The Gresham-Barlow School District
Employee Newsletter
February 2022
SUPERINTENDENT'S MESSAGE
GBSD is all about perseverance- tackling each challenge that comes our way
End goal is ensuring all students are inspired, empowered, and thrive
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WEST ORIENT MIDDLE SCHOOL TEACHER RECEIVES STATEWIDE RECOGNITION
The Oregon Music Education Association presented West Orient Middle School band teacher Ann McBride with the Outstanding Middle School Music Educator Award. 
The award recognizes an educator's commitment to middle-school/junior high music education and their achievement in teaching children through music.
McBride was nominated by her peers throughout the district for this recognition.  
“In the classroom Mrs. McBride is a master teacher with deep knowledge of her music program, curriculum, and instruction,” said West Orient Middle School Principal Elise Catanese. “Her classroom is a place where students are excited to learn and that is evidenced by a positive environment of mutual respect and high motivation.”
UPDATE: GBSD’S EQUITY DRIVEN MULTI-TIERED SYSTEM OF SUPPORTS (MTSS)
Equity Driven MTSS is a top priority for GBSD
MTSS is critical if GBSD is to ensure our education system delivers equitable outcomes for all students, especially those who are most marginalized
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INSTRUCTIONAL COACHES LEAD BOOK STUDY ON EQUITABLE GRADING PRACTICES
Participants will read “Grading for Equity” by Joe Feldman
Book study is a part of a year-long exploration of equitable grading practices
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GRESHAM-BARLOW SCHOOL DISTRICT CELEBRATES NATIONAL SCHOOL COUNSELING WEEK
The Gresham-Barlow School District celebrated National School Counseling Week 2022, the week of February 7-11. The week is designed to focus public attention on the unique contribution of school counselors within U.S. school systems and how students are different as a result of what school counselors do.
In a resolution approved at the February Board Business Meeting, the Gresham-Barlow School Board commended counselors for helping students reach their full potential by examining their abilities, strengths, interests, and talents and partnering with parents to focus on ways to further the educational, personal, and social growth of their children.
Watch the video above to learn why our school counselors love their work.
Thank you to our dedicated and talented school counselors!! 
GBSD ENGAGES THE COMMUNITY TO CONSIDER HOW TO REPURPOSE THE WEST GRESHAM BUILDING
A committee made up of community members will review community feedback, feasibility studies, and optional uses for the building
Committee set to begin its work in March 
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GRESHAM-BARLOW SCHOOLS TAKE ON GREAT KINDNESS CHALLENGE
Celebration is an international event focused on teaching and practicing kindness
Students raised funds for the Oregon Dog Rescue, promoted peace, and encouraged the community to participate 
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TOMORROW BUS DRIVES INNOVATING LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES
Bus recently showcased integrated literacy and science unit on salmon
Teachers can schedule the Tomorrow Bus for a visit to their school
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MULTI FACTOR AUTHENTICATION TO BE REQUIRED TO ADD AN EXTRA LAYER OF SECURITY 
This spring, Multi Factor Authentication (MFA) will be required by our cyber security insurance provider for staff to access many district systems including, but not limited to, Google, Synergy, and the VPN. MFA provides an extra layer of security beyond just a password to protect an account. With MFA, if a password is compromised, there is still an additional layer of protection required to gain access to an account. More information on the MFA rollout will be provided in the weeks to come.
Mrs. Bredemeier’s kindergarten class at East Gresham Elementary has been busy learning about the weather. During experiments they gained a better understanding of how clouds are formed using hot and cold air along with "particles in the air." (hairspray)
Thank you to the Powell Valley Elementary School's Student Leadership Team for leading the pledge of allegiance during the January 13 School Board meeting!
A big shout out to students in Sam Barlow High School’s Woodworking and Construction class who have worked hard to create this incredible tool shed that will be used at a women's shelter.
Dates to remember
  • February 25: School Board Strategic Planning Retreat, West Gresham Bldg-8 am to 5 pm
  • March 3: School Board Work Session, via Zoom-6 pm
  • March 3: School Board Business Meeting, via Zoom-7 pm
  • March 7-11: Classified Employee Week
  • March 10: School Board Work Session, via Zoom-6 pm
  • March 10: Elementary School Grading Day, No School
  • March 11: Elementary School Curriculum & Instruction Day, Middle School Grading Day, High School Standards and Assessment Day, No School
  • March 21-25: Spring Break, No School
Inspire and Empower Each Student
Questions or Comments? Contact Athena Vadnais
gbsdcommunications@gresham.k12.or.us | 503-261-4550
Gresham-Barlow School District recognizes the diversity and worth of all individuals and groups.  It is the policy of this district and the board of education that there will be no discrimination or harassment of individuals or groups in any educational programs, activities or employment. 
Gresham-Barlow provides equal access to individuals with disabilities.  

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1331 NW Eastman Parkway
Gresham, OR | 97030 United States
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