Education and Schools « East PDX News

Behind the scenes at Classical Ballet Academy’s ‘Nutcracker’

See why this dance school is attracting both students and audiences to their programs ‚Ä¶

CBA dancers Katrina Cunningham and Brooke Thornberry touch up their makeup, moments before they go onstage in “The Nutcracker”.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
For those hoping to read a review of Classical Ballet Academy’s production of “The Nutcracker”, here it is: It was wonderful!

The performance we saw, performed at St. Mary’s Academy, and delivered on its promise of presenting this holiday classic with professional costumes, extravagant sets, and original choreography.

“I thought it would be quaint,” Helen Hildebrandt told us following the afternoon performance early in December, “so, I took family, visiting from out-of-town, to see it. But we agree — the performance and staging was what you’d expect from a professional ballet company in any major city.”

Director says she loves Sellwood
Although she only opened the academy in 2004, Rigles said there are now 250 students ranging in age from 3 to 70 years. Several of her students have received scholarships for college dance programs. Last summer, ten students went to a professional dance program in Boston.

“The first classes I taught here in Portland were at the Sellwood Community Center,” Rigles said. “I wanted to start a school for people serious about ballet. The continuing support I’ve had from students and parents in inner Southeast Portland is why I chose to open the academy here.”

Behind the scenes
Rigles gave us unprecedented back-stage access, as her student dancers readied themselves for their performances.

“From September through December every year since I was three years old, ‘The Nutcracker’ has been part of my life,” Rigles told us as she adjusted a student’s costume. “I’ve danced all the different parts. It is something that is part of my life ‚Äì and now, it is part of my students’ lives, too.”

The costumes at CBA’s production of this holiday classic were charming and very professional. Here, young dancers make their final preparations to go on stage.

In every room backstage at St. Mary’s Academy, dancers were putting on their makeup and adjusting their hairstyles. Others were limbering up and stretching, getting ready to perform athletic ballet moves.

CBA’s Director, Sarah Rigles, gives her students a heartfelt pep talk moments before the curtain goes up on their performance of “The Nutcracker”.

A group of young dancers looked nervous as they stood in the hallway. Rigles gathered them around her and gave each of young ballerinas a small memento. “You have danced these parts so well, so many times,” she said sincerely. “You are prepared. I’m so proud of you. You’ll do really well. Now, have fun and do well.”

Parent volunteers lend a hand
As we reported on the students’ backstage preparation, we noticed many adults, calmly helping out. “We couldn’t stage a show of this magnitude without the help of our 150 parent volunteers,” Rigles told us, as she rushed past more than a dozen backstage assistants — prop and set managers and costumers.

As the show’s opening overture was about to start, we made our way into the audience. We were greeted by usher John Southgate, formerly an East Portland Development Commission manager, now Economic Development Manager of Hillsboro. “Even though we’ve moved to the west side,” Southgate said, “Our kids love this school. It is an honor to help out.”

Teaches more than dance
Taking their seats were the family of eastside attorney and Sellwood resident Pete Diamond. His daughter, Caroline, 7, was about to dance as a mouse in this show. And 4-year-old Phoebe had her turn onstage earlier in the day, when she performed in the academy’s scaled-down version of the show, “The Nutcracker Suite”.

“What they learn goes beyond dancing,” Diamond said. “It gives them confidence and poise. You can see how the kids ‘grow up’ through the program. Even if they stop dancing at some point, they’ve still gained a lot, in terms learning dance, and becoming more confident ladies and men.”

He added that all students get personal attention. “They connect with all their students, regardless of age, and help make even the youngest students feel comfortable performing on stage.”

Curtain time! Nearly every seat at the St. Mary’s Academy theater was filled as this holiday classic came to life.

The large, 650-seat theater St. Mary’s Academy was filled to capacity as the house lights dimmed and the production began. It was, indeed, a very good show.

Fair connects David Douglas families with resources

See how many different agencies provided information about their services, at this unique event held by the David Douglas School District ‚Ä¶

Families of students from the David Douglas School District learned about many different resources available to them at the Family Resource Fair.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Hundreds of students, and their parents, took advantage of the annual event provided by the David Douglas School District: The East Portland Family Resource Fair.

After touring the fair ourselves, we talked with the woman in charge of this year’s event, Catherine Nyhan, school counselor, of the Fir Ridge Campus, David Douglas Schools.

“We have 54 agencies, representing all kinds of services, here,” Nyhan told us. “They are here to meet, and help, members of our community.”

Nyhan said this annual event is important, because students, and their parents, can learn what community resources are available. “As winter sets in, this is a good time for them to be able to access information about energy conservation, housing, and food services.”

At the Fir Ridge Campus, Nyhan continued, about 82% of the students are on programs for free or reduced-cost lunches. “In other words, we are in a high-poverty area. They need a lot of help right now. We help families find the resources they need. When a student comes from a stable family, they tend to do better in school.”

Shanley McLaughlin, counselor at Ron Russell Middle School, is greeted by Fir Ridge Campus principal Ron Knight, on her way into the Resource Fair.

Resources help school counselors
Staffmembers from other schools in the area–like Shanley McLaughlin, a counselor at Ron Russell Middle School in Powellhurst-Gilbert–told us that this fair helps them discover ways to help their student’s families. “Each year that I come to the fair, I learn about services that will help our students do better.”

As we continued our tour on Nov. 30, we saw folks learning where they could get energy assistance, find free and low-cost food and clothing resources, avail themselves of counseling resources, find out how to access local community colleges, and more.

Parkrose concert features international recording artist

See alumnus Michael Allen Harrison’s personality and talent warm the Parkrose High auditorium as he comes “Back Home” ‚Ä¶

Not often do school kids get to sing with an international recording star; Michael Allen Harrison seemed genuinely pleased to lead the Parkrose students in song.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Many families and students began their holiday season enjoying the genius and flair of award-winning Michael Allen Harrison in December.

The Parkrose High Theater was bedecked with simple-yet-elegant trim, adding a picture-postcard look to the event.

This, the fourth such annual event, featured performances by Parkrose High School A Cappella Choir, and the elementary school choirs from Prescott School and Russell Academy.

First, the choirs presented both traditional and modern Christmas songs.

Playing one of the Christmas arrangements that has made him an internationally renowned recording artist, Michael Allen Harrison entertains in the Parkrose High Theater.

Then, as Michael Allen Harrison walked out to sit at the grand piano, the audience broke into a thunderous applause. He played medleys of his original songs, show tunes, and holiday favorites.

We have a winner! This audience member correctly “named those tunes”.

After his “Show Tunes” medley, Harrison held an impromptu “quiz”, awarding an audience member with a CD for correctly naming both the tunes and shows.

As the combined choirs came back to the stage, Harrison talked with the audience, gave away more of his CD recordings. His relaxed, upbeat interaction with the audience was warm and engaging.

The combined choirs sing Silent Night.

Under Harrison’s direction, the choirs sang the Christmas song “Silent Night”. He asked the students to hum during the fourth verse, in honor of his friend, “musical saw” virtuoso, Allan deLay. Harrison reminded everyone how deLay, who passed away this year, had given much to Parkrose students over the year.

Proceeds from the program will be used help further develop the award-winning PHS choral program.

Talking with the audience, Harrison demonstrates his abilities as a skilled raconteur, in addition to being a consummate musician.

A moment with Michael
We spoke with Harrison backstage, and asked him why he comes back to Parkrose High to perform with kids.

“This is where I grew up. I love Parkrose. Anytime they ask me to come, I raise my hand and say, ‘Yes, of course.’

“There are all sorts of special feelings you get from different venues. But nothing compares to the feeling of being in the place where you grew up.

“The connection I feel here is so strong–both to those I’ve known in the past, and the young students here now. They embrace me and make me feel welcome. They make me feel like I’m still their neighbor and friend. When I come here, I’m truly home again.”

For more information about Harrison, his projects, catalog, and his performance schedule, see www.mahrecords.com.

Pro DJ shows kids how to ‘play the hits’ at Midland Library

Look at this, and you’ll discover why a professional club disc jockey spent an afternoon sharing her love of spinning disks with kids ‚Ä¶

Leonetti, a professional club DJ, starts by showing kids how she hooks up a basic music system.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
In night clubs, at banquets ‚Äì and event wedding receptions ‚Äì almost everyone has “rocked out” to tunes played by a professional disc jockey.

But, how does one learn how “play the hits” like a pro?

Your Midland Library brought in professional DJ, Leonetti, to show kids the ropes ‚Äì or perhaps we should say wires and disks.

“I love music. It’s all about bringing the music,” Leonetti told us, as she set up her gear.

“Working the kids is great. Today, I’m glad to see we have several gals who came out!”

Leonetti said most folks are pleased to learn they can bring any kind of music they love when they DJ. “It doesn’t have to be hip-hop or rock. You can find a place to play any kind of music you love.”

DJ Leonetti asks what kind of music each of the kids like to hear ‚Äì and would like to play.

“Today I’m showing them the basics,” Leonetti continued.

She introduced them to several music styles, told them where they can buy their music. And yes, showed a basic set up for DJing. The gear she brought was two turntables and a special DJ mixer.

“You need turntables ‚Äì record players ‚Äì that allow you to adjust the playback speed,” she told the youngsters. “This allows you to beat match; an essential in being a good DJ.”

Leonetti rocks out! “Yes, it is unusual for a woman to be a DJ, but we’re accepted by men in the field.”

Leonetti said she’s been DJing for six years, professionally for four. “I started because I love ‘house’ music. I’m a big Beastie Boys fan and worked with their DJ on an event ‚Äì he helped me get started. There is real camaraderie among DJs. While most of them are guys, they accept women DJs, too.”

What is going on at your library today? Check out our Community Calendar for unique and interesting events taking place here in outer East Portland.

Parkrose Boosters ‘Can Clan’ wants your holiday empties

If you have empty deposit-return bottles and cans, don’t throw them away! Help the Boosters help Parkrose students on December 2 ‚Ä¶

Parkrose student athletes Tyrell Fortune, Curtis Lincoln, Santwan Eaden, Roman Monbleau, Tyree Fortune and Alphonso Williams help the Parkrose Boosters collect bottles and cans the first Saturday of every month.

Story and photo by David F. Ashton
Just a reminder ‚Ä¶ hang on to your deposit-return cans and bottles. Collecting these really helps the Parkrose Boosters provide for student needs throughout the year. They work hard to make it happen.

Your cans and bottles help support Parkrose students!

Their next collection is on Saturday, December 2, from 9 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the Parkrose Middle School, on NE Shaver St., across from the high school. Call Gail Volk to have large loads picked up, or to answer questions: (503) 253-7993.

‘Peter Pan’ plays to full houses at DDHS

LAST WEEKEND! Take a look at some scenes from this great musical ‚Äì and you’ll see why you needed to reserve tickets to see it ‚Ä¶

Peter Pan meets Wendy and her siblings.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
David Douglas High School Performing Arts Department’s production of “Peter Pan” gives us another reason to be enthusiastic about the arts in East Portland.

Here’s the story:
Set in old London, a young lady named Wendy Darling fascinates her brothers with tales of adventure, including swashbuckling swordplay. But, these youngsters become heroes themselves, in an even greater story.

One night, Peter Pan teaches the kids to fly! They go over rooftops and through a star-filled sky to a place called Neverland. (Unretouched photo!)

Wendy and her brothers find a carefree land without adult rules. The feared Indians become friends with Wendy, her siblings and the Lost Boys.

But, they also face confrontation with Captain Hook and his bloodthirsty pirates. Who will win out?

The lingering question remains: What happens if Peter Pan “grows up” like normal kids?

A delightful show for children and adults
The sets used in this production rival those found at major theatrical shows. The show features professional-quality lighting and sound, operated by the twenty-member technical crew.

The David Douglas High Orchestra plays the overture to Peter Pan.

And, under the direction of Judy LeCoq, a cast of sixty ‚Äì yes, 60 ‚Äì actors, singers, and dancers will fill the stage, to the accompaniment of a chorus and thirty-member orchestra.

Get your tickets now …
Saturday, December 9 at 7:30 p.m.
Sunday Matinee, December 10 at 2:30 p.m.

Tickets are $7 for seniors and students, and $10 for adults.

Howard Horner Performing Arts Center box office at David Douglas High School, is located 1400 SE 130th Avenue.

Call (503) 261-8270. The Box Office is open an hour before show times.

Choral and Jazz music fills Parkrose High’s Theater

And, plan to attend Michael Allen Harrison’s
“Back Home” concert on December 2 …

Meet this year’s Parkrose High Debonaires choral group.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Those who came to the first musical concert of the year at Parkrose High School were treated to both choral and jazz selections in October.

The Debonaires took the stage first. Choral director, Lesley Bossert whispered, “Don’t their new outfits look great?”

The young singers did look sharp ‚Äì and sounded great ‚Äì as they went into their four numbers, “Star Spangled Banner”, “Be True to Your School”, “Over the Rainbow” and “Saturday Night Fish Fry”.

This year’s Parkrose High Jazz Band in concert!

Then, it was time for the Parkrose High Jazz Band to take the stage, under the baton of Mike Tolon.

This great group of youthful jazz musicians showed talent and ability as they presented “It Don’t Mean A Thing”, “When I Fall in Love” and “Foo’s Blues”.

Back Home with Michael Allen Harrison Dec. 2
Begin your holiday season on December 2 by enjoying the musical genius and flair of award-winning pianist Michael Allen Harrison.

Michael returns to his high school alma mater for a fourth annual benefit concert, hosted by the Parkrose High School A Cappella Choir. They will be joined by the elementary choirs from Prescott School and Russell Academy.

Proceeds will be used for continued development of the PHS choral program.

Tickets are only $12.50 adults; $10.00 seniors & students. They are available by calling (503) 408‚Äì2718. The show starts at 2:00 p.m. on December 2 at the Parkrose High School Theater, 12003 NE Shaver St (at the corner of SE 122nd Ave.).

News flash: Peter Pan caught on film flying near SE 130th Ave.

To those who believe the story of ‘PETER PAN’ is just a fairy-tale, we have photographic evidence to the contrary …

As promised: Peter Pan caught in mid-flight, soaring high around the stage, at David Douglas High School’s Howard Horner Performing Arts Center.

Story and astonishing photo by David F. Ashton
November 30 is opening night for the David Douglas High School Performing Arts Department production of “PETER PAN”.

Sell-out crowds who have seen this school’s past productions expect to see professional sets and lighting. They already know they’ll enjoy this classic story, brought to life by the student actors, singers and orchestra members.

But a flying, singing and acting Peter Pan? Yes indeed.

Meet Peter Pan
Katy Beckemeyer, a senior at David Douglas High, plays the role of Peter Pan. We asked Beckemeyer what it’s like to fly.

“There is a line in the show that where Peter Pan says, ‘I’ll show you how to jump on the wind’s back and away we’ll go ‚Ä¶’ Flying is exactly like that. It’s like being caught by the wind and suddenly, you’re flying. It is so amazing. It’s fun.”

When we asked if learning to master flying was a frightening experience, the young actress confided, “I made myself scared with thoughts like, ‘Hey, I’m going way up in the air; if I fall I’ll die.’ But once you fly, it is like riding a magic carpet. It’s the like a wonderful roller coaster ride.”

Learning to sing and act while flying took some doing, though, she said. “I’ve really focused on breath control when I sing.”

The greatest thing about the role, she added, is how it can open people’s minds and encourage them to use their imagination.

Tickets are selling fast; don’t be left out
Opening night for “PETER PAN” at the Howard Horner Performing Arts Center is November 30 at 7:30 p.m.

Additional performances are at the following dates and times:

Friday, December 1 at 7:30 p.m.
Saturday, December 2 at 7:30 p.m.
Sunday Matinee, December 3 at 2:30 p.m.

Thursday, December 7 at 7:30 p.m.
Friday, December 8 at 7:30 p.m.
Saturday, December 9 at 7:30 p.m.
Sunday Matinee, December 10 at 2:30 p.m.

Tickets are $7 for seniors and students, and $10 for adults.

Howard Horner Performing Arts Center box office at David Douglas High School, is located 1400 SE 130th Avenue. Call (503) 261-8270, Mondays through Fridays, 3 to 5 p.m. It’s also open an hour before show times ‚Äì but don’t risk being disappointed if that performance is a sellout! Order your tickets in advance.

David Douglas grade school wins national recognition

Why was Gilbert Heights Elementary School the only grade school in Oregon to win the title of National Title I Distinguished School? Read this article and see ‚Ä¶

Gilbert Heights Elementary School Principal Kevin Fordney says the award belongs to the entire staff of the school, because of the way they work together improving each child’s educational experience.

Story and photo by David F. Ashton
Being an educator in outer Southeast Portland is a challenging. An increasing number of their students come from less affluent ‚Äì in fact, poverty-level ‚Äì families. And, more of their kids are learning English as their second language.

Yet, this David Douglas School District school, Gilbert Heights Elementary, was the only school in the state this year to be awarded the title of National Title I Distinguished School.

“This is an affirmation for our staff, for the work they do every day,” Principal Kevin Fordney told us in an exclusive interview. “Indirectly, this award affirms that David Douglas schools are working hard to help a diverse group of students make good things happen.”

No overnight success
The award was six years in the making, Fordney said. It started with the expectation that children can learn; and the realization that the demographics of the area are changing.

“The school’s improvement process was started by Principal Sherrie Barger and her staff,” Fordney explained. “They took the time to stop, look at research, and determine where they were succeeding, and what they needed to strengthen.”

The school focused on making sure each child has good reading skills said the principal. “Reading is the foundation for success in every subject area of school. It also provides personal enjoyment for those who are good at it. We pour lots of effort into reading skills.”

The result: Over the last six years, staff developed, implemented, and worked together to support student achievement in key subject areas.

Beyond “teaching to the test”
Some educational advocates feel schools measured as being successful merely show kids how to “ace” achievement tests. We asked if “teaching to the test” might have been Gilbert Heights Elementary’s method for success.

Fordney pondered our query for a moment.

“That’s a good question. The answer is ‘No. We teach to the standards.’ And because we teach to the standards, students learn what they need to be learning to be well educated. Because they are well educated, they can pass the tests.”

Secret of their system
Asked if there is a secret to their success, Fordney explained, “Everyone here has agreed to ‘own’ the responsibility to help all of the kids learn, according to standard programs we’ve found to be successful. The individual classroom teacher is supported by other teachers who collaborate with them.”

On several occasions during our conversation in his office, Fordney emphasized, “This is a team honor. Every single person in the building has contributed to this award.”

Note to parents
We asked what parents can do to help their youngsters become better students.

“Reading to and with your child is important. So is being connected with your school, and your child’s progress,” Fordney responded. “We believe the success is a partnership between the student, school, and family. We appreciate parents’ help, and hope they continue to support our efforts.”

The school will receive a $5,000 award, which will be used to further assist in student achievement. The school will be honored at the National Title I Conference January 27-30 in Long Beach, California.

David Douglas High prepares to welcome ‘PETER PAN’

See why you should be making plans to see ‘PETER PAN’, opening on November 30 ‚Äì and why many performances of the show will be soon sold out ‚Ä¶

The pirate band teaches one of their own a little discipline, as this group of students block out a number from their upcoming production of “Peter Pan”.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
We are constantly amazed at high quality of productions mounted by the David Douglas High School Performing Arts Department.

This season’s blockbuster show ‚Äì a full Broadway-style production of “PETER PAN” ‚Äì looks to be a very entertaining show.

The story:
In old Edwardian London, Wendy Darling nightly fascinates her brothers by telling bedtime stories featuring swordplay, swashbuckling, and a fearsome Hook. But, these youngsters become heroes, themselves, in an even greater story.

One night, Peter Pan flies into their nursery, leading them over rooftops and through a star-filled sky to a place called Neverland. There, Wendy and her brothers are enlivened to find a land where adult rules are set aside. But, they also face confrontation with Captain Hook and his bloodthirsty pirates.

But, what happens if Peter Pan “grows up” like normal kids?

DDHS Theater Technical Stage Manager Mark Taylor Jessica Baltzor and Adara Elliott building Wendy’s house for the play “Peter Pan”, opening November 30.

A show to amaze and delight both children and adults
The sets, designed by DDHS Theater Technical Stage Manager Mark Taylor and built by the student crew, rival those found at major theatrical productions. In fact, we’re told professional theater companies have already bid to rent the sets from this show after it closes.

Add to this, the professional-quality lighting and sound, operated by the twenty-member technical crew, and you have the underpinnings of a great production.

Under the direction of Judy LeCoq, a cast of sixty ‚Äì yes, 60 ‚Äì actors, singers, and dancers will fill the stage, to the accompaniment of a chorus and thirty-member orchestra.

And yes, Peter Pan really flies
This classic story would certainly lose panache if Peter Pan were grounded. Have no fear ‚Äì Peter Pan indeed will fly high above the stage. We have photographic evidence.

Check back in a week and you’ll see Peter Pan fly for yourself!

Don’t be disappointed, order tickets now
Opening night for “PETER PAN” at the Howard Horner Performing Arts Center is November 30 at 7:30 p.m.

Additional performances are at the following dates and times:
Friday, December 1 at 7:30 p.m.
Saturday, December 2 at 7:30 p.m.
Sunday Matinee, December 3 at 2:30 p.m.

Thursday, December 7 at 7:30 p.m.
Friday, December 8 at 7:30 p.m.
Saturday, December 9 at 7:30 p.m.
Sunday Matinee, December 10 at 2:30 p.m.

Tickets are $7 for seniors and students, and $10 for adults.

Call the David Douglas Box Office at (503) 261-8270, Mondays through Fridays, 3 to 5 p.m. It’s also open an hour before show times ‚Äì but don’t risk being disappointed if that performance is a sellout! Order your tickets in advance.

Say hello to Parkrose High’s ‘Bye, Bye Birdie’

See the Parkrose High School thespians, as they work out one of the 35 music-and-dance numbers for this fun show, opening November 9 ‚Ä¶

It’s easy making the gals swoon for Conrad Birdie (played by Kiet Tran). But, things are more difficult when Birdie gets in trouble with the law!

Story and photo by David F. Ashton
The young actors, singers and musicians at Parkrose High School are getting ready for a fun, musical, set to open next week.

Here’s the story:
The year is 1958. A hip-gyrating rock and roll superstar (think Elvis Presley), named Conrad Birdie, is about to be drafted into the army. Birdie’s agent wants to cash in on new song, “One Last Kiss” on live television, and give one lucky girl from his fan club a real “one last kiss”.

“But, Birdie is a little less than a spectacular person,” theater director, Ms. Zena told us. “The comedy comes from the disruption his visit causes both in the girl’s family ‚Äì and entire town ‚Äì of his actions, and the town’s new found fame.”

At the October Parkrose Business Association meeting, PHS juniors Julie Johnson and Steven Ennis (accompanied by the school’s choral director, Lesley Bossert) preview a musical number from “BYE BYE BIRDIE”.

Opens November 9
The Parkrose High School Thespians present “BYE BYE BIRDIE” on November 9, 10 and 11; and then on Nov. 16, 17 and 18. These evening shows have a 7:00 p.m. curtain time.

Or, see a special 2:00 p.m. matinee performance starting on Sunday, November 11.

We’ll see you at the Parkrose High School Theater, 12003 NE Shaver St (at the corner of SE 122nd Ave.) to see the fun unfold at “BYE BYE BIRDIE”.

Tickets are only $8 for adults and $5 for students. Call (503) 408-2718 for tickets or more information.

Unique East Portland school offers skills, and hope, to disenfranchised youth

Get paid for going to school? Yes! Take a peek inside Portland YouthBuilders ‚Äì a school that turns dropouts into productive citizens ‚Ä¶

Portland YouthBuilders students Soreyia San and Kasey Jones encourage Cassy Keck and Shaun Shaffer to consider the computer program at this unique high school.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
“This school is amazing,” student Kasey Jones tells us shortly after we enter Portland YouthBuilders in Lents.

“This school is taught in a totally different way,” Jones continues. “For most kids who drop out, high school simply didn’t work for them. When students come here, and everything is set up so they will succeed if they try. Everybody is friendly and helps you so much, you want to come and learn to do new things. It is amazing.”

Jones, and his fellow student Soreyia San, are in Portland YouthBuilder’s Computer Technology program. “It’s great,” San tells us, “I like working with computers, and hope to have a computer career. With what I’ve learned, I think I can get good job that I like.”

School success for non-traditional students
“The most important thing for us is not ‘giving up hope’ on young people who have not succeeded at traditional high schools,” explains Sara Kirschenbaum, Admissions Coordinator for Portland Youthbuilders.

“We have a huge dropout rate across the city. Some of these young people do want to do positive things with their lives. With training, they are capable of getting good jobs, and helping the community. Many of our students, we believe, will become leaders in the community.”

One thing that sets this school apart from others, Kirschenbaum says, is that students earn $400 a month from the school. “In addition to structured classes and hands-on learning, they spend half their time involved in community projects, building low-income housing or computers and web sites.”

All students become AmeriCorps members, giving them an $1,800 scholarship if they successfully complete the program.

Construction and Computer Technology tracks

While checking out the school, potential students Tiffanie Lewis and Jasmine Miller take turns hammering nails into wood, giving them a hands-on way to consider if Portland Youthbuilders is right for them.

“We offer very small classes, caring teachers, and help getting a good job or starting college or an apprenticeship program,” Kirschenbaum continues. “Students can choose between learning building trades, or computer technology.”

The school is geared to older students — those between 17 and 24 years of age, the admissions officer tells us. “We attract a more mature group of students than you might find at a traditional high school. We treat all of our students as young adults.”

Students held to high standards
This school isn’t a “free ride”; much is required of students, Kirschenbaum assures us. “Our students are required to be drug-free, and are held to high performance and attendance standards. But, look at this great opportunity for a very low income young person, who doesn’t have a GED or diploma, is fluent in English, and is committed to taking positive steps in life!”

Interested? The school holds enrollment sessions every Thursday at 1:00 p.m. Call (503) 286-9350 extension 254, check them out at www.pybpdx.org, or come by their campus at 4816 SE 92nd Ave. (across from Lents Park).

“Check out the program,” encourages Jones. “Look, you’re getting paid to get a diploma. What other place can you get educated, learn good skills ‚Äì and get paid at the same time? Come take a look and see for yourself.”