See why this dance school is attracting both students and audiences to their programs …
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.
© 2006 David F. Ashton ~ East PDX News
See how many different agencies provided information about their services, at this unique event held by the David Douglas School District …
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.
© 2006 David F. Ashton ~ East PDX News
Look at this, and you’ll discover why a professional club disc jockey spent an afternoon sharing her love of spinning disks with kids ‚Ķ
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 – 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 – 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.
© 2006 David F. Ashton ~ East PDX News
If you have empty deposit-return bottles and cans, don’t throw them away! Help the Boosters help Parkrose students on December 2 ‚Ķ
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 … 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.
© 2006 David F. Ashton ~ East PDX News
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 ‚Ķ
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 – yes, 60 – 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.
© 2006 David F. Ashton ~ East PDX News
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) 408–2718. 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.).
© 2006 David F. Ashton ~ East PDX News
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 ‚Ķ’ 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.
© 2006 David F. Ashton ~ East PDX News
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 …
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 – in fact, poverty-level – 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.
© 2006 David F. Ashton ~ East PDX News
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 ‚Ķ
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 – yes, 60 – 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 – 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.
© 2006 David F. Ashton ~ East PDX News
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 …
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.
© 2006 David F. Ashton ~ East PDX News
Get paid for going to school? Yes! Take a peek inside Portland YouthBuilders – a school that turns dropouts into productive citizens …
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.”
© 2006 David F. Ashton ~ East PDX News
Discover why a retired company president is leading a campaign to fully-fund Head Start programs. And, see a cute photo of Governor Ted Kulongoski reading to kids at the rally at Russellville …
Governor Ted Kulongoski read the storybook, “David Goes to School”, to the children in such a colorful and engaging way that, the kids at the Head Start program at Russellville didn’t pay attention to the reporters and TV gear at the “Ready for School” campaign stop.
Story and photos by David F. Ashton
“If we want to cut crime, reduce social services expense, and boost the state’s economy, fully-fund Head Start programs statewide.” This is the message delivered at a “Ready for School” campaign rally in Russellville on September 12 by business leaders, politicians, and the East Precinct police commander.
While Governor Ted Kulongoski appeared at the rally as a media drawing-card, Richard Alexander, the retired founder of Oregon-based Viking Industries, talked up the initiative effort.
“The statewide ‘Ready for School’ campaign is committed to making early childhood education available to all eligible children living in homes below the poverty level,” Alexander told us in a private interview. “Our organization is made up of concerned folks, none of whom stands to benefit — either financially or politically — from this effort.”
Those listed as initiative supporters range from liberal to conservative; and come from all sectors of the economy. “We’re a diverse group, but we all agree that early childhood education will improve the lives of many children. But more importantly, it will improve their lives as adults.”
Retired founder of Viking Industries, Richard Alexander, makes his case in favor of early childhood education before a well-attended press conference at the Russellville Head Start program.
Economic argument for Head Start programs
Early childhood education is a critical economic issue for Oregon, Alexander, Chair of the “Ready for School” campaign, explained. “Without a good education, children tend to do poorly in school. Many drop out of education along the way. Those who ‘fall’ along the way eventually get ‘caught’ in our social safety net. They are more likely to become incarcerated throughout their lives.”
During his remarks at a press conference held at the Russellville Head Start Center, Alexander said the research he’s seen is convincing:
“If a child isn’t reading at the third-grade level at the end of the third grade, the odds are high they will not be reading at ninth-grade level in ninth-grade. They are likely to drop out of school.
“Too often these kids go into the fourth grade and beyond, and decide that won’t be measured by academic standards. Mentally, they drop out of school. They get big enough to walk out in ninth grade.
“After that, if they drop out, the likelihood they’ll get in trouble with the law, or be incarcerated, goes up very sharply. As they grow into adults, they are likely to depend on long-term social services, including lifestyle-induced medical problems.”
Head Start breaks poverty cycle
Sadly, Alexander added, it is likely that the children of poorly educated individuals will repeat this cycle. “We’re trying to break that cycle. Things clearly don’t need to be this way.”
To back up his sentiment, Alexander produced the results of research studies demonstrating that a child who has been in Head Start is twice as likely to graduate college as one who didn’t. “That’s compelling. In addition to their having a more fulfilling life, consider the enormous economic savings to society.”
On the bandwagon
Oregon’s education superintendent, Susan Castillo, speaks up for early education programs.
State Superintendent of Schools Susan Castillo, spoke briefly, noting yet another benefit to the program: “Every dollar we invest in Head Start means fewer teen pregnancies.”
Governor Ted Kulongoski said he visited the outer East Portland Head Start facility in Russellville to draw attention to the need for early childhood education.
Governor Ted Kulongoski remarked, “We have a changing society. In this competitive global economy, change is the rule of the day. How do we give every child in Oregon an opportunity to compete in this economy?‚ĶInvest in education and skills training. Oregon’s niche should be to have the best trained, skilled, and educated workforce of any state in the country.”
Merkley cites a 17 to 1 return on investment
While not an official speaker at the event, Oregon Representative Jeff Merkley told us he attended to show his support.
“I’ve been championing full funding for the Head Start program. I’m glad the governor came to my district to support this campaign for early childhood education. It is really clear that when you invest in children, the returns for society are enormous. The young people have happier and more productive lives, pay more taxes and consume less social services.”
Merkley added, “Reports I’ve seen shows a 17-to-1 return on dollars invested in early childhood learning programs. This is well worth considering.”
The antidote to crime: Hope
We asked Portland Police Bureau’s East Precinct Commander Michael Crebs why he was at this event.
“I support this new campaign for Head Start,” Crebs related to us, “because education and mentoring for young people are keys to reducing crime and the fear of crime.
“It’s all about hope. People who are educated tend to have more hope in their lives. People who have more opportunities are less likely to become involved in criminal activity. They’re more likely to be productive, tax-paying citizens.
“From my experience as a police officer, it’s clear to me that people who have the hope and opportunities that education brings, typically don’t get in trouble. The ones we see [in the criminal justice system] are the ones who have no hope.”
Behind the scenes: Ever wonder what is going in the room during a “photo opportunity” set up for person running for political office? The scene isn’t quite as warm and cozy as it looked on TV news.
For more information, see www.ready-for-school.org.
© 2006 David F. Ashton ~ East PDX News
