The Gresham-Barlow School District
Employee Newsletter
December 2024
Picture of James Hiu holding up
SUPERINTENDENT’S MESSAGE
GBSD is committed to creating an environment where students feel safe, valued, and inspired to learn
Moving forward-continue living the spirit of Aloha and support one another
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graphic with sun rays in the background with black text saying
Karissa slack and Jame Hiu holding
At Gresham High School, Student Success Coordinator Karissa goes above and beyond to make sure our freshman are getting what they need academically and is the glue that holds our 9th Grade Success teams together.
John Gordon and James Hiu holding
Student Support Services Program Director John Gordon is dedicated to bridging gaps in care, authentically collaborating with district staff of all levels, and bringing the voices of our most marginalized parents and students to the table to share their voice and experiences.
Group of 40+ Gresham-Barlow School Counselors holding certificates in the council chamber
School Counselors & Social Workers are working to support staff and students' wellbeing! They show up ready to support families and staff in crisis, build school community, and advocate for equity & social justice shifts in schools.
GHS student looking into front engine of a white vehicle in auto shop
GRESHAM FORD DONATES EXPLORER TO AUTO PROGRAM 

2023 Ford Explorer Hybrid will help advance learning at Gresham High School

Donation means students will experience the evolving world of hybrid technology

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Sam Barlow High School drama students shine in the teen adaptation of "Hadestown" musical
SBHS drama students took on the critically acclaimed "Hadestown" musical teen edition. Check out how they told the Greek tale of Orpheus and Eurydice with impressive set designs and advanced choreography in the promotional video below! 
laptop stock image on table with the text
TECHNOLOGY TIP
Watch for cybersecurity traps
Criminals try to steal login credentials to gain access to sensitive information
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two femal students and 2 adults looking at science materials on a green table
COMMITTEE OF TEACHERS EXPLORES ELEMENTARY SCIENCE CURRICULUM 

Staff, students, and families are working together during curriculum adoption process

Committee expected to make recommendation in the spring

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school gym with buildings made out of cardboard to create a small town for students
DEEP CREEK-DAMASCUS STUDENTS EXPLORE SCOOTER TOWN
Event provides students with a unique opportunity to be creative
Scooter Town engages students' imaginations and teaches them to navigate a community
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2 math teachers posing behind oversized white letters
CHANGES IN HIGH SCHOOL MATH COURSES

Roll out aligns with Oregon Math Standards

Transition includes new course—”Math for Trades”

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4 young children sitting at wood picnic table
CTE PROGRAM CREATING CONNECTIONS
GHS Construction program students build beautiful wooden tables
Tables enhance educational programs within the District
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District Office unveils rotating display of student art
Visitors to GBSD’s district office will get to enjoy the amazing art projects being done by GBSD students. Each month, a different school will be featured.

Currently, there are beautiful prints on display from Highland Elementary. Previously, fun paper mache masks shaped like animals from North Gresham Elementary welcomed visitors. 

This initiative offers a glimpse into the diverse artistic expressions of our young minds. Each piece tells a unique story, offering a deeper understanding of a student’s experience. 

We invite you to check out the projects on display the next time you visit the district office!
checkered student artwork on blue bulletin board student artwork on blue bulletin board checkered student artwork on blue bulletin board
Gresham High School drama students wow the community with the classic musical "Beauty and the Beast"
This fall, Gresham High School drama students treated the community to a beautiful, ensemble-heavy live adaptation of the beloved musical "Beauty and the Beast." Take a peek at the intricate costumes that brought the story to life and listen to some of the classic songs beloved by many.
Check out our social media channels to see more exciting news and recognitions!
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  • License renewals
    Please make sure you are paying attention to your licenses and when they need to be renewed. TSPC no longer sends reminders.  HR will be doing its best to track these, but it's imperative to stay in your roles to have an active license.  Usually the expiration date is your birthday.  Login to your TSPC accounts to check and keep track. It will cost you more money and penalties, if your licenses lapse and there isn't a grace period when you are in the classroom.  If you aren't sure of your expiration date, Kendra or Felisha in HR can look it up for you. We will be sending out reminders to employees when possible, but that can't be a guarantee.

  • Licensure Assistance
    If you are needing help with your teaching or admin licenses, please contact Kendra Bowens or Felisha Brewer in HR to get assistance of any kind.  If you have applied for any new licensure, please let HR know so that we can document it.

  • Edustaff
    If you have people interested in subbing for the district, please have them apply online- Edustaff Webpage

  • Leave requests
    Please utilize your paid leave before you put in Unpaid Leave into Red Rover. Unpaid Leave is not guaranteed and must be approved by HR. Please make sure that you are submitting your leave requests in Red Rover. 

  • Canopy (EAP- Employee Assistance Program)
    Please utilize our EAP program to assist in your wellness needs, if you are needing some support with mental health or work-life support.  This could be helpful when you can't get into something more local. Go to the website: my.canopywell.com, our access code is OEBB.
Cyrus Cravens standing in between James Hiu and Kris Howatt
Congrats to GHS teacher Cyrus Harshfield, awarded the 2024 Outstanding Classroom Teacher Award by the Oregon Science Teachers Association for the East Metro Region!
Teacher kneeling in front of whiteboard with 2 students
Gresham High School students learn about key physical science concepts with an interactive “bungee jumping” activity. 
GHS Leadershp students standing together in cafeteria, one in the middle is holding an empty box
 Alison Brink’s Leadership class teamed up with SUN and organized canned goods and essential items into boxes for 30 GHS families. 
Dates to remember
  • December 18: School Board Work Session
  • December 23 - January 3: No School - Winter Break
  • January 6: Classes Resume
  • January 8: School Board Business Meeting
  • January 20: No School - Martin Luther King Day
  • January 22: School Board Work Session
  • January 27-30: High School Exams
  • January 31: No School High School - Grading Day
  • January 31: No School K-5 - Curriculum and Instruction Day
  • January 31: No School Middle School - Standards and Assesment Day
  • February 5: School Board Business Meeting
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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Gresham-Barlow School District
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1331 NW Eastman Parkway
Gresham, OR | 97030 United States
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