Newberg Employers Mentor Students

Program Kicks Off at Chamber Event

The Newberg Partnership for Student Success, a mentoring program that connects employers with students to improve writing skills, was officially kicked-off on February 13, 2006 at the Chehalem Valley Chamber of Commerce.  Over 50 business and education leaders gathered to hear about the program which is co-chaired by Paula Radich, Superintendent of Newberg Public Schools and Kris Horn, Coldwell Banker Realty. 

Local employers, and community and education leaders, were brought together by E3 to create the community wide effort to improve writing skills for Newberg High school students.  A number of local educators and community leaders serve on the Leadership Team, including representatives from the following employers: A-dec, Coldwell Banker Realty, FarmGro Supply, George Fox University, Jem 100, and Tina's Restaurant. 

"Our community very clearly told us writing is important, not only for college, but also for work," said superintendent Radich.  Radich outlined how good writing skills are a threshold for promotion in the workplace, and a "ticket" to more professional opportunities and career advancement.

Michelle (pictured at right), a Newberg High School senior, spoke to the Chamber audience about the disconnect between what students learn in school and what really happens in the business world.  "I believe this disconnect is the reason why some students care little about working hard and succeeding in their classes."

Volunteers will work with students as writing mentors in school, speak with classes about how writing is used in the workplace and how it is relevant to the real world, and help celebrate and publish student writing in the community.

"Education does not stop at the classroom door," said Terry Molander, Partnership for Student Success project coordinator.  "Our doors are open."

Employers interested in participating in the Partnership for Student Success program at Newberg High School should contact Terry Molander at 503-554-4433.  To read more about the kick off in the Newberg Graphic, click here.