PDX Parent November 2023

FREE

WINTER'S BEST FAMILY GETAWAYS, PG. 34

for the long days and short years

The

Education ISSUE

PDXPARENT.COM

PORTLAND | SW WASHINGTON | NOVEMBER 2023

contents C ATHERINE RYAN GR EGORY

34

FEATURES

DEPARTMENTS

The State of Special Education: Show Me the Money..................... 12

Editor’s Note............................................................................................................................... 4

In the second of our two-part series, learn about record-breaking funds allotted to Oregon’s students from our legislature. We also spotlight the contentious teacher and staff union bargaining in which educators are asking for extra support for special education students and staff.

By Shasta Kearns Moore.

Play Room..................................................................................................................................... 6 A new, preventative RSV treatment for babies; how kids’ well-being ranks in Oregon and Washington; and an author and dad who has penned a new, Oregon-centered kids’ book.

Family Supper........................................................................................................................38

Winter Your Way..................................................................................................................34 Whether your family prefers snowy outdoor adventures or cozy

Discover Japanese comfort food at Tanaka, now in a new Bridgeport Village location.

By Bethany Marcel.

indoor getaways, we’ve got great winter vacation ideas.

By Catherine Ryan Gregory.

Field Trip.................................................................................................................................... 40

44

Baseball and softball players can keep their skills sharp even during the rainy season at the D-BAT PDX WEST training facility in Tigard.

By Denise Castañon.

Time Out......................................................................................................................................44 Celebrate Día de los Muertos, Veteran’s Day and Thanksgiving.

RESOURCES: * cover stories

WINTER WONDER L AND

Plus get ready for holiday light displays!

The Education Guide...............................................................................................16-32 Holiday Gift Guide..................................................................................................... 32-33 Holiday Highlights Guide................................................................................... 42-43 pdxparent.com

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e d i t o r ’ s n ot e

Oregon's Education Gap The Oregon Department of Education’s statewide assessment results released in September show that statewide, students in the 2022-2023 school year met grade-level expectations at lower rates than before the pandemic. Only 47% of fifth graders were proficient in reading and writing and 30.7% were proficient in math. And fifth-grade students with disabilities were even less likely to be proficient in math (11%) and language arts (18%).

Those numbers are not good. One bright spot is that Portland Public Schools' (PPS) students are doing better than the state average. For example, 60% of all PPS fifth graders ranked proficient in language arts and 46.5% in math. But again, only 34% of PPS students with disabilities in the fifth grade were proficient in reading and writing, and 25% understood gradelevel math standards. However, a report on the district’s successes and challenges in special education paid for by PPS noted that most disabilities do not affect cognition, so kids with disabilities should be testing at similar rates to their non disabled peers. And thanks to the excellent reporting by Shasta Kearns Moore, you can read more about this in The State of Special Education, part 2 on page 12. Another bright spot? Kearns Moore shares that the Oregon legislature approved record-breaking funds to schools this session.

But it will take some time for those funds to get where they are most needed. And understandably, some TR EVOR PAR K ER families want educational choices for their children beyond their neighborhood schools — whether it’s learning a foreign language, an emphasis on STEM, or high academic rigor. That’s why our annual Education Guide starting on page 16 is so helpful. You’ll be able to browse through our listings of excellent private schools and explore choices that will work for your family.

After all, every kid has different needs when it comes to school, and finding the right fit can make a world of difference. We wish you and your kiddos the best in your educational journey.

for the long days and short years

PDX Parent P.O. Box 13660 Portland, OR 97213-0660 Phone: 503-460-2774 Publisher Jill Weisensee, 503-460-2774 publisher@pdxparent.com Editor Denise Castañon, 503-922-0893 denise.castanon@pdxparent.com Managing Editor Tiffany Hill tiffany.hill@pdxparent.com Temporary Managing Editor Bethany Marcel Art Director Tiffany Howard tiffany.howard@pdxparent.com Web Content Coordinator Meg Asby meg.asby@pdxparent.com E-newsletter Editor Anne King anne.king@pdxparent.com Westside Account Executive Lauren Wylie, 503-331-8184 lauren.wylie@pdxparent.com Eastside Account Executive Alice Schulz, 971-236-4037 alice.schulz@pdxparent.com Digital Ad Manager/Calendar Editor/ Distribution Coordinator Melissa Light melissa.light@pdxparent.com Accountant Kelli Bagby Truly Bookkeeping, Inc. Vice President of Operations Rose Caudillo operations@pdxparent.com For distribution issues, e-mail us at distribution@pdxparent.com For calendar submissions,

WINTER'S BEST FAMILY GETAWAYS, PG. 34

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e-mail us at calendar@pdxparent.com

ON OUR COVER

for the long days and short years

Thanks to Art Director Tiffany Howard for this colorful The

Education ISSUE

cover. Howard worked with stock images to create this vibrant, layered illustration focused on education. See more of her work at tiffolio.com.

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PORTLAND | SW WASHINGTON | NOVEMBER 2023

pdxparent.com

PDX Parent is published monthly (except July)

by Northwest Parent, LLC., and is copyright 2021 Northwest Parent, LLC. All rights reserved.

Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited. PDX Parent is distributed free of charge throughout the Portland, OR / Vancouver, WA metropolitan area.

PDX Parent reserves the right to refuse advertising for any reason. Distribution of this publication does not constitute an endorsement of the products or services advertised herein.

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Although every effort is taken to ensure the accuracy of published material, Northwest Parent, LLC., and its agents and employees cannot be held responsible for the use or misuse of any information contained herein.

The contents of PDX Parent and its website are for informational purposes only and are not intended to be a substitute for professional advice or treatment.

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p l ay r o o m

Gear Guide:

Airplane Travel

Gearing up for holiday travel but fear the endless hours stuck on an airplane with a bored kiddo? Dread the long, slothlike walk through the airport? No worries. Check out our suggestions for the best kid-friendly gear for holiday travel, and enjoy a relatively stress-free visit with the in-laws. << Carry-on Zoo Little Kid Backpack by Skip Hop When my daughter packs her own carry-on (with some supervision — no sweetie, you can’t bring your ninja sword on the plane), the trip always goes a little smoother. And this carry-on bag from Skip Hop is our favorite. It’s compact and portable, but still has plenty of room for snacks and entertainment, including the beloved tablet. We’ve had our backpack for several years with hardly any sign of wear and tear. With plenty of cute animals to choose from, your kid will proudly carry their own bag through the terminal. $22 at skiphop.com.

Kid Safe 2-in-1 Headphones S K IP

by Altec Lansing >>

HOP

I’m convinced over-ear headphones are one of the keys to a smooth flight. We love these Altec Lansing headphones for their affordable price tag as well as the ability to be both wireless (bluetooth) and wired. (Note that they are volume-limited for ears' safety, which means volume needs to be turned up quite high to hear ALTEC L ANSING

over the jet engines. However, this seems to be universal when it comes to kids’ headphones.) $19.99 at Fred Meyer. << Bento Box by Munchkin No parent would dare step foot on a cross-country flight without a bag full of snacks. And we love this Munchkin Bento Box found at Target. With plenty of compartments, there’s enough room to pack a variety of snacks, so everyone can be happy their favorites are included. It’s extremely M

HK UNC

IN

durable, fits easily in a carry-on, and comes in fun, bright colors. $20.99 at Target.

>>

Holiday Pajamas by

Hanna Andersson

A comfortable kid equals a happier flight for everyone. So what could be better than wearing pajamas on a long flight? Hanna Andersson offers so many adorable holiday pajama options you’ll be tempted to buy some for yourself as well. Prices start around $25, but they also offer used “hanna-meHANNA ANDER SSON

downs” for even more affordable options. Plus, when your child grows, you can sell back their preloved pajamas.

Find them at hannaandersson.com.

— Bethany Marcel

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Dad to Know:

Ask Dr. Baynham Q: I heard about a new RSV treatment for infants. I’m giving birth to my second child this month. What is this new preventative RSV treatment and should I consider it for my new baby?

illness in infants younger than 2 years of age, and infants under 4 weeks are at highest risk. Symptoms can include wheezing and difficulty breathing. In the U.S., RSV is the leading cause of hospitalization in infants under 1 year old. RSV has a hospitalization rate 16 times higher than the hospitalization rate for the flu. Approximately 600,000 children with RSV require some type of medical attention each season and 50,000 to 80,000 are hospitalized (75% of whom were previously healthy, full-term infants without any risk factors such as prematurity, chronic lung disease or heart disease). This season, a new monoclonal antibody injection for RSV called Beyfortus (nirsevimab) went to market.

While not technically a vaccine, Beyfortus provides a "vaccine-like" approach to preventing RSV — the injection is the antibody, so there is no lag time between receiving the injection and having protection from the disease. Beyfortus provides protection for the entire RSV season with just one dose. Studies

from RSV by 75%. That is huge! It is recommended for all infants younger than 8 months entering their first RSV season and for infants 8 to 19 months of age with risk factors who are entering their second RSV season.

Once the start of RSV season was declared a few weeks ago, we began administering Beyfortus to infants who qualified.

Unfortunately, the manufacturer underestimated the need and there is now a nationwide shortage. Our best estimate for when more doses will be ready is January 2024. This could change, and I hope it does. But for now I recommend calling your pediatrician, especially if you have a newborn or high risk infant, to check the current availability.

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

GAIL PAR K

respiratory virus. However, it is more likely to cause severe

showed it decreased the rate of need for medical attention

GAIL PAR K

A: Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a viral infection that can cause fever, cough and runny nose much like any other

healthy, resilient children. Come bond, share your struggles, and team with her for great care at Metropolitan Pediatrics in Tigard.

The Writer and Explorer Author, adventurer and dad, Stephen Bramucci recently released the middle-grade adventure book, Race for the Ruby Turtle, which is set in Oregon. In fact, Bramucci and his 6-year-old son, Julien River, explored the dense woods of the Nehalem Valley as research for the book. And Bramucci doesn’t just write about adventures. He’s also rowed down the Mekong River and explored a pirate graveyard in Madagascar — and he wants to instill that love of travel and adventure in his son and 3-year-old daughter, Zeela Sky. “With two kids, long term travel is… a tad more complicated,” Bramucci says. “But it’s still possible — it just takes some effort. We lived for a month in Costa Rica and another month in Mexico. We also travel heavily in the PNW. I grew up seeing and truly knowing Oregon. Those vacations shaped me and heavily influenced Race for the Ruby Turtle.”

Also the author of The Danger Gang books, Bramucci, who splits his time evenly between Northeast Portland, Southern California and the road, sums up Race for the Ruby Turtle as “a heartfelt eco-adventure with a neurodiverse protagonist and a truly menacing villain.”

Bramucci, like his protagonist Jake, has ADHD. “I would have loved to read about Jake as a kid,” he says.

K HOIVIE T HATHUC

“Because he grows attuned to the ‘good parts’ of ADHD and I never got that. I think that, thanks in part to the era I come from, I just knew that I drove my teachers crazy and I frustrated my parents. That’s not to say I never got praise – I did! But it never crystallized for me that the same brain wiring that made me distractible and impulsive was also the motor for my creativity.” Find out more at stephenbramucci.com/race-for-ruby-turtle-1003.

— Denise Castañon

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p l ay r o o m

Bookshelf: Tasty Reads

With Thanksgiving this month, many families will be cooking and baking to celebrate with loved ones. So it’s the perfect time of year to dive into some kids’ books about culinary creations. Thanks to Kim Tano and Madeline

Shier, the children’s book buyers at Powell’s City of Books, for these mouth-watering recommendations. Look for these titles at the Burnside, Hawthorne or Cedar Hills Powell’s locations, or order online at powells.com.

ABR AMS BOOKS

ABR AMS BOOKS

PHAIDON PR ESS

SIMON & SCHUSTER

PHOTO CR EDIT

Our Little Kitchen by

Cookies: An Interactive

Roll With It by Jamie

This picture book features

Nieminen

Being the new kid is hard;

art and text by Caldecott

I absolutely adore the Cook in

being the new kid with

to Make by Erin Gleeson

award winner Jillian Tamaki.

a Book board book series from

a wheelchair and a sick

beloved cookbook publisher

grandpa from the trailer park

This vegetarian cookbook

Taking place in a community kitchen, resourceful

Phaidon. Cleverly designed

is harder. But until Ellie makes

neighbors put together a

pull-tabs and flaps will fascinate

friends (and don’t worry,

wonderful and nutritious

toddlers as they work through

she does make friends!), at

shared meal as a means of

a first recipe for a very tasty

least she has her baking.

support and connection. The

treat — in this case, chocolate

Determined to be a baker

illustrations are so good you

chip cookies! A genuine look

one day, Ellie fills her time

can almost smell the bread

at first baking skills that’s also

with writing to professional

baking! A lovely addition to

entertaining in its own right for

chefs and practicing as many

any home library for ages 2

ages 2 and older. The best part

recipes as she can get her

and older.

is no ingredients are required!

hands on! Ages 10 and older.

$9.99.

$19.95.

$7.99.

Jillian Tamaki

Recipe Book by Lotta

Sumner

The Forest Feast for

Kids: Colorful Vegetarian Recipes That Are Simple

is sophisticated yet simple.

Young chefs will learn basic prep and cooking principles along with nutritious vegetarian meal planning.

Hand-drawn illustrations and great photos make this a feast to look at. Not to mention, your family will find new, healthy meals to enjoy.

Ages 8 and older. $22.99.

THE 2023 EDUCATION GUIDE

In the Know: Makeover,

School Library Addition This summer, Scholastic, in partnership with Great City Schools, a coalition of 78 of the nation’s largest urban public school systems, announced Portland Public Schools (PPS) as the

winner of the Richard M. Robinson Literacy Champion Award. The literacy award, named after the late Scholastic CEO, recognizes a school district for its progress in advancing reading achievement.

While the award is a nod to the hard work of all PPS school librarians, one school in particular earned even more. As part of the award, Jason Lee Elementary School in Northeast Portland received a grand library makeover. Chosen by PPS for the makeover, the school library received more than 6,000 new books and a one-year site license to Scholastic Literacy Pro, a program that provides 24/7 access to more than 2,500 fiction and nonfiction ebooks. (And to encourage independent reading over the summer, Jason Lee students also received 10 books to take home.)

According to the latest Scholastic Kids & Family Reading Report, 41% of students check out the greatest number of books for recreational reading from their school library. — Tiffany Hill PORTL AND PUBLIC SCHOOL S

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pdxparent.com

PRESENTS

George Balanchine’s

THE NUTCRACKER

®

DECEMBER 8 – 24, 2023 | KELLER AUDITORIUM

Featuring 12 Shows with the OBT Orchestra and introducing In a Nutshell, a one-hour sensory friendly Nutcracker for families with tiny tots.

r u o y d n i F

n o i t i d Tra

PRESENTING SPONSOR pdxparent.com

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p l ay r o o m

THE 2023 EDUCATION GUIDE

Chalkboard:

OR

vs.

WA

The Annie E. Casey Foundation crunched data from all 50 states and released its 2023 KIDS COUNT Data Book. The report shares the well-being of America’s kids by looking at indicators of economic well-being, education, health, family and community. And it ranks states for how children are faring overall. The 2023 KIDS COUNT Data Book shows that children in Washington are overall better off than the kids across the Columbia River in Oregon.

26

16

Oregon most notably ranked worse off in education than its northern neighbor. For example, a startling 72% of Oregon’s fourth graders were not proficient in reading compared to Washington’s 66%. The two states ranked similarly when it comes to families with a high burden of housing costs: Oregon 31% and Washington

OUT OF 50 STATES

30% — and when it comes to kids with household heads who lack a high school diploma: 10% for Oregon and 9% for Washington. One bright spot is both states,

Economic well-being: 30

Economic well-being: 25

Education: 44

Education: 28

Health: 7

Health: 6

Family and Community: 16

Family and Community: 10

which both provide free health insurance for qualifying children, ranked toward the top in children’s overall health. Washington came in 6 out of 50, while Oregon came in 7 out of 50.

In addition to these statistics, the KIDS COUNT report chose to highlight the issue of child care, noting the lack of options for families, the high cost of care from available providers and low wages for child care workers. “As a state, we need to recognize that the lack of accessible and affordable child care is not only a concern for families, but is also an economic issue,” says Jenifer Wagley, executive director of Our

Source: 2023 KIDS COUNT Data Book

Children Oregon, Oregon’s member of the KIDS COUNT network. “We must invest in policies and funding that prioritize supporting our working families and child care providers.” — D.C.

Pay Attention:

School Funds

on the Ballot This fall in Multnomah County, only about 3,000 voters who live in the city of Maywood Park, Riverdale Fire District or Scappoose School District will receive a ballot for the November 7 election.

Families in Scappoose who want a safe, modern and accessible middle school for their kids should

pay attention to Measure 5-296. Should this measure pass, the money raised from property

taxes, along with additional state funds, will go toward replacing the current 92-year-old Scappoose Middle School with a new middle school adjacent to Scappoose High School. The bond would also help upgrade other aging school buildings, including updates to electrical and HVAC systems.

And North Clackamas voters will decide the fate of Measure 3-599, the Teachers Levy. If the Levy is renewed, the district will retain 180 teaching positions. If voters do not pass Measure 3-599, 180 teachers would lose their jobs and class sizes could balloon. — D.C.

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FIRST HOLIDAY SHOW AT

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November 25 - December 31

Music & Lyrics by Johnny Marks, Script Adaptation by Robert Penola

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ASL Interpreted 12/16 2:30 PM

Audio Described 12/17 2:30 PM

TICKETS NWCTS.ORG 503-222-2190

pdxparent.com

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THE 2023 EDUCATION GUIDE

THE STATE OF SPECIAL EDUCATION,

Show Me the We spotlight record-breaking education funds approved by the Oregon legislature; teacher and staff contract negotiations; and what a pricey report on the strengths and shortcomings of Portland Public Schools’ special education department revealed.

BY SHASTA KEARNS MOORE

Ginger Huizar’s entire special education team is new this year.

The Atkinson Elementary Learning Center special education teacher says her Southeast Portland school’s speech-language pathologist, occupational therapist, school psychologist, program administrator — even the records clerk — all left at the end of the 2022-23 school year.

“When I see so many people leave special education — it’s hard because it’s hard on the kids,” Huizar says. “That’s what’s really heartbreaking to me is to watch that take place with our students.”

The six-year special education teacher also says her caseload is already full — a bad sign at the beginning of the year, as more children tend to get identified for services as the year progresses, she says.

With so few staff to address so many needs, Huizar says, “we’re starting the year with a lack of services being supported as a result.”

The 2023-24 school year has the potential to be pivotal for long-standing problems in special education in Portland. With a record-breaking $10.2 billion state budget for K-12 education; longoverdue contracts for teachers, paraeducators and specialists; increasing awareness of neurodiversity; and a commitment to “equity,” some hope that Portland Public Schools will finally turn the page on decades of special education dysfunction.

Or: It could be another year in a long string of failures by a district that has been repeatedly criticized as too siloed, too segregated, too antiquated and too resistant to change.

In August, PDX Parent shared stories from parents and district administrators on the challenges and solutions in PPS special education. In this edition, we look at how this year’s new laws will impact a district that one report called “significantly departmentalized” leading to “a lack of coherence across the system.”

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PART 2:

Money READ THE FIRST PART OF OUR SERIES ON SPECIAL EDUCATION AT PDXPARENT.COM/UNMET-NEEDS-THE-STATEOF-SPECIAL-EDUCATION-IN-PORTLAND.

LEGISLATIVE CHANGES More than 100 bills affecting Oregon schools were signed into law during the tumultuous 2023 legislative session in Salem. They ranged from big — like $10.2 billion big — to small.

Administrators, teachers, specialists, parents — nearly everyone PDX Parent spoke to for this series agreed that more funding was needed for better outcomes in special education in Portland.

The legislature’s biennial budget will be combined with local sources to add up to $15.3 billion for all 550,000 K-12 students in the state. That averages out to nearly $14,000 per student per year.

Funding in Oregon schools is based on a weighted formula and students in special education get twice as much money as a nondisabled student … up to an 11% ceiling.

Many districts have higher rates of disability than that (PPS is at 15.6%), but they don’t receive the additional funding for students above 11% of the district population. House Bill 2895, sponsored by Rep. Jami Cate (R-Lebanon), would have removed the cap, but that bill died in committee this year.

For students with particularly high needs, there is another source of state money, the High Cost Disabilities Fund. However, an April 2022 report found that because more and more students are becoming eligible, the amount of money per student has gone down by about 20%. The grants give around $2,500 extra to districts with students whose education costs more than $30,000 per year.

NEW CONTRACTS As of press time, many details of the new contracts between Portland Public Schools and its employees had not been finalized.

The Portland Association of Teachers (PAT) and the Portland Federation of School Professionals (PFSP) both had their contracts expire in June 2023 without agreements in place for new contracts.

The PFSP — which represents paraprofessionals, therapists and other school staffers — rejected a three-year contract at the end of September. The new contract for the 1,350 employees would have raised their minimum wage to $20 per hour and added cost-of-living adjustments thereafter.

Negotiations were ongoing.

The teacher’s union and the district were pdxparent.com

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THE 2023 EDUCATION GUIDE

“Almost every (special education) teacher I know would rather have the additional person rather than the additional pay. The $3,000 is great, but we need a smaller caseload, which means that we need additional staffing.”

— GINGER HUIZAR, SPECIAL EDUCATION TEACHER AT ATKINSON ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

much further apart and appeared at press time to be headed for a strike. The union wanted class sizes at 25 students max, increased support for special education, more behavioral and mental health supports and about double the pay raises that the district was offering. The district is also offering a premium — $3,000 more per year — to special education teachers.

Huizar — who is a PAT Executive Board member, but clarified that she was not speaking on behalf of the union — says the extra money would be nice, but what they need is better working conditions.

“Almost every (special education) teacher I know would rather have the additional person rather than the additional pay,” she says. “The $3,000 is great, but we need a smaller caseload, which means that we need additional staffing.”

Huizar says without it “we’re just going to continue on this decline that we’re on: More kids in crisis because they’re not getting the services that they need.”

SB 819 It was called “the most sweeping special education bill of the past 30 years” by the Oregon School Boards Association and the Coalition of Oregon School Administrators.

Senate Bill 819 gives the Oregon Department of Education (ODE) teeth to enforce special education law. Spearheaded by Sen. Sara Gelser Blouin (D-Corvallis), the legislation requires schools to offer disabled students “meaningful access” to the same number of instructional hours as other students — even 14

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pdxparent.com

Medicaid IN Schools Over the summer, the Oregon Health Authority and the Oregon Department of Education worked to implement a change many years in the making. It could result in millions more federal dollars flowing to Oregon schools.

The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid announced May 18 that it was streamlining processes that schools use to bill Medicaid for health services provided in schools. The nation’s schools have technically had this ability since as early as 1988. But the time and effort involved in getting reimbursements has been so high that many — like Portland Public Schools — have left this money on the table.

Now, that seems to be changing. Oregon won authorization this year to bill Medicaid for all covered students’ health needs, whether they have an Individualized Education Program (IEP) or a 504 plan. Combined with the new streamlined federal process, the change holds the potential for Oregon schools to get reimbursed for millions in services — like nursing and therapies — that they are already providing to K-12 students. PPS believes it might get around $1 million this next year for Medicaid administration and is also looking into restarting billing for services.

if a child has a disability that landed them in an abbreviated school day program. Unless the parents consent to the reduced schedule, they have the right to complain to ODE if their child is not being accommodated in school. The education department will then initiate an investigation and if the district is found to be breaking the rules, the agency can withhold state dollars.

Prior to SB 819, the state could withhold funding for the entire district for such compliance issues but never did. The new policy gives them the ability to withhold funding for a particular student if that student is not able to go to school.

In 2022, a report found that about 1,000 Oregon children with behavioral struggles had been blocked from full school days.

As of press time, two complaints had been filed under the new law. Both of them were in North Wasco County School District, which serves The Dalles.

$80,000 SPECIAL EDUCATION REPORT Time will tell if any of this — the increased funding, the new policies, the new contracts — will fundamentally change how PPS operates.

In 2020, the district hired Urban Collaborative, an Arizona-based research team, to give them a report on the state of special education in the district. PDX Parent obtained the 105-page report through a public records request. Delivered in 2022 for $80,000, the report made 14 recommendations for how to improve the district’s systems and outcomes for special education students. These included simplifying the district’s organizational structure, making sure disability is included in equity goals and creating a smoother path to services.

“Special Education in Portland Public Schools exists as a series of physical placements as opposed to a continuum of services to which all students should have access,” reads the report. “This programcentric model has resulted in students with disabilities being denied access to core curriculum and instruction and an education with their non-disabled peers.”

As for students’ academic success, the researchers found an achievement gap of 42 percentage points in English and 37

percentage points in math between students with disabilities and their nondisabled peers.

But, they note, most disabilities do not affect cognition.

“Special education is meant to find supports and services that level the playing field between students with and those without disabilities,” reads the report. “In its ideal state, students with and without disabilities should be achieving at similar rates.”

The researchers stressed success would come with a holistic approach and a shift in philosophy.

“While the District’s strategic plan clearly names equity and inclusivity as core values, the clear perception exists among teachers, leaders and parents that disability is not [emphasis theirs] included in the District’s racial justice and equity work.”

The report also calls out the amount of time and money the school district spends defending itself from legal challenges related to where students are placed and how their needs are identified.

The district did not respond to direct questions about whether the report’s recommendations had been implemented.

However, they provided a link to a September 11 presentation to the school board’s Student Success Committee. To fix the problems the report identified, the district is looking at professional development for principals, adoption of universally designed curriculum and establishing clear and detailed criteria for special education decisions.

“In order to address these challenges,” reads the district presentation, “we must ensure all students have equitable access to inclusive high-quality teaching and materials through a consistent vision for teaching and learning in every classroom for every student.”

Based on Ginger Huizar’s experience, making sure staff get the support they need to stick with their students may be the biggest challenge of all.

Shasta Kearns Moore is a writer and freelance reporter in the Portland area. Each week she publishes Medical Motherhood, a news round-up of national and international news affecting those raising disabled and neurodivergent kids.

Find out more at medicalmotherhood.com.

Scoreboard ON

Key School

Bills

Passed: HB 5015 — Combined with other sources, lawmakers allocated a total of $10.2 billion to the State School Fund — a record-breaking amount for the next two years. Local property taxes will bump the total up to $15.3 billion for all 550,000 K-12 students in the state. That’s nearly $14,000 per student per year.

Passed: SB 819 — Requires districts to have a plan and accountability measures for giving kids on the special education spectrum reduced school hours.

Gives the Oregon Department of Education the ability to investigate and impose sanctions on districts and superintendents who don’t follow the law.

Passed: HB 5014 — Allocates more than $22 million for the Oregon School for the Deaf and other specialized K-12 funding.

Dead: HB 2895 — Would have removed the 11% cap on extra State School Fund money for special education kids. Districts with a higher percentage of students with IEPs (which are a lot of them) do not get the double weight for the portion of kids over 11%.

Dead: HB 2703 — Would have expanded the ability of teacher’s unions to bargain over class size.

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THE 2023 EDUCATION GUIDE

THE 2023

EDUCATION GUIDE

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THE 2023 EDUCATION GUIDE

After School/Enrichment Activities

Art/Theater Instruction

Adventures in Spanish

Northwest Academy

portlandearlylearning.com faispdx.org | 503-284-0610

Adventures in Spanish introduces children to Spanish language and culture through the magic of songs, play, and more! We offer a variety of play-based programs throughout PDX including story times, after school classes, and Saturday camps!

Aim High Martial Arts & Events aimhighma.org/camps

Aim High Martial Arts & Events offers Camps year-round to give your kiddo a place to learn, explore, and have fun while school is out! Up next are the holiday camps covering Thanksgiving and Winter breaks!

IMA Academy

academyima.org IMA offers ballerina birthday party entertainment, ballet classes, and summer workshops for children ages 2-8. Located in NW Portland, IMA is unique in offering dual language options of French and English.

Imago Theatre

imagotheatre.com ZooZoo, December 8th thru January 1st at Imago. Bugeyes, hippos, anteaters, frogs, polar bears, accordions and tricky penguins fill the stage with wonder, awe and humor. It’s great fun for the whole family!

Orenco Learning Club orencolearningclub.com

Orenco Learning Club (OLC) is a bookstore and learning center in Hillsboro, OR where they offer books, games and group lessons. They specialize in chess lessons for school age children and adults.

Vibe of Portland vibepdx.org

Vibe encourages imaginative thinking, inspiring youth to look at the world from new perspectives. We learn a variety of techniques, hone artistic skills, & make friends creating art from the world around us.

nwa@nwacademy.org | 503-223-3367

Northwest Academy is an arts-centered middle and high school located in downtown Portland.

Inspired learning at Northwest Academy means that that the foundation for each classroom experience is energized by a lively partnership between academics and the arts.

Northwest Children’s Theater nwcts.org

NWCT’s mission is to educate, entertain, and enrich the lives of young audiences; and they do this through award-winning shows and classes! Visit them at The Judy or look for classes in your neighborhood.

Child Care Services Northeast Community Child Development Center

PDXchild.org | 503-284-8797

We focus on emergent child-led curriculum, fostering independence, emotional development, and a love of learning.

Our highly trained staff works closely with families to give children the best possible early childhood education experience.

Sweet Day Community School sweetdayschool.com

Sweet Day offers high-quality care, inspired by Reggio Emilia. Their programs feature low ratios to ensure close, meaningful relationships are nurtured. Sweet Day is a recognized Eco-Friendly childcare.

For more

local education, child care and family resources visit

pdxparent.com/directory.

pdxparent.com

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THE 2023 EDUCATION GUIDE

Open Space Dance

Field Trips

openspace.dance

Columbia River Maritime Museum

The School at Open Space offers professional dance training and fosters artistic development through a progressive approach to dance education. Classes, camps and performances are available for ages 2 to 19.

crmm.org | 503-325-2323

Plan a family field trip to visit and explore the Columbia River Maritime Museum in beautiful Astoria. Educational, interactive and entertaining displays and exhibits for the ENTIRE family make this short trip a MUST!

Homeschooling Resources Village Home Education Resource

Gymnastics/Dance

villagehome.org

NW Dance Project

Village Home offers engaging classes and community for homeschoolers with over 120 offerings each week. Students to take ownership of their learning, are free to be themselves, and learn what interests them.

NW Dance Project offers Ballet, Contemporary, and Hip Hop classes to youth students ages 4 to 18. We offer comprehensive instruction in a supportive, inclusive, and encouraging environment.

Language Immersion Schools

nwdanceproject.org

French International School of Oregon

OMEGA Gymnastics

frenchintl.org | 503-292-7776

omega-gymnastics.com/discovery-preschool 503-466-4872 Our preschool curriculum has a strong academic focus that helps students develop self-confidence, cognitive development and social learning. In addition, our PE time is rooted in gymnastics which helps children thrive in future endeavors.

French International is a language immersion, IB World School for students aged 2.5-8th grade. French International educates students from a global perspective preparing them to engage with inclusivity, achieve with integrity, and excel with distinction.

Open Space Dance Alice Schulz 1/2 Page 0.5 Education Guide

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THE 2023 EDUCATION GUIDE

German International School gspdx.org

As an IB World School our students are globally-minded, adaptive, independent thinkers who grow to become lifelong learners. If you have a preschooler through 7th grader, we have a program for you.

International School of Portland intlschool.org/admissions-center

Embrace the World! Since 1990, we’ve offered full language and cultural immersion in a warm, loving environment that encourages curiosity and kindness. Mandarin, Spanish, and Japanese tracks. IB World School!

Montessori Children’s House mch-pdx.org

MCH in Portland’s South Waterfront serves families with children 16 months through 6 years of age. We offer authentic Montessori school environments in a custom-built facility with experienced teachers.

Scuola Italiana di Portland

scuola.us/preschool-fall-2023-24 Part-time Italian language and cultural immersion preschool in NW Portland, mirroring the scuola dell’infanzia (preschool) in Italy. The program is taught by experienced, native Italian teachers.

Music Instruction Chords Music School

chordsmusicschool.com Chords Music School provides kids/teens weekly music classes in a band setting! Students gain hands-on experience with a variety of instruments while learning how to write, sing and play songs with friends!

Milwaukie School of Guitar

MilwaukieSchoolofGuitar.com | 503-850-8086 Way more than just guitar lessons! MSG offers professional 1-on-1 instruction for Guitar, Piano, Voice, Ukulele, & more. With experienced teachers, convenient location, and competitive rates, you’ll love coming to school! Schedule a FREE trial lesson today!

Music Together of Portland musictogether-pdx.com

Music and movement classes for children, ages 0-8, and the grown-ups who love them. Find joy, connection, and community as you sing, dance, play, and learn together in a fun, musically rich environment!

ORS Youth Choir

orsingers.org/youth-choir ORS Youth Choir is committed to outstanding music education and creating meaningful performance experiences for singers K–12 in greater PDX and SW Washington. NO AUDITION REQUIRED! FINANCIAL AID AVAILABLE!

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THE 2023 EDUCATION GUIDE

International School of Portland

Outdoor Education

intlschool.org/admissions-center

EdenAcres Environmental Ed. edenacres.org

At EdenAcres Nature School, we nurture curious & confident kids. Our nature-focused approach lets children explore & discover the world around them. We proudly offer flexible enrollment & tuition options.

Embrace the World! Since 1990, we’ve offered full language and cultural immersion in a warm, loving environment that encourages curiosity and kindness. Mandarin, Spanish, and Japanese tracks. IB World School!

Maitripa Tara School tara-school.org | 503-345-1128

Preschools

Integrating a Tibetan Buddhist worldview, Dr. Maria Montessori’s pedagogical method and a permaculture approach to the natural world, we aim to support and develop the Good Heart and the potential of all beings in a community of care, love and respect.

The Children’s Garden thechildrensgarden.com

The Children’s Garden is a learning community where children are nurtured through education.

From our innovative curriculum to an inspiring learning environment, we empower children to learn, build, and grow.

Childswork Learning Center info@childswork.org | 503-234-3611

Northeast Community Child Development Center PDXchild.org | 503-284-8797

We focus on emergent child-led curriculum, fostering independence, emotional development, and a love of learning.

Our highly trained staff works closely with families to give children the best possible early childhood education experience.

Founded 1984, Childswork is a constructivist, Reggio-inspired preschool focusing on the development of the whole child with respect and compassion. Childswork is a safe place to explore, make messes and learn through play!

Northeast Community Child Development Center • Ages 12 months to 5 years old • Full time spots available • Currently waiving waitlist fees • Opportunities to take an active role in your child’s education!

NOW ENROLLING

Schedule a

Tour Today!

www.pdxchild.org �Email: nccdcoffice@gmail.com

FUN + FIT YOUTH DANCE CLASSES nwdanceproject.org | 503.421.7434 20

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ALL ARE WELCOME

ADULT CLASSES TOO!

211 NE 10th Ave | Portland

THE 2023 EDUCATION GUIDE

Sweet Day Community School sweetdayschool.com

Sweet Day offers high-quality care, inspired by Reggio Emilia. Their programs feature low ratios to ensure close, meaningful relationships are nurtured. Sweet Day is a recognized Eco-Friendly childcare.

Private Schools

Expanding Minds, Nurturing Spirits, Stewarding the Earth

Bridges Middle School bridgesms.org/about-us | 503-688-2922

Bridges Middle School is proud to be the only middle school in Oregon specifically designed for students with learning differences.

We are committed to creating a safe, nurturing environment where they can thrive academically, emotionally, and socially.

Bright Schoolhouse brightschoolhouse.org

Microschool serves grade K-2 in the Metro area serving 30 learners with a ratio under 1:8. A learning environment that inspires and supports the growth and development of quirky, bright, and gifted children.

Catlin Gabel School enrollment@catlin.edu | 503 297-1894

Catlin Gabel is recognized as one of the finest schools in the nation. Students from preschool to high school engage with their teachers in hands-on learning and reflection, becoming learners and leaders who have confidence in their knowledge and skills.

Visit

www.FMES.org to schedule a

virtual or in-person

TOUR!

Cedarwood Waldorf School

cedarwoodschool.org/welcome-to-cedarwood Cedarwood Waldorf School has distinguished itself by developing a uniquely contemporary expression of Waldorf education which highly values a curriculum that educates the whole child- head, heart, and hands.

Childpeace Montessori School childpeace.org

Childpeace Montessori School is NOW ENROLLING for the 2023-24 school year at Children’s House, Elementary, and Middle School levels. Visit our website to learn more about our highly accredited programs!

Franciscan Montessori Earth School fmes.org | 503-760-8220

The Franciscan Montessori Earth School, a diverse community of students from age 30 months through 8th grade, inspires children to expand their mind, nurture their spirit and steward the Earth.

•

Small class size

•

Pre-K to 8th grade

•

Earth experiences

•

Foreign language programs

•

Before and after care

•

10 acres campus with extensive gardens

German International School gspdx.org

As an IB World School our students are globally-minded, adaptive, independent thinkers who grow to become lifelong learners. If you have a preschooler through 7th grader, we have a program for you.

www.FMES.org | 503-760-8220 | Portland, Oregon 97236-2316 pdxparent.com

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THE 2023 EDUCATION GUIDE

Montessori School of Beaverton msb.org

Private Schools (CONTINUED)

MSB is a private Montessori school serving children 3-12 years of age. Located on 6 woodland acres west of Portland, MSB offers an individualized, child-centered curriculum through handson learning.

International School of Portland intlschool.org/admissions-center

Embrace the World! Since 1990, we’ve offered full language and cultural immersion in a warm, loving environment that encourages curiosity and kindness. Mandarin, Spanish, and Japanese tracks. IB World School!

The Marylhurst School

themarylhurstschool.org/openhouse Since 1972, The Marylhurst School offers low student/ teacher ratios, dynamic curriculum and collaborative learning that focuses on social emotional health. Open House, Dec 2nd! Register now!

Micha-el School micha-elschool.org | 503-882-3322

Micha-el School offers a well-rounded kindergarten through eighth grade education. Our Waldorf certified teachers provide a balanced, comprehensive curriculum that weaves academics with creativity to inspire joyful learning.

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)

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Oregon Episcopal School oes.edu/admissions/explore

OES offers an inquiry-based education that prepares pre-K—grade 12 students for higher education and lifelong learning. Each discovery leads to the next, driven primarily by the curiosity of the students.

Park Academy parkacademy.org | 503-594-8800

Park Academy provides an inclusive community where evidencebased practices empower students with dyslexia and related learning differences to reach their highest academic and personal potential. Now accepting applications for grades 3-8.

The Portland Forest School portlandforestschool.org | 503--662-8079

We develop resiliency, lifelong learning, and adaptive creativity.

Academic insight is honed through excursions in forests and fields. Low ratios cultivate mentoring relationships. We blend key education benchmarks with hands-on, project based learning.

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)

THE 2023 EDUCATION GUIDE

Still Enrolling Students for 2023-2024 Oregon’s Alternative to Traditional K-12 School

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 Engagement Coach for every student

•

Clubs, field trips, and social opportunities

“Going to EVA has helped my son so much with his anxiety. We love the flexibility and safer environment.”

—EVA Parent

evergreenvirtual.org/enroll

Fall OPEN HOUSE Preschool - 7th grade NOVEMBER 5, 2023

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THE 2023 EDUCATION GUIDE

Private Schools (CONTINUED)

Tucker Maxon School tuckermaxon.org | 503-235-6551

Portland Jewish Academy pjaproud.org | 503-244-0126

PJA is an inclusive Jewish community school, empowering students to be flexible, innovative learners in a caring, supportive environment. Offering a values-based education, PJA students think for themselves and work for the world.

Portland Waldorf School portlandwaldorf.org | 503-654-2200

Our 7-acre campus is home to a vibrant community of families and students from preschool through 12th grade.

Our students are creative and flexible thinkers who follow their interests, take initiative, and think deeply about the world.

A Renaissance School of Art And Science renpdx.org

Tucker Maxon has it all: amazing teachers, small classes, happy children, academic excellence, literacy focus, social/emotional learning, big library, topnotch facilities + playground, STEM, art, music, PE, caring community, before/ aftercare, and low tuition.

St. Rose School strosepdx.org

St. Rose School raises saints and scholars in a small community centered on faith and values. Serving PreK-8th grades in NE Portland.

Valley Catholic School

ssmo.org/vcs/schools/elementary | 503-718-6501 Valley Catholic Elementary provides an interactive, engaging, supportive and faith-based education for your child.

At Renaissance School art, design, science, and engineering are lively, natural contexts for the introduction, development, and application of skills and concepts, with rolling enrollment for grades K-8.

Park Academy

provides an inclusive community where evidence-based practices empower students with dyslexia and related learning differences to reach their highest academic and personal potential.

Our Priority Admissions Cycle for the 2024-2025 school year for grades 3-8 is now open and closes in early January.

Financial aid is available for those who qualify.

503.594.8800 www.parkacademy.org 1915 South Shore Blvd. | Lake Oswego, OR 97034 24

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To learn how we might be able to assist your child, please check out our website and attend a tour: parkacademy.org/admissions-2/how-to-apply

THE 2023 EDUCATION GUIDE

CATHOLIC SCHOOLS The Choice that Makes a Difference!

Academic Excellence • Faith Formation • Rich Co-Curricular Activities • Before and After School Care Registered and Recognized by the State of Oregon Accredited by the Western Catholic Educational Association (WCEA)

All Saints School

Enrollment opens January 1, 2024.

Open houses: Jan 11 PreK & K 6:30 p.m.

Jan 18 PreK-8 6:30 p.m.

Jan 21 PreK-8 1:00 p.m.

601 NE Cesar E Chavez Blvd., Portland, OR 97232 503-236-6205 allsaintsportland.com

St. John the Apostle

Grades PreK - 8. Call for current openings. Open House dates: January 28, 9:30am - 1:30pm February 6, 5:00 - 7:00pm 516 Fifth St., Oregon City, OR 97045 503-742-8230 | sja-eagles.com

St. Rose School St. Clare School

Open House: January 28, 12-2 pm Call for private tour and application process.

1807 SW Freeman St., Portland, OR 97219 503-244-7600 | stclarepdx.org

Open House: Thurs, February 1, 5pm Call for tour information!

5309 NE Alameda St., Portland, OR 97213 503-281-1912 | strosepdx.org

The Madeleine School St. Ignatius School

Developing students to build a just and compassionate world.

Preschool through 8th grade Open House: January 28th, 11:30 AM to 1:30 PM. Tour our school and meet our teachers! Immediate openings available for some grade levels.

Portland, OR 97229 (503) 774-5533 | sispdx.org

Open House: Sunday, January 28, 11:30-1:30 pm Tour our school and meet the teachers and families.

3240 NE 23rd Ave., Portland, OR 97212 503-288-9197 | themadeleine.edu

Valley Catholic Elementary School St. John Fisher

4581 SW Nevada St., Portland, OR 97219 503-246-3234 | sjfschool.org

Developing students into lifelong learners.

4420 S.W. St. Mary’s Drive, Beaverton, OR 97078 503-718-6501 | ssmo.org/vcs/ schools/elementary/

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Public & Charter Schools

portlandvillageschool.org | 503-445-0056

City View Charter School 503-844-9424

City View Charter School is a tuition-free public charter school serving students in grades K-8 in Hillsboro, Oregon. Visit our website for more information about our school! www. cityviewcharter.org.

Evergreen Virtual Academy evergreenvirtual.org | 541-751-3003

EVA is a tuition-free, online public charter school where students learn and grow in a safe, inclusive environment. We prioritize flexible, individualized learning by providing an engaging virtual environment that meets students where they are.

Multnomah Learning Academy mla.k12.or.us

Education for All: Providing students with the skills and knowledge that gives them the advantage later in life, while balancing academic and emotional wellbeing.

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Portland Village School

pdxparent.com

A tuition-free, public Waldorf school serving grades K-8. PVS offers an arts-integrated curriculum with Spanish language, movement, music, and handwork. The Waldorf model educates the whole child – head, heart, and hands. Moving to S Waterfront in fall 2024!

Special Education Bridges Middle School bridgesms.org/about-us | (503) 688-2922

Bridges Middle School is proud to be the only middle school in

Park Academy parkacademy.org | 503-594-8800

Park Academy provides an inclusive community where evidencebased practices empower students with dyslexia and related learning differences to reach their highest academic and personal potential. Now accepting applications for grades 3-8.

THE 2023 EDUCATION GUIDE

Cedarwood Waldorf School is a place for the whole family to learn, grow, and connect with community.

Cedarwood students are curious and engaged critical thinkers and doers who care about creating a better world. Children in prekindergarten through grade 8 are nurtured by a developmentally thoughtful pedagogy, with hands-on experiences both in the classroom and off-campus.

Located just minutes from downtown Portland, Oregon, in the historic Lair Hill Neighborhood, Cedarwood Waldorf School's curriculum weaves together the arts, academics and movement to bring learning to life.

We value a contemporary approach to Waldorf education, in which new ideas, practices, and styles are incorporated to support and enrich the student experience, including language programs in Spanish and Japanese, and a focus on experiential learning.

From early childhood through the completion of eighth grade, our students are met with openness to possibility, given time to develop resiliency, and taught skills to turn challenges into opportunities.

OPEN HOUSE

Just as Rudolf Steiner envisioned Waldorf as an education for every child, we honor diversity and actively seek opportunities to learn from all cultures and traditions.

THURSDAY, NOV. 2 • 6–8 P.M.

PRE-K TO GRADE 5 (PARENTS/GUARDIANS ONLY)

SUNDAY, NOV. 5 • 1–4 P.M.

GRADES 6 TO 12 (PARENTS/GUARDIANS & STUDENTS)

oes.edu/openhouse-pp 503-768-3115

Schedule a tour to experience the Cedarwood difference

Enrolling Pre-K- Grade 8 3030 SW Second Avenue Portland, OR 97202 | (503) 245-1477 www.cedarwoodschool.org

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Sports/Fitness The Circuit Bouldering Gym thecircuitgym.com

The Circuit is proud to offer winter bouldering camps! Sign your kids up to climb in a fun, social environment led by our staff, where they will problem-solve and build confidence on and off the wall.

Tutorial/Learning Support Services Huntington Learning Center

We are a new SE Portland Preschool that integrates a Buddhist Worldview, Montessori Pedagogy with a strong connection to Nature. We support the development of the Good Heart and the potential of all beings in a community of care, love, and respect.

Our nature-first education cultivates resiliency, lifelong learning, and adaptive creativity

503-533-5700

Located in Bethany Village, Huntington develops a personalized learning plan for each student.

Our certified teachers provide 1:1 instruction in academic fundamentals, individual subjects and SAT/ACT prep.

Come join us in the forest!

Kumon Math & Reading Lake Grove kumon.com/lake-grove

Kumon provides instructional support in reading, writing and math. Students can attend either in-person or via Zoom two times/week. Call 503-314-6284 for info.

www.tara-school.org email: info@tara-school.org 503-345-1128 @taraschoolpdx

Full K-8 program in the heart of SE Portland PortlandForestSchool.org

Private Lessons for

Guitar, Piano, Ukulele & more!

MILWAUKIESCHOOLOFGUITAR.COM (503) 850-8086 28

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THE 2023 EDUCATION GUIDE

Portland Village School Your Tuition-Free, K-8, Public Waldorf School

EMBRACE THE WORLD.

Educating and nurturing the whole child - head, heart, and hands

Now ng!

Enrolli

.

Our curriculum is arts-integrated with Common Core State Standard academic content, enlivened by music, art, drama, Spanish language, handwork, movement, and life skills.

Moving to our forever home by fall 2024!

4650 S Macadam Ave

www.portlandvillageschool.org 7654 N Delaware Ave, Portland, OR, 97217

Three Locations!

Beaverton • Vancouver • Sellwood

Inspiring cultural intelligence, curiosity, and kindness since 1990.

PERSONAL TOURS AVAILABLE DAILY! Chinese • Spanish • Japanese International Baccalaureate Preschool – 5th grade

503-445-0056

Serving Kindergarten - 12th grade

EVERYONE CAN SING! NOW ENROLLING FOR JANUARY 2024!

No Audition Required

Learn more ORSingers.org/youth-choir 503-230-0652 programs@orsingers.org

Financial Aid Available

Foster your child's love of singing! pdxparent.com

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THE 2023 EDUCATION GUIDE

Unlock Your Child’s Learning Potential with The Kumon Math and Reading Program.

MCH in Portland’s South Waterfront serves families with children 16 months through 6 years of age. We offer authentic Montessori environments in a custom-built facility with experienced teachers.

To learn more, schedule an orientation today!

Kumon Math and Reading Center of

Lake Grove

Now enrolling for immediate openings in our Primary Communities (ages 3-5).

16063 Boones Ferry Road Lake Oswego, OR 97035 kumon.com/lake-grove 503.635.2647 Ages 3+ In-Center And Virtual Classes Available © 2021 Kumon North America, Inc. All rights reserved.

for Kinder to 2nd

Serving The Bright, Quirky, and Gifted www.BrightSchoolhouse.org

Please use this QR code to complete an inquiry form, contacting the school about enrollment and to join our waitlist.

mch-pdx.com

(503)360-1179 3626 S. Bond Ave. Portland, OR 97239

Montessori School of Beaverton

Nurturing children from 3 to 12 years with Montessori education.

msb.org

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A Micro-School

Now Accepting

Applications

School Size of 30 Challenging Curriculum West Linn Location Sensory Spaces for 4 Teachers

24-25

School Year

THE 2023 EDUCATION GUIDE

Discovery Preschool

OMEGA’s program provides classroom learning for children ages 3-5 encouraging children to use their minds and bodies while learning social interaction with their peers. MWF 9AM12:30PM with early drop-off and lunch-n-play options.

Oregon Metropolitan Elite Gymnastics Academy 9700 SW Harvest Ct. Ste. 180, Beaverton, OR 97005

Visit our website or call Katie at 503-466-4872 for a tour.

www.omega-gymnastics.com

INFO SESSIONS December 5, 6 -7pm January 23, 6-7pm

R E I M A G I N E

E D U C A T I O N RSVP at renpdx.org/enrollment Email admissions@renpdx.org Call 971.221.2311 234 S. Bancroft Street, Portland

Vibe of portland no-school workshops, classes and holiday break camps

For Info and Registration:

music@vibepdx.org vibepdx.org

3 locations in NE, SE, and St Johns for ages 5 and up digital art. SOUND EXPLORATION. Mixed Media, PRIDE ART. SEWING. MUSIC PRODUCTION. Illustration and Character Development, Puppet Making, cartooning, soundtrack and film, Miniatures.... and MORE! We have scholarships available for BIPOC families and those attending Title 1 schools in PPS. pdxparent.com

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THE 2023 EDUCATION GUIDE

For

holiday fun delivered to your inbox,

subscribe to our

newsletter!

Portland metro Arts

Classes Now Open

Actors' Workshop/ Artworks / Ballet/ Group Piano / Group Violin/ Hip Hop / Kids' Play / Makers Space Musical Beginnings / Musical Journeys / Pre-Dance / Private Music / Tap / Theatre Kids

Register Now:

PDXMetroArts.org (503) 408-0604 info@pdxmetroarts.org

THE CIRCUIT GYM

WINTER CLIMBING CAMPS AGES 5-10

DETAILS

DATES + COST

Campers will improve their balance, coordination, physical strength, problem-solving abilities, and cultivate confidence on and off the wall.

DEC 18-22 DEC 26-29 $75 · First Day $65 · Subsequent Days

*DISCOUNT CODE AVAILABLE AFTER FIRST DAY IS BOOKED. REGISTER AT THECIRCUITGYM.COM CAMPS RUN FROM 9A-2P

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Sign up at

pdxparent.com.

H O L I D AY G I F T G U I D E

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK!

TOYS, TOYS,

TOYS!

Get holiday-ready with Beanstalk.

FREMONT 3527 NE 15th Ave. Portland, OR 97212 503.477.7776

MONTAVILLA 8021 SE Stark St. Portland, OR 97215 503.327.8506

shopbeanstalk.com · beanstalkpdx.com

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Your W Waay

Whether you’re an all-weather, outdoor family, or there’s a snowball’s chance in you-know-where you’ll be found out on the mountain, check out these winter adventures. BY CATHERINE RYAN GREGORY

outdoorsy IF YOUR FAMILY IS

DENISE C ASTAÑON

GO TO: BAKER CITY

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TR E VOR PAR K ER

At 4 ½ hours away from Portland, Baker City might not be on your radar as a winter getaway destination — yet. With its smalltown vibe and proximity to the slopes, outdoorsy families will find plenty to do.

With nearby towns named Little Alps and Powder, you’d think Baker City was more remote. But getting there is a straight shot on I-84: good news for winter travel. Here’s what you need to know to plan a fun-packed outing.

FUN THINGS TO DO: If you’ve come to ski, you’ll want to drive the 45 minutes to Anthony Lakes Mountain Resort (pictured left), the highest base elevation ski spot in the state. Many of the mountain’s runs are for intermediate and expert shredders, but the newly developed Alice’s Wonderland area is tailored for folks newer to skis and snowboards. Anthony Lakes runs lessons, including the Greenhorn Package (which includes a bunny hill lift ticket, gear rental and an hour of instruction — a steal for just $70).

Anthony Lakes is an affordable choice for families. Kids 6 and under get day passes for free; fifth and sixth graders can get free lift tickets, rentals and a lesson on Sundays, with signup.

Cross-country skiers can glide the more

than 18 miles of groomed trails at Anthony Lakes. For snowshoeing, head to the mostly flat Phillips Lake South Shoreline Trail for views of the towering Elkhorn Mountains.

After playing in the powder, explore the Baker Heritage Museum (pictured top left), which is perfect for rock- and gem-lovers. Or book a trip on the historic Sumpter Valley Railroad (select days in December).

WHERE TO STAY: Post up at a hotel chain (Best Western or Super 8), the historic Geiser Grand Hotel (kids will swoon at the chandeliers in every room) or a home rental like Airbnb.

GRAB A BITE TO EAT: Order pasta, steak or pub fare at Barley Brown’s Brewpub.

Stop by Sweet Wife Baking for breakfast, lunch and pastries. For a fancy dinner, eat under an impressive stained glass ceiling at Palm Court in the Geiser Grand Hotel.

As the highest elevation town on Mt. Hood, Government Camp is the gateway to mountain-based fun near Portland. Located an hour and 15 minutes from Portland (longer with traffic), “Govy” is the go-to base camp for skiing, snowboarding, sledding, snowshoeing and other adventures for when the mercury dips below 32.

FUN THINGS TO DO: It’s actually harder to avoid cool winter activities around Government Camp than to find them. Learn to ski alongside your littles in the parent-child lessons at Mt. Hood Meadows and Mt. Hood Skibowl. Already know how to shred? For kids 6 and younger, snag a Meadows season pass for $39 or a Timberline pass for $50. Take advantage of winter’s long nights by skiing in the dark (and without the crowds!) at Skibowl (with the largest night skiing acreage in the U.S.), Meadows and Timberline.

White River Sno-Park’s multiple sledding hills and incredible view of the mountain’s

C ATHERINE RYAN GR EGORY

GO TO: GOVERNMENT CAMP

peak make this our favorite spot to sled (pictured above). Tired of schlepping the sled back up the hill? Try the tubing at Skibowl, where you’ll get towed to the top for run after run. (They also offer nighttime Cosmic Tubing, complete with laser lights and music!)

Looking for a quieter activity? Try snowshoeing the flat loop around Trillium Lake, mere minutes from Government Camp.

For a snowshoeing route a little farther from the beaten path, we love Pocket Creek. Or check out the meter-long icicles adorning the rocks around Tamanawas Falls at the end of the 3.5-mile, out-and-back route.

WHERE TO STAY: Government Camp

is full of home and condo rentals, where your fam can spread out and warm up after a day in the snow. Or splurge on a room at Timberline Lodge (from $300 for a queen room midweek), where a new hot tub is scheduled to open this winter.

GRAB A BITE TO EAT: At High Mountain Cafe, nom a breakfast sandwich or carry out a cheese-and-meat plate for an alpine al fresco meal. The portions at local favorite Huckleberry Inn are big enough to fuel your black diamond runs (or the ten thousand times you drag your kid’s toboggan up the sledding hill). Order upleveled brewpub fare and pizza at Glacier Haus. pdxparent.com

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DENISE C ASTAÑON

The newly renovated resort includes a 56,000-square-foot indoor water park, plus kid-friendly activities once you’ve dried off. When you stay overnight, you’ll get water park access on the first day of your booking through the last day — you don’t have to stop swimming when you check out.

indoorsy

IF YOUR FAMILY IS

GO TO: GREAT WOLF LODGE When the winter gets you down, there’s nothing like an epic water park vacation to help you pretend you’re smack-dab in the middle of summer. Enter: Great Wolf Lodge, located in Grand Mound, Washington, just an hour and a half drive from Portland.

FUN THINGS TO DO: It’s no surprise that swimming should top your reasons for coming to Great Wolf Lodge. The 4-story fort-playground dumps surprise buckets of water, and kids can shoot water cannons and zip down slides. Pretend you’re riding ocean swells in the wave pool. Shoot hoops in the basketball pool, or test your skills crossing floating pedestals in a wet, American Ninja Warrior-like obstacle course. Zip down water slides, including the Howling Tornado — a 6-story-high twisting tube for four brave souls at a time. *Takes a breath* So yeah: There’s a lot of water play.

Once you’re too pruney (or too tired) to swim for another minute, check out the resort’s activities on dry land. PDX Parent’s editor swears by MagiQuest’s interactive scavenger hunts with stops throughout the property. Challenge your kids to an air hockey throw-down at the Northern Lights Arcade.

Or do an arts-and-crafts project (like origami or sparkly snowflakes) or take a kid-centric yoga class, all included in your overnight stay.

Then grab a fresh towel and head back to the pool — I mean, pools!

WHERE TO STAY: Lodging varies from standard hotel rooms through themed suites that can sleep up to eight people. Rooms start at $499 a night, but keep an eye out for frequent discounts and deals.

GRAB A BITE TO EAT: Great Wolf Lodge dishes up family-friendly food at six restaurants, plus a Starbucks, naturally.

Poolside Buckets serves up burgers and fries fast — all the better for getting back in the water. Refuel with pizza and pasta at Hungry Like a Wolf (including gluten- and dairy-free options). And indulge your kids’s sweet tooth with cupcakes or ice cream at Bear Paw — they’ll swim off the sugar high anyway!

DENISE C ASTAÑON

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GR E AT WOLF LODGE

Located two hours south along I-5, Eugene is best known as a college town and the home of the Ducks. Regardless of your football allegiance (or ambivalence), Eugene makes a great winter destination for families that are more indoors-inclined. Why? Eugene is even rainier than Portland, so the city offers plenty of fun indoor activities.

FUN THINGS TO DO: Indoors doesn’t equal sedentary. Skip the cabin fever and burn off some energy at one of the two trampoline parks in town, DEFY (pictured

WHERE TO STAY: Splash in the indoor pool and hot tub at Even Hotel Eugene, located a few blocks from Alton Baker Park.

Go all-in with the college theme at The Graduate, which has roomy suites for the fam (and pets!), plus complimentary bikes to use during your stay. Or spread out in a home rental via Airbnb or Vrbo.

GRAB A BITE: My kids love the pizza and the merry-go-round at Roaring Rapids Pizza, which overlooks the Willamette.

Or go for wacky (egg! avocado! chevre!) or traditional toppings at Off the Waffle. Pro tip: Their downtown location has more room for families to spread out! Or take the brew pub route at Elk Horn (sit downstairs next to the kids’ play zone) or Falling Sky (kids love the mac 'n' cheese; adults love the $1 off beer deal whenever it’s raining).

You can find Catherine Ryan Gregory exploring the PNW and beyond with her two kids, husband and senior dog, Finn.

She’s the author of three family travel books, including the Amazon best-seller Road Trip Games & Activities for Kids.

Check out more of her family travel recommendations at ToAndFroFam.com.

C ATHERINE RYAN GR EGORY

UNIVER SIT Y OF OR EGON MUSEUM OF NATUR AL AND CULTUR AL HISTORY

GO TO: EUGENE

bottom right) or Get Air. My two kids recently bounced like supercharged grasshoppers at DEFY, which has plenty of seating for grownup spectators.

Get even more enthusiasm out skating at the Rink Exchange, which rents seal-shaped skating supports for your littlest Wayne Gretzky. After you unlace your skates, cross the parking lot to the Holiday Market (open select days November through December).

You’ll find handmade gifts, delicious food and live music in this indoor iteration of the Portland Saturday Market.

Next head to the University of Oregon campus, where you can see a 7-foot-tall ground sloth skeleton (pictured top left), artifacts from Native American tribes and the oldest sandals in the world at the Museum of Natural and Cultural History. Request an adventure pack from the front desk, which is filled with goodies to help kids explore the museum (available in English and Spanish).

In the heart of campus, visit the Jordan Schnitzer Museum of Art (pictured below), which is best known for its collections of Asian art. Finally, check the university’s athletics schedule (GoDucks.com/calendar) to cheer on the Ducks in the Matthew Knight Arena.

C ATHERINE RYAN GR EGORY

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fa m i ly s u p p e r For more family-friendly restaurant reviews visit: pdxparent.com/ family-supper.

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Breadwinner When I told my family we Find fluffy, Japanesewere visiting Tanaka, the style bread — and Japanese comfort food spot, delicious sandwiches featuring katsu (breaded, deep-fried cutlet) sandos and pastries, the excitement made from it — at the was palpable. This is the second location new Bridgeport Village for Tanaka, part of Bridgeport Village’s $35-million renovation.

Tanaka location.

The space was warm and inviting, with STORY AND PHOTOS BY BETHANY MARCEL

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a plethora of potted green plants and a small case of baked goods at the front. The entrance (including the counter where you order) can get chaotic on weekends, so families might want to look at the

menu ahead of time. We chose to sit outside on the cozy, dog-friendly patio, where overhead heat lamps provided ample warmth. Be advised that the patio overlooks the new Bridgeport Village play area — a possible temptation for restless young kiddos.

Our order came quickly. My husband ordered the spicy pork sando (pictured above, $14). Naturally, I became jealous and asked for a bite. The pork was tender, and the subtle sweetness of the katsu sauce plus the crunch of the cabbage perfectly balanced the richness of the pork. The heat built, but it never overwhelmed. The toasted shokupan (Japanese milk bread) was good, but it didn’t stand out as much as it does untoasted. I ordered the classic chicken sando ($14). The chicken was lightly breaded and well-cooked, and the yuzu egg salad was so flavorful I would have happily eaten an extra helping on the side.

My 5-year-old daughter, Emory, wasn’t in the mood to try the katsu nuggets ($8 for 6), so she opted for her go-to, the kids’ grilled cheese ($6). It was a better version of the classic white bread and yellow cheese sandwich, great for picky eaters. When I asked our grilled cheese connoisseur for her critical review, she said, “Really good, and the bread is extra heavy.” I tasted her sandwich and discovered she was spot-on.

The grilled cheese was denser than usual.

Always trust the expert.

We shared an order of french fries ($5) and were pleased to see that the servingsize was plenty for all three of us to share.

“Hot and crunchy,” my daughter said. What more could you ask for from a fry? She refused to try the curry aioli — a shame because the fries dipped in the aioli were exceptional. “Addictive,” said my husband. “I can see myself craving this.”

For dessert, we split a strawberry fruit sando (pictured above left, $7). My daughter took one bite of this Japanese

If You Go: Tanaka Bridgeport Village, 7237 SW Bridgeport Rd., Tigard, tanakakatsusando.com. Open daily, 10 am-8 pm. Breakfast, lunch and dinner.

whipped cream sandwich and her eyes grew wide. “It’s creamy and delicious,” she said. The light, fluffy shokupan stood out more here, and the whipped cream was subtly sweet and plentiful, with slices of strawberries layered on top. Seeing that they sold bags of shokupan at the front counter for $5, I realized we could make fruit sandos more affordably at home.

When we finished, we licked our fingers and agreed that our future likely holds a bounty of whipped cream sandwiches.

As we were leaving, my husband admired the cups of sake as well as a yuzu lager on tap. We began scheming about when to come back for a date night. The server took notice and said, “Come for breakfast and we’ll have yuzu cream doughnuts.” Our curiosity was piqued. Unfortunately, they don’t open until 10 am.

As a parent, I’ve lived several lifetimes before then. And yet, that didn’t stop us from returning a few days later to try the yuzu cream doughnut ($4.50) and good coffee bun ($5). The pastries were fantastic — the doughnut had a pleasantly chewy texture, and the light yuzu cream exploded when you took a bite. The coffee bun was like a really good espresso had turned into a cream-filled bun. I have a feeling we’ll be back to Tanaka for many more meals — including 10 am pastries.

Bethany Marcel is a writer and editor living in Southwest Portland with her husband and 5-year-old daughter. Find her at bethanymarcel.com.

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• We accept most insurance plans • Board-certified OBGYNs • LGBTQIA+ care • On-site ultrasound and phlebotomy • Minimally invasive surgery • Commitment to giving back to the community • Whole body approach • Bilingual providers Learn more and make an appointment with our community of specialists at oregonclinic.com/obgyn

OBSTETRICS & GYNECOLOGY

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field trip

Batter Up Baseball and softball players of all ages can hone their skills at Tigard’s D-BAT PDX WEST training facility.

STORY AND PHOTOS BY DENISE CASTAÑON

My 8-year-old son, Cruz, has played T-ball then baseball since kindergarten, but we’ve never taken him to a batting cage. So when we heard about D-BAT PDX WEST, an indoor baseball and softball training facility that opened last year in Tigard, we were excited to check it out.

The 25,000-square-foot space has 19 cages in total, 16 for hitting and fielding, and three for pitching. Four cages have machines that pitch baseballs, and fastpitch or slow-pitch softballs; these cages

If You Go: D-BAT PDX WEST, 11131 SW Greenburg Rd.,Tigard, 503-506-5020, dbatpdxwest.com.

Players should bring their own batting helmet, mitt, batting gloves and water bottle. Players should wear athletic shoes or turf shoes, not cleats.

Gold membership is $48 a month and includes 225 pitches from the pitching machines a day; a 20% discount for camps, lessons and cage rentals; and a 10% discount at the pro shop. Platinum membership is $78 a month and includes unlimited pitches from the pitching machines; a 30% discount for camps, lessons and cage rentals; and a 15% discount at the pro shop. Memberships are month-to-month.

D-BAT also hosts birthday parties! Assistant General Manager Cole Hoskins says they have been very popular and get booked months in advance. The $375 package for up to 12 kids includes 90 minutes in the party room; one swing card per child; two reserved cages; a portable pitching machine; an instructor to lead games or practice; three large pizzas and two 2-liter sodas; plates, napkins and cups; and clean up.

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are walk-in only and operate with a card swipe. ($2.50 for one turn of 13 to 15 pitches or 15 turns for $25.) Other cages can be rented for 30 minutes ($25 non-member) or an hour ($50 non-member).

The cages can be used by parents/coaches and players, or even by a coach and team. They are suitable to practice pitching, hitting and fielding. You can also sign your player up for a lesson, 30 minutes ($50 for non-members) or an hour ($95 for non-members).

When we visited on a Saturday afternoon, the turf was hopping.

In addition to several players rotating in to the pitch-machine cages, there was a group of boys horsing around and playing dodgeball with a teenaged instructor for a birthday party. It was pretty loud, but the vibe was laid-back and fun.

Cruz had a 30-minute lesson with Assistant General Manager Cole Hoskins. Hoskins started Cruz out on a tee and gave him pointers on his swing. Hoskins had an encouraging and easygoing style, helping Cruz — but not putting any pressure on him. “He gave me useful tips like practice hitting with one hand and all you have to do is find a good stance when you’re hitting,” said Cruz.

Soon Cruz was smacking the ball with a satisfying, metallic phwiiiiing sound! (That noise was coming from all over the facility!)

Hoskins then popped baseballs at Cruz from the side for him to hit.

And eventually he pitched to him from behind a net. With just a short amount of one-on-one coaching from Hoskins, Cruz’s hits improved. Shortly after, they switched to fielding practice. Then a ball popped up and dinged Cruz on the kneecap. And that was our signal it was time to go. Pro tip: D-BAT keeps ice packs on hand should you need one.

Need a Nanny?

Whether you are in need of a long-term nanny or just an evening out with your partner, Portland Nanny is here to help!

Permanent Placements Occasional/As Needed Care In-A-Pinch

book here

portlandnanny.com @Portland_Nanny

Denise Castañon is PDX Parent’s editor. The only sports she watches are kids’ baseball and basketball.

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H O L I D AY H I G H L I G H T S

Saturday, Dec. 2nd

PRESENTS

bee joyful, shop local!

RAFFLES GALORE | MEET SANTA & HIS ELVES, THE GRINCH & KRAMPUS | FESTIVE FILMS | HOT COCOA & MORE

sellwoodmoreland.com

IMAGO THEATRE PRESENTS 17 SE 8th | imagotheatre.com

A PORTLAND TRADITION SINCE 2005

Capture the holiday magic of a live steam locomotive!

Ride along with Santa in vintage rail cars pulled by the powerful, 1912 Polson #2 Logging Steam Locomotive.

Enjoy a 45-minute ride from Oregon Rail Heritage Center on the Oregon Pacific Railroad tracks beside the wintry Willamette River. Feel the raw power of the steam locomotive and train, both decked out in holiday lights.

There is plenty of free parking, train-themed gifts and of course, Santa!

D EPA R T U R E S E V ERY 9 0 M I N U T E S FRO M T H E CEN T ER 2 2 5 0 S E Wa te r A ve o n t h e M A X O r a n g e L i n e

Nov 24-26 | Dec 1-3 | Dec 8-10 | Dec 15-17 TICKET PRICES

$31 adult | $25 child Other discounts and family rates available.

Join the tradition! orhf.org/events/holiday-express www.orhf.org 503.233.1156

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“A blur of magic” NY Theatre.com

D

-J EC 8

AN

1

H

THIS N ING C O M S E A SO Y A D I OL

Tickets: IMAGOTHEATRETICKETS.COM or call Imago: 503.231.9581

H O L I D AY H I G H L I G H T S

Breakfast Cruise

November 25-26 December 2-3, 9-10, 16-17, 22-24, 26-27 Adult Price From $66 Child (0-12) From $49 WHAT’S INCLUDED • 2-hour cruise on the Willamette River

Find

• Plated breakfast

fun

• Hot cocoa, orange juice and coffee

• Souvenir photo with Cinnamon Bear for every child 12 and younger

every day of the week on our online kids

• Signature cinnamon cookie for every child 12 and younger

• Character storytelling and autograph sessions

calendar

pdxparent.com/ events-calendar

portlandspirit.com | 503-224-3900

BUY TIC

KETS NOW!

NOV. 17 - DEC. 31 Open most dates

1+ MILLION LIGHTS GERMAN MARKET • SANTA SNOWLESS TUBING AT THE OREGON GARDEN RESORT

For more information about hotel stays and tickets, visit SILVERTONCHRISTMASMARKET.COM pdxparent.com

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time out

November 2023

Go. Play.

Explore. cartoons on ice Enter the magical worlds of Elsa and Mirabel with Disney on Ice - Frozen & Encanto. Kids will delight in seeing their favorite movies brought to life on ice, and the entire family will want to dance and sing along. Pro tip: You can purchase an additional Character Experience prior to the show that includes crafting, games and more with both Elsa and Mirabel.

Children must be accompanied by an adult. Thursday to Sunday, November 9-12. Veterans Memorial Coliseum, 300 N Winning Way. Tickets start at $25 per person. Guests ages 2 and older must purchase a ticket. Find out more at disneyonice.com — Bethany Marcel

FELD ENTERTAINMENT

keeping memories alive

Find more family fun on our online calendar: pdxparent. com/events-calendar.

Be sure to confirm the most up-to-date info with event

The Muertos PDX Día de los Muertos celebration is back on Wednesday, November 1 at 2 pm. This organizers before heading out. ancient celebration originates from the Indigenous people of Mexico who believe that the souls of the dead return each year to visit with their living relatives — to eat, drink and celebrate. Activities will include altar creation, face painting, sugar skull decorating, live music, plus Mexican food and drink. At The Redd on Salmon Street, 831 SE Salmon St. $15 per adult; kids are free. Find out more at facebook.com/muertospdx.

And the Portland Mercado will host its annual Día de los Muertos event on November 1 and 2, 4-8 pm. Your family can celebrate Mexican culture, add to a community altar, enjoy live music and more! Free admission. Find out more at facebook.com/PortlandMercado. — PORTL AND VE TER AN ’S DAY PAR ADE Denise Castañon 44

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FELD ENTERTAINMENT

OMSI

self-defense experts Tough armor, sharp spikes, powerful poison, stealth camouflage.

We’re not talking about superhero suits, but animals with their defense mechanisms on display at OMSI’s new exhibit, Staying Alive: Defenses of the Animal Kingdom. In the exhibit you’ll find hands-on interactives and on-site animal experts who will let you get up close and personal with 16 live animals — and learn about the extraordinary tactics and adaptations they use to survive. Open now through Sunday, April 21, 2024. Included in admission: 14 and older, $19; seniors 63+, $16; youth 3-13, $14; 2 and younger, free. Free for members.

Omsi.edu/exhibits/staying-alive-defenses-of-the-animal-kingdom. — D.C.

OMSI

(taylor’s version) If you missed getting tickets to Taylor Swift’s epic Eras tour, you’ve still got a chance to see The Eras Tour Concert Film at OMSI’s Empirical Theater. Bring your friendship bracelets and immerse yourself in this once-in-a-lifetime experience with a breathtaking, cinematic view of Tay-Tay’s history-making tour.

Now through November 5. Starting at $13.13. Check times and purchase tickets at omsi.edu/events. — D.C.

model citizens The Columbia Gorge Model Railroad Club’s open house is a November tradition we look forward to every year. Gawking at the intricately detailed railroad displays pleases everyone from 2-year-olds to granddads. We love that the club adds humorous tableaus and something new every year. Pro tip: This year be sure to pay attention to the sky over the Crooked River. Saturdays and Sundays, November 11-12, 18-19, 25-26, and December 2-3. 10 am-5 pm. VIP tour at 8:30 am ($25 per person). 2505 N Vancouver Ave. Timed-entry general admission: Ages 12 and older: $12; ages 3-11: $5. Children 2 and younger are free. Tickets must be purchased online ahead of time at cgmrc.com/events. — D.C.

bubbling up Square bubbles, bubbles inside bubbles, fog-filled bubbles, giant bubbles, bubble volcanoes, people inside bubbles — Louis Pearl, The Amazing Bubble Man does them all. His shows are truly all ages; from preschooler to grandparent, everyone will be wowed by his creations. He’ll be playing four shows in Portland in November and December. Saturday, November 25, 11 am and 2 pm, and Saturday, December 23, 11 am and 2 pm. Clinton Street Theater. Tickets start at $10. Cstpdx.com/bubble-man. — D.C.

a patriotic parade Honor our veterans with the familyfriendly, inclusive Veteran’s Day parade, featuring floats, marching bands, vehicles and more. Pro tip: Use public transportation if possible, but if you must drive, organizers suggest parking at the Walnut Park Complex at 5305 NE Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. Saturday, November 11, 10 am. The parade begins at the intersection of NE Beech Street and NE Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard and ends with a left turn on NE Sumner Street. The closing ceremony is in the parking lot of Natural Grocers. Find out more at veteransdaypdx.org. — B.M. LOUIS PE AR L

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time out

EL A ROMAN

fun at a turkey run

matilda’s magic Portland Playhouse brings new life to Roald Dahl’s Matilda with Matilda the Musical. It’s a show full of magic, imagination, and songs the entire family will love. Matilda is a brilliant child whose family doesn’t understand her — what they don’t know is that she has powers they can’t imagine. Matilda is one of those heroines every child will want to look up to.

The show runs from Thursday, October 4 to Sunday, November 5, so don’t hesitate to grab your tickets. Shows are various days of the week, at either 2 pm or 7:30 pm. Portland Playhouse, 602 NE Prescott St. $59.95 for general admission, $5 Arts for All, and $25 for Access Tickets. Find out more at portlandplayhouse.org/season16. — B.M.

Wondering how your little turkeys could possibly run off all their holiday energy? Look no further! At the Turkey Trot at the Zoo, kids and grown-ups will enjoy racing through the zoo at full speed. Thursday, November 23. 7:30 am start for the 4-mile race and 9:15 am start for Diaper Dash and Tot Trot. Prices start at $27 for the 4-mile event and $20 for both youth races (kids 11 and under), but increase as the event approaches. All registration fees benefit the Oregon Zoo. Find out more at runsignup.com/Race/OR/Portland/ ORRCTurkeyTrotattheZoo. — B.M.

OR EGON ZOO

OR EGON SYMPHONY

adventure awaits The Oregon Symphony’s Music for Families series kicks off its 2023/2024 season with Trills & Treasures, a short concert featuring a mix of classical and popular tunes from Pirates of the Caribbean, Indiana Jones and more. The Oregon Symphony, conductor Deanna Tham and narrator Pam Mahon will be joined by Portland Youth Choir and Dance West for this lively and interactive show. Sunday, November 12, 2 pm. Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall. Tickets start at $12. Get tickets at orsymphony.org/concerts-tickets/2324/trills--treasures. — D.C.

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If you’ve got a fan of the Diary of a Wimpy Kid books in your house, take them to The No-Brainer Show featuring author Jeff Kinney. The best-selling author will invite audience members onstage to face off in brainchallenging, game-show-style activities. Kinney will make three local appearances, Thursday, November 2 in McMinnville; Friday, November 3 in Gresham; and Saturday, November 4 in Hood River. Tickets include a pre-signed copy of No Brainer, the newest Diary of a Wimpy Kid book. Find out more at wimpykid. com/appearances. — D.C.

ABR AMS BOOKS

wimpy kids, unite!

shining bright Various holiday displays start shining this month. Here are some to check out.

Soak up the sights and sounds at The Grotto’s Christmas Festival of Lights. In addition to the outdoor light display, you can duck into the Chapel of Mary to hear local choirs making a joyful noise. Or sing along with carolers in the plaza tent, where you’ll also find puppet shows and storytimes for kids. Pro tip: Be sure to dress warmly! Friday, November 24 to Friday, December 30. (Closed Christmas Day.) Thegrotto.org/christmas-festival-of-lights.

Visitors to the Silverton Christmas Market (pictured top right) at the Oregon Garden Resort will enjoy a new and improved layout with bigger and brighter light displays this year. In addition to more than a million lights, families can take a photo with Santa, enjoy live music, and shop for handmade gifts and imported German goods at the authentic German market! You can munch on schnitzel sandwiches and more. Plus grown-ups can grab a beer or cup of mulled wine.

Pro tip: Your parking and admission is included if you book a stay at the Oregon Garden Resort. Friday, November 17 to Sunday, December 31 (closed November 22-23 and December 24-25). Midweek admission for 13 and older starts at $15; $5 for ages 6 to 12; and kids 5 and younger are free. Silvertonchristmasmarket.com.

Or cruise through Winter Wonderland at the Portland International Raceway (pictured right) featuring more than 1 million LED lights and 250 holiday displays. Or you can walk through the display (with or without a furry friend) on November 27 and 29. Or bike it on November 28. Friday, November 24 to Sunday, December 31. Starting at $37 per car. Winterwonderlandportland.com. — D.C.

SILVERTON CHRISTMAS MAR K E T

WINTER WONDER L AND

lights, trees, santa!

What better way to celebrate the joy of the holidays than with twinkling lights, carolers and live music at the Hillsboro Holly Days Celebration. This annual event is also the perfect place to find unique handmade gifts from local artisans. Saturday, November 18 at 2-7 pm. Tree lighting at 6 pm. Find out more at downtownhillsboro.org/holly-days-celebration. And if that isn’t enough to fill you with holiday cheer, don’t forget the Annual Tree Lighting at Pioneer Square taking place the day after Thanksgiving (pictured right). There will be more live music, celebration — and of course, Santa Claus. Friday, November 24, 5:30 pm.

Find out more at thesquarepdx.org/event-calendar. — B.M.

PIONEER COURTHOUSE SQUAR E

light the way Celebrate Diwali, a Hindu festival of lights in which light symbolizes the victory of good over evil, at the Oregon City Diwali Festival. At the festival you can celebrate this joyous holiday through music, lights, arts and crafts, and food. Sunday, November 19, 11 am-4 pm. 615 5th St., Oregon City. Free admission.

Find out more at orcity. org/calendar.aspx.

— D.C.

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