wide range of industries, and our schools should recognize and support the many different paths students may choose after graduation.

Career and Technical Education (CTE) and vocational training provide valuable opportunities for students to gain real-world experience while still in high school. Programs in construction, manufacturing, agriculture, health care, information technology, welding, automotive technology, and the skilled trades help students develop practical skills that lead directly to rewarding, family-wage careers. These programs also help address workforce shortages while giving students hands-on learning experiences that connect classroom education with meaningful careers.

Supporting vocational education isn't an alternative to academic excellence — it's a complement to it. Strong academics combined with technical skills create graduates who are better prepared to succeed in whatever path they choose.

Our teachers, school staff, and parents all play an essential role in helping students succeed. Their dedication, encouragement, and commitment make a lasting difference in the lives of young people every day. They deserve our gratitude and support as they begin another school year.

As your State Representative, I remain committed to supporting policies that strengthen education, improve academic achievement, expand career and technical education opportunities, and prepare students for bright futures. Investing in our students is one of the most important investments we can make because today's classrooms are preparing tomorrow's leaders, entrepreneurs, skilled workers, and community members.

To the Class of 2027 and to every student beginning a new school year, I wish you the very best. Work hard, stay curious, embrace new opportunities, and never stop learning. And to our outstanding teachers and school staff, thank you for everything you do to inspire, educate, and prepare the next generation. I hope everyone has a safe, successful, and rewarding school year.