Background: Robyn is retiring from a 29-year career in education, including 26 years at NWRESD. At NWRESD, she began as a school-age speech language pathologist in the Forest Grove School District, and then later Gaston School District. Before joining Human Resources, she also served as a special education TOSA and special education administrator. 

Proudest Accomplishment(s): “Relationships built with children and families. I still meet for coffee with a parent whose two kids I worked with many years ago. I have loved the field of speech pathology, and opportunities to move into other roles at the ESD as well.” 

Kudos: “Robyn has been an enthusiastic, creative and supportive colleague and HR director. She never considered an event without envisioning a theme. I wish I had pictures of the various themes across the years. I always saw these themes as ways to strengthen engagement for everyone and to bring the fun, which Robyn always did. One particular event that will always stand out in my memory was at a COSA conference in Eugene. Robyn and I happened to hear from one of the Hilton's staff member's that Jerry Seinfield was due to arrive late one evening. We decided to stay up and welcome Jerry. Upon his arrival at about 1:00 a.m., Robyn and I were the only people in the lobby and Robyn jumped up and said, "Welcome to Eugene!" I happened to have a disposable camera (yes, it was that long ago) and we have picture evidence of that encounter. I have loved having Robyn as a colleague and a friend for many years and hope to have our friendship continue post-retirement.” -Lori Kellogg

Background: Lisa joined NWRESD as a math and science teacher at the North Coast jail until it closed. She joined Cascade Academy where she has taught math, science, government, health and art. She helped introduce STEAM classes to the program. In addition to her time at NWRESD, Lisa has taught in Oakridge, Jewell, Seaside, and Tongue Point Job Corps Center. She has a total of 23 years teaching experience.

Favorite Part of Teaching at NWRESD: “The camaraderie of the Cascade staff has definitely been the greatest reward and inspiration while working for NWRESD. Kendra Staley is the best principal I've ever worked for in my 23 years. Her dedication to the students, her understanding of the pressures and demands placed on staff and students shows every day as she consistently and creatively supports, encourages and empowers us all to improve and grow. It is a difficult population of students with whom to work, and without terrific morale, the program would be far less effective and staff turn over far greater.”

Kudos: “I have worked with Lisa only a couple of years but she is a paragon of what teachers should be. She is honest, hardworking, caring and compassionate. In my time with her, Lisa has laughed at my stupid jokes, asked after my well being and made a point of being a friend as well as a co-worker. She is one of the most dedicated and diligent teachers I have ever met. She has shown me how to laugh when things don't turn out the way I plan. I will miss our talks and time together.” - Bill Alton

Background: Laura has been supporting NWRESD students for 20 years!

Favorite Part of Working at NWRESD: Laura's favorite aspect of her job is teaching braille. Recently, she learned that one of her braille students was accepted to the University of Oregon with a full-ride scholarship!  Laura is proudly entering retirement knowing her student is prepared and supported for his future success as a learner.

Kudos: “It has been such a pleasure to work with Laura as a team member!  I highly regarded her expertise when she was my supervising teacher as I was going through the PSU program.   I always found her advice and perspective to be so valuable to me learning my role as a beginning teacher.  She is not one to draw attention to herself or her accomplishments, and I consider her dedication and expertise to be a standard to strive for.   I wish  her the very best in her retirement!” -Sue Schimmelpfennig

Background: Deb began her 42-year teaching career as a general education teacher in rural Utah. Six years in, her school district asked if she would be interested in teaching special education, and she has never looked back. Within our region, she has taught for Tillamook ESD, East Elementary School, Garibaldi Grade School, New Horizons Middle School,Tillamook Options Program, West Slope Academy, Cascade Academy, PACE Program, Pacific Academy and Cascade Academy. She is concluding her education career as an evaluation specialist for Tillamook School District.

Most memorable experience: “Each program that I have been involved in has special memories- I treasure all the friendships from each program. The memory that always comes to mind was when I started working at West Slope in the basement. A female student during the second week got into my face and called me a few very clear and vulgar words. However, six weeks later, she was crying for me to adopt her! This was in 2000 and she still keeps in touch with me.“

Kudos: “Deb has been a nurturing yet strong role model for students and staff alike for a very long time. She has always offered a listening ear to students while also being firm (i.e., "tough love"), somehow striking the perfect balance. She also gave me tremendous support during my first year as a special educator at Pacific Academy. Without much experience, I had to sink or swim in my IEP meetings, and Deb--so organized!--gave me an IEP 101 crash course and held my hand through the writing process and meetings. I couldn't have gotten through that year in one piece without her. Thank you so much for everything, Deb!” -Ron Dolen

Background: In her 27 years in education, Cindy has worked as a School Psychologist at Gresham-Barlow School District, Administrator at Dutch/International Schools in The Hague, Principal at Cascade/Pacific, EI/ECSE Coordinator and Service Center Administrator. She also worked as an ASL interpreter in Hawaii and a Pan American International Flight Attendant. 

Favorite Memory: ”In each position I've held with this agency, the best part was always working collaboratively with the staff and community partners in support of students. The most memorable experience was seeing the enormous smiles on the faces of Cascade/Pacific students when they received brand new (and long overdue) basketball uniforms!”

Kudos: “Dear Cindy: I will truly miss having you as my supervisor.  Not many people have the privilege to work under someone as caring and supportive as you. I am grateful for that and if I had to pick a supervisor again, I definitely would pick you!  Enjoy your retirement by spending quality time playing and cuddling with your little grandson!  Best wishes to you!” -Lisa Buchco

Background: Marisol joined NWRESD as the ELL and Migrant Education Coordinator, launching both programs for the ESD. She also established the Office of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion. Marisol has worked in education for more than 30 years, starting as a bilingual staff assistant. Her roles include Spanish and ELL teacher at Jason Lee Middle School in Vancouver, WA, Vice Principal, TOSA and ELL teacher at Fort Vancouver High School, and Assistant Principal at Linus Pauling Middle School in Corvallis. In addition to her educational experience and training, Marisol holds a law degree from San Francisco.

Proudest Accomplishment(s): “I am proud of the equity legacy I was instrumental in creating here at the ESD.  It is a start and I look to all of you to continue the work to advance educational equity in all we do. Thank you!” 

Kudos: “Dear Marisol,  you are one of the most fervent women I know who advocate for equity at all levels. You’ve inspired me to always stay passionate. A boss like you is irreplaceable. Thank you for all your hard work and dedication. Congratulations on your retirement!” -Ana De Lara

Background: Bonnie has dedicated 20 years to the students in our social emotional learning programs as an instructional assistant. 

Kudos: “Bonnie! I will miss you. Thank you for the time and energy and genuine caring you have given to both students and staff at Pacific Academy for so many years. Best of luck to you!” -Jillyn Garcia

Background: Lori has served as an EI/ECSE coordinator for 20 years. Previously, she was a speech-language pathologist for NWRESD and Grapevine-Colleyville School District in Texas. She also has experience as an administrative assistant, pension administrator, and stay-at-home parent. 

Memorable Experience: “So many children over the years were impactful. One that stands out from my first years was a child with ASD. He was non-verbal, self-injurious and a big 4 year old. This was before we had strong, evidence-based curricula to support kids with ASD. I learned to work with him through his areas of interest (letters and numbers) and how important movement was for organizing his system so he could learn. He was most verbal when we were doing strenuous play. I used the skills learned in working with this child with many of the children I have worked with since. Every child with learning challenges has been an interesting puzzle to me over the years and  that has been my joy.”

Kudos: “Lori and I have been at NWRESD very nearly the same period of time. She is thoughtful, considers issues from every angle, and is often my calm voice when I feel like we are in the midst of a storm. We have been "roommates" back in the days that leadership went off site for annual leadership retreat, and have enjoyed more than a few great laughs and interesting secrets. I have appreciated her voice at leadership and advocacy for students, families, and the staff she supports. She's a rock at NWRESD, and will be very missed.” -Robyn Bean

Background: Marisol has worked in education for 36 years, starting at the Migratory Children’s Program in New Haven, Connecticut. In her time at NWRESD, she has spent 22 years teaching GED preparation and all subjects required for graduation (credit recovery) at Forest Grove High School. She spent her final two years with NWRESD at Pacific Academy and Levi Anderson Learning Center teaching Language Arts, Spanish and Social Studies. She also teaches GED preparation for the Adult Basic Skills division at Portland Community College.

Proudest Accomplishment(s): “Working with at-risk students has been very satisfying. Completing a basic education may be an important element for students to achieve stable adult lives. I'm glad to know that I was able to help so many students cross the finish line.”

Kudos: “It's been a joy working with you this year, Marisol. Thank you for your support and for sharing inspiring curriculum and literary allusions. I will so miss our morning conversations. I wish you well in the journey ahead.” -Drake Ewing

Background: Kerri has spent 39 years in education, including 24 years at North Powder School District where she held a variety of roles, including Title I, high school English teacher, speech, educational media, leadership teacher, district librarian, athletic director and principal. She spent her final nine years with North Powder School District as the superintendent/principal. At NWRESD, Kerri has served as Director of Schools, supervising behavior schools, safety, fire science, GED, Outdoor School and the courier. She has also served as EI/ECSE coordinator, service center administrator in Clatsop and Columbia County, in addition to her current position as director of facilities and ORVED executive director.

Favorite Memory: "Having had the unique opportunity to serve in 3 of the 4 counties and a variety of programs the very best part has been the people I've come to know and work with.  My heart is full of great memories with so many that I can call friends.  The two years of living in the FEMA trailer at the RV Park in Warrenton is one that is clearly unique in education and something I never thought I'd do.  I also was grateful to jump on the online learning bandwagon and take that for a ride for about 9 years."

Kudos: “Kerri Smith! What a wonderful person to be around. For the past four and half years, I have traveled to NWRESD monthly to meet with Kerri and the executive oversight team. During these meetings Kerri is always professional, funny, uplifting and displays exceptional leadership skills. Kerri has always been a pleasure to work with and an essential partner for risk management and insurance. I will miss working with Kerri and I wish her well in her next chapter! She is awesome!” -Nathan Cortez

Background: Cindy worked at Levi Anderson for the first seven years of her career at NWRESD. She spent the remainder of her career with the Day Treatment Program.

Kudos: “Cindy, thank you for all that you have done and your service to this very special group of kids. I have always appreciated you offering to help me, whether it was data tracking, Excel templates or typing up IEPs. Your kindness and the smile on your face will be missed. Enjoy a much deserved retirement!” -Todd Johnson

Background: In the early 1990s, Rick worked for a year at ESD 112 in Vancouver. He then took a position supporting technology at Battle Ground School District in Washington for five years. He began work at NWRESD in 1999 as Executive Director of Technology. In his role as a technology leader, Rick launched the Cascade Alliance for Technology which has since grown to serve 53 school districts in 10 counties.

What’s Next: ”Last summer I had a wonderful time bicycling with two of my brothers in Poland for three weeks. I look forward to traveling to many countries over the next several years.”

Kudos: “I've appreciated Rick's balanced approach to leadership at NWRESD and CTA. He is an innovative and visionary leader, but also manages to listen to his team and embrace other people's ideas for the good of the organization. I've had the chance to work closely with Rick over the last two years and have gained an appreciation for his wit, sense of humor, and tendency to spill tea on his computer.” -Aaron Sackett

Background: Jamie has worked in the education field for 23 years, including 15 years as an itinerant teacher for deaf and hard of hearing at NWRESD. Her caseload included children birth to 21 years old.

Favorite moment at NWRESD: “I have several memorable experiences but one that is especially memorable is a student I had the privilege to work with during his 3rd through 5th grade year.  He moved into Oregon from Mexico with minimal hearing, no hearing aids, and minimal formal language. His family's first language was Spanish.  He communicated mostly with gestures, body language, and some Spanish. He was always positive and  eager to learn so teaching him signs,  and communicating through drawing and acting was a delight. Together with his team of teachers. audiologist, and his determination he developed many friendships and rapidly gained communication and literacy skills.”

Kudos: “Jamie is just one of my favorite people.  She works with integrity, is the best diplomat I have ever worked with (which is a talent and skill that not all teachers possess but is incredibly helpful for those in an ESD environment, is funny, cares a great deal about and for her students, and is well- respected by all with whom she works.  I would keep Jamie for another 10 years if she was willing to stay, but I'm also happy that her family will get to see more of her, in retirement.  Jamie has worked for us since August of 2004, and we (and her students and case managers and parents) have been incredibly lucky to have had her.  She will be missed a great deal by her itinerant teacher team!” -Laurie Harrison