Time to Head Back to School!
Enrollment Now Open for Fall 2024
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At Evergreen Virtual Academy, we’ve created a special online experience for young learners that’s convenient, safe, and supportive. We believe when school has no walls, learning has no boundaries.
Serving Students Across Oregon
• FREE, accredited K-12 public school
• Bully-free, safe, at-home education
• Ideal for students on the Autistic Spectrum
• Dedicated advisor for every student
• Clubs, field trips, and social opportunities
Thousands of Oregon parents choose EVA for a high-level education and oneon-one support.
“Going to EVA has helped my son so much with his anxiety. We love the flexibility and safer environment that EVA offers.”
—EVA Parent
A look at whether students in Oregon are meeting grade level standards — or not — and what can be done to improve outcomes. Plus, one high-performing Oregon district that’s getting it right. By Robin Lanehurst.
after-care options for elementary-aged students with various interests throughout the metro area.
Sarah Vanbuskirk.
an evening of old-fashioned fun at Alderbrook Park during its Friday Night Cruise In — complete with classic cars and loads of kid-friendly activities.
Summer/School
August is a weird time of year. It doesn’t seem right to start thinking about the start of school when the sun is bright and you and your kids still have so many outdoor concerts and festivals to enjoy (see our picks on page 40). But in a few short weeks, the kids will, in fact, be heading back to their classrooms.
The start of the new school year can bring excitement and maybe some anxiety for students and parents. In our back-to-school issue, writer Robin Lanehurst examines how the public school districts in Oregon have been serving their students. Some of the numbers are grim. But there are also some bright spots. And if you are looking for options beyond your neighborhood school, we’ve got a handy Private School Guide on page 21 to help you easily compare your options.
Wherever your children go to school, if you are a working parent, you’ll most likely need some beforeor after-school care for them. We can help with that! In The Scoop on After-school Care, writer Sarah Vanbuskirk details a wide variety of options across various neighborhoods. Find out more on page 18. But going back to that fun part of August. You won’t want to miss writer Kate Hagan Gallup’s account of her family’s trip to Alderbrook Park for a Friday Night Cruise In. It’s an outdoor classic car show with a slew of kid-friendly activities included with the price of admission. And read about how my family tried mindblowing pizza at a Beaverton pizzeria that recently received accolades from The New York Times School is right around the corner, but I hope your family enjoys these last few days of summer.
A big thanks to photographer Lauren Begley for sharing her photo of her twin daughters heading off to their first day of kindergarten. Begley, the mother of five kids including two sets of twins, has been a professional photographer for five years and loves the documentary style of photography. And she always captures a photo of her kids on their first day of school. “Some years, depending on how nervous everyone is, the first day photos have to happen at the end of the day, but I always snap at least one,” she says. See more of her compelling work at laurenbegley.passgallery.com/ portfolio and on Instagram @l.begley.photo.
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Bookshelf: Back
to School
Set those alarms, because it’s time to go back to school! These four books are all about that excitement of the first day, riding the bus and making new friends, handpicked by Kim Tano and Madeline Shier, the children’s book buyers at Powell’s City of Books. Look for these titles at the Burnside, Hawthorne or Cedar Hills Powell’s locations, or order online at powells.com.
Countdown to School
by Greg Paprocki
This latest charming board book from Paprocki is baby’s first introduction to the exciting energy of starting school! Count down through the nine days leading up to the start of the school year in colorful, playful spreads with all sorts of details to explore and find. Perfect to read with babies and toddlers, especially those who may be curious about an older sibling’s school prep! $12.99.
The Yellow Bus, written and illustrated by Loren Long
Pops of color against a beautiful black and white background bring this modern classic about the lifecycle of a yellow bus to life. After transporting children to school, the bus brings older folks to the library, the houseless to homes, and eventually becomes a shelter for animals and fish. The Yellow Bus is a wonderful new picture book release for ages 3 and up. $19.99.
Ruby’s Tools for Making Friends, written and illustrated by Apryl Stott
Ruby the fox is nervous about her first day at a new school. Then she remembers that her tape measure will help her count her breaths when she feels overwhelmed, her pliers will remind her to be flexible, and her safety goggles will help her look at things from a new perspective. This is a great early-life skills picture book for ages 4 and up. $18.99.
School Day by Candice Ransom; illustrated by Ashley Evans
This level 1 reader follows the siblings from the best-selling Apple Picking Day as they embark on their first day of school. Starting kindergarten can be nerve-wracking, but it’s a little easier with your big sister (who’s starting third grade) there to teach you the ropes! Perfect for kids ages 4 to 6, particularly those who are just starting to read. $5.99.
We Recommend: Music for the Road
Everyone knows that good music is a key component of a fun, summer road trip. And that’s even more true when you’ve got kids in the back seat! Enter local kindie artist Kelli Welli with special, bi-species singles out in time for late-summer family jaunts. Bispecies? Yes, the song, Road Trip, captures the excitement of a family adventure from two perspectives: The Dog Version and the Human Version! Hear the songs at kelliwellikids.com.
— Denise Castañon
Ask Dr. Baynham: Kindergarten Readiness
Q: “My daughter turned 5 in July and is really excited to start kindergarten this fall. A lot of my friends are telling me she’s too young and I should hold her back a year. How do I know if she’s ready?”
A: This is a great question, and so is how to gracefully handle the inevitable unsolicited advice. (Answer at the end!) When thinking about kindergarten readiness, remember that each child is on her own journey. Two children at the exact same age could have very different kindergarten experiences based on where they are with their social and emotional development. Ultimately, you know your child better than anyone, and you are the most qualified person to make that decision.
In terms of development, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends considering these key questions first: “Is your child able to communicate? How are her listening and social skills? Would she be able to get along with other children and adults? Is she toilet trained? What about physical skills like running, playing or using a crayon or pencil?” If you’re reading these and thinking “no, no, no,” then it’s probably best to do another year of pre-K. Other things to look for are your child’s ability to control impulses,
focus and pay attention, take turns, follow directions, make friends, and identify and communicate emotions. Now, all that being said, some kids absolutely thrive in the kindergarten environment even if each of these boxes aren’t checked.
In the question above, the friends are referring to “redshirting,” a practice in which parents hold the child back a year to theoretically gain advantages in academics and sports. I wouldn’t recommend doing this if you otherwise think your child is ready for kindergarten. Holding a child back can be a disadvantage — kids who are bored tend to act out, which can be misconstrued as having ADHD, anxiety, defiance or learning difficulties.
If you’re not sure, make an appointment with your pediatrician to review your child’s development and have a discussion together if kindergarten seems like the right fit this year. And, as promised: the best way to handle unsolicited advice is to say, “Thank you for sharing.” And then let that advice go right out of the other ear.
Pediatrician, International Board Certified Lactation Consultant, Fellow in the American Academy of Pediatrics and mom of two, Allison Baynham, M.D., knows what it takes to raise healthy, resilient children. Come bond, share your struggles and team with her for great care at Metropolitan Pediatrics in Tigard.
Good Deeds: Helping Young Readers
Did you know that 1 in 5 children has a learning or attention challenge, which makes learning and school difficult? And oftentimes without the right interventions, these kids don’t get the right support and become discouraged or fall behind. Thankfully, there are organizations in the Portland area that offer guidance, supplies and tutoring.
Enter The Shadow Project. In 1997, Christy Scattarella founded the nonprofit to aid children like her now adult son, Alex, who has dyslexia and attention deficit disorder and was struggling in school; the two named it after their beloved dog, Shadow.
The Shadow Project has three in-school programs to help students — and their special education teachers and families: Goal Setting, which equips teachers with curriculum and resources; pairing kids with reading mentors; and creating Super Sensory Spaces, where students can take structured breaks from sensory and movement.
Donate or
Volunteer
With The Shadow Project
• Buy items from the nonprofit’s Amazon Wish List at amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/2FHABZ93E7QLW?ref.
• Donate items yourself! They need LEGOs; sensory tools and fidgets; and school and art supplies.
• Volunteer! Kids ages 12 to 15 can volunteer at the warehouse in Northeast to sort and pack donated items. And teens 18 and older can become reading mentors. “We love teen volunteers, and teens have a great time volunteering with The Shadow Project,” says Juenemann.
Last school year, The Shadow Project partnered with 61 schools in eight school districts, says executive director Sharon Juenemann, supporting a total of 21,000 students. Visit shadow-project.org for more info. — Tiffany Hill
GAIL PARK
Playlist: Spread Love
Kids’ singer-songwriter Suzanne Jamieson’s new album Love Is … is a happy collection of pop perfect songs all about love — for family, pets, favorite things and more. The catchy track 8 Hugs will get stuck in your head, but in the best way possible — hopefully inspiring you and your kiddos to get the doctorrecommended eight hugs a day. And songs I Turn Towards Love and It Is What It Is have cool ’80s synth vibes. As a parent you’ll be sure to appreciate Unconditional and Kid I Love You, which are sweet songs that capture that love parents have for their kids. Have a listen at suzannejamiesonsings.com. — D.C.
Kid to Know: A Winning Writer
Last year, Lincoln freshman Miranda Yesser joined the ranks of writers Joyce Carol Oats, Stephen King and Robert McCloskey. Like those notable authors, her writing received a nod from the Scholastic Art & Writing Awards. Miranda earned an honorable mention for her short story Youth, which examined society’s pressure on women to stay young and attractive. She’s been writing for a long time. “I’ve been writing mini-novels since kindergarten,” says Miranda. “I would staple together pages of writing straight from the printer and try to sell them to my family.” Miranda, who also takes part in speech and debate and plans on eventually becoming a lawyer, will continue to enter the writing competition. And she’ll continue to pen work on big topics. “I want to explore how normalized violence has become, we’ve lost a lot of sensitivity,” she says. Find out more about the Scholastic Art & Writing Awards at artandwriting.org. — D.C.
Learning to save is a skill that lasts a lifetime.
We started the OnPoint Savers Account for children 17 and under so that kids can get a head start on learning healthy savings habits. Just open your child’s membership with a minimum of $25 and we’ll deposit an additional $55*. Plus, they’ll earn 5.00%* on the first $500. Not a bad way to start for a beginner, don’t you think?
57 branches with one near you!
Get started today. Visit onpointcu.com/onpoint-savers
*Rates subject to change. Stated APY (Annual Percentage Yield) is for balances up to $500; balances over $500 earn posted Regular Savings Account rate. Account must be established for members age 17 or younger by parent or guardian with a minimum $25 deposit. Parent or legal guardian must be on the membership and present to open the OnPoint Savers Account. When primary member attains the age of 18, accounts will be converted to Regular Savings Account, earning that account’s published rate at that time. Fiduciary memberships, including UTTMA and Minor Settlement Accounts are not eligible for OnPoint Savers. One OnPoint Savers Account per member/TIN. One $55 bonus per tax ID for new members only. Bonus will be included on a 1099-INT for tax purposes. Cannot be combined with other offers for opening a new membership, such as new branch promotions or Refer a Friend. Federally insured by NCUA. 4/24
Oregon Education
Graded
This past school year marked the most “normal” return to schooling since the pandemic. Here’s a look into how students are doing academically and what the state can do to boost grade level standards and teacher development.
BY ROBIN LANEHURST
The 2023-2024 school year in Oregon, and Portland specifically, set a new baseline for our public schools. After two years of mostly remote schooling, mask mandates and other COVID disruptions, 2022-2023 was all about readjusting and resettling, making this past school year the most “normal” school year in many kids’ memories (rising 4th graders have spent the majority of their public school career during COVID).
But the year was anything but normal — especially in Portland — and legislators, parents, educators and advocates all have to reckon with the reality of public school funding, enrollment, climate and performance.
Academics and Accountability
In January, researchers from Stanford University, Harvard University and Dartmouth College released the Education Recovery Scorecard, analyzing students’ academic gains and losses in the 20222023 school year. The data was a big wakeup call for Oregon schools. Of the 30 states whose data was analyzed, Oregon was the only state that didn’t improve in math achievement, and only two states (Nevada and Virginia) lost more ground in reading than Oregon.
“We don’t have as much poverty as the rest of the country on average,” says Sarah Pope, executive director of Stand for Children Oregon, a national educational advocacy organization with its Oregon headquarters here in Portland, “but yet our outcomes are at the bottom of the pack — and it’s much worse if you’re a child of color.” So, what happened?
One popular argument is that Oregon’s schools were virtual too long during the pandemic; while it’s true that researchers agree this lack of face-to-face learning has had huge impacts, both Washington and California had similar length closures, but their academic gaps aren’t nearly as pronounced. One potential cause is that, when Oregon’s school districts got extra federal dollars during the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic, each district chose to spend their money differently, and at a different pace. For example, Portland Public Schools (PPS) was allocated almost $74 million dollars and has spent nearly $55 million to date, and Beaverton Public schools was allocated $46.5 million, spending $31 million so far. Other states like North Carolina, Tennessee, Mississippi, and Illinois (all of which have recovered more quickly academically than Oregon) directed school districts to spend their funds on research-aligned, high-impact strategies. PPS has rebounded much better and faster than most other districts — and their extra dollars went to tutoring and summer learning, both strategies that are aligned with well-researched best practices for increasing student learning outcomes. In fact, PPS is the only large system in the state that spent a sizable amount of dollars
on those strategies. Another theory is that achieving concurrence amongst all of Oregon’s 197 school districts is next to impossible, compared to states like Florida or Rhode Island, with fewer school districts; even without a directive from the state government, it’s easier for these states to align their resources and strategies voluntarily.
“Our system does what it’s incentivized to do,” says Pope, adding that one proposed strategy is to pass more legislation providing focused funding for research-proven strategies, like the High School Success Act from 2016 or last year’s Early Literacy Success Initiative. Both of these pieces of legislation give a specific menu of researchaligned options to districts that stand the best chance of improving student outcomes.
Oregon has outpaced many other states with policies and legislation that favor equity, mental health, and diversity, particularly for LGBTQ+ students and families. If we can learn from other states’ focused efforts to hold districts accountable for the strategies they use to meet educational outcomes, our state could also be a leader when it comes to closing educational gaps.
McMinnville: A Success Story
Although Oregon has many challenges when it comes to offering quality academics and meeting accountability measures, there are districts that are outperforming the state averages. The McMinnville school district (which includes the cities of McMinnville and Lafayette) stands out across the state as a model for what other districts can do to build student skills and success — particularly for low-income students and Latinx students. Their students, 38% of whom identify as Latinx, outperform students across the state on almost every standardized testing measure, but where McMinnville really shines is in its graduation rates. Statewide, 81.3% of students graduate in four years, but in McMinnville, that rate hits 93%. The difference is even more stark when broken down demographically. Statewide, 80.7% of low-income students (those receiving free/reduced lunch) graduate on time compared to 90% in McMinnville. English language learners also fare better in McMinnville — 94% graduate on-time compared to only 65.3% statewide. Oregon’s lagging success on these measures is commonly compared to Washington state, which often outpaces our state’s progress — but McMinnville even outperforms our northern neighbor.
Kourtney Ferrua, Director of Curriculum, Instruction and Assessment, attributes student academic success to the district’s focus on using high-leverage, research-based instructional strategies, like tutoring, differentiation tools, reading intervention, trauma-informed practices, and instructional technology. McMinnville also provides
Source: Oregon Department of Education Statewide Report Card
Oregon By the Numbers A
Data Snapshot for the 2022-2023 School Year
Enrollment: 552,380 — 5.1% decrease since the 2018-2019 school year.
41% students of color
12.9% teachers of color
3.9% homeless students
Rural districts have a higher percentage of homeless students than urban. (PPS has a homeless student population of 2%.)
Teachers with 0-4 years experience increased from 27% in 2020-2021 to 28.6% in 2022-2023.
Oregon spends $16,574 per student.
Test Score Pass Rates:
English Language Arts (ELA) for grades 3-5: 43.6%
ELA for grades 6-8: 43.7%
ELA for 11th grade: 46.8%
Math for grades 3-5: 36.6%
Math for grades 6-8: 28.5%
Math for 11th grade: 20.9%
Attendance
Grades K-5: 64.2%
Grades 6-8: 64.7%
High school: 60.8%
Graduation rate overall: 81.3%
high-quality professional development and support to teachers as well as to classified staff, including mentorship and the ability to earn credits towards graduate degrees. The statewide teacher attrition rate is 36% — in McMinnville, it’s less than 15%.
But most of all, the district prides itself on approaching all metrics as systemic issues. “Building strong relationships with students and families is really critical to us,” says Ferrua. Graduation rates aren’t “a problem the high school has to solve,” because of the support to students and families provided at every level. They have deep relationships with community partners like mental health providers and nonprofit organizations, along with a whole district team of family outreach and support staff “assigned specifically to work with families and identify the root cause.”
McMinnville makes a strong case that districts can’t sacrifice a strong academic program for social-emotional learning, or prioritize academic accountability over providing teachers and staff a quality work environment. Rather, all three of these elements — along with robust community and parent involvement — work in tandem toward student success.
Who's Paying for This?
Although positive, Ferrua is uncertain about how McMinnville will be able to maintain their successful programs as the additional federal funding implemented in 2020 comes to an end. Statewide, all stakeholders seem to share one overarching concern: funding. Perhaps the one thing virtually everyone seems to agree on is that in order to move forward, solving our public education funding issues is going to be one of the first things that needs to happen.
In Oregon, public schools are paid for by state income taxes and by local property taxes, but there’s a catch. In the '90s, measures 5 and 50 limited the proportion of property taxes that could be spent on public schools and how quickly property taxes are allowed to increase, which puts the main burden of funding public schools on the state. The state legislature covers about two-thirds of K-12 funding, which is paid out to districts based mainly on how many students are enrolled. It helps take the burden off of localities, but it means that education is constantly competing with other budget priorities like health care,
social services and housing. Around 28% of the state’s legislative budget goes towards education, which seems like a sizable chunk, until that’s compared to other states — in Washington, about half of their state budget funds public schools.
In 2023, the legislature passed a $10.2 billion bill to fund K-12 education, which fills a lot of gaps, but as that extra funding from the early days of the pandemic is running out (districts must spend all of their allotted funds by September 2024), many districts will still find themselves in the red. Programs that supported student mental health, extra high-dose tutoring, and other services are facing the biggest threats. Not all Oregon districts receive funds from a local tax levy (only 18 do), which creates further gaps. For example, the recently passed Portland Teacher’s Levy will save 650 jobs across the district next year. Individual district’s foundations can help fill gaps, but this is also fraught. In May, Portland school board members voted 5-2 to combine individual schools’ foundations into one central funding source. Advocates in favor of this policy change emphasize a move toward more equitably funding schools that serve majority free and reduced lunch students and students of color — but opponents fear donors and parents will be less likely to support a district-wide foundation as opposed to their child’s individual school.
Another challenge is figuring out how much funding districts will actually need. And like many of the other issues and challenges facing Oregon schools, one answer is that all affected stakeholders — not just the folks creating the mathematical model for calculating — need to come to the table when establishing their funding needs. For the first time in a long time, schools in Oregon will be facing not just a lack of increased funding, but cuts. Although this isn’t a unique challenge — education advocates in Washington and California, among other states, also fear budget issues — because of our state’s funding model and necessity to close educational gaps, we’ll need to find a unique solution.
Future Projections
“I think we’re on the precipice of a comeback story,” says Christine Pitts, a senior fellow at nonpartisan education nonprofit, Education Northwest. But instead of inviting more voices to the table, she counters, “I think what we need is to be setting new tables.”
This sentiment is echoed amongst district staff and public education advocates, who emphasize that instead of choosing between prioritizing the needs and interests of different groups, successful public schools don’t sacrifice educator needs for social-emotional learning, or student equity for academic outcomes. This isn’t an impossible task — as seen in the example of McMinnville SD — but it requires both local advocacy and statewide leadership.
It also requires an understanding that education is a long-term investment. Kourtney Ferrua argues that the real impacts of today’s low attendance and graduation rates won’t be felt for another decade, as those young people come of age without a solid educational foundation. Governor Tina Kotek has reaffirmed her commitment to reevaluating the state’s funding formula for public schools, and reviewing how the state defines school accountability; for some, this commitment gives hope that these conversations are moving in the right direction.
Robin Lanehurst grew up in St. Louis, Missouri but is currently writing from North Portland, where they live with their wife, preschoolers and a small menagerie of pets. A former public school teacher and counselor, Robin is white, queer, non-binary, and neurodivergent, and writes at the intersections of mental health, education, parenthood and social justice. You can find her on Instagram @robin_lanehurst or at robinlanehurst.com.
Sellwood Medical Clinic is a 21-year established, award winning medical practice with four locations in the greater Portland Metro area.
We provide compassionate, patient-oriented 24/7 pediatric, family & gynecological healthcare with same-day visits for unexpected injuries or illness.
Olivia Bagot, M.D., FAAP Avery Hutcheson, PNP, CLC
Rachel Rittenhouse, DNP Jordyn Luttrell, PNP
Courtney Cotner, PNP
Established in 1997, Art World School is a skill based Fine Art school that offers the following programs:
• After School Program - Different Schedule Options between 12pm - 6:30pm
• Different individual classes for all ages/levels Mondays - Saturdays
• Camps on Saturdays, No School Days, Spring Camp, Summer Camp, Winter Camp
• Before Care Program starting 2024 -2025 School Year
• One-on-one and private classes
• Fine Art Drawing/Painting, Clay/Pottery, Arts & Crafts, Calligraphy, Digital Art
503-590-5518
18335 NW West Union Rd.
Suite 5-E, Portland, OR 97229
Schooldirector@artworldschool.com www.artworldschool.com
First week special for After School Program AERIAL & ACROBATIC
• Birthday Parties
• Trial class offered for new students
Together we’re building a confident community through movement and play outdoors.
parties, events & more!
The Scoop on After-school Care
From martial arts to creative writing — to a little bit of everything — find a variety of fun and enriching after-care options for your child.
BY SARAH VANBUSKIRK
The back-to-school season brings the yearly excitement of new teachers, fresh school supplies, reconnecting with friends — and making new ones — back-to-school outfits and crisp autumn days. For many parents, it also means figuring out what to do when you are at work until 5 pm and the school day ends at 2:30 pm.
Luckily, many after-school options are available in the Portland metro area, whether you are looking for an hour or two of enrichment for your child or you need extensive coverage while you’re working. Some after-school programs operate within specific schools, while others provide transportation to an off-site location or require parents or caregivers to drop off children.
Pro tip: Be sure to check with your child’s school first to find out which programs are available. You might be surprised by the range of offerings, including some that are unique to individual schools. Read on to find our roundup of some great options.
Soccer Shots runs afterschool programming at schools and other locations across the city. Children will learn the basics of the game, develop their soccer skills, learn teamwork and have a blast. Soccershots.com.
PHYSICAL ACTIVITY
One With Heart provides after-school martial arts training for students at a variety of Southeast Portland schools. This woman-owned martial arts and selfdefense school offers training in the Indonesian martial art of pukulan kuntao silat. Transportation is included. Onewithheartfightingarts.com
Aim High Academy of Martial Arts serves students in the Beaverton School District. In addition to martial arts training in tae kwon do, mixed martial arts, kickboxing and tang soo do, kids engage in themed activities, crafts and more. Aimhighma.org.
Heads up!
In March PPS announced changed start and end times for all its schools. All K-5 schools will start at 8 am and end at 2:30 pm. All K-8 schools will start at 8:45 am; K-5 students will end at 3:15 pm and 6-8 students will end at 3:30 pm. All middle schools will start at 9:15 am and end at 4:00 pm. And high schools will now start at 8:26 am and end at 3:30 pm. Check with your child’s after-care program to see if the changes in end times will impact its program and/or costs.
Trackers Earth Portland offers a variety of after-school programs that focus on play and learning a range of unique skills like archery, blacksmithing, ceramics, handcrafts, woodworking, campfire cooking, theater, martial arts and outdoor exploration. Field experts teach these popular courses at a Southeast and a Northeast site. Transportation is available from multiple PPS schools on the eastside. Trackerspdx.com
ARTS & CRAFTS
COMPREHENSIVE OFFERINGS
Belmont Academy provides beforeand after-school care with transportation for children at Richmond, Glencoe and Buckman Elementary Schools as well as at Arthur Academy. Students engage in a range of activities like art projects, physical activities, homework help and snack time. Belmontacademy.org.
Neighborhood House serves children in North and Northeast Portland at Chief Joseph, Sabin, King and Boise Elementary Schools. Kids get homework help, free time and snacks, as well as a host of activities from sports and arts to academic enrichment. Nhpdx.org
Kindercare offers kids in Aloha, Beaverton and Clackamas the opportunity to follow their passion. These beforeand after-school programs offer STEM, creative arts, music, comic book writing and more with activities tailored to each kid’s interests. Transportation from area schools is provided. Kindercare.com
Friendly House offers enriching after-school programming for students at Chapman Elementary in Northwest Portland. Children are picked up from school by staff and can participate in a range of activities like arts, science, photography, gardening, playground games and more. Fhpdx.org
Art4Life provides after-school care at a variety of Southeast Portland Public Schools (PPS), including Abernethy Elementary, Richmond Elementary and Winterhaven K-8. Students explore and experiment with a range of activities, including visual arts, music, drama, physical movement and more. Art4life.net.
Portland Metro Arts offers After School Arts Club. This program is in conjunction with the classes offered by the nonprofit arts institution to bridge the gap between its arts classes to create full after-school care. The After School Arts Club includes snacks, homework help, and creative activities in dance, music, theater and visual arts. Transportation is available from many eastside PPS and private schools. Pdxmetroarts.org.
Write Now! offers a variety of writing classes at a few eastside PPS schools as well as at Oregon Episcopal School. The program facilitates free writing, enabling kids to tap into their creativity and unique voices. Writenowportland.com
Camp Fire Columbia has beforeand after-school care for children at a range of PPS schools, including in North, Northeast, Southwest and Southeast Portland. This program seeks to build community and a sense of belonging for each student as they make new friends, try new activities and learn new skills. Campfirecolumbia.org
YMCA provides after-school care for students at multiple eastside PPS elementary schools including Alameda, Arleta, Beach, Faubion, Grout, Laurelhurst, Lewis, Llewellyn, Marysville, Rigler, Scott, Vernon and Vestal. YMCA also partners with select schools in the Hillsboro and Beaverton School Districts. Children participate in a range of fun activities like sports and crafts while building confidence as they explore their interests. Ymcacw.org
Kids Community Learning Center serves kids at a variety of Northwest Portland schools, including Metropolitan Learning Center, and Chapman, Emerson and Ainsworth Elementary Schools. Music lessons, homework help, free play and more will fill your child’s after-school hours. Kidscommunity.org
SUN — Schools Uniting Neighborhoods
Some Multnomah County public schools offer onsite SUN school programs, which are run with community partners such as Latino Network, Portland Parks & Recreation or Impact NW. SUN schools offer free or low-cost after-school enrichment and additional community resources such as free food pantries and adult workshops. Ask if your child’s school has a SUN program or visit multco.us/sun/sun-community-schools to find out more.
Sarah Vanbuskirk is a writer and editor based in Portland. She is the mother of five kids from age 12 to 21 and specializes in creating health, wellness, pregnancy and parenting content.
OPEN HOUSE
Kindergarten through 8th grade
Sunday, October 27, 2024
12:00-3:00pm
Children welcome!
Bridges Middle School
Student/Teacher
% Students of Color
Inclusive/Accessible
ADD/ADHD Support
Bridges is the only middle school in Oregon specifically designed for students with learning differences to reach their maximum potential. Our small class settings for 5th-8th graders incorporate individualized academics, social skills and therapies, in a loving, nurturing atmosphere. For many Bridges students, this means the difference between effective learning and being passed along. It means positive social and emotional growth rather than isolation.
Address 2510 SW 1st Ave., Portland, OR 97201
Website BridgesMS.org
Phone 503-688-2922
School Overview:
Year Founded 1999
School Type Independent, private
Grades Offered Fifth to eighth grade
Religious Affiliation None
Languages Taught English
School Memberships and Accreditations
COGNIA, Oregon Department of Education
Oregon Episcopal School
Number of Students
870, including 60 boarders
Student/Teacher Ratio 7:1
Average Class Size 16–18 students
Campus Size 59 acres
Faculty with advanced degrees 80%
Admission Deadline
Lower School: January 21
Middle and Upper School: February 4
Open House Dates
Lower School: October 17
Middle and Upper School: October 20 oes.edu/openhouse-ppg
Tuition
$30,200–$43,800 (day, pre-K–12th grade)
$75,500 (boarding, grades 9–12)
Financial Aid Available Yes Activities
Art, music, theater, no-cut sports, and science expo
Summer School Offered Yes (day camps) oes.edu/summer
Before/After Care Yes
Graduates
100% are admitted to four-year colleges
Since 1869, Oregon Episcopal School has prepared students to realize their power for good as engaged citizens of the world.
Nestled among the woodlands and wetlands of Southwest Portland, OES offers a distinctive Pre-K– Grade 12 educational experience. At OES, students embark on a “learn by doing” approach, engaging in thought-provoking, inquiry-based programs designed to nurture their growth and unlock their full potential.
Address 6300 SW Nicol Rd., Portland, OR 97223
Website oes.edu
Phone 503-768-3115
School Overview:
Year Founded 1869
School Type Independent, day and boarding school
Grades Offered Pre-K to 12th Grade
Religious Affiliation Episcopal
Languages Taught French, Spanish and Chinese
School Memberships and Accreditation
Northwest Association of Independent Schools
International School of Portland
School Type
International Baccalaureate, Language Immersion, Play-based
Grades Offered
Preschool-5th Grade
Languages Taught Mandarin, Japanese, Spanish
Number of Students
390
Student/Teacher Ratio 9:1
Average Class Size 14
Admission Deadline Rolling
Extracurricular Activities
Global Kids After School Enrichment Programming
Montessori School of Beaverton
School Type Montessori
Grades Offered Pre-K-6th grade
Languages Taught Spanish in the Elementary
Number of Students 170
Student/Teacher Ratio 15:1
Admission Deadline Rolling Admissions
Additional Information
Child-centered education, access to outdoor space, authentic Montessori education, mixed-age classrooms
Embrace the world! Since 1990, we’ve offered full language and cultural immersion in a warm, loving environment that encourages curiosity and kindness. We provide three full language immersion programs — Mandarin, Spanish and Japanese — under one roof. We are proud to be an International Baccalaureate World School.
Address 2305 S Water Ave., Portland OR 97201
Website intlschool.org
Phone 503-226-2496 x110
MSB is an independent Montessori School for children ages 3-12. Founded in 1977, MSB is located on six woodland acres just West of Portland. We invite you to explore our beautiful school and learn about our authentic Montessori Preschool and Elementary Programs. Admissions Events held for Parents on campus October-March.
Address 11065 NW Crystal Creek Ln., Portland, OR 97229
Website msb.org
Phone 503-439-1597
Northwest Academy
School Type
Arts-Focused, College Prep
Grades Offered 6-12
Religious Affiliation None
Languages Taught Spanish, French, Mandarin, ASL
Number of Students
250
Student/Teacher Ratio 7:1
Tuition
$29,192-$31,130
Financial Aid Available Yes
Cedarwood Waldorf School
School Type
Waldorf
Grades Offered Parent-Child through Grade 8
Languages Taught Spanish, Japanese
Number of Students
242
Student/Teacher Ratio
8:1
Tuition
$8,500–$21,250
Admission Deadline Open
Extracurricular Activities Handwork, Orchestra, Ultimate Frisbee
Memberships and Accreditations AWSNA, WECAN, NWAIS
Northwest Academy is a progressive independent middle and high school college preparatory program that inspires students to learn and achieve through its unique academic and arts partnership. At every grade level, we respect our students’ abilities to comprehend challenging ideas and demonstrate their understanding with insight and creativity.
Address 1130 SW Main St., Portland, OR 97205
Website nwacademy.org
Phone 503-223-3367
Cedarwood is more than a school. It is a place for families to grow, learn, and connect with community. Minutes from downtown Portland, we nurture children’s skills, creativity, and inner strength, blending arts, academics, and movement. Waldorf and NWAIS accredited.
Address 3030 SW 2nd Ave., Portland, OR 97201
Website cedarwoodschool.org/welcome-to-cedarwood
Phone 503-245-1477
L’Etoile French Immersion School
School Type French Immersion School
Grades Offered
Ages 2.5-5th Grade
Religious Affiliation N/A
Languages Taught French
Number of Students 150 Tuition
$11,140-$16,630
Admission Deadline Rolling Admissions
German International School
School Type
International Baccalaureate & Immersion
Grades Offered
2 years-8th grade
Religious Affiliation N/A
Languages Taught German, Mandarin & English
Number of Students
360
Student/Teacher Ratio 16:1
Average Class Size 16 Tuition
$13,100-$17,750 Annual
Admission Deadline February 2025 & rolling for additional open spots
Extracurricular Activities Clubs, Athletics & Theatre
L’Etoile French Immersion School is an independent school accredited by the French Ministry of Education for students aged 2½ through 12. Located in the heart of Portland in John’s Landing, we aim to create a sense of well-being and confidence for our children to become capable, independent thinkers.
Address 5839 S Hood Ave., Portland, OR 97239
Website letoilefrenchschool.com
School Phone 503-843-8616
The German International School (GIS) is an independent language immersion school offering German and Chinese language tracks for children 2 years old through 8th grade and an International English track for Middle school students. No German or Mandarin language experience is required for the early learning and middle school programs.
Address 3900 SW Murray Blvd., Beaverton, OR 97005
Website gspdx.org
Phone 503-626-9089
The Marylhurst School
School Type
Independent Progressive
Grades Offered
Preschool–8th Grade
Languages Taught Spanish
Number of Students
150
Student/Teacher Ratio
8:1
Average Class Size 17
Tuition
$12,470–$16,500
Admission Deadline Rolling
Extracurricular Activities
Afterschool Enrichment Classes and Summer Camps
French International School of Oregon
School Type
Language Immersion, International Baccalaureate (IB)
Grades Offered
2.5 years old-8th grade
Languages Taught
English, French, German, Spanish, Mandarin
Number of Students
595
Student/Teacher Ratio
9:1
Tuition
$19,000-$27,000
Admission Deadline
Rolling (February 1: priority consideration)
Extracurricular Activities Athletics, Aftercare, Camps
Located on 38 forested acres, The Marylhurst School is a progressive education community serving preschool through 8th grade. Through an inquirybased approach driven by children's interests and questions, our curriculum provides a framework for meaningful learning. Our core principle is to guide children into becoming creators, citizens, and explorers.
Address 15544 S Clackamas River Dr., Oregon City, OR
Website themarylhurstschool.org
Phone 503-650-0978
French International School of Oregon provides an exceptional independent school education through the dynamic convergence of language immersion and the IB World School framework. French International educates students from a global perspective, preparing them to engage with inclusivity, achieve with integrity, and excel with distinction.
Address 8500 NW Johnson St., Portland, OR 97229
Website frenchintl.org
Phone 503-292-7776
Touchstone Schools
Touchstone Preschools provide the perfect balance of learning and play. Our proprietary curriculum, Links to Learning, prepares children for kindergarten and beyond by developing important academic, social and emotional skills. Call or schedule a private tour to learn more at TouchstoneSchools.com.
Addresses 7090 SW Fir Loop, Portland, OR 6355 NE Cornelius Pass Rd., Hillsboro, OR
Website TouchstoneSchools.com Phone 866-537-4455
Portland Jewish Academy
School Type
Independent School Grades Offered Infant to Eighth Grade Religious Affiliation Jewish Languages Taught Hebrew Number of Students 300 Student/Teacher Ratio 10:1
Average Class Size 18
Inclusive/Accessible Supports
Academic support and classroom accommodations provided.
Tuition: Early Childhood (6 weeks-5 years) $1,070-$2,278 per month. Grades K-5: $24,480, Grades 6-8: $25,530. Tuition Assistance Available
Admission Deadline January 31, 2025
Extracurricular Activities
Athletics, gardening, and community service
PJA is an inclusive Jewish community school that welcomes families of all backgrounds. We offer a unique education infused with Jewish values that emphasizes collaborative learning, critical thinking, and character development. Our students are empowered to think for themselves and work for the world.
Address 6651 SW Capitol Hwy., Portland, OR 97219
Website pjaproud.org
Phone 503-244-0126
Portland Waldorf School
School Type
Waldorf
Grades Offered
Preschool-12
Religious Affiliation
None
Languages Taught Spanish, Mandarin
Number of Students
325
Average Class Size 22
Admission Deadline January 31
Extracurricular Activities
Performing Arts, Outdoor Program, Athletics
Tucker Maxon School
School Type
Academic and Literacy Focus
Grades Offered
Preschool to fifth grade
Number of Students
100
Student/Teacher Ratio 8-to-1
Average Class Size 12
Inclusive/Accessible Supports Literacy, Deaf and Hard of Hearing, Speech and Communication Tuition
$11,300/year Elementary, $11,975/year Preschool (other services see website)
Admission Deadline None/Rolling
Extracurricular Activities
Before and After Care, After-School ASL, Science, Chess, Yearbook, Art, Dungeons & Dragons, Oregon Battle of Books, Goats
Located 15 minutes from downtown Portland, our seven-acre campus hosts a vibrant community of families and students from preschool through 12th grade. Our curriculum is designed to engage the whole child, nurturing intellectual curiosity alongside artistic expression and a deep connection to the world around them.
Address 2300 SE Harrison St., Milwaukie, OR 97222
Website portlandwaldorf.org
School Phone 503-654-2200
Tucker Maxon has it all: amazing teachers, small class sizes, happy children, academic excellence, social and emotional learning, cutting-edge literacy curriculum, a great library, top-notch facilities and playground, STEM, PE, a caring community, and all at a low cost.
Tucker Maxon: Where Every Child has a Voice.
Address 2860 SE Holgate Blvd., Portland, OR 97202
Website tuckermaxon.org
Phone 503-235-6551
Childpeace Montessori School
School Type
Private Montessori
Grades Offered 12 Months–8th Grade
Languages Taught Spanish
Number of Students 261
Student/Teacher Ratio 10:1
Inclusive/Accessible Supports Yes
Admission Deadline Rolling Admissions
Extracurricular Activities Dance, Theater, Skilled Trades
A Renaissance School of Arts & Sciences
School Type
Inquiry/Critical Thinking/Innovative Application
Grades Offered K-8 with early entry KG
Number of Students 125-145
Student/Teacher Ratio 10-12 per teacher
Tuition $16,750 plus fees
Admission Deadline Rolling Admission
Extracurricular Activities
A wide variety of extracurricular options
Childpeace is the leading AMI-certified Montessori school offering developmentally-focused curriculum that meets children exactly where they are in order to foster a love of learning, self confidence, and community-mindedness. Empowering children 12 months through middle school, Childpeace Montessori School is developing champions of positive change, one child at a time.
Address 1516 NW Thurman St., Portland, OR 97209
Website childpeace.org
Phone 503-222-1197
Art, design, science and engineering are lively, natural contexts for the introduction, development, and application of skills and concepts. Learners are challenged at the edge of their abilities and supported individually to achieve academically. Critical and creative thinking, collaboration, and craftsmanship are hallmarks of our work.
Address 234 S Bancroft St., Portland, OR 97239
Website renpdx.org
School Phone 971- 221-2311
Franciscan Montessori Earth School and St. Francis Academy
School Type
Catholic Montessori
Grades Offered
Pre-K-8th grade
Religious Affiliation Catholic
Languages Taught Spanish, German Number of Students 270
Student/Teacher Ratio 12:1
Average Class Size 24 Tuition
$8,580-$14,460
Extracurricular Activities Sports, STEM, Chess
Valley Catholic School
School Type Private
Grades Offered
Pre-K-12
Religious Affiliation Catholic
Languages Taught Spanish and French Number of Students 1,200
Student/Teacher Ratio 16:1
Average Class Size 16
Extracurricular Activities No-cut athletics, music, theater
Private lessons available for people of all ages
The Franciscan Montessori Earth School has been inspiring children to expand their mind, nurture their spirit, and steward the Earth. Through the academic and experiential learning process developed by Dr. Maria Montessori, and influenced by the spirituality of St. Francis, students learn to respect themselves, and the Earth we share.
Address 14750 SE Clinton St., Portland, OR 97236
Website fmes.org
Phone 503-760-8220
Located on the Sisters of St. Mary of Oregon's beautiful 43-acre campus, Valley Catholic School is an engaging, supportive, faithbased education experience. Rigorous classes start early and college preparation begins in middle school. Students are empowered to learn, perform, compete and serve. VCS — Excellence in Everything. Opportunity for Everyone.
Address 4420 SW St. Mary’s Dr., Beaverton, OR 97078
Website valleycatholic.org
Phone 503-718-6500
Health Wellness
ACCESSIBLE & INCLUSIVE RESOURCES
Winner Harper’s Playground Harpersplayground.org
Have you been to an accessible and inclusive playground in the Portland area, or even in Vancouver? If so, chances are that that playground was made fun for kiddos of all abilities thanks to the organization, Harper’s Playground. (There’s also a playground of the same name in North Portland, pictured below.) The organization, named after the daughter of the founders, designs and builds inclusive and accessible playgrounds. Today. there are seven playgrounds in the Portland-metro area.
Top 5
Albertina Kerr’s Children’s Developmental Health Services
Children’s Healing Art Project (CHAP)
Sensory Kids, LLC
Spectra Gymnastics
Tucker Arts Camp and Tucker Maxon School
DENTIST FOR KIDS
Winner Hollywood Children’s Dentistry
3839 NE Tillamook St., hcdpdx.com
Lights, camera, healthy teeth! The dentists and hygienists at Hollywood Children’s Dentistry offer professional pediatric dental services to kiddos in a colorful, moviethemed setting. They also offer emergency and restorative care.
Top 5
Dentistry for Kids
Little Smiles Pediatric Dentistry
Portland Children’s Dentistry
Sprout Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics
World of Smiles Pediatric Dentistry
PEDIATRICIAN
Winner Sellwood Medical Clinic
Multiple locations, sellwoodmd.com
Having a good pediatrician for your child is essential — after all, they’ll be caring for them during all the big developmental milestones. The physicians and staff at Sellwood Medical Clinic set new and seasoned parents at ease, providing quality care in a comforting environment. And there are four locations to choose from!
PEDIATRIC URGENT CARE
Winner Brave Care
Multiple locations, bravecare.com
There are few things worse than your kiddo needing immediate medical care. But when it happens, Portland parents take their children to Brave Care. This pediatric urgent care is open daily and offers walk-ins. Even better, each of the three locations have on-site labs, pharmacies and over-the-counter medicines.
Top 5
Legacy GoHealth Urgent Care
Kaiser Permanente Care Essentials
Shriners Hospital’s Walk-in Fracture & Sports Injury Clinic
Tanasbourne Providence Urgent Care
ZoomCare
Top 5
Broadway Medical Clinic, LLP
Metropolitan Pediatrics, LLC
FAMILY- FRIENDLY FITNESS
Winner Ready Set GROW Yoga and Dance Studio
5433 NE 30th Ave., andreadysetgrow.com
It can be hard to exercise with littles. Ready Set GROW simplifies it by creating yoga and dance classes you do with your kids. Move together during baby and me yoga classes, babywearing dances classes, family yoga, dance for toddlers and more.
OHSU Doernbecher Pediatrics Clinic
Pediatric Associates of the Northwest
Randall Children’s Pediatric Care-Emanuel
SPECIALTY SERVICES FOR KIDS
Winner Shriners Hospital for Children
3101 SW Sam Jackson Park Rd., shrinerschildrens.org
This year, Shriners Hospital for Children is celebrating its centennial anniversary. The facility on Marquam Hill offers specialized pediatric care for a range of orthopedic conditions, and rare diseases and syndromes.
Preschool, Kindergarten & Childcare Center 4845 SW Murray Boulevard, Beaverton, OR 97005 503-644-1466 | sunshine-montessori.com
Ages: 2 years through Kindergarten Hours: 7:30 am - 5:30 pm (Mon - Fri)
• Locally owned and operated
• Serving the community since 1996
• Qualified & consistent staff
525 SW 150th Avenue, Beaverton, OR 97006
503-626-0457 | www.nwlearning.com
Ages: Infant through Kindergarten
Hours: 7:30 am - 5:30 pm (Mon - Fri)
Top 5
Barre3
Fit4Mom
Hike it Baby
Mittleman Jewish Community Center
Multnomah Athletic Club
Top 5
Northwest Reading Clinic NW Pediatric & Family Nutrition
OHSU Casey Eye Institute
Ronald McDonald House
Charities of Oregon & SW
Washington
Rose Bud Speech Therapy
Early Learning School 14950 SW Osprey Drive, Beaverton, OR 97007 503-579-0600 | childs-place.com
Ages: Infant through Kindergarten
Hours 7:00 am - 6:00 pm (Mon - Fri)
• Large outdoor play areas
• Snacks & lunch prepared and served daily
Preschool, Kindergarten & Childcare Center 17650 SW Alexander Street, Aloha, OR 97003 503-591-9660 | www.mayflower-montessori.com
Ages: Infant through Kindergarten
Hours: 7:00 am - 6:00 pm (Mon - Fri)
CruisingTogether
Head to the Friday Night Cruise In at Alderbrook Park to spy classic cars — and romp through oodles of kid-friendly activities that are all included with admission.
Alderbrook Park is your escape from the city in southwest Washington. Located outside the tiny town of Brush Prairie in Clark County, you’ll quickly think you’re driving to a summertime pumpkin patch in the woods during the weekly Friday Night Cruise In from 4-8pm. Not only is the event fun for the whole family (except the dog; leave the four-legged friends at home), the location boasts playgrounds, pedal boats, and so, so many classic cars — in a surprisingly wholesome and noncommercial way. I recently went with my second grader and his friend and we had a blast.
Alderbrook the Experience
Alderbrook began as a dream in the 1920s and has evolved over time. At one time there was a five-star restaurant in this space and a big band orchestra. The park now boasts a man-made lake, loads of activities, multiple event buildings and an open-air amphitheater.
In a time where it seems like everything nickel and dimes your parental dollar after paying admission to enter, Alderbrook Park is a breath of fresh air (literally, forest air) with all activities included for the price of entry ($10 for adults; $5 for kids 4-13; and ages 3 and under are free) every week during the Friday Night Cruise Ins (which
run from May through September). There’s plenty of parking in the well-marked and lit lots. Pro tip: Bring your wagon or grab a push cart for the toddlers.
After parking, we walked up and over the hill and got a fantastic view of all the classic and custom cars — we saw around 100! When we visited, we spotted old-school roadsters, hot rods and even a Delorean.
The cars aren’t the only bit of nostalgia, as the entire venue is connected to its long history with old-fashioned, unplugged fun. We began at the Alderbrook Cafe. The park runs three different snack stands that offer traditional American fare like hot dogs and french fries, pretzels, candies and sodas. Prices are very reasonable with a kids corn dog basket for $6, an iced coffee for $5, and $6 for a beer. (You can also bring your own food, but it’s not a BYOB venue, so no booze). Pro tip: We were told there was only one fryer, so all the chicken strips came out, then all the french fries came out. Service was fast, but you may want to plan ahead for hot food.
If you are undecided on what to do first, you can take the familyfriendly train on a circle tour. During our visit, we played the Oregon Trail-themed mini golf. My son played out of order, but no one minded. Then we ventured over to the children’s play area. We crossed the bridge above the bubbling creek, where a pirate ship and traditional play structures awaited. The kids had so much fun here, as the shaded playground is also cooled by a little stream. The pirate ship was my personal favorite, but I think the boys liked the slide better.
STORY AND PHOTOS BY KATE HAGAN GALLUP
PHOTO CREDIT
Alderbrook Park’s Fun Activities
Here are even more activities included with admission!
• Tractor Train Ride. Board near the mini golf course.
• Vendor Alley. Walk through different vendors of food and goods.
• Playground. Basic play area with swings and small climbers over sand.
• Petting Zoo. This attraction wasn’t open when we visited. Call to check.
• Bouncy House. No shoes, jump til you drop.
• Frisbee Golf. The far end of the park has a lakeside frisbee golf course.
But wait, there’s more! The park also has fun water activities. We took a four-person pedal boat onto the lake (life jackets for kids were provided). I ended up doing most of the pedaling, as the boys’ legs got “tired” halfway across the lake. Pro tip: Both sets of pedals turn on the same access, so if you have uneven pedalers you won’t get stuck spinning in a circle. There’s also a swimming pool, featuring both zero entry, and a 3-foot deep end. There is a lifeguard, changing area, and seating onsite. Pro tip: Depending on the weather this might be a little cold so be prepared. My kid jumped in, then jumped right out shouting, “Cold!” His friend joining us fared a little better, but pronounced some areas a bit slippery when approaching the deeper end. We ended our visit at the pink lemonade fountain: It’s free lemonade, served water-fountain style. It actually tastes good, too! Pro tip: Be courteous and don’t fill a cup or water bottle so everyone can have some.
And you’ll even find traditional summer fun like volleyball, cornhole, giant chess and other favorite yard games. Plus there was a DJ onsite playing classic hits while we were there. There’s truly something for all ages.
Kate Hagan Gallup has experience with marketing clients big and small. A mother to a little boy, her most recent roles and digital skills help share her passion for parenting, eco-consciousness and all things food with a larger audience.
If You Go
Alderbrook Park is a drive, but worth it. The park is north of Vancouver, so use your GPS. But there are many clear road signs as you approach the 3-4 mile mark. Paved roads until the very last stretch where you park in the trees and you’ll know you’re on the way to the Cruise In because you’ll see locals lining the streets to watch the cars pull in for the evening. Parking is free and has clear signage, with regular attendees heading towards the parking lot and show cars heading to the field. Handicap parking is available, but pathways are trail-based and can be rather bumpy.
Admission is $5 for veterans and seniors, $10 for adults 14-65, $5 for kids 4-13, and ages 3 and under are free. Pay and get stamped at the door. There are multiple bathrooms (not portables) onsite with changing tables, plus plentiful trash cans and seating areas for snacks and cleanliness. Pro tip: Neither us nor our friends on a different plan had either phone or Wi-Fi. Take this visit as time to unplug.
For more info, alderbrookparkevents.com/fridaynight-cruise-in.
PIZZA Mindbending
Nationally noted Hapa Pizza in Beaverton slings inventive pies — plus plain cheese for finicky kids.
STORY AND PHOTOS BY DENISE CASTAÑON
If You Go
Hapa Pizza. 12755 SW Broadway St., Beaverton. (There’s also a cart at the Beaverton Farmers Market.) Hapapizza.com. Closed Sunday to Tuesday. Check website for hours.
My family visited Hapa Pizza in Beaverton three days after The New York Times named the establishment to be one of the best 22 pizza places in the United States. According to Hapa Pizza’s website, “hapa” refers to a person of mixed racial heritage with partial roots in Asian and/or Pacific Islander ancestry. And the pizza very much reflects a mix of cultures. Several of the pizzas take well-known Asian dishes and transmute them to pizza toppings to mind-blowing effect.
We were prepared for a wait, and arrived 15 minutes before the doors opened on a Saturday night. (There was a sign expressing gratitude for The New York Times mention and asking customers for their patience as the staff adjusted to a 200% increase in business!) Pro tip: Arrive early, prepare for a wait. My kids brought several graphic novels and a notebook to draw in.
As of our visit, the restaurant operates as an order-at-the-counter, then find-a-seat joint (although we noticed some customers claiming tables before they ordered, making the wait a bit
longer). There are a few two- or fourtop tables inside and larger picnic tables outside.
My family reached the counter to order by around 5:30 pm, but the host was just taking names for the waitlist at that point. Luckily the staff figured out who shouldn’t be seated yet, and politely cleared some tables. We ordered and then ended up sharing an outside table with a couple who was on the waitlist.
My husband and I had wanted to try the Korean Burrata Salad and the Tom Yum Caesar Salad, but they were out of the caesar. So we got two burratas ($13 each). The salad was a lively mix of textures and flavors: crunchy cucumbers and almonds, sweet summer tomatoes, devilishly spicy dressing, and two mounds of rich, creamy burrata. My husband and I polished off our salads, but could have easily split one.
We also ordered three pizzas. A half cheese, half pepperoni ($15) for my 12-yearold daughter, Adela, and 9-year-old son, Cruz, to split. And bánh mì and pho pies.
Hapa’s 12-inch pizzas come on a delightfully chewy and charred Neopolitanstyle crust. It makes a great palette for their inventive toppings. The bánh mì ($19) took the elements of the Vietnamese sandwich of the same name — barbecue pork, pickled radish and carrots, cilantro — and put them on a pizza (pictured above). It was excellent. The pork was sweet and charred, the pickled vegetables bright and tangy with mozzarella cheese, cucumber sauce and sriracha aioli bringing it all together.
But the one my family couldn’t stop talking about was the pho pizza ($19) with slow-cooked, stewed brisket, pho sauce, red onion, mozzarella, cilantro, green onions, bean sprouts, hoisin and sriracha aioli. Would one of our favorite soups successfully translate to a pizza? Short answer: Yes. “It’s like the soup is on the pizza!” said Adela, who after trying a bite of the pizza grabbed a whole slice for herself. My husband backed her up, “I really feel like I just ate pho, but
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I just ate pizza. It’s really a mind trip. Is that a good thing? The beauty of this is that it’s something different.”
And three pizzas was more than enough for the four of us. We had almost a whole pizza leftover even after sharing a slice of the pho pizza with our tablemates who were waiting on their pies.
We would have loved to try the two desserts, a coconut tapioca pudding and a panna cotta both featuring seasonal strawberries, but they were also out of both desserts by the time we ordered.
Despite the line, the wait, sold out items and table confusion, it was a positive dining experience. The food was fresh and fun. The staff was amazing. They were clearly working so hard and cared about providing an excellent experience for their customers. Our server noticed the graphic novel Adela was reading and asked about it. “Oh, if I wasn’t so busy I’d love to talk to you about it!,” he said. That said, if you’re dining out with a toddler it might not be the best restaurant to visit right now because in my experience, the combo of toddlers and long waits do not make for pleasant dining ambience for parents — or anyone really. (They do have highchairs though.) But for everyone else, it could be a fun family dining adventure. As our table mate said, “What else ya gonna do? It’s Saturday night!”
Editor Denise Castañon loves exploring Portland's family-friendly dining scene with her husband, 12-year-old daughter and 9-year-old son.
Contact us today for a free consultation call!
#: (503) 270-3811 admin@empowerwhoyouare.com empowerwhoyouare.com
AUGUST 2024
Go. Play. Explore.
fair weather
You’ll find so much to entertain your family at the Oregon State Fair! Hit the rides and games at the carnival midway, catch Goo Goo Dolls or Foreigner on the concert stage, browse ribbon-winning baked goods and art, see some prize-winning farm animals, or watch a rodeo or demolition derby. Friday, August 23 to Monday, September 2. At the Oregon State Fairgrounds in Salem. Presale admission: Adults: $10; kids 6 and older: $8; seniors: $1; 5 and under are free. Pro tip: The online Family 4 Pack for two adults and two kids is a good deal at $25! General parking is $5. Oregonstatefair.org. — Denise Castañon
Top 3 Free
Fun stuff for zero dollars!
pretty perennials
Swan Island is in full bloom in August with the month-long Dahlia Festival. Check out more than 370 varieties of these colorful perennials, as well as purchase fresh-cut flower bouquets or bulbs to take home and plant. There’s also food carts on site, live music and classes on dahlia care. Swan Island Dahlias in Canby. Free admission. dahlias.com/our-farm/ annual-dahlia-festival. — T.H.
Watch wildly decorated homemade contraptions come careening down the slopes of Mount Tabor at the PDX Adult Soapbox Derby Pro tip: Some race vehicles shoot water on the crowd, so plan to get wet! Saturday, August 17, 10 am-4 pm. At Mount Tabor Park. Food for purchase. Soapboxracer.org
Portland Parks & Recreation’s Summer Free for All programming is still going strong until school starts. Dance it out to the soul funk groove of Outer Orbit on Friday, August 16, 6:30 pm. At Alberta Park. Or spread out a picnic blanket and watch Night at the Museum at Rose City Park on August 17, 7:30 pm. Find the full list of free concerts, movies and more at portland.gov/parks/arts-culture/ summer-free-all
In addition to their usual storytimes for all ages, the Multnomah County Library system has extra free kids programming during the summer. Some of our picks include: painting watercolor forests Sunday, August 4, 2-3 pm at Sellwood-Moreland Library; Somali henna and crafts Sunday, August 10, 2-4 pm at Capitol Hill Library; and crafting garden seed bombs Thursday, August 15, 2-3:30 pm at Gregory Heights Library. Find more information and events at multcolib.org/events-classes — D.C.
Find more family fun on our online calendar: pdxparent.com/events-calendar. Be sure to confirm the most up-to-date info with event organizers before heading out.
hit the street
It’s peak street fair season. Head to the Beaumont-Wilshire neighborhood for Fremont Fest. You’ll find more than 150 vendor booths, live music and kids’ activities. Saturday, August 3, 10 am-4 pm. On Northeast Fremont Street from 42nd Avenue to 51st Avenue. Free admission. — D.C.
honoring the past
Memorializing loved ones is what Obon Fest is all about. Expect Japanese dancing, music, kids’ activities and displays. Plus food, kimonos, and arts and crafts for purchase. Sunday, August 3, 2-9 pm. At Oregon Buddhist Temple, 3720 SE 34th. Ave. Free admission. Oregonbuddhisttemple.com/obon-festival — D.C.
up late
Get the experience of an Asian night market right here in Portland!
The 8th annual Jade International Night Market returns to the Jade District in Southeast Portland. Browse vendors, enjoy amazing performances and buy delicious food all in the cool of the evening. Saturday August 10, 3-10 pm. At Portland Community College Southeast Campus, 2305 SE 82nd Ave. Jadedistrict.org — D.C.
old-fashioned fun
Scope out steam engines, antique tractors, and much more at the second weekend of the Great Oregon Steam-Up at Powerland Heritage Park. There’s a kids’ tractor pull as well as a chance for them to win prizes. And dig for vintage treasures at the flea market or grab a meal from onsite food carts. Saturday and Sunday, August 3-4. At Powerland Heritage Park 3995 Brooklake Rd. NE, Brooks, Ore. Adult admission: $17; youth 13-17: $12; kids 12 and younger and current or retired military: free. Antiquepowerland.com — D.C.
stinkin’ good time
Bring along some mints, it’s time for the 26th annual Elephant Garlic Festival! Celebrate your love of this fragrant bulb by noshing on foods from more than a dozen vendors, plus a parade, live music from local bands, unique goods from artisans and more. FridaySunday, August 9-11. Free admission. Jessie Mays Community Park in North Plains. Funstinks.com. — T.H.
LAUREN BEGLEY PHOTO
concerts al fresco
Outdoor concert season is in full force right now. Don’t miss two days of free evening concerts among the roses at the Washington Park Summer Festival
On Saturday, August 10 enjoy Rejoice Diaspora Dance with original music performed by Darrell Grant and an amazing lineup of musicians. On Sunday, August 11 get ready for a family-friendly evening of traditional Mexican folk music with Edna Vazquez and Mariachi Portland. Washington Park Rose Garden Amphitheater. Shows start at 6 pm each night. — D.C.
