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Greetings Educators,
At Lookout Eugene-Springfield, showing up means being present in the community – listening, reporting, and telling the stories that help people understand one another and participate in civic life.
This week’s featured story is a timely report of Monday’s Martin Luther king Jr. Day march, organized by the Eugene-Springfield NAACP. Through voices spanning generations, from young people attending their first march to longtime community leaders reflecting on history, the story illustrates why representation and unity remain essential to a healthy democracy. Just as powerfully, the accompanying photojournalism captures the collective presence, offering a visual record of what it looks like when a community comes together.
Readers and students are invited to think beyond the textbook about civic engagement: how personal stories deepen our understanding of civil rights, why it matters whose voices are included in news coverage, and what it truly means to show up.
As we look ahead, stay tuned for details on Lookout’s upcoming Journalism Scholarship contest, coming in next week’s Educator Newsletter!
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Featured Story of the Week
‘Together’ the theme for Martin Luther King Jr. march in Eugene
By Lillian Schrock-Clevenger
January 19, 2026
More than 500 people marched on Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard to the Shedd Institute in downtown Eugene on Monday, Jan. 19, to remember the civil rights activist and be in solidarity.
Classroom Discussion Questions: Showing Up
- Several people describe attending the march as a way to “show up.” What does “showing up” mean in a democracy?
- Why is it important that people of different ages, backgrounds, and experiences are quoted and photographed for this story?
- How does hearing personal stories (like Deborah Lange-Reynolds’ childhood experience) affect how readers understand civil rights issues?
Writing Prompt:
Choose one quote from a marcher or speaker in the article. Explain what it reveals about why people participate in civic events—and whether you agree with their perspective.
Latest from the Lookout Newsroom
Here’s a roundup of recent articles you could use in your classroom. Use our Current Event Discussion Guide for an easy way to facilitate reflection on these local events. Interested in more stories? Browse all our recent coverage here.
Eugene launches feasibility study to address dangerous underwater dam
By Ashli Blow
January 20, 2026
An underwater dam in the Willamette River between Eugene and Springfield has long posed a […]
After 28 years, family prepares to close River Road secondhand shop
By Elon Glucklich
January 18, 2026
For Nancy Le’Cher and her two adult children, visiting with customers has been at the heart of the job. The second-hand shop has been like a second home, she says.
Keep reading your way through Lane County literature
By Annie Aguiar
January 14, 2026
We rounded up some Lane County literature and asked our readers for their picks to add to the list. You didn’t disappoint.
Latest Education & Statewide News
Lilly St. Angelo is Lookout’s dedicated education correspondent. Find more education coverage from her and our partners here. Do you have a story idea for Lilly? Contact her here.
Eugene Science Center is raising funds to build outdoor science park
By Michael Zhang
January 17, 2026
If the museum achieves its funding goals, the park could double the center’s square footage for hands-on exhibits and educational programs.
Springfield school district looks into concerns about teacher’s Facebook posts
By Lilly St. Angelo
January 15, 2026
Neil Baird, a teacher at Maple Elementary School in Springfield, has posted messages suggesting violence against immigrants, Muslims and liberals.
Educator Resources
- Download the Lookout Media Literacy Guide
- Download the Current Event Discussion Guide & Discussion Questions
- Browse our curated list of Additional Resources
- Featured resource of the week: UO Libraries
Your students can set up their free high school student memberships here.
This work is stronger when it’s shared; if these readings have been part of your classroom experience, I’d love to learn from you. Send feedback to olivia@lookoutlocal.com.
Cheers,
Olivia