MaryJane Schibel Bachmeier

Some people leave a mark on a community through buildings or businesses, and others do so by investing in generations of students. For nearly four decades, MaryJane Schibel Bachmeier has been one of those people at Dundee Elementary School. Rooted in a family legacy of educators and deeply connected to the Dundee community, her story is woven into the classrooms, traditions, and memories that generations of local families share. MaryJane has helped create the heart of a school that feels more like an extended family through outdoor school and homemade car races to daily lessons in kindness and courage.

Thank you, MaryJane, for sharing your story of dedication, joy, and the impact of showing up, caring deeply, and believing in every child who walks through your classroom door.

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Wine Barrel Art

The wine barrel art that represents MaryJane’s story is located at the top of the path of Viewmont Greenway off of Laurel Street. The barrel was hand-painted by local artist Erienne Paquette.

 

Dundee Scenic Overlook Park
Corner of Laurel Street and Viewmont Drive, Dundee, OR 97115

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MaryJane’s Story

TEACHING CAREER

• How long have you been teaching, and how long in this community?

  I have taught 5th grade for 33 years, a 4/5 blend for 2 years, 4th grade for 1 year, and 1st grade for 2 years. That’s 38 years total with 37 of them at Dundee Elementary (I also did my student teaching at Dundee). My initial year of teaching was in McMinnville. I received my Bachelor's degree from Western Oregon State University in 1986, then my Master's degree from Portland State University in 1999. That same year I received an Oregon State Teacher award, which was so humbling and appreciated.

• What inspired you to become a teacher?

  Education has always been in my blood, a part of who I am. I’m proud to be the third generation in a family of four generations of educators. My grandparents on my mother’s side were both elementary school teachers in Idaho and Portland, Oregon. My parents carried on that tradition in the Newberg-Dundee School District. My mom taught grades 1-4 at Edwards and Ewing Young Elementary Schools, while my dad taught Spanish and coached at Newberg High School. Now, my daughter, Margaret Lund, continues this legacy working as a counselor at Dundee Elementary. She is the third generation in our family to work for Newberg-Dundee Schools, and our fourth generation to dedicate her career to the educational field.

ROOTS & CONNECTION

• What brought you to Dundee (or this area)?

  I was born in the old Newberg Hospital and grew up right here, attending Newberg schools and graduating from Newberg High School. I went on to study at Oregon College of Education—a school that changed its name three times while I was there and is now known as Western Oregon University. My grandma and my mom both earned their teaching degrees there too, so following in their footsteps felt natural and meaningful. In fact, my grandma was 85 years old when I got my teaching degree and was so proud. They even had a standing ovation in her honor- we were one of the first families to have 3 generations all get our teaching degrees from Western! Then we went on to have three generations that have taught at Newberg-Dundee School District- my parents, myself, and now my daughter!

  My roots in this community run deep. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of teaching the children of neighbors, friends, and even former students. Those connections have become such a special part of my life, and they’ve only grown stronger with time.

  When my daughter, Margaret, started kindergarten, I chose to move from Newberg to Dundee. As a single mom, I truly understood what it means when people say, “it takes a village to raise a child.” Dundee became that village for us. I absolutely love this little town—the warmth, the kindness, and the caring spirit of the people here. Dundee isn’t just where I live; it’s home. I wouldn’t want to be anywhere else.

• What changes have you seen in the community over time?

  While Dundee has grown over the years, it has never lost its small-town heart and feel. The warmth, kindness, and genuine care people have for one another still shine through every day. When someone needs help, this community always steps up without hesitation. That spirit of togetherness is what makes Dundee such a truly special place to call home.

THE CLASSROOM & COMMUNITY

• How do you see your role as a teacher in shaping the community’s future?

  I absolutely love my role as a teacher—it truly is the best career ever. How many people can honestly say they get to make the world a better place every single day? Watching children learn, grow, and gain the confidence to spread their wings, take risks, and follow their dreams is one of the most rewarding feelings there is. When students invite me to their graduations, reach out to share their successes, or stop by years later to visit, those moments remind me why I chose this path. That’s how I know I’ve made a difference.

• What makes this community’s students special?

  The children who attend Dundee Elementary are truly amazing. Many have been classmates since kindergarten, and there’s a special bond that connects our “Dundee Dolphins.” In this small town, the school has always been at the heart of the community—a place where people gather, support one another, and celebrate together. Our families come from all walks of life, yet everyone is welcome and valued. Our school theme, Fueled by Kindness, says it all. Dundee has heart, and it shows every single day.

• Are there particular yearly traditions, or lessons that stand out as especially meaningful in your teaching journey?

  Dundee Elementary is rich with traditions that make it such a special place. From the Dolphin Dash and our heartfelt Veterans Assembly—where we honor the heroes who have served and protected our freedom—to Mrs. Ganske’s fabulous Holiday Sing-Along, the Dundee School Carnival, grade-level Music programs, etc. there’s always something that brings our community together. The list of beloved events truly goes on and on.

  In fifth grade, we have our own special traditions that make the year unforgettable. Students build homemade soapbox derby-style cars, take part in engaging historical simulations, and showcase their learning through Night of the Notables—a culminating project where they research inspiring individuals who have made the world a better place. Through writing, art, and presentation, students bring these figures to life in meaningful and creative ways.

  But the crown jewel of the fifth-grade year is our trip to Camp—the Dundee Outdoor School, a tradition that’s been going strong for more than 35 years. It’s truly the experience of a lifetime. Parents volunteer as teachers and cabin leaders, students learn in a beautiful coastal setting, and together we explore nature through hands-on lessons and outdoor adventures. One of the most special parts of Camp is that many of our parent volunteers once attended as fifth graders themselves!

  It’s the perfect way to end the Dundee Elementary journey—bonding, learning, and creating memories just before heading off to middle school. It’s a magical experience our students never forget, and I feel so proud and grateful to help carry on this incredible tradition.

• How do your students inspire or teach you?

  My students inspire me every single day. Their courage, perseverance, and bravery when faced with challenges constantly remind me of the strength of young people. Their curiosity, love of learning, and natural leadership give me such hope for the future. And their kindness, generosity, and care for one another fill me with energy and joy.

  As I say every day—I have the best job in the world. Teaching in the same community where I live is truly living the dream. Dundee ROCKS!

VALUES & LEGACY

• Is there a phrase, story, or piece of wisdom that captures your approach to teaching?

  In class, I put meaningful quotes up on the board every day. We discuss them and look for the character traits they represent in our lives each morning before we start our academic day. I feel this starts us out with a positive outlook and sets us up for success.

  Based on that, One of my favorite quotes is one I try to live by every single day. I always thought it was spoken by Gandhi, though I’ve since learned that may not be the case. Still, I love it just the same:

  “Be the change you want to see in the world.”

  If I could leave you with a few words of encouragement as you head into your next adventure, here are my “MaryJane–isms”:

  • You are strong enough to be weak.

  • You are brave enough to be afraid.

  • You are smart enough to admit when you don’t know the answer.

  • You are kind and courageous enough to lend a hand to those who need one.

  But more than anything else—you are enough. Never let anyone take that away from you. We all make mistakes, and hopefully, we learn from them. Being wrong isn’t bad; it’s an opportunity to grow and do better next time.

  Our wins and losses shape us and help mold who we become. Remember, no one can make you feel small unless you let them. You are extraordinary. You can do anything you set your mind to—with a positive spirit, creativity, perseverance, and the belief that even in hard times, there’s always a bright future ahead.

• How would you like to be remembered by your students or the community?

  I guess that I showed up- and that I care.

• If you could describe the spirit of this community’s schools in one word or image, what would it be?

  HEART

VISUAL STORYTELLING

• If your teaching story were represented visually (through art, signage, or photography), what imagery, colors, or symbols would best express it?

  If I were to be represented visually, it would be through bright colors, sparkles, and plenty of sunshine—especially a tiara or two! I’m drawn to anything that reflects joy, curiosity, and connection. Elements of marine science, Outdoor School, and the natural world would certainly be part of the picture, along with symbols of learning, kindness, and heart.

  Dundee Elementary and our incredible community are at the center of it all—my “Dundee tribe.” I value inclusion, teamwork, and building bridges, and I love celebrating the people who make this place so special. Above all, I’d want my visual story to radiate love, optimism, and joy—because that’s what teaching, community, and life in Dundee are all about.

• Do you have any photos or objects (classroom items, student projects, etc.) that help tell your story?

  Yes!  I’ve gathered so many special photos, artworks, and mementos over the years that capture the heart of my teaching journey. Some of my favorites are from Outdoor School, along with murals from the old Dundee school that represent both my students and me—they’re absolutely fantastic and tell a story all on their own. I was able to save most of them, which made my heart so happy!

  I also have photos from school events like Night of the Notables, the Homemade Car Races, STEM experiments, and so many other moments that reflect the joy, curiosity, and connection we share as a learning community. Whatever direction or “vibe” you’re looking for, there’s something in these memories that beautifully captures it—the spirit of Dundee, the love of learning, and the incredible journey I’ve been fortunate enough to share with my students.