08/15/2025 Senate District 15 Newsletter
Oregon State Legislature sent this bulletin at 08/15/2025 08:44 AM PDTDE
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Intern CornerAs an upcoming senior at Beaverton High School, I’ve been following the news of Governor Tina Kotek’s recent executive order banning student cell phone use in Oregon public schools during school hours. Under the order, districts must adopt a policy prohibiting the use of cell phones by October 31, and this policy must be in full effect no later than January 1, 2026. Governor Kotek said “Oregon’s schools should be a place where students find belonging, support, and the joy of learning something new.” Her order aims to improve student education, mental health, and safety in public schools. As a student and responsible cell phone user, I both agree and disagree with her order. At my school, technically, students are not supposed to be on their phones during class. However, teachers often don’t enforce this policy, so phone use is ubiquitous-even I’m guilty of it. However, I have noticed that a key difference between academic success and underperformance often comes down to mindset. Some students prioritize education before phone use, while others let their cell phones take precedence over their school work. This imbalance is where the problem arises. I see fellow students who rely on and overuse their phones, not paying attention in class, inappropriately using AI for schoolwork, and cheating on tests. Students who struggle with phone overuse and will not stop unless forced to do so. For these students, I think the Governor’s order will be helpful in removing their ability to be on their phones during class. On the other hand, I believe students should learn to self-regulate and manage their cell phone usage. Phones are never going to be taken away in college or at work, and removing them in school prevents students from developing skills to balance education or employment responsibilities with phone use, especially when there isn’t the support of teachers to guide them. While I don’t believe the executive order is preparing students for the freedom they will encounter to use their cell phones in college and at work after high school, I’m curious to see whether the executive order increases students' educational outcomes and improves mental well-being. ~Amara Deckert NCELFrom July 31–August 2, I joined more than 170 lawmakers from 40 states and territories in Boston for the National Caucus of Environmental Legislators’ annual forum. Together, we explored state-led solutions to protect our climate, strengthen conservation, and improve environmental health. I left inspired by the innovative ideas shared—on everything from sustainable agriculture to extreme weather preparedness—and eager to bring these strategies home to Oregon.
Out and About in Senate District 15History in Forest GroveI enjoyed a beautiful walk through history in Forest Grove, touring historic homes dating back to 1893 with neighbors and friends. Many thanks to Just Create Community for bringing people together. We capped the morning by hearing the talented Ballad Town Harmony perform in the park—a perfect way to celebrate community, history, and the arts.
Fighting Food Waste, Feeding CommunitiesI joined OSPIRG and a team of dedicated volunteers to knock on doors and talk with neighbors about ending food waste in Oregon. Every year, our state throws away more than 800,000 tons of food, with less than a quarter composted, while many Oregonians go hungry. OSPIRG is working to pass a bill requiring large businesses like restaurants and grocery stores to donate or compost uneaten food—keeping valuable resources out of landfills and helping feed our communities.
Cornelius Fire DepartmentYour friendly neighborhood firefighters don’t just put out fires — they bring the fun, too! This week, the Cornelius Fire Department traded their hoses for bubbles at the Cornelius Library’s epic foam party. Even better, the foam was PFAS-free, keeping our community safe while having a blast.
2026 Oregon's Bounty Calendar!
This calendar showcases the heart of Oregon agriculture — from the people and products to the landscapes, traditions, and innovations that define family farming and ranching across our state.
OLCV's Environmental Photo Contest
Enter OLCV’s Environmental Photo Contest by Sept. 1 for a chance to be featured in the 2025 Environmental Scorecard. Send up to 3 photos of Oregon’s public lands, wildlife, or climate to respond@olcv.org with “Photo Contest” in the subject line.
 Photo from OLCV's 2023 Photo Contest, by Victoria Hawkins
Additional Resources
Senate District 15 – Event Calendars
Federal Delegation Links
Education Links
Food and Housing AssistanceImmigration Resources
Be good to yourself and each other. ❤ Onward & Upward, |
Capitol Phone: 503-986-1715
Capitol Address: 900 Court St. NE, S-207, Salem, Oregon 97301
Email: Sen.JaneenSollman@oregonlegislature.gov
Website: http://www.oregonlegislature.gov/sollman