Benson Blogs

Parents you can also see and read about some of the good things happening here at Benson via my Benson Twitter Page.  You can follow me via the @BensonTechPride handle via Twitter.

 

 

A Message From Principal Wilson:

 

Parents/Guardians,

 

 

•         Early Dismissal Day

Wednesday October 7^th will be Benson’s first Early Dismissal Day for Staff Professional Development.  All the PPS High School’s participate in four (4) Early Dismissal days during this school year in which students will be released from school at 1:15pm.  The Benson Staff will be doing it’s Equity Professional Development from 1:15pm-3:15pm during this time.  The four (4) Early Dismissal Days for students for the 2015-16 school year will be on Wednesday Oct. 7^th, Wednesday January 13^th, Wednesday February 17^th and Wednesday March 16^th. 

 

•     Inservice Day

Please note that on Friday October 9^th will be the State Wide Inservice Day for teachers and staff in which there will be no school for staff or students.  Please be sure to plan accordingly.

 

• A Message from Barry Philips (Vice Principal)—Parents, We Need Walking Field Trip Volunteers!!

Hello Parents and Guardians of Benson Students,

The Freshman class is going on a Nature Walk Educational fieldtrip on Wednesday Oct. 14^th, 2015 during the PSAT sophomore Testing Day. The Freshman fieldtrip is from 8:00am – 12:00 noon.

 

Benson needs 10 parent volunteers who are able to help teachers supervise and walk (walking approximately 2.5 hours) with our freshman students.  If you are available to volunteer for a walking fieldtrip 10/14/15 from 8am-1:00pm email Mr. Phillips ASAP at [email protected]

 

**Because you will not be left alone with students you do not require a security clearance for this event.

I hope you can join us.

 

Barry Phillips, Vice Principal

Benson Polytechnic H.S.

Ph.  503-916-5100, extension 77104

Fax 503-916-2690

 

 

 

If you are the Parent/Guardian of a Freshman Benson Student:

Attention All Freshmen Parents: Please remember to ask your freshman student about their field trip permission forms that they received in their PE/Health Class.  Parents/Guardians need to read, sign and have their freshman students return their field trip permission forms to their respective PE/Health teacher before Monday Oct. 12th.  If their form is not returned then that specific freshman student will not be allowed to attend the Nature Walking Educational field trip with their peers Oct. 14th.

 

 

• Back to School Night

Thank you to all the Parents and Guardians that came to Benson’s Back to School Night last week.  It was awesome to see so many engaged parents and teachers communicating with each other regarding student success here at Benson Tech.

 

• Parents It’s Time to Start Thinking About Parent Teacher Conferences:

Parent Teacher Conferences will be taking place on Wednesday October 21^st and Thursday October 22^nd.  Please see schedule below.

8:15am-11:15am (Parent Conferences)

1:00pm-3:00pm (Parent Conferences)

5:00pm-8:00pm (Parent Conferences)

Please note that this will be the schedule for both Wednesday Oct. 21st and Thursday Oct. 22^nd.  Teachers will be located in the main gym for conferences.  Please plan accordingly and we look forward to seeing everyone over these two days.

 

 

A Message from the Benson Counseling Department

Sophomores and Juniors: The PSAT will be offered at Benson on Weds. Oct. 14th. The PSAT/NMSQT is a great way to preview and practice for the SAT (college entrance exam for four-year universities). The PSAT tests the same skills and knowledge as the SAT — in a way that makes sense for your grade level.  When you get your test results, you can connect your College Board and Khan Academy®accounts to get free personalized SAT study recommendations. For more information, go to www.collegeboard.org.

 

All sophomores will be required to take the test and there will be no charge. If you are a junior and you are planning on taking the SAT senior year, we are strongly encouraging you to take the PSAT test again.  Besides the benefits already mentioned, the format for the SAT has changed and the PSAT given this year will reflect this change.  The cost for juniors will be $15. Checks can be made out to Benson High School and turned in to the bookkeeper.

 

Benson Counseling Department 

• A Message from Portland Public Schools:  Smarter Balanced Results Are In

The Oregon Department of Education has released results from the Smarter Balanced Assessments that students in grades 3-8 and 11 took last spring, replacing the Oregon Assessment of Knowledge and Skills in math and English language arts.

 

Each student will receive his or her results in the mail in October.

 

Meanwhile to learn more about the results and what they mean, please visit the PPS Common Core/Smarter Balanced web page to find a Family Advisory “Smarter Balanced: Test results” in our supported languages: http://www.pps.k12.or.us/departments/curriculum/7650.htm

 

To read an overview of the results statewide and for PPS: http://www.pps.k12.or.us/news/10963.htm

 

Portland Public Schools

 

• PPS is shifting family, student      and staff communication to a new tool that gives schools the ability to      send texts about emergencies, closures, delays and other important news.  To receive text notifications, you must opt in to the      service.  You opt in by texting YES to 68453.  Parents and students should confirm their cell      numbers are listed in the student information system.  Staff should      confirm their cell numbers are the “primary” number in the PeopleSoft      system.  For more info about texting, go to www.pps.net and click on the “Mobile First” button.

 

• Benson Tech Wellness Center Survey – Please complete this very brief parent survey to tell us about your wants and needs for the new Wellness Center opening in 2016.

Click here to take survey;  Or copy this site to your browser:  http://www.sogosurvey.com/k/RRsRXQSQsRsPsPsP

Doreen Roozee

Planning Coordinator

Benson Tech SBHC

 

• Parents/Guardians please note      that if you would like to still see our 2015-16 Bell Schedule or to view      our 2015-16 School Calendar you can access both items on our webpage at www.bensonhs.net

 

• Benson’s Homecoming Game will be on Monday October 4^th starting at 3:30pm against Cleveland High School.  Please come out and support the Benson Football team as they battle against the Warriors.

 

• This year in conjunction with      PPS, all the PIL High Schools will now have the ability to have two (2)      flex days a week depending on our weekly schedule.

 

Tutorial for this Week: 

There are no Tutorials Scheduled for this week

 

A Message from Sally Niedermeyer (Benson’s Health Science Instructor)

Benson students have the opportunity to join Grant and Cleveland’s Ski Team this winter.  Informational meeting on 10/13/15 with head coach Randy Hewitt. For more information contact Mrs Niedermeyer, assistant race coach. 

Sally Niedermeyer, RN/BSN

Benson High School Health Science Instructor

546 NE 12 Ave.

Portland,  OR 97232

503-916-5100

 

 

A Message from Peg Schoettle (Benson Counselor)

Attention Seniors:  If you are planning to apply to one or more Private Colleges, you must attend a session in the Counseling Center to learn about the Common Application and letters of recommendation.  Please join us Wednesday or Thursday (Oct 7 and 8) during lunch in the College and Career Center.  The Counselors will be available to help you navigate the Private College application process.

 

Benson Counselors

 

Peggy Schoettle

Benson High School Counselor

(503)916-5100 x77135

[email protected]

 

 

A Message from Adam Kennybrew (Benson’s College & AVID Coordinator)

Attention Senior Class:

I have great news for you. Oregon State University will be hosting their application workshop on Monday, October 26th from 10:00-11:30am at Benson’s Counseling Center. I strongly urge all students who are interested in applying to OSU attend this workshop. You will excused from your 2^nd period class.  Please come sign up with Mr. Kennybrew, your college counselor asap so that we can get an accurate number of students who will be attending and so you can get a reminder slip as the date gets closer.

Thank you!!

 

Adam Kennybrew

College and AVID Coordinator

 

A Message from Tammy Hite/Benson Alumni Association

BENSON YEARBOOKS FOR SALE! Recently we had to clean out a few storage areas around the school and discovered A LOT of yearbooks. The majority of the books are from 1970 to 2014 with few books from the 50’s and 60’s. Most are brand new, but some of the older books have a bit of wear and some writing in them. If you are interested in purchasing one, please go to the Benson Alumni website to see what books are available and prices. Proceeds from the sale go towards the Benson Centennial Celebrations happening during the 2016-2017 school year. Please allow up to 4-weeks for delivery.

http://www.bensontechalumni.org/about/alumni-store/

 

Tammy Hite

Architecture and Drafting Teacher

 

Benson Polytechnic High School

546 NE 12^th Avenue

Portland, OR 97232

[email protected]

503-916-5100 x77211

 

COLLEGE VISITS:

All visits will be held in the Counseling Center. You must sign up in the Counseling Center for these visits.

Text: @u2college to 81010 to get updates about college visits.

10/5 Oregon State University 10:00

10/19 George Fox University 12:00

10/20 Champlain University 12:30

10/28 Pacific University 9:50

Adam Kennybrew (Benson’s College Coordinator)

 

 

CAREER DAYS/UPCOMING EVENTS:

Oregon Association of Minority Entrepreneurs Session begins 10/7: This is for students interested in learning about business and business planning.

ZGF-Architecture Career Day-10/8/15: Students will get to visit ZGF to hear from architects and other industry professionals.

Disaster Academy 10/15: Students will work with community experts and be trained for emergency response.

Elemental Technologies Career Day 10/15: This Company makes software that allows videos to be broadcast online. Clients include ESPN, Comcast, HBO, the BBC and many others

Miranda Ryan (Benson’s Career Coordinator)

 

 

A Message from Tony Peters (Benson’s Attendance Monitor)

When Your Student is Absent or Late

When a student is absent from a class period, an Auto-Dialer will call a designated phone number associated with the student to inform parents/guardians of the absence.

In previous years, after listening to the Auto-Dialer message, parent/guardians were able to push a button to leave a recorded message for the Attendance Monitor.  This is no longer possible.  However, voicemail messages MAY BE LEFT for the Attendance Monitor, at any time, by calling Benson High School at (503) 916-5100 and then pressing Option 3 for Attendance. This is what the new Auto-Dialer system directs parent/guardians to do, in order to excuse or comment on their student’s absence from class.

 

LATE ARRIVAL AND EARLY DISMISSAL STUDENTS

Students who have been scheduled for late arrival or early dismissal must:

1. Obtain a late arrival or early dismissal pass card from the Counseling secretary Melanie Grasle.

2. Carry their late arrival/early dismissal pass card with them at all times, and present it upon request from any staff member.

3. Arrive or leave the building and school grounds at the time stated on their schedule for their late arrival or early dismissal, unless they receive permission to be on campus for a specific reason.

When the school is on a special bell schedule. Students with late arrival or early dismissal are expected to remain in class until the end of the class period. Students who work will need to make arrangements to report to work at a different time on those days so as not to miss class time.

Benson Administration

Dress Code Reminder

Dress Code Reminder: Please me mindful that clothing with inappropriate symbols or signs relating to gangs, drugs, tobacco, alcohol or anything else is not acceptable.  No sunglasses, du-rags, bandanas, sagging pants, halter tops, exposed midriffs, low necklines, spaghetti straps, or holes and tears in clothing.  No bare feet, spike jewelry, hanging belts and chains.  Dresses and skirts, with arms at your side; need to be at the end of your fingertips in length.  Skorts and shorts need to have a 4 inch inseam.

 

Cafeteria Changes

Parents please note that the Cafeteria will no longer be providing cash back/change when students buy their lunch.  Students must have exact change.  If students do not have exact change the change will be applied to their account.

 

This Week In Athletics

Monday

3:30 FTBL vs Cleveland @ BHS

5:00 VB (JV) @ Cleveland

5:00 VB (JV2) @ Cleveland

6:30 VB (V) @ Cleveland

 

Tuesday: No Athletics

 

Wednesday

5:00 VB (JV) @ Jefferson

5:00 VB (JV2) @ Lincoln

4:00 VB (V) vs Jeff/Lincoln @ BHS

4:00 MSOC (JV) vs Lincoln @ Delta

4:00 MSOC (V) vs Lincoln @ Delta

7:00 WSOC @ Lincoln

 

Thursday: No Athletics

 

Friday: No School

 

Saturday

TBA XC @ George Fox Classic /9:00am

8:00am VB (JV) @ Canby Tournament

 

 

Make It a Great Week!

Curtis Wilson Jr., Principal

Benson Polytechnic High School

 

Parents you can also see and read about some of the good things happening here at Benson via my Benson Twitter Page.  You can follow me via the @BensonTechPride handle via Twitter.

 

 

A Message From Principal Wilson:

September 21st 2015

 

Parents/Guardians,

 

 

• A reminder that Benson’s Back to School Night has been moved from Tuesday September 22^nd to Tuesday September 29^th.  Back to School Night will start promptly at 6pm in the Benson Auditorium where I will say a few words and then dismiss our Parents/Guardians to go and visit with our teachers.  Please be advised that “Back to School Night” will not be the time to talk with specific teachers about your child’s academic success within the classroom but instead this is the time to hear what you child’s teachers will be doing this year within their classroom setting.  Back to School Night will go from 6pm-7:30pm.  Benson’s Parent Teacher Conferences will be taking place here at Benson on Wednesday and Thursday October 21^st and 22^nd where during this time you’ll be able to have in depth conversations with Benson teachers/staff regarding your child’s success here at Benson.  More information to follows as we get closer to Parent Teacher Conferences.

 

• PPS is shifting family, student      and staff communication to a new tool that gives schools the ability to      send texts about emergencies, closures, delays and other important news.  To receive text notifications, you must opt in to the      service.  You opt in by texting YES to 68453.  Parents and students should confirm their cell      numbers are listed in the student information system.  Staff should      confirm their cell numbers are the “primary” number in the PeopleSoft      system.  For more info about texting, go to www.pps.net and click on the “Mobile First” button.

 

• Benson Tech Wellness Center Survey – Please complete this very brief parent survey to tell us about your wants and needs for the new Wellness Center opening in 2016.

Click here to take survey;  Or copy this site to your browser:  http://www.sogosurvey.com/k/RRsRXQSQsRsPsPsP

Doreen Roozee

Planning Coordinator

Benson Tech SBHC

 

• Parents/Guardians please note      that if you would like to still see our 2015-16 Bell Schedule or to view      our 2015-16 School Calendar you can access both items on our webpage at www.bensonhs.net

 

• A Message from our Benson Counselors: Please read our attached Newsletter

 

• A Message from our Escalera Program Advisor Santos Herrera: Please read the attached Newsletter

 

• Please note that we have begun      handing out tardy slips for students who do not make it to class on      time.  Please discuss with your kids the importance of getting to      class on time.  If a student is late to a class he/she will need to      have a tardy admittance slip in order to enter their respective      class.

• This year in conjunction with      PPS, all the PIL High Schools will now have the ability to have two (2)      flex days a week depending on our weekly schedule.  Tutorial for this Week:

Wednesday Sept. 23^rd will be an A Flex Day Tutorial for all classes (2:11pm-3:15pm)

Thursday Sept. 24^th  B Flex Day Tutorial for All Academic Classes from 2:11pm-3:15pm (CTE Classes will be in Department Meetings)

 

 

A Message from PPS for our Latino Families

What: PASOS HACIA LA GRADUACIÓN – Steps Toward Graduation K-12, an educational conference for families to learn steps to student success presented by the ESL and Dual Language Immersion departments.

When: Saturday, Sept. 26, 8:30 am – noon

Where: Cesar Chavez School at 5103 N. Willis Blvd.

Conference Focus: Information will be provided for all grade levels on such topics as:

• Succeeding toward graduation
• The essence of PK-3 Reading
• Requirements for high school
• How to prepare for parent-teacher conferences K-12      and take advantage of the options offered by schools
• And much more.

Details: Workshops will be presented in Spanish. Child care will be provided for ages 3-10 as will a morning snack and lunch. Bus transportation to Chavez will be provided from Scott, Rigler, Whitman and Lent. ESL and DLI staff will be distributing print information to school secretaries.  

Flier to print and share: http://www.pps.k12.or.us/files/families/Pasos_hacia_la_Graduacion_K-12.pdf

Questions: Yolanda Morales, PPS Dual Language Immersion, 503-998-5617

Hope to see you there!

 

 

 

COLLEGE VISITS:

All visits will be held in the Counseling Center. You must sign up in the Counseling Center for these visits.

Text: @u2college to 81010 to get updates about college visits.

9/22 Lewis and Clark College 9:50

9/25 Stanford University 10:00

9/28 University of Oregon 10:00

9/29 Eastern Oregon University 10:00

9/30 Pacific Lutheran University 9:50

10/5 Oregon State University 10:00

10/19 George Fox University 12:00

10/20 Champlain University 12:30

10/28 Pacific University 9:50

Adam Kennybrew (Benson’s College Coordinator)

 

 

 

CAREER DAYS/UPCOMING EVENTS:

2015 Tradeswomen Leadership Institute 9/26: Workshops held at Benson High School. There are three sessions to help females who may work in male populated fields.

Oregon Association of Minority Entrepreneurs Session begins 10/7: This is for students interested in learning about business and business planning.

ZGF-Architecture Career Day-10/8/15: Students will get to visit ZGF to hear from architects and other industry professionals.

Disaster Academy 10/15: Students will work with community experts and be trained for emergency response.

Elemental Technologies Career Day 10/15: This Company makes software that allows videos to be broadcast online. Clients include ESPN, Comcast, HBO, the BBC and many others

Miranda Ryan (Benson’s Career Coordinator)

 

 

A Message from Tony Peters (Benson’s Attendance Monitor)

With my last submission, I created some confusion about whether parents can call Attendance and leave messages.  Here is a clarification.

When Your Student is Absent or Late

When a student is absent from a class period, an Auto-Dialer will call a designated phone number associated with the student to inform parents/guardians of the absence.

In previous years, after listening to the Auto-Dialer message, parent/guardians were able to push a button to leave a recorded message for the Attendance Monitor.  This is no longer possible.  However, voicemail messages MAY BE LEFT for the Attendance Monitor, at any time, by calling Benson High School at (503) 916-5100 and then pressing Option 3 for Attendance. This is what the new Auto-Dialer system directs parent/guardians to do, in order to excuse or comment on their student’s absence from class.

 

LATE ARRIVAL AND EARLY DISMISSAL STUDENTS

Students who have been scheduled for late arrival or early dismissal must:

1. Obtain a late arrival or early dismissal pass card from the Counseling secretary Melanie Grasle.

2. Carry their late arrival/early dismissal pass card with them at all times, and present it upon request from any staff member.

3. Arrive or leave the building and school grounds at the time stated on their schedule for their late arrival or early dismissal, unless they receive permission to be on campus for a specific reason.

When the school is on a special bell schedule. Students with late arrival or early dismissal are expected to remain in class until the end of the class period. Students who work will need to make arrangements to report to work at a different time on those days so as not to miss class time.

 

 

Dress Code Reminder

Dress Code Reminder: Please me mindful as we move into warm weather that clothing with inappropriate symbols or signs relating to gangs, drugs, tobacco, alcohol or anything else is not acceptable.  No sunglasses, du-rags, bandanas, sagging pants, halter tops, exposed midriffs, low necklines, spaghetti straps, or holes and tears in clothing.  No bare feet, spike jewelry, hanging belts and chains.  Dresses and skirts, with arms at your side; need to be at the end of your fingertips in length.  Skorts and shorts need to have a 4 inch inseam.

 

Cafeteria Changes

Parents please note that the Cafeteria will no longer be providing cash back/change when students buy their lunch.  Students must have exact change.  If students do not have exact change the change will be applied to their account.

 

 

 

 

This Week In Athletics

 

Monday

Benson vs Lincoln in Football at 7:30pm at Lincoln High School

Tuesday

5:00 VB (JV) @ Jefferson

5:00 VB (JV2) @ Jefferson

6:30 VB @ Jefferson

4:00 MSOC @ Dallas

4:00 WSOC @ Reynolds

Wednesday

4:00 XC @ Pier Park

Thursday

4:00 WSOC vs The Dalles @ BHS

4:00 MSOC @ The Dalles

5:00 VB (JV) vs Wilson @ BHS

5:00 VB (JV2) vs Wilson @ BHS

6:30 VB (V) vs Wilson @ BHS

Saturday

TBA XC @ Lane Community College Invitational

 

 

Make It a Great Week!

Curtis Wilson Jr., Principal

Benson Polytechnic High School

A Message From Principal Wilson:

 

Parents/Guardians,

 

• I have attached the 2015-16 Bell Schedule and the monthly Benson Calendar for you and your students to review in preparation for this upcoming school year.  Please note that the monthly calendar is a fluid calendar and items will continue to be added to the calendar throughout the school year.  You can also access both items on our webpage.

 

• Please note that starting Monday August 31^st we will begin handing out tardy slips for students who do not make it to class on time.  Please discuss the importance of getting to class on time with your students.  If a student is late to a class he/she will need to have a tardy admittance slip in order to enter their respective class.

 

• Benson will be having its first big football game of the season this coming Thursday September 3^rd at Lebanon High School.  Game time is 5:30pm.  Please come out and support our Techmen as they take on Lebanon.

 

• This year in conjunction with PPS, all the PIL High Schools will now have the ability to have two (2) flex days a week depending on our weekly schedule.  For this week we will have Tutorial (A Flex Day) for students on Wednesday from 2:11pm-3:15pm.  During this time students will have access to their teachers if they need any type of assistance or support with their respective classes.  On Thursday of this week our (B Flex Day) will consist of Benson having its Clubs Fair where students in school based clubs actively recruit for new club members for this upcoming school year.  Benson’s Club Fair will be happening from 2:11pm-3:15pm in the main hallway of the school on Thursday September 3^rd.

 

 

 

A Message from Linda McLellan (Benson’s Fit2Live&Learn Instructor)

Freshmen Parents;

If you have any questions about PE & Health (aka: Fit2live&Learn)

please visit our website.  fit2liveandlearn.com

(grading policy; protocols; frequently asked questions; planner update; daily activities & homework assigned; making up absences; teacher contact information and much more).

 

Watch our 20 minute documentary (sponsored by Dr. Oz) that was shown at the Portland Film Festival, to see what Benson Fit2Live&Learn is all about.   Google: ‘Heart of the Matter – Healthcorp Story (vimeo.com).  I think it will surprise you!

 

Welcome to our Benson Family!

 

PE/Health Staff

 

 

 

A Message from Susan Pfohman (Benson’s Math Instructor)

Seniors are being offered an opportunity for Dual Credit from Portland Community College in a course called Math 111/112.  Tuition is free to the students as are the PCC fees.  The course is available to seniors who have completed Algebra 3-4 with a strong record or pre-calculus.  As of this week, Benson has more than 90 students enrolled in the three periods the class is taught.

 

 

A Message from Tony Peters (Benson’s Attendance Monitor)

In regards to the AutoDialer:

Parent/Guardians will no longer be able to leave voicemail excuses for student absences, but will be directed by the new AutoDialer system to call the Benson Attendance Office and speak with the Attendance Monitor to explain their student’s absence from class.

 

Tony Peters

Attendance Monitor

Ext. 77107

 

 

 

 

A Message from the Counseling Staff

Friday, Sept. 18 is the last day for a schedule change and/or to drop a class without penalty. Please see your counselor if you are not in the correct major, need to make a levels change or if you are missing a graduation required class.

Need to make up a credit?  PPS is offering Evening Scholars to retrieve credit.  You must pre-register with your counselor for Evening Scholars before Sept. 8th.  For more information about costs, classes, schedule, etc. please visit the PPS website at http://www.pps.k12.or.us/schools/portland-evening-scholars.

 

 

A Message from Ms. Kennedy (Benson’s Health Science Instructor)

Please take note that NganTranh Nguyen placed 5th in the nation for medical spelling at HOSA Nationals this past summer.  We are all proud of her accomplishment here at Benson Tech.

 

 

A Message from our new AVID/College Coordinator Adam Kennybrew

Please be sure to read the attached flyer regarding receiving College Information from my office.

 

 

A Message from Miranda Ryan (Benson’s Career Coordinator)

For parents:  If you would like to get updates on career events and job openings for your students, Text: @ccinfo to 81010

 

 

 

 

 

LATE ARRIVAL AND EARLY DISMISSAL STUDENTS

Students who have been scheduled for late arrival or early dismissal must:

1. Obtain a late arrival or early dismissal pass card from the Counseling secretary Melanie Grasle.

2. Carry their late arrival/early dismissal pass card with them at all times, and present it upon request from any staff member.

3. Arrive or leave the building and school grounds at the time stated on their schedule for their late arrival or early dismissal, unless they receive permission to be on campus for a specific reason.

When the school is on a special bell schedule. Students with late arrival or early dismissal are expected to remain in class until the end of the class period. Students who work will need to make arrangements to report to work at a different time on those days so as not to miss class time.

 

 

Dress Code Reminder

Dress Code Reminder: Please me mindful as we move into warm weather that clothing with inappropriate symbols or signs relating to gangs, drugs, tobacco, alcohol or anything else is not acceptable.  No sunglasses, du-rags, bandanas, sagging pants, halter tops, exposed midriffs, low necklines, spaghetti straps, or holes and tears in clothing.  No bare feet, spike jewelry, hanging belts and chains.  Dresses and skirts, with arms at your side; need to be at the end of your fingertips in length.  Skorts and shorts need to have a 4 inch inseam.

 

 

Last Day for Schedule Change

Friday, Sept. 18 is the last day for a schedule change and/or to drop a class without penalty.  Please have your student(s) see their counselor if they are not in the correct major, need to make a levels change or if they are missing a graduation required class.

 

Cafeteria Changes

Parents please note that the Cafeteria will no longer be providing cash back/change when students buy their lunch.  Students must have exact change.  If students do not have exact change the change will be applied to their account.

 

 

A Flex Schedule (Tutorial) will be happening on Wednesday September 2^nd.

School Schedule will be as follows:

Period 1  8:15am-9:30am

Period 2  9:35am-10:50am

Period 3  10:55am-12:10pm

Lunch     12:10pm-12:46pm

Period 4 12:51pm-2:06pm

A Flex (Tutorial) 2:11pm-3:15pm

 

B Flex Schedule (Club Fair) will be happening on Thursday September 3^rd.

School Schedule will be as follows:

Period 5  8:15am-9:30am

Period 6  9:35am-10:50am

Period 7  10:55am-12:10pm

Lunch     12:10pm-12:46pm

Period 8 12:51pm-2:06pm

B Flex (Club Fair) 2:11pm-3:15pm

 

 

 

 

This Week In Athletics

Tuesday

5:00 VB (JV) vs Roosevelt @ Jefferson

5:00 VB (JV2) vs Roosevelt @ Jefferson

6:30 VB vs Roosevelt @ Jefferson

 

Thursday

4:00 MSOC (V&JV) vs Sprague @ Delta Park

4:00 WSOC vs McKay @ Delta Park

5:30 Football @ Lebanon

 

 

 

 

Make It a Great Week!

 

Curtis Wilson Jr., Principal

Benson Polytechnic High School

June 8^th 2015

 

 

A Message From Principal Wilson:

Parents/Guardians,

 

 

• Parents:  The last day of school will be Thursday June 11^th.  Please note that the first day of school will be Thursday August 27^th.  This will be my last Parent/Guardian newsletter until later this summer when we’ve had a chance to add the new list of incoming freshman parents to the email list and remove this year’s senior parents from the newsletter listing.    

 

 

• Parents please note that the first day of school for the 2015-16 school year will be on Thursday August 27^th.  Please be sure to plan your summer vacations accordingly. 

I’ve attached a flyer from PPS in English and Spanish regarding this information.

 

• A huge “Thanks” goes out to all of our supporters for the 2^nd Annual Freshman Picnic.  There were hundreds of students, parents, family members, teachers and supporters of Benson Tech.  A special “Thank You” goes out to Brett Anderson, Ed Railey and Jessica Murchison for preparing all the food for all of our participants.   

 

• Parents please alert your students that Holiday park will be accessible this coming summer if your students are interested in participating in summer park activities.

http://www.holladaypark.com/#special-events

 

• Parents please remind your students that all lockers must be cleaned out and emptied by 3:30 PM Thursday, June 11th, 2015.  Any items left in the lockers will be given away to charity or thrown into the garbage.  REMEMBER: Return all library/school books to the library to avoid fees and fines.

 

 

 

 

 

 

A Message Regarding Senior Graduation:

Hello parents and guardians.  As you may know, the long awaited senior graduation date is quickly approaching.  Commencement is on Monday, June 8th, 2015 at the Memorial Coliseum from 5:30pm-7:30pm and there will be a mandatory graduation practice for seniors which will be at the coliseum on that same day, from 12-2pm.

 

 

 

Tutorial will be happening on Thursday June 11^th

Schedule will be as follows

1           8:15am to 9:37am

3           9:42am to 11:04am

Lunch   11:04am to 11:34am

5           11:39am to 1:01pm

7           1:06pm to 2:28pm

Tutorial 2:33pm to 3:15pm

 

 

A Message from PPS:

Parents,

We know we have amazing student poets in our schools. Now the City of Portland has created a Portland Youth Laureate project and the deadline is June 30th for our student poets to apply! Applications are being accepted from writers ages 13-18. Click link to learn more and submit an application.

 

The top 8-12 finalists will perform during a Youth Poet Laureate Commencement Performance in September. At the performance, a panel of judges will decide the winner.

 

The Portland Youth Poet Laureate will attend events, sharing their voice with the City of Portland. The ideal candidate not only has great leadership skills, but a strong love for Portland. Winning this title means representing the City of Portland and spreading support for arts programs for youth throughout the community.

 

Runners-up will also become Poet Ambassadors and be given opportunities to showcase youth leadership and voice.

 

Please encourage students to submit an application and please share information through your networks.

 

Thank you for your generous support of celebrating youth voice.

 

Kristen Brayson

PPS Arts TOSA

on behalf of project manager Renee S. Mitchell

 

 

 

 

 

A Word From Your Librarian

Special thanks to the Benson HS community of parents, students, and alumni for a fantastic first year as your Teacher-Librarian.  Benson HS is a fantastic school filled with unique opportunities and I feel fortunate to have been part of the faculty in supporting our amazing students.  I will miss the enthusiasm, excitement and energy of teens in the Library as I move onto a different position in PPS.

Wishing you all the best,

Elaine Ferrell-Burns

 

Elaine Ferrell-Burns

Library Media Specialist

Creston, K-8 (Mon, Tu, Wed pm)

Benson HS  (Wed am, Th, Fri)

[email protected]

 

 

A Message from the school Nurse Laurel Merz

If you have a medication in the nurses office, please remember to come by and pick it up before school is out!  Any medications that are left behind will be disposed of.  Thanks!

 

A Message from Benson’s Counselors Regarding Summer School

Summer Scholars is an opportunity for students to retrieve credit for a failed class. The first session is June 29th – July 17th and the second session is July 27-August 14th.  Students take one class per session.  The first step is meeting with your counselor for pre-registration.   Students will then need to come to one of the in-person registrations to complete the process and be fully registered.  The registration dates are: June 9, 10th, 11th  from  4:30pm – 7:00pm and June 15th from 1:00 – 4:00 pm. Please contact your counselor for more information.

Benson Counseling Team

 

 

 

 

A Message from Christin Chambless (Benson’s PTSA President)

Dear Benson High School senior parents and students,

Benson High School PTSA is planning on hosting its Graduation Party on June 8, 2015 and we need more chaperones to help supervise the event.  The PTSA is sponsoring a “Safe and Sober Grad Night Party” for the 183 students in the Graduating Class of 2015. This traditional all night event provides a safe and sober environment where the students can celebrate on graduation night. The prevention of alcohol and drug related tragedies on this special night benefit the entire community as a whole.

 

This event has not occurred in the past couple years but we are determined to bring this tradition back to Benson High School.  Our plan is to pick up the graduates and bus them to the event at 10pm on June 8th and return them to Benson around 6am June 9th.  The students will be provided with food, drinks and entertainment all evening.

 

If you are interested in helping support this event please reach out to PTSA President Christin Chambless at [email protected]

 

Thank you for helping us bring Grad Night 2015 back to Benson High school students!

 

Sincerely,

 

Christin Chambless

Benson High School

PTSA President

 

 

A Message from Miranda Ryan (Benson’s Career Coordinator)

Announcements:

Jobs:

• AMETEK Hiring Event Wednesday June 10th from 10 am -1pm

10565 SW Nimbus Ave, Tigard, Or 97233 ages 17 and up

 

• Liberty Mutual hiring event Monday June 15th from 3 pm-7pm

650 NE Holladay Portland, Or 97232

 

•             Office Assistant  $ 9.25 must be 16 or older

•             Apprentice Painting Positions open in May for student 18 years and older

•             Youth Conservation Crew-Work outdoors from June-August making  $9.25/hr.

 

 

Are you interested in MT. Hood Community College?

We are offering placement test prep workshops.

See the College and Career Center to sign up.

 

 

Job Opportunities with Summer Works

Applicants must be low income, between the ages of 16-21, and eligible to work in the U.S.

Apply at:  www.worksystems.org/SummerWorks

 

 

 

Upcoming Career Days:

Join the 2015 Summer Crew ages 14-18. Food Works is a youth run organization in North Portland that runs a 2 acre organic farm on Sauvé Island, manages a business, works in the community, and builds personal leadership skills! This is a VOLUNTEER LEADERSHIP Program. Participants can earn school credit for community service and work experience. The Summer Crew will also receive a $300 Stipend upon completion of each month of the program ($150 every two weeks). Applications are due June 23rd. Go to the Career Center for more information.

 

 

Beat the Odds Scholarship

The Beat the Odds scholarship is for students who will graduate in 2016, which means that eligible students are current juniors.  The winners will be seniors when the award is given in November of this year.  The deadline to apply for a scholarship is Monday, September 14th – which may be just a few weeks into the upcoming school year.  This $10,000 scholarship is available for students who have made academic success despite hardships within their lifetime.  The attached flyer has more information regarding this scholarship.

Benson Counseling Team

 

 

Buick Achievers Scholarship Opportunity:

For more information, got to www.buickachievers.com

 

 

Make It a Great Week!

 

Curtis Wilson Jr., Principal

Benson Polytechnic High School

Parents you can also see and read about some of the good things happening here at Benson via my Benson Twitter Page.  You can follow me via the @BensonTechPride link via Twitter.

 

 

May 26^th 2015

 

 

A Message From Principal Wilson:

Parents/Guardians,

 

• Parents if you could help spread the word that Benson will be having is 2^nd annual Freshmen Picnic here at Benson Tech out on the front lawn on June 2^nd 2015 from 6pm-8pm to welcome in our incoming Freshman class to Benson Tech.  This will be an opportunity for our students, staff and supporters of Benson Tech a chance to meet and greet with our incoming Freshman class and their family members.  There will be food, music, games, gifts and a positive atmosphere in store for our next class of Benson Techsters. 

Please join us if you can and come out and support the incoming class of 2019.

 

• Parents please note that this coming Thursday May 28^th Benson will be on a regular A-Block schedule with no tutorial happening on Thursday. 

 

• Parents please note that the first day of school for the 2015-16 school year will be on Thursday August 27^th.  Please be sure to plan your summer vacations accordingly. 

 

• Parents please remind your Seniors to purchase their GRAD NIGHT tickets during lunch in the center hall this week.  The cost is $30. Your Seniors must have a signed release/registration form with them at the time of purchase.

 

 

 

 

A Message from the Fit2Live&Learn Team here at Benson Tech

2014-15 Fit2Live&Learn results based on the Fitnessgram:

(180 days of PE – 261 9th graders)

 

Aerobic Capacity: Measured by the Mile Run

September: 49% of 9th graders were in the Healthy Fitness Zone for their age

May: 91% of our 9th graders are in the Healthy Fitness Zone for their age

 

Body Composition: Measured by BMI/BF%/Lean Body Mass

September: 56% of the 9th graders were in the Healthy Fitness Zone for their age

May: 71% of the 9th graders were in the Healthy Fitness Zone

 

Our kids are getting into great shape by utilizing the concepts of the Fit2Live&Learn classes here at Benson Tech.

Benson Fit2Live&LearnTeam

 

 

 

 

A Message from Benson’s Cathy Skach (Digital Media Instructor & SkillsUSA Advisor)

After winning the Oregon SkillsUSA State competition, three of Benson’s finest – Allison Plager, Andy Lai and Brian Moreno of Benson Polytechnic High School –  qualified to represent Oregon and compete at the SkillsUSA National Competition in Louisville, KY.

 

The SkillsUSA National Competition is huge. With 6,000 competitors nationwide. It’s a great learning experience, meeting people from all over the country and connecting with them. Unfortunately, the expense is high. Your funds will help pay for plane tickets, baggage fees, hotel, ground transportation and more. It’s estimated to cost each student plus their advisor nearly $1,000.

 

These future leaders are doing their part in fundraising selling Root Beer Floats, holding a bake sale and selling print items through our very own Tech Algebra program.  Let’s help these kids out! Like everyone says, every little bit helps.

 

As of this writing, we have raised nearly half of what we need. Your generosity will help greatly to help make this trip a reality. To donate: http://www.gofundme.com/BensonSkillsUSA

 

 

 

 

No Tutorial on Thursday, May 28th – A Day:

Schedule will be as follows

1           8:15 to 9:48

3           9:53 to 11:26

Lunch   11:26 to 11:59

5           12:04 to 1:37

7           1:42 to 3:15

 

 

 

 

A Message from the school Nurse Laurel Merz

If you have a medication in the nurses office, please remember to come by and pick it up before school is out!  Any medications that are left behind will be disposed of.  Thanks!

 

 

 

 

A Message from Benson’s Health Occupations/Science Instructor Sally Niedermeyer

Mrs. Niedermeyer reports that the Medical Professions Health Science IV class won $5000.00 in a charitable grant for the Oregon Food Bank as part of the Lead2Feed World Hunger Leadership Challenge.  Lead2Feed was developed by the USA Today Charitable Foundation with support from Lift a Life Foundation and Yum! Brands Foundation.   These students planned and executed several food awareness and collection activities beginning in Sept. and submitted their project on April 15th.  Congratulations!

Ms. Niedermeyer

 

 

 

 

A Message Regarding Senior Graduation:

Hello parents and guardians.  As you may know, the long awaited senior graduation date is quickly approaching.  Commencement is on Monday, June 8th, 2015 at the Memorial Coliseum from 5:30pm-7:30pm and there will be a mandatory graduation practice for seniors which will be at the coliseum on that same day, from 12- 2pm.

 

 

 

 

 

A Message from Teaghan Phillips (LÁMP:ARA Coordinator)

You are invited to LÁMP:ARA’s End of the Year Fiesta!

LÁMP:ARA’s End of the Year Fiesta is just around the corner! Please join us for hors d’oeuvres and refreshments as we recognize LÁMP:ARA students and mentors for all they have achieved this year.

When: Thursday, May 28th | 2:30pm – 4:00pm

Where: Benson Polytechnic High School (Old Band Room), 546 Northeast 12th Avenue | Portland, OR 97232

We hope to see you there!

Teaghan Phillips

LÁMP:ARA Coordinator | AmeriCorps Member

Benson High School

503-916-5100 (ext. 77266)

 

 

 

 

A Message from Benson’s Counselors Regarding Summer School

Summer School Pre-Registration starts on Monday, May. 18th.  Summer Scholars is an opportunity for students to retrieve credit for a failed class. The first session is June 29th – July 17th and the second session is July 27-August 14th.  Students take one class per session.

The first step is meeting with your counselor for pre-registration.   Students will then need to come to one of the in-person registrations to complete the process and be fully registered. The registration dates are: June 9, 10th, 11th  from  4:30pm – 7:00pm and June 15th from 1:00 – 4:00 pm. Please contact your counselor for more information.

Benson Counseling Team

 

 

 

 

 

 

A Message from Jessica Murchison: Benson’s Leadership and Activities Director

Student body elections are starting.  Monday May 4^th starts campaign week and students are very excited to be running for 2015-2016 Student Body Government.  Voting will happen the week of May 26th-29th.  We will announce 2015-2016 new Benson High Student Body (BHSB) on Monday June 1st.

Jessica Murchison

 

Spanish / Leadership / Director of Activities

Benson Polytechnic High School

503-916-5100 x77171

 

 

 

 

The District’s 60 Day Rule Regarding Seniors.  Please be sure to read carefully.

For the remainder of the school year it is important for seniors to stay focused on doing the right thing in order to participate in graduation activities. According to Board Policy “…Seniors shall be disqualified from participation in commencement exercises and related activities if within 60 consecutive calendar days of the last senior school day they are found to be in violation of District Alcohol or Drug policy or any violation resulting in three or more days of suspension or more serious disciplinary action…”. This 60 day period begins Friday, April 3rd, 2015.

 

 

 

 

A Message from Christin Chambless (Benson’s PTSA President)

Dear Benson High School senior parents and students,

Benson High School PTSA is planning on hosting its Graduation Party on June 8, 2015 and we need more chaperones to help supervise the event.  The PTSA is sponsoring a “Safe and Sober Grad Night Party” for the 183 students in the Graduating Class of 2015. This traditional all night event provides a safe and sober environment where the students can celebrate on graduation night. The prevention of alcohol and drug related tragedies on this special night benefit the entire community as a whole.

 

This event has not occurred in the past couple years but we are determined to bring this tradition back to Benson High School.  Our plan is to pick up the graduates and bus them to the event at 10pm on June 8th and return them to Benson around 6am June 9th.  The students will be provided with food, drinks and entertainment all evening.

 

If you are interested in helping support this event please reach out to PTSA President Christin Chambless at [email protected]

 

Thank you for helping us bring Grad Night 2015 back to Benson High school students!

 

Sincerely,

 

Christin Chambless

Benson High School

PTSA President

 

 

 

 

 

A Message from Steve Curley (Testing Coordinator) Regarding Smarter Balanced Testing

 

“Starting in May, Benson will be testing all 11th graders using the new Smarter Balanced Assessment.  We will give 11th graders an opportunity to practice prior to testing in order to get used to the new interface.  The Smarter Balanced is replacing the OAKS tests that we have all become accustomed to.

 

The following link has a lot of information about the tests including practice tests.

 

http://www.smarterbalanced.org/parents-students/

 

Look for more updates on testing in the coming weeks.”

 

Steve Curley

 

Learning Center Teacher/Special Education

 

Building Testing Coordinator

 

 

 

 

 

 

Free Math Tutoring

Available in the Career Center during Thursday’s Tutorial (2:33-3:15)

 

 

 

 

A Message from Miranda Ryan (Benson’s Career Coordinator)

Announcements:

Jobs:

•             Office Assistant  $ 9.25 must be 16 or older

•             Apprentice Painting Positions open in May for student 18 years and older

•             Youth Conservation Crew-Work outdoors from June-August making  $9.25/hr.

 

 

Are you interested in MT. Hood Community College?

We are offering placement test prep workshops.

See the College and Career Center to sign up.

 

 

Job Opportunities with Summer Works

Applicants must be low income, between the ages of 16-21, and eligible to work in the U.S.

Apply at:  www.worksystems.org/SummerWorks

 

 

 

Upcoming Career Days:

 

Sign up for Enterprise Academy:

Enterprise Academy offers students a chance to explore the challenges and opportunities of the business world. This weekend retreat allows each student to interact with successful business people, learn key business principles and bring their own ideas to life in a fast-paced team competition.  See your Career Coordinator for more information.

 

 

 

 

Scholarships

Parents please encourage your Seniors to apply for these scholarships if interested.

Please see Ms. Ryan or one of the three Counselors (Mr. Wren, Ms. Schoettle or Ms. Henry) in the College and Career Center for further details.

 

Beat the Odds Scholarship

The Beat the Odds scholarship is for students who will graduate in 2016, which means that eligible students are current juniors.  The winners will be seniors when the award is given in November of this year.  The deadline to apply for a scholarship is Monday, September 14th – which may be just a few weeks into the upcoming school year.  This $10,000 scholarship is available for students who have made academic success despite hardships within their lifetime.  The attached flyer has more information regarding this scholarship.

Benson Counseling Team

 

 

Buick Achievers Scholarship Opportunity:

For more information, got to www.buickachievers.com

 

 

 

 

Make It a Great Week!

 

Curtis Wilson Jr., Principal

Benson Polytechnic High School