See how, for the first time, kids in this outer East Portland neighborhood got free backpacks filled with school supplies …
Ricardo Becerril, senior project manager with LCG Pence Construction, shows all of the supplies their company stuffed into backpacks to be given to all Lent School students.
Story and photos by David F. Ashton
You’ve seen stories telling how organizations have “adopted” schools, purchasing back-to-school supplies for students. But, until this year, Lent School has languished – no sponsors meant no backpacks.
Construction firm steps up
“This is the first year of a partnership between LCG Pence Construction and Lent School,” said Gayle Kellman, Executive Director of Schoolhouse Supplies, the nonprofit organization that coordinates the backpack giveaways.
“This is one of the highest-need schools in all of Portland Public Schools,” Kellman explained. “We have sought to find a sponsor year after year, but haven’t succeeded until LCG Pence stepped up. This is an extra exciting day for us. We hope to have this partnership continue year after year.”
Company connection with school
Surrounded by company staff members, Ricardo Becerril, senior project manager with LCG Pence Construction, was beaming with a big smile as he watched the young students file into the school’s auditorium.
“I manage our school construction division,” Becerril said, “so this event is near and dear to me. We look for opportunities for our company and our employees, to not only work for schools and earn a profit from them – but also to give back to the school districts for which we work.”
Becerril reminded us that their company was chosen for the fire restoration project at the school about five years ago, as he showed us what was in the backpacks: Notebooks, folders, a pouch with pencils, pens, and markers – all the school supplies one would need to start the year as a young scholar.
Principal Linda Ralley says the value of this sponsor’s contribution can’t be overestimated.
Principal praises donation
Looking exuberant with joy was the school’s Principal, Linda Ralley.
“This wonderful business is showing it understands that children in schools are our future citizens,” lauded Ralley. “It shows they’re paying attention to families and youngsters here in the outer east Portland, who face rising costs for housing, fuel, food – and school supplies. We’re overjoyed!”
The value of this particular contribution by their new partner is about a $27,000, Ralley told us. “That is significant; the value can’t be overestimated. This is This is really, really terrific.”
Students express gratitude
As the kids settled down, Ralley began, “This is a special assembly. On the very first day of school, in the very first hour of school this year, we get to give you something. Every student is going to get a backpack, filled with supplies, to help you achieve. Let the volunteers from our sponsors, LCG Pence Construction, know you appreciate this gift.”
Enthusiastic applause spread across the gathered assembly. Row by row, students lined up and eagerly clutched their gift.
Lent School eighth-graders Audrey Sturgeon and Kayla Roysdon thank Ricardo Becerril for their backpacks and school supplies.
“Our school doesn’t have a lot of money for providing supplies,” said eighth-grader Audrey Sturgeon, “nor do many of our parents. I really appreciate the backpack.”
Her classmate, Kayla Roysdon, added, “It’s really great that a company would be so thoughtful as to donate these supplies. I definitely think it’ll help us out. Our parents won’t have to be stressed out about spending a lot of money on school supplies. I think it’s wonderful.”
You can help
“People can help Schoolhouse Supplies all year long by volunteering, donating school supplies and cash donations,” Kellman mentioned. “The best place to start is by visiting our web site.”
We’ll take you there! Simply CLICK HERE!
© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News
Find out why national honors were awarded to this
outer East Portland kindergarten teacher …
Carolyn Snowbarger, the director of the Teacher-to-Teacher Initiative, US Department of Education shares a light moment before the awards ceremony with Barbara Rommel, Superintendent of the David Douglas Schools.
Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Lincoln Park Elementary School’s kindergarten teacher Tess Miller didn’t know why the school’s staff and 550 students were called to a special assembly on September 10 at 2:00 p.m.
But, by 2:10 p.m., Miller discovered that she’d been chosen Oregon’s 2008 “No Child Left Behind American Star of Teaching” award winner.
“We want all children to be able to read,” explained Carolyn Snowbarger, the director of the Teacher-to-Teacher Initiative, US Department of Education, as we waited for the assembly to begin. Snowbarger was to present the award.
“Tess Miller is doing good work in identifying the individual needs of students,” Snowbarger explained. “She realizes ‘one size doesn’t fit all’ – she analyzes each student’s ability, then uses that data to provide specialized instruction. She is doing tremendous work with all of these students.”
Lincoln Park Elementary’s principal Linda Oakzaki, introduces the school’s first assembly of the year.
Test scores verify excellence
Next we met Toni Gula, the recently retired “Reading First” literacy coach – she’s served the school in that capacity for the last five years.
Gula said she was the one who nominated Miller – because “Tess is a master teacher. She’s done a fantastic job with her kindergarten students year after year, after year, after year.”
Asked how one might judge a teacher’s effectiveness, Gula replied, “Depending on the year, between 92 to 98% of her students have met not just one – but three – literacy benchmarks.”
5,000 nominated, 50 chosen
While the students filed into the gym and settled down, we spotted Miller organizing and seating her kindergarteners. Principal Linda Oakzaki introduced their guest from Washington DC, Ms. Snowbarger.
“There are many kinds of heroes in this world – those with fictional powers – those who fly into space, for example,” Snowbarger began. “I’m with you today because some teachers are heroes, too.”
Since 2004, she went on, the Department of Education has honored one teacher in each state by naming them an “American Star of Teaching”. This year, about 5,000 teachers were nominated.
“Teachers nominated are from all different kinds of schools,” said Snowbarger. “Some schools are located in big cities like Portland; some are in the small, rural communities; they teach grades kindergarten through 12th. The teachers who are selected all have in common that they’re all making a positive difference in the lives of their students. That’s why I’m happy to be here today, to honor one of your teachers…Tess Miller.”
Kindergarten teacher Tess Miller looks genuinely surprised when she learns she’s the award winner.
Miller is presented her award by Carolyn Snowbarger.
“I’ve always enjoyed teaching kindergarten students,” Miller says. “This is a big surprise.”
Teacher looks astonished
Although her name was released in advance publicity, the staff at Lincoln Park had kept Miller’s impending award a secret from her. When her name was announced, a flood of emotions poured over Miller’s face; she clutched her hands to her chest for a moment, before she arose to accept the award.
“This is very exciting time,” exclaimed Miller. “It is an honor to teach kindergarten. Thank you so much, kindergartners.” A rousing wave of applause spread through the auditorium.
Many students who were once in Miller’s kindergarten class rise, and honor their first teacher.
Already touched many lives
Teacher Sam Wallace then arose to lead the students in their school song. But first, he asked that any older students who had once been in Miller’s class to stand up. A sea of kids jumped to their feet and again applauded, acknowledging their first teacher.
Then, the assembly was over. As the young scholars filed out, row by row, Principal Linda Oakzaki commented, “She is very deserving. She is an exemplary teacher. Our teachers do so much for our children.”
Barbara Rommel, Superintendent of the David Douglas Schools, was beaming as she told us, “This s wonderful recognition of her teaching skills, and a great reflection on the whole district. In addition to reading, she helps them also learn writing, math – and how to be a responsible student. She’s one of many wonderful teachers we have in this district.”
Oregon’s American Star of Teaching instructor, Lincoln Park Elementary School kindergarten teacher Tess Miller shows her award with the person who nominated her, “Reading First” literacy coach Toni Gula.
Says she enjoys her kindergartners
As Miller’s class waited their turn to leave the assembly, the honored teacher told us, “You know, this was a very good surprise, and it’s really exciting. I really enjoy teaching kindergarten. I enjoy the freshness of the students. They come from all different backgrounds, and they really want to learn.”
© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News
John Bier says he’s ready to run a school that serves more students than the entire population of his hometown. See what changes he plans – and what will stay the same – at the home of the Scots …
Although John Bier is David Douglas High School’s new Principal, he’s not new to the school – he joined the Scots’ staff in 1990.
Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Whether or not they know it, the 850 freshmen gathering in the David Douglas High School (DDHS) gymnasium on orientation day, September 2, had something in common with John Bier (as he went on to explain).
The 9th graders were starting their high school career; Bier was starting in his new role as principal of one of the area’s largest schools.
As we sat in the newly-rearranged Principal’s office at DDHS – one business day before school started – Bier told about his background, his most important duties, and how he hopes to be remembered.
“The school is twice as big as the total population of my home town,” Bier began. “The faculty and staff here at David Douglas number more than the entire high school population where I grew up – in Heppner, Oregon.”
‘Hooked’ on David Douglas
Bier says he started his career, now spanning 23 years, as an educator in Prineville, then in Molalla, as a teacher and sports coach.
Then, during the ’89-’90 school year, Bier came to David Douglas. “I clearly remember the Principal, Ray Utz, telling me when I was hired, ‘David Douglas is a special place. You may think you’re only going to be here for a couple of years and then move on. But the school is going to get its hooks into you, and you’ll be here for awhile.’ I thought to myself, ‘Sure, right! …’ But, here I am, 19 years later, having served as an administrator, attendance coordinator, biology teacher, football coach.”
Bier says his job is to facilitate teachers’ stepping out of their “comfort zone” when developing new ways to help their students learn.
Questions and answers
Q Have you gone to “principal school”?
A “I’ve taken 18 extra credits of advanced education in school administration. I’m a lifelong learner.”
Q What do you see as your chief tasks as Principal?
A “Keeping up to date on current developments in education, and helping our teachers keep abreast of those trends. Also, it’s affirming what our teachers are doing, and helping to remove obstacles so they can do their job better.”
The new Principal of Portland’s largest high school, John Bier, says the greatest asset of David Douglas is their teachers.
Q Is there a specific educational concept on which you’re asking teachers to focus this year?
A “It’s being willing to take good risks. Teachers ask students to ‘take risks’ every day – to step forward, out of their ‘comfort zone’. As educators, we need to show our kids we, too, are willing to take risks, and try new strategies in the classroom. It’s okay for them to be upfront and tell the students that they’re trying something new – and then, at the end of the class, to ask them if they connected with it and learned from it.”
Q What might “taking a risk” be like?
A “A risk might be for a teacher to ask another instructor in the same subject to audit their class and give them feedback. Another would be sitting down with several teachers of the same subject, to build a new educational unit together, test it in the classroom, and compare the results.”
Banners like these, posted around the school, remind students that “Scots’ Pride” is demonstrated by their positive behaviors.
Q Are you instituting any new school-wide programs this year?
A “Yes, and we call it ‘Scots’ Pride’. We’re explicitly teaching our students positive behaviors, so they’ll know what’s expected of them when they’re in the classroom, in the lunchroom, or walking down the halls. Part of this is active positive behavior support – catching kids doing the ‘right thing’ and letting them know about it. We believe it will help make a positive shift in our school’s culture.”
Q Have you introduced new ways for parents to become more involved with the school?
A “We appreciate the support we get from parents in our athletics and arts programs. And, we’re exploring new ways for a wider variety of community members to get involved with David Douglas.”
Q On what assets do you hope to build?
A David Douglas has got a long tradition of excellence in academics and the arts, of which I’m fully aware. Without hesitation, I say that we have the finest teaching staff in the State of Oregon which works in an atmosphere in which they can thrive. With this, there’s no limit to where we can go with our kids.”
Turf’s up! Bier told us to take a look at the new sports playing surface at Palermini Stadium. There we found the soccer team performing scrimmages.
Q You will, inevitably, be compared to past Principals John Herrington and Randy Hutchinson …
A “From Ray Utz – the man who hired me – there is a real legacy of outstanding Principals at here David Douglas. I have my own style; my own thoughts about the school’s administration. I think I’ve got a good grasp of what it takes to continue our tradition of excellence. In ten years, I hope my name will be spoken in the same sentence as theirs.”
© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News
Here’s a way to help kids do better in school! Take school supplies to a barrel in Eastport Plaza before the end of August …
Portland General Electric’s specialist in community affairs, Rachel DeRosia, says she hopes you’ll fill this barrel at their Eastport Plaza office with school supplies.
Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Now’s the time that folks start thinking about buying pencils, erasers, crayons, colored pencils, scissors, glue sticks, markers, notebook paper, and backpacks for their young students.
But, many folks can’t afford to equip their kids for school. Portland General Electric is stepping up to help them out.
“Last year PGE employees and customers donated over 25,000 supplies,” Rachel DeRosia, specialist in community affairs at PGE, told us when we met at their Eastport Plaza office.
“One of PGE’s primary focus areas is community investment in education,” explained DeRosia. “We believe that children should have basic school supplies; it gives them the opportunity to get a better education. A better education provides for better citizens and a stronger future workforce.”
DeRosia suggested buying an extra set of supplies when you shop – and drop the extras off at any of their offices during regular business hours.
Look for the PGE office and drop off donated school supplies before August 29.
“The donated items will help stock ‘Schoolhouse Supplies’ here in Southeast Portland; some of supplies go directly to the local school districts most in need,” DeRosia added.
All PGE customer service offices are from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. – including the one at Eastport Plaza, on the southwest corner of the plaza (near Starbucks) at 4328 SE 82nd Avenue of Roses, Suite 2050.
© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News
Even during the summer months, see how “Dave’s Can Clan” works to turn recycle-for-credit bottles and cans into cash to help student programs – and how you can help …
The Parkrose High School Varsity Cheerleaders help out with can and bottle collection efforts, during their July Saturday morning event.
Story and photos by David F. Ashton
The Parkrose Bronco Boosters’ “Can Collection Drive” continues throughout the summer months, on the first Saturday of every month – with the exception of July 12, when we caught up with them.
As we pull up, members of the Parkrose High School Varsity Cheerleaders look dejected that we don’t have a trunk full of returnable bottles and cans – but they say they’re happy to help promote the fundraising effort.
The money collected from this first-Saturday-of-the-month can drive at Parkrose Middle school is evenly divided between the Parkrose Bronco Boosters, and the sports team or club that helps out.
Dave, the Parkrose Can Man – can — and does!
“Last year we generated $6,000 here from our 12 monthly can drives,” said Parkrose’ “king of cans”, Dave Luce. “This is all from people who bring us their returnable-for-credit cans and bottles. And, we then help them by sorting them, and taking care of their non-refundables as well.”
He does this, Luce said, because his kids went to Parkrose Schools. “And, I’m retired and I don’t fish as much as I used to,” he says with a smile.
With the help of area businesses and neighbors, Luce places barrels and collects cans to raise money for Parkrose Senior All-night Parties.
Supports All-night Party
Additionally, Luce also raised $9,000 for the ’07-’08 Senior All-night Party. “I’m starting on next year’s event already,” he says.
Luce gets the cans by gaining permission to place 55-gallon plastic barrels or drums in various locations, he revealed. “I have 194 of them out at people’s businesses, and some homes. They fill them and give me a call, and I come take ’em home and sort them. At the same time, I drop off a clean and empty barrel. It keeps me busy year-round.”
You can help
If you generate a substantial number of deposit-return cans and bottles at your home or business, give Dave Luce a call at (503) 255-3745, and help him help our community.
© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News
What will Randy Hutchinson be doing when school starts this fall? Find out the answer right here …
Standing in the doorway of his office at David Douglas High School for one of the last times, Randy Hutchinson says he looks forward to retirement.
Story and photos by David F. Ashton
When the first school bell rings in September, life-long educator Randy Hutchinson says he hopes to be fishing. Hutchinson won’t be playing hooky, mind you; the life-long educator is retiring from his post as Principal at David Douglas High School.
“I started out in Portland Public Schools in 1974,” Hutchinson reminisces. “From there I went to Sandy and stayed for 20 years before coming to David Douglas High in 1995. It’s been a great run; yes, it’s been a great run. And yes, I’m looking forward to retiring, very much so.”
At the end-of-school-year barbecue, more than 300 teachers and support staff members gather to give Hutchinson a warm send-off – and to have a great lunch! Volunteers from the David Douglas High Parent Teacher Student Association prepare and serve the meal.
Maintains high standards
We ask Hutchinson what he considers his greatest challenge to have been, moving from Vice Principal to the top spot at the school in the past few years.
“It was tough to follow in his footsteps of our school’s previous Principal, John Herrington, because he did such a phenomenal job,” Hutchinson replies. “Our entire staff has worked hard to make sure we maintain the high standards he set. We’ve continued to accomplish that. That’s why I feel good about retiring now.”
Shane Sykes, Melissa Meeks and Rachel Burggraff from the SE 122nd & Stark Street Burgerville restaurant are cooking up burgers for the event.
Providing meaningful education
Most significant, Hutchinson says, is that the school’s staff has stayed true to their mission and vision. “We’re headed in the right direction; we’ve maintained the integrity of our high academic standards and graduation requirements,” smiles Hutchinson.
“Our kids – 70% of whom are in poverty – 90% of them are going on to post-secondary education – that is phenomenal.” Additionally, Hutchinson says that Oregon higher education studies show that, of those David Douglas students who go into the universities, after a year and a half most of them are still in school. “These are all great numbers. We have a great staff and great kids – you can’t ask for more than that.”
Randy Hutchinson shares a light moment with staff members at the luncheon.
‘Kids are kids’
We ask Hutchinson if, during his educational career, he’s seen changes in schools over the years.
“Nothing has really changed,” Hutchinson replies. “Kids are kids. Trends come and go, but the reality is that they all need the same thing: Caring adults in their life, who push them further than they think they’re capable of going. I think we have a school full of teachers who are doing that well.”
Hutchinson gives DDHS PTSA outgoing president Karen Britton a plaque for her service. “I really appreciate all of your support over the years,” Britton says. “I’ll still be involved, and I look forward to helping out our new president coming on board. Please support the new president as you’ve supported me.”
Thanks community for support
Hutchinson goes on, saying that instead of being thanked for his service, it’s he who thanks the community for their support. We ask him what he’d like to say directly to the people in the school district.
“It’s been a real honor to serve you and your students,” responds Hutchinson. “Our parents are incredibly supportive, and that makes all the difference in the world. It makes a difference when you call home and get a positive response; having the trust of the parents is very important. They reflect that by the way they vote [on bond issues]. It’s been a great place to be.”
As part of the farewell gathering, PTSA board member James Hollett gives Hutchison a wrapped and heavy gift. It turns out to be a brick – which will be engraved, and installed under the school’s flagpole in recognition of his service to the school.
Plans outdoor adventures
If Hutchinson puts as much energy into outdoor sports as he has into being a good Principal, fish and fowl in the region have much to fear.
“I love the out of doors,” Hutchinson tells us with a big smile. “I love to fish, and fly fishing is a definite passion of mine. And I love to do some game bird hunting.”
Hutchinson adds, “the best salmon runs in Alaska are in September and October – months that are critical to getting the school year off to a good start.” Those are months he’s never been able to fish in – and now he will!
New principal chosen
According to officials at the David Douglas School District, John Bier has been named the school’s new Principal. Bier has worked in the district for about 19 years, and was Vice Principal at David Douglas High.
Teachers and staff members sign the guest book (bottom left corner), and write their farewell messages to Hutchison, at the event.
© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News
Members of this fifth-grade class wrote it, acted in it – and even took their show downtown. Find out why …
Kevin Muir, the director of the “Hot Dog Musical Theater Company” – and a Lent School fifth grade teacher – welcomes guests to a performance of his class’s play, “EarthAlerth!”.
Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Fifth-graders aren’t known for having long attention spans. But, Kevin Muir, a Lent School fifth grade teacher, said “pre-production” for the musical play we were about to see began on “the first day of school”.
Muir, himself, is a product of Portland-area education. He graduated from Woodstock Elementary, Meriwether Lewis Middle, and Cleveland High School. “I was a lot of theatrical productions at school.”
Thinking they won a trip to Bermuda, Melani Norell, Betsy Rivera, Miguel Navarro and Alfredo Galindo-Lopez wonder why the resort to which they’ve been invited is just a poorly-painted set. Their host (from Pluto), Alan Morales (far right), tells the students of their impending fate.
Providing ‘meaningful experiences’
Throughout the year, in addition to reading, writing, and arithmetic lessons, the 24 members of his class came up with the storyline, wrote the play and songs, and choreographed the staging, Muir told us.
“The work is extremely meaningful and engaging,” Muir said. “We have five main characters, but also involved are set designers, electricians, custom designers, stage managers, public relations, historians, lighting designers, and the band.”
The best way they can think of to face being conscripted to perform in an off-planet circus is – a song and dance number!
It’s show time … on Pluto!
About the story …
“EARTHALERTH!” is a fanciful story about a handful of Earth kids who are tricked into traveling to the planet Pluto to be Cirque du Pluto Theater Company show named … “EARTHALERTH!”.
On Pluto, kids rehearse their roles in this show that “showcases” all that is wonderful and weird about their home planet, Earth. But, the evil villain, The Bananjelar (he looks remarkably like an adult-human sized banana), attacks the troupe – before leaving to destroy Earth.
Images of Earth are featured in the Cirque du Pluto Theater Company show called “EARTHALERTH!”.
The kids race back to Earth, and in a mighty (funny) battle with The Bananjelar, they save their planet – and learn that Bananjelar is really a misunderstood fruit.
The greater themes of common sense and courage and strength are woven through the play; all these are qualities that Muir said he hopes to instill in his students.
The Earth kids confront The Bananjelar.
Before we saw the show, on May 28, the production company headed downtown to perform their outer-space adventure at the Winningstad Theater. We took in a later presentation at Lent School.
Serving diverse students
After the hour-long energetic and fast-paced show, Muir said he enjoys teaching at Lent School, located in one of the oldest and most diverse neighborhoods in the city.
“I’m determined not to let the children’s demographics inhibit their ability to learn,” stated Muir. “This hands-on model of learning is both engaging and stimulating to students. Too often, education lacks a connection with the community; through this play, my students are able to work with individuals and groups from beyond the school, and then take their product out to the world. To me, that is the essence of a meaningful education.”
What play will be created by his next fifth-grade class?
“We’ll all find out in September,” Muir said. “Check in with us next school year.”
Back on Earth, The Bananjelar chills out, and the kids decide he’s not so bad after all!
© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News
The program was both delightful and moving – for several reasons.
Read this, and see why …
Members of the Parkrose High School Thespian Troupe 1783 perform “Reality Check I”.
Story and (some) photos by David F. Ashton
As the lights dimmed, the background music faded, and the curtain at the Parkrose High School Theater rose, the applause was for the student actors of Parkrose High School Thespian Troupe 1783 themselves, not for the roles they were about to play.
To start off the evening, the cast of “Reality Check I” – a show that uses humorous skits to demonstrate good behavior, performed at Parkrose’s Sacramento, Shaver, and Russell Elementary schools this spring – presented their show. Although written with young kids in mind, the humor held up for the largely adult audience.
Derek Herman entertains with a moving solo performance. Patrick Smith Photography
Incoming troupe president Tom Crawford performs his solo “reading” – it wasn’t read; it was well-acted. Patrick Smith Photography
This hilarious musical theatre piece from “Spamalot” was deftly performed by Jacquelle Davis & Steven Ennis. Patrick Smith Photography
Induction and awards ceremony
Members of the troupe were invited onto the stage. When seated, they donned the ceremonial cap.
Intermingled with the telling of the thespian tradition, student actors performed moving readings, a duo guitar piece by Jason McGhee & Jacob Pratt, and a never-to-be forgotten (it was that good) adagio dance number.
Yes, your reporter was privileged to wear the ceremonial cap – light the candle – take the pledge, and become an honorary member of the troupe. Patrick Smith Photography
In addition to the official induction ceremony, presentation of awards, honor stoles, and graduating senior awards, both Parkrose High School band teacher Michael Tolon and David Ashton, editor of East Portland News, were made honorary members of Thespian Troop number 1783.
Introducing the incoming officers: (back row) Tom Crawford, President, Junior; Brian Fitzgerald, Vice President, Junior; Heather Grassel, Historian, Sophomore; (lower level) Mackenzie Billick-Smith, Secretary, Sophomore; Kiely Simmons, Oregon State Board Member, Junior; Ciera Willis, Clerk, Junior; Derek Herman, Historian, Junior. Of course, when school starts this fall, they’ll be in the next grade!
After the ceremony, the actors, their family and friends retired for a reception fit for a Hollywood actor. Patrick Smith Photography
My special thanks to Patrick Smith for the photos – we were a bit occupied during the ceremony!
© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News
How about “they sing for stands”? Take a look, and you’ll see why choir members are working hard to get new performance equipment …
The Parkrose High “A-Choir” performs at a special fund-raising concert at Parkrose United Methodist Church.
Story and photos by David F. Ashton
After 35 years of use, the risers – the stands used by the choir – at Parkrose High School were carted out to the dump just a few weeks ago.
“After taking a long look at our old risers, and choral shell,” said choir and voice instructor Lesley Ann Bossert, “We all agreed they had to go. It was getting to the point where safety might be an issue.”
With that in mind, the choir has taken on a new project: Replacing this much-needed equipment. The risers allow singers to stand in rows, each higher than the last. The choral shell helps the singers’ voices project.
Standing on the far left, Kiet Tran leads a men’s ensemble at the Parkrose fundraising concert.
May concert features jazz
Their concert on May 18 took place at Parkrose United Methodist Church, and featured the big band sounds of Jazz Express.
This program also featured the Parkrose High School “A-Choir”. And, Parkrose High student Kiet Tran’s senior project – a men’s ensemble – also performed.
June Awards Concert
“A-Choir” member Jason McGhee gets a wardrobe adjustment by choir director Lesley Bossert.
One of the highlights of the past year, that choir director Lesley Bossert shared with the audience, was the Debonairs’ experience of participating in their first jazz festival – along with a bass and percussion player.
Bossert talked about the high scores the choirs made in competition, and complemented the student musicians who qualified at the State competitions.
We can’t let you hear their wonderful music – but we can share photos of these talented students with you!
The Treble Choir was up first. They sang “Fly Me to the Moon”, “Ain’t That News”, “Danny Boy” and finished up with an energetic presentation of “Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy”. By the way, they’re standing on borrowed risers!
Under the direction of Parkrose High’s choir director, Lesley Bossert, many outer East Portland students have gained solid musical skills.
The Debonaires perform – with their combo – the songs “Turnaround”, “Lullaby on the Hudson” and “Down St. Thomas Way”.
The Concert Choir showed a wide range of musical skills as they performed “Song of the Sea”, “A Canon of Praise” and a toe-tapping medley: “Disney Dazzle”.
The renowned “A-Choir” performs “Arroz Con Leche”, Bogorodiste Devo”, and “Thoroughly Modern Millie”.
© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News
Traditional high school settings don’t meet the needs of all students. See how this unique school gives young people skills – and pays them while they go to school …
Not your ordinary teachers, Carly Boynton (on the mini-track backhoe) and Bill Kowalczyk say their classrooms are at building sites like this one, on SE Schiller Street.
Story and photos by David F. Ashton
For many young people in outer East Portland, college is out of the question; for some, even getting a high school diploma seems like nearly unreachable goal. Without marketable skills, the future for these youth seems bleak.
“Our school, Portland YouthBuilders (PYB), is both a high school and a pre-apprenticeship program. All of our students are kids who dropped out of high school,” explained PYB’s construction manager, Bill Kowalczyk, as we visited him at his “classroom” – a house construction site in Lents.
“This program is an opportunity for them to change their lives by taking on the challenge of being successful academically – as well as preparing for the working world – when they complete our program,” Kowalczyk said.
Two-year school & work program
Portland YouthBuilders offers young people, ages 17 to 24, a two-year program. The first year is primarily in the classroom; then they work on a jobsite for 12 months. After that, the PYB staff provides follow-up mentoring, counseling and guidance services, guiding the students to whatever secondary education direction they choose.
“This program isn’t for a fixed period of time where they graduate from high school, and things are over and done,” Kowalczyk told us. “We look at training as a process. We develop the tools to help students develop incrementally, and move toward success.”
Molly Yong, Julia Vosmik, and Ryan Marr work to prepare the area inside the structure’s foundation, where the slab will be poured.
Learn and earn
Another unusual feature of the PYB program is that the students don’t pay for their specialized training; they actually get paid to participate.
“They don’t get paid wages,” Kowalczyk clarified, “they get paid a stipend to help them get through. A lot of our students already have children; some of them several children. Having a stipend means, for a lot of our students, the difference of being able to participate in this program or not. They’re really working hard to develop strategies to be successful in life.”
As many as 40 percent of these students will go directly into construction, the instructor said. Others will get a GED and go on to some form of secondary education. “We use a construction format as a means of teaching job-readiness skills, and teaching about the industries,” Kowalczyk went on.
Partner with ROSE and Land Trust
At the site of their current project on SE Schiller Street and SE 104th Avenue, the students poured the concrete footings for what will eventually be a two-story, four-bedroom home. Then, working with a professional concrete finisher, they poured the foundation and started framing the home.
PYB construction trainer Carly Boynton hopped down from the backhoe she was operating, and told us that she and the students have been working on this jobsite for about three months. “This project is a great opportunity for our students to work on an Energy Star certified house from foundation to finish.”
The home is being built for ROSE Community Development Corporation, and will be sold to a low-income buyer through the Portland Community Land Trust. The new house will be ready for a family to move into later this year, Boynton added.
Since we first reported this story, we revisited the site – the house is really taking shape!
Calls it a ‘life changing experience’
“For me, PYB is a life-changing experience,” said student Julia Vosmik. “It’s giving me a career and helping me change direction to where I want to go in life. It’s like the family you’ve never had.”
In addition to construction, PYB also offers a computer maintenance educational track.
If you know of a student who might qualify for the program and could be interested in checking out the program, contact Portland YouthBuilders in person at 4816 SE 92nd Avenue (a block south of SE Holgate Boulevard), or call (503) 771-2309. To visit their web site, CLICK HERE.
© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News
Take a look, and discover the creativity and artistry demonstrated by these talented kids …
Friends, family members, folks from the community – and members of the DDS School Board all came by to take a look at this outstanding art show.
Story and photos by David F. Ashton
The quality of artistic work on display in the breezeway at the David Douglas School District office was stunning, as we sauntered among the displays on May 15.
“Welcome to our annual student art show,” greeted Gayla Buyukas, one of seven art teachers at David Douglas High School.
“The art on display is created from all of our students, from ninth grade to seniors,” Buyukas explained. “The forms of art range from painting and drawing to ceramics, jewelry and metals, calligraphy, crafts, glasswork.
David Douglas High art teacher Gayla Buyukas shows us a decorated brass box, created by student Celeste Hunter as part of the “Heroes Project”.
Heroes Project highlighted
Buyukas took us over to a locked glass case in which very small, delicate pieces – such as jewelry and memory boxes – were ensconced. “This case contains some of the works of art students created for what we call the ‘Heroes Project’.”
Students were asked to identify people – either folks they know, or personalities in popular culture – who are important to them, she said. “It could also be a philosophical concept in which they believe. Then, they design and create symbolic piece that represents that person or idea.”
As an example, Buyukas pointed out a small, elegant brass box. “This work was done by a junior, and near-4.0 student – Celeste Hunter. It represents her family; each side depicts one of her relatives who symbolize the story of her African-American tradition.”
Students tell about their works
Many of the works of art we saw in the gallery looked as if they were painted by professional artists. We enjoyed talking to several of the student artists about their projects.
Freshman Ricky Adams, with his portrait of actor McCauley Calkins.
A freshman, Ricky Adams, presented a pencil drawing of child actor McCauley Calkins. The photorealistic drawing clearly captured the image of the youthful actor starring in the “Home Alone” series of motion pictures. “It’s fun to learn about art,” Adams said. “I’m glad to have my drawing in the show.”
Lupe Diaz, 9th Grade, shows off her treasure boxes.
Another ninth grader, Lupe Diaz, showed us her “treasure boxes”, made for an art class. “I picked up colors that I liked and put them all together, and made patterns,” she commented.
This portrait of Snoop Dogg was drawn – in pencil – by junior Juan Diaz.
Juan Diaz, a DDHS junior, presented his drawing of rap artist Snoop Dogg. “It’s a drawing in pencil. The challenging thing is to get the dark and light shading contrast just right when you’re doing a pencil illustration.” Diaz added that he planned to pursue a career in art.
Bruce Ross, a senior, says he enjoys creating art in different media.
“The best thing about the show is that it means I’m about to graduate,” quipped a senior, Bruce Ross. “I’m known for my calligraphy; I won a blue ribbon for a work at last year’s Oregon State Fair. With calligraphy, you can express a concept by using both words and artistic style.”
But the work Ross chose to show us was a ceramic dish. “With ceramics, you can create a lot of texture.” The talented young man said he planned to attend the Art Institute of Portland, and go into art direction and graphic design as a career.
The artists who designed and created theses fused glass artworks weren’t around, but they did produce some beautiful pieces.
Showcasing school’s talent
The show was substantial; the works of nearly 800 students are represented in it.
“It’s one of the rare times when students can actually showcase their pieces before the school and their family and members of the community,” commented Buyukas. “In addition to students, parents, and community members, our school district’s board members also get the opportunity to look at what our kids have done during the year.”
We were delighted to have had the opportunity to be among those enjoying these works of art, created by outer East Portland students.
© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News Service
It was more than the grilled burgers and hot dogs that brought out prospective students to this BBQ! See what students and their parents really hunger for …
Dr. Richard O’Connor, Jon Taylor, and Evan Pine, here are cooking up hot dogs and burgers at the Ace Academy BBQ.
Story and photos by David F. Ashton
The air was filled with the scent of grilling hot dogs and hamburgers at the Willamette Carpenter’s Training Center in Northeast Portland not long ago, as the ACE Academy, opening in September, held an open house for future students and parents.
“This is the home of the Academy for Architecture Construction and Engineering – we call it the ‘ACE Academy’,” said Dr. Richard O’Connor, president of the newly-organized academy’s board of directors.
“ACE Academy is a charter school that is sponsored by four school districts: Parkrose, Centennial, Reynolds and Gresham/Barlow,” O’Connor said. “The Oregon Building Congress, and the construction and engineering and architectural industries, have worked together to create the school.”
When the school bell rings in September, O’Connor says they’re on track to open with 150 students. “We’re starting with students who are in their junior year of high school. They’ll continue on as seniors next year, when we’ll bring in a new group of juniors to the program.”
By the end of the second year, they expect to have as many as 400 students in the program, O’Connor told us.
Michel Taylor, educational director for the school, introduces the ACE Academy staff (seated to our left) to 150 parents and prospective students who attended the BBQ event in May.
Blends technical training with traditional high school
Michael Taylor, the educational coordinator at the school, explained to students and their parents that the ACE Academy isn’t just a glorified “shop” class.
“At the Academy, you’ll learn from experts in the industry on some days; but on alternate days, you’ll continue your high school experience – participating in educational and social activities,” Taylor said.
“For a project to be successful, it’s not only up to the architect designing it; it’s up to engineers who make sure it will be structurally sound. And, their designs can be realized only with the work of skilled carpenters, sheet metal workers, electricians, plumbers, and every kind of labor that make sure that the building is constructed properly.”
Creating pathways to construction trades
At the event, we asked Bob Strader, chief financial officer for Associated General Contractors, why their organization supports the new, start-up school.
“It’s critically important that we start creating pathways for young people to find a career in construction, plain and simple,” Strader stated.
AGC is a trade association representing commercial contractors throughout Oregon and Southwest Washington,” continued Strader. “Our #1 objective has been to identify our future workforce, and to create pathways for them into the industry. We have millions of baby boomers who are retiring; leaving a big void behind them. Those industries which see this turnover in the workforce coming – and which prepare for it – are the ones which will prosper in the future.”
Taylor says the area in which the group now sits will have classrooms and an atrium built overhead by the time the ACE Academy opens this fall.
Check it out today
If you are the parent of an interested student who will be a high school junior in September – or know of one, who lives in one of the participating school districts – now is the time to check out this program. Each district is allocated a limited quota of students – so check it out now.
You can find out more information at their web site by CLICKING HERE.
© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News
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