See why all of these DDHS students were moving and grooving to that funky boogie beat before hundreds of cheering fans …

David Douglas High School dance teacher, Lynette Velasquez, welcomes the crowd to this semester’s dance recital. Behind Velasquez is her husband, Dan, serving as the evening’s deejay.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Hundreds of family members, friends and students lined the bleachers at David Douglas High School’s south gym, waiting for the latest end-of-the-semester dance recital – entitled “Takin’ It Back to the Old School“, as it was about to get underway on January 14.

“In addition to being a fun show,” Lynette Velasquez, the DDHS dance teacher, told us before the show, “this program is also theifinal exam for the dance class students. It is a good opportunity for the kids to perform, and show their parents, friends and family what they’ve learned.”

The “Tams Alumni Dancers” perform as the warm-up act at the program.

Performing “September” in front of the large audience are student dancers Katryna Dellsite, Cassie Hamann, and Morgan Williams (but perhaps not in this order).

188 students are involved in the program, Velasquez said – adding that she feels that studying dance enhances their educational experience.

“The arts are integral to a good liberal arts education,” the teacher opined. “It gives kids the self confidence that so many are often lacking. It gives them the ability to stand up in front of a group of people and present themselves.”

Whooping it up to “Space Jam” is this large group of dancers, led by teaching assistants Myriah (last name deleted by request) and Tarissa Maxwell.

In addition to helping young people appreciate more dimensions of school than simply book learning, Velasquez added that dance is good physical and mental exercise. “Dance uses mathematical concepts; all dance numbers are built on mathematical principles. We also use geometry; talking about parallelograms angles and other geometric shapes.”

As we watched the performances, we agree with Velasquez’ final comment: “Dance brings together the head and the body, and helps make a complete student.”

In his solo performance of “Make it Work”, student dancer Joe Zhao gets the crowd going with his robotic, animated style of boogie.

© 2009 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

Hey! Don’t throw away those return-deposit bottles and cans that piled up during the Holidays! Here’s where to take them – and why …

The first Saturday in December, the Parkrose Swim Team helped Dave “Can Man” Luce collect and sort deposit-return bottles and cans.

Story and photo by David F. Ashton
On the first Saturday of the month – including January 3, 2009 – the Parkrose Can Man (aka Dave Luce) and his clan (student volunteers from clubs, sports teams and groups at Parkrose-area schools) collect deposit-return cans and bottles.

As the Parkrose High Swim Team takes our cans, Luce tells us, “We raised $576.40 last month.” To learn more about how and why Luce has become known as the Can Man, read our past articles: CLICK HERE or CLICK HERE for two of them.

Just a reminder: Instead of dragging your cans all over town – or worse, leaving them out by the curb, thus enabling drug-affected scavengers – round ’em up and take them to the Parkrose Boosters Pop Can Drive – they’re open 9 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Parkrose Middle School, on NE Shaver Street, across from Parkrose High School.

If you manage a place of business, call Dave Luce and he’ll bring over and service a can recycling barrel for you. Or, if you have a large load of cans to be picked up, call him at (503) 255-3745.

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

See what happened when these young craftsmen turned their attention to making toys for disadvantaged kids – instead of producing gifts for their own family and friends …

David Douglas High School instructor Jeff Reardon shows the process flow chart that he and his class members developed to help them successfully manufacture 100 wooden toys in a very short period of time.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
One of the few high schools that haven’t axed classes in practical skills – such as woodworking and metal shop – is David Douglas High School.

“Our Woods Manufacturing Program is one of the school’s eight ‘Career Paths’ that are available,” said instructor Jeff Reardon as we met in his office overlooking the woodshop floor to get way from the noise made by saws, drills, and sanders, operated by students.

DDHS student Gerardo Ruiz cuts out wheels for toy trucks using a drill press.

Manufacturing opportunity appears
“I was looking for a manufacturing project for our students,” Reardon began. “The questions that come up are, ‘What do we make?’ and ‘Where do we get the materials?’ and “Who will the customer be?'”

These questions were answered by Gig Lewis, who is with the Guild of Oregon Woodworkers. Explained Reardon, “He asked if we’d like to be involved in a special project. They would provide the plans and material for the project.” The product turned out to be a toy truck.

Members of the Guild, Reardon noted, had been making hand-crafted wooden toys, destined for the Marine’s Toy-and-Joy drive, for three years. “We had six weeks to design a manufacturing process, and produce them.”

It takes teamwork, coordination, and good communications, documenting what is to be done to run a manufacturing operation, Reardon said. “We’ve created a list of the parts for our project, and a process. These are valuable skills to build high-quality products, whether you manufacturing in wood, metal, or plastics.

Students like Max Basarava discover and utilize methods for mass-producing toys –like sanding dozens of wheels at one time.

Experienced young woodworkers rise to challenge
Once they’d completed their production methods, the classmembers got to work. “These students have been in the program for two to three years; they know how to operate the woodworking equipment. What they’re learning is how to mass-produce a product – instead of making an individual project.”

The eleven students in Reardon’s class worked diligently to meet their goal of producing 100 finished units. “That’s quite a few – for example, they need to make 400 wooden wheels. And, there are 14 parts in each toy.”

Geonard Castaneda, Kevin Orszulak, Mr. Reardon, and Anatoliy Pshenichnykh check the production schedule at the end of a class period.

Student volunteers pitch in
All David Douglas students are required to provide several hours of volunteer time, Reardon explained. To make sure that Santa’s bag wouldn’t be light by a few toys, Reardon said he asked teachers of other Career Pathways to ask their students to volunteer on the project.

“The response was great,” the instructor said. “Many of our volunteers, like those from the Arts and Communications group – your future reporters and editors, someday – had never done woodworking. They came in and sanded their hearts out. We could not have done it without them.”

On December 9, the class had their trucks finished and ready for delivery. Because of their efforts, 100 youngsters will be having fun with toys made for them by older kids, right here in outer East Portland.

Student project manager Chris Becker approves of the quality of this finished toy truck before it is packaged.

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

No, they didn’t vandalize it! See why Portland City Commissioner Nick Fish and Multnomah County Commissioner Jeff Cogen – and 40 other volunteers – worked to spruce up a school they’d never before visited …

Portland City Commissioner Nick Fish says volunteering helps him stay connected with the community he serves.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
A volunteerism match-making service is taking steps toward providing more services in outer East Portland, we learned on November 15 – when we visited a “Paint with the Commissioners Party” at Jason Lee Elementary School, on NE 92nd Avenue near Rocky Butte.

“We’re here working with a great organization I love called ‘Hands On Greater Portland’,” explained Portland City Commissioner Nick Fish, as he continued to apply masking tape along the top of the school’s main hallway. In his informal survey, the commissioner said none of the volunteers with whom he spoke had ever visited the school before, including himself.

“Most of the people came here to help spruce up the school; but some folks have taken the opportunity also to make Multnomah County Commissioner Jeff Cogen and me aware of their concerns,” Fish added.

“There are a lot of people out there that want to volunteer, and give back to their community, but they don’t know how to go about it,” explained Fish. “The beauty of ‘Hands On Greater Portland’ is that people can go online, find an event that suits them, sign on, show up, and get put to work for a few hours.”

Started by ‘do-gooders’
Fish introduced us to Andy Nelson, a founder of, and the executive director of, Hands On Greater Portland.

“We are a nonpartisan, non-ecumenical, nonprofit organization – just a bunch of do-gooders,” said Nelson with a smile. “There is no hidden agenda here.”

It started up about 12 years ago, with a circle of friends who wanted to work volunteering into their lives. “Now, we make 15,000 volunteer connections in partnership with 250 nonprofits throughout the area,” revealed Nelson.

The organization puts on about 100 volunteer projects over the metropolitan Portland area every month, he explained. “Volunteers search on our website for projects that are convenient for them, and which also meet their interests or fits their schedule.”

He went on to say that volunteers need only bring a willing spirit. “All of the tools and supplies are provided. It doesn’t take any special skills. We’re doing our best to eliminate barriers to volunteering.”

Portland City Commissioner Nick Fish, and Mt. Hood Community College students Chelsey Lemire and Melissa Points, work with Multnomah County Commissioner Jeff Cogen, as they paint the hallways at Jason Lee Elementary School.

Increased East Portland focus
Multnomah County Commissioner Jeff Cogen put down a paint roller and joined the conversation. “We want to focus more on East Portland needs and projects. It’s one of the places where ‘Hands On Greater Portland’ has not been as active.”

Nelson added that educational and non-profit organizations in outer East Portland that need a helping hand should register at the website, to be considered for help with future projects.

“Nick Fish and I are planning to choose ‘Hands On  with Commissioners’ events every other month, perhaps more often,” volunteered Cogen.

Fish added, “They make it so easy for citizens to help their communities; check out their website, and donate a few hours this weekend.”

How to take action
Sign up, and volunteer for a few hours – or donate to their cause by visiting the website of this 501(c)3 non-profit organization. Just CLICK HERE.

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

Here’s the story behind the summer-long scurry of construction activity on SE Division Street at SE 68th Avenue …

This auspicious group, ready to dedicate the newly-reconstructed Egtvedt Hall at Warner Pacific (WP) College, are: WP alum and Church of God pastor John Parker; Bill Jones, VP with Bank of the West; Steve Stenberg, WP Director of Facilities and Planning; Conner Peckham, Student Body President; Jim Teague, Chair, Board of Trustees and an alumnus; Andrea Cook, interim WP President; Jay Barber, President Emeritus; Wayne Peterson, WP’s CFO; Frank Harris, who is with contractor SD Deacon; Skip Spanaway, from SRD Partnership, architects; and, Ray Cotton, pastor of New Hope Community Church, alumnus and parent of a current student.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
People motoring east or west along SE Division Street have probably noticed a recent flurry of construction activity at SE 68th Avenue – on the campus of Warner Pacific College (WP).

In what Andrea Cook, interim WP president called “amazing work in a very short time,” the school’s Egtvedt Hall underwent a complete renovation. “Groundbreaking for the project was on April 3, and we got our occupancy permit on August 21.”

Although the turnout was light for the dedication ceremony, everyone at the ribbon-cutting ceremony appeared to be ebullient about the project’s successful, rapid, and timely completion.

Warner Pacific’s interim President, Andrea Cook, introduces the speakers at the building’s dedication ceremony.

Speeches accompany ribbon cutting
After introducing distinguished guests standing behind the dedication ribbon, the school’s interim President, Andrea Cook, said, “Now, our students will have a place in which they can feel proud, when they bring their families and friends.”

Jim Teague, an alumnus and the Chair of the school’s board of trustees, told how, in 1976, the impetus behind the construction of the original building was to have a place to host then-President Gerald Ford when he came to speak at their graduation ceremony.

In the foreground, newly renovated Egtvedt Hall stands ready to serve students, faculty, and the community, school officials say.

“That was our motivation then,” Teague told the assemblage. “The motivation [for the improvements] is really all about our students. We felt deeply that we needed a place to really host our community. This includes our students, our faculty, our alumni – and our staff, as well. What you see here, now, is a place that is all about community. Community is what Warner Pacific is all about.”

Representatives of the architects, contractors, and the school each took turns praising the project and offering up dedication prayers. With that, the ribbon was cut and visitors toured the building.

With a snip of the mighty scissors wielded by Cook, Egtvedt Hall is official open.

Will provide a ‘community space’
Greg Moon, the school’s Development Director, told us that Egtvedt Hall now provides the campus with a spacious dining room, a coffee shop, a student center, and a bookstore. “Additionally, faculty, admissions, the registrar, and the business and financial offices occupy the second story of the building.”

“The renovation gives students a place they can relax,” Moon said. “The dining room, coffee shop, and multi-purpose room are open and available for our neighborhood community to use. The building also houses our ‘black box’ theater and music rehearsal studios. We hope you’ll come to our events.”

Learn more about this unique SE Portland educational facility by visiting their web site: CLICK HERE.

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

Songs from musicals – old and new – will be blended together, when students from Parkrose High School’s theater and music departments join forces for three great shows next week …

Parkrose High students Jason Newman, Tamara Dan, Hadassah Jeremiah, Amariah Moran, and Taylor Grady work on their routine for the song “You’re the One That I Want” from the show “GREASE” in their upcoming production of “Bronco Cabaret!”

Story and photo by David F. Ashton
Starting off the season with a new type of production, “Bronco Cabaret!” will take the stage at the Parkrose High School Theater October 23, 24 and 25.

“This revue features songs from the past century of theatrical musicals & the pop music world, woven together by an endless tale of love,” says the school’s theater department instructor, Ms. Zena, as we watch the performers work on their musical numbers.

Some 75 students, including the live band and technical crew, will put on this tuneful show, we learn.

“People of all ages will recognize and enjoy the songs,” chimes in Lesley Bossert, Parkrose High’s choral director. “From I Cain’t Say No, from Oklahoma and Trouble from The Music Man – to 2005 Broadway musical nominated for six Tony Awards show, 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee’s standout number, Pandemonium – to pop music standards such as Elton John’s Your Song and 9 to 5, this show is loaded with fun, evocative music.”

VIP packages still available
Treat yourself to a real evening out by ordering a VIP Ticket Package!

It includes café-table seating, special show program & cast photo, a rose to give to cast member of your choice, intermission in the VIP Lounge, a complimentary snack, a Cabaret Cosmo (non-alcoholic beverage), and an opportunity to meet & greet with cast members. Call (503) 408-2718 and arrange now for VIP treatment!

Or, attend any one of the three performances for only $8 adults –  $5 for seniors 65+ & students 18 and under. You can order online at www.seatyourself.biz/parkrose, or at the door.

The curtain goes up each night – October 23, 24 and 25 – at 7:00 p.m. at the Parkrose High School Theatre; 12003 NE Shaver Street, just west of NE 122nd Avenue.

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

While all students from three Parkrose schools were eligible for the Masons’ Summer Reading Program, find out how many how many did – and what they won …

Dale Imbleau, Worshipful Master of Eastgate Lodge #155, Ancient Free and Accepted Masons and Christos Efthimiadis, Worshipful Master of Parkrose Masonic Lodge, begins the Summer Reading Awards program.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Eastgate and Parkrose Masonic Lodges celebrated youngsters who had participated in their Summer Reading program on September 25.

“This year, we expanded the program to include three Parkrose elementary schools: Prescott, Shaver, and Sacramento,” explained Dale Imbleau, Worshipful Master, Eastgate Lodge #155 Ancient Free and Accepted Masons.

Students who qualified for the drawing from Prescott Elementary School await their certificates – and to learn if one of their names was drawn to win one of the new bicycles.

Over the summer, Imbleau, said, young students were required to read 15 books – at their grade level – to qualify for a drawing for a free bicycle. “About 50 students took us up on our offer, and qualified for the drawing,” he told us, “and we have a dozen bicycles to give away tonight.”

Asked why the Masons host a reading program, Imbleau told us, “One of the tenets of Free Masonry is that we have is free thought. By encouraging children to read, we encourage them to become better-educated, and more active in their communities. In short, we equip them to be better citizens.”

Prescott Elementary School student Jack Ramirez draws names out the hat held by Christos Efthimiadis – Worshipful Master of Parkrose Masonic Lodge.

Short program features drawing
Christos Efthimiadis, Worshipful Master of Parkrose Masonic Lodge ,welcomed teachers, parents, and a room full of expectant students to their meeting. “This is our second year at Sacramento School, and we are glad that we can include Prescott and Shaver this year as well,” Efthimiadis announced.

“It is very exciting for us to reward the children. It is our honor to be able to reach out and encourage young readers, and bring them here for the special evening. It’s good that you’ve read books. It’s very important that you continue to do that.”

In addition to the brand-new bicycle, the winners also were given a bicycle safely helmet. Efthimiadis advised them, “Be sure to wear it and stay safe.”

Each child who qualified for the drawing received a Certificate of Participation. With that, the drawing began.

Parkrose Lodge’s Past Master James Akers presents lucky summer reader Mckenna Galyon with her brand-new bicycle.

Summer Reading Program Honor Roll

Prescott Elementary School

• Sonja Keller Young
• Caleb Martindale
• Lamberto Lavadores Villacis
• Steve Mendoza Ruiz
• Luis Soto
• Jason Gutierrez
• Christian Ponce Zuniga
• Daniel Senina
• Ivan Senina
• Bill Truong
• Jamari Gilbert
• Henry Mendoza
• Alan Lavadores Villacis
• Marlene Hernandez
• Karina Patel
• Tabitha Klein
• Nicolay Senina
• Kinsey Martindale
• Maria Than
• Michaela Bersine
• Alina Ursatiy
• Chelsea Lopez Cabrera
• Cherry Mendoza Ruiz
• Kaitlyn Cha
• Elizabeth Escobar
• Tamika Perret
• Shelbie Dunn
• Kelly Cha
• Candy Mendoza Ruiz

Sacramento Elementary School

• Jonathan Almasan
• Kayley Le
• Gabe Sieber
• Margot Amdal
• Yudie Lewis
• Benjamin Almasan
• Dmitriy Rogozhnikov
• Leia Braich
• Moses Ramirez-Torres
• Rikka Gustey
• Cassidy Calyon
• Alexus Torres
• Tyler Minden
• Buno Vongsay

Shaver Elementary School

• Rene Cervantes
• Maryangela Cervantes
• Erick Olvera Duran
• Belen Liliana
• Zemar Smith
• Minh Le
• Nguyen Le
• Ediberto Marvin

“Next year, we hope to encourage even more students to read over the summer months,” Imbleau said. “And, give away more bicycles.”

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

We’ve told you before about the ACE Academy –
now see the instructors in action, as school
gets underway at this unique educational facility.

Students become familiar with their “school away from school” as the ACE Academy begins, at the Willamette Carpenter’s Training Center NE 158th Avenue in Northeast Portland.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Although Portland hadn’t seen a new charter school open in years, the Academy of Architecture, Construction & Engineering – known as ACE Academy – opened its doors this month.

(To learn the background of this school, see our past articles. CLICK HERE)

“We have about 144 students enrolled in the program this year,” reported the school’s director, Michael Taylor, when we visited the facility earlier this month. “When they’re here, they are typically divided up into ‘anchor teams’ of about 15 students each – much like a home room, back at their high school.”

ACE Academy instructor Marjan Rotting takes the students on a tour of the facility. Along the way, the students were asked to sketch in details and architectural features of the building.

Initially, the program will introduce students to design and building industry occupations, Taylor revealed. “Our five ACE educators integrate academics into a technical curriculum.”

To do this, the teachers went “back to school” during the summer months, learning and developing a “credit by proficiency” approach to education, he added.

Currently the school’s juniors and seniors who have expressed an interest in careers in architecture, construction, and engineering also attend general education at their “home schools” in Parkrose, Gresham-Barlow, Centennial, Centennial Learning Center, Reynolds and Sandy.

Each of the students is assigned a computer on which to work. Breanna Huffman and Jacob Billingsley try out their new computers in the class.

For more information, visit their web their web site by CLICKING HERE.

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

See why many folks came for the party –
and stayed to see the game …

He’s the “Parkrose Can Man” – he runs returnable container drives that support Parkrose school activities the first Saturday morning of each month at Parkrose Middle School. It’s Dave Luce, who prepares to enjoy the buffet dinner served at the Tailgate Party.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
School spirit was running high on September 5 at Parkrose High School, before the Parkrose Bronco’s football team took on their first opponents of the year.

In addition to family and friends supporting the team’s first outing, about 100 community members and school district supporters also gathered near the athletic field for the annual “Tailgate Dinner.”

Jon Taylor, Parkrose High’s offensive coordinator for the Broncos football team, enjoys the evening with event organizer Mary Larson, Principal Roy Reynolds, and District Superintendent Dr. Karen Fischer Gray.

“Each year, we sell tickets to this fund raiser at our annual education foundation auction,” explained event coordinator Mary Larson.

“The district office administrators sponsor this evening’s event. The money we raise goes directly to Parkrose Education Foundation,” Larson continued. “The funds help supplement supplies, services, and programs for the district.”

For example, the foundation, we learned, has purchased playground equipment and Parkrose Middle School band instruments. “We’re estimating that were serving a hundred people tonight, and will raise about $2,500,” she added.

Jeff Vigue and Julie Frangipani from Chartwell School Dining Services do a masterful job grilling up steaks and chicken. Asked how where he trained to be a chef, Vigue smiled and replied, “Actually, I’m the sales account representative.”

Gourmet three-course dinner served
The meal, laid out buffet style, was a complete dinner – not just weenies, nachos and popcorn. Under canopies, guests sat at cloth-covered tables decorated in the school’s colors.

The feast started off with a platter of grilled vegetables and fresh green salad. The entrees were freshly-barbequed lean, tender, and perfectly-cooked steak and succulent chicken, accompanied by freshly-mashed potatoes and fresh corn-on-the-cob. Large slices of strawberry-covered cheesecake wrapped up the meal.

Everyone with whom we spoke characterized the repast as delightfully toothsome, and gave kudos to the foodservice staff and volunteer servers.

The Parkrose High Cheer Squad teaches folks at the Tailgate Dinner a traditional cheer.

Connecting with the community
The high school’s Principal, Roy Reynolds, smiled as he looked over the lively setting.

“It’s important that this event raises money for a good cause. But that’s secondary to providing a connection between our schools and our community and extended communities,” commented Reynolds.

Kathy Keim-Robinson, director of student services at the Parkrose School District, helps Dr. Gray sell Score Pool slots.

Calls football a ‘marquee sport’
“I’m absolutely delighted to see the support we’re getting this year,” Parkrose School District Superintendent Dr. Karen Fischer Gray told us, sitting down for a moment after she finished selling mid- and end-game score pool raffle.

“I love seeing so many people wearing their green Parkrose T-shirts, learning a cheer from the Parkrose Cheer Squad, and meeting guests from our opposing team from The Dalles. Our players and coaches look sharp in their uniforms – its like were serious and were ready to win.”

The Broncos get last minute instructions from their coaches before the game.

Ready, HIKE! The Broncos defend on a second down.

The Parkrose Cheer Squad works up the fans in the stands.

Gray said she’s encouraged the school to build their football program. “There are two main ‘marquee sports’ – football and basketball. People love to go to football games; it brings them together, and promotes a culture of working together.”

The energy these activities can engender in a community can’t be underestimated, Gray added. “It’s more than the sport itself; it’s more than the score. But, winning would be great!”

Broncos footballers put the big hustle on the visiting team from The Dalles.

Perhaps next game …
By game time, fans started filling the grandstand, as the Parkrose High Band played rousing tunes. The Cheer Squad changed, danced, and one young squad member demonstrated this athletic prowess by doing backward handsprings the length of the stadium.

As the sun lowered in the sky, giving Mt. Hood an alpenglow in the distance, the non-conference game against The Dalles High School team kicked off.

Although Parkrose High put up a valiant effort, they were bested by the visitors 32 to 6. Why not check in, under the Friday night lights, and cheer on this hardworking team next week?

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

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