Staff Suggestions
Our anonymous comment box is intended to surface innovative ideas and areas for improvement. Thank you for contributing to an inclusive workplace where we prioritize student success!
Suggestions will be reviewed by the executive leadership team at NWRESD. You may choose to identify yourself or remain anonymous.
Suggestions will be reviewed by the executive leadership team at NWRESD. You may choose to identify yourself or remain anonymous.
RESPONSES
Nov. 23, 2021
Suggestion: Please consider bringing back the superintendent video chats or a video walk through of what teams are up to. The videos were informative and helpful in understanding what each team does and the positive impact they make.
Response: The superintendent video chats took about ten hours of time to produce, but they had an average of 33 views per video. This was not an effective communications strategy. If you're interested in learning more about the outstanding work of our various departments and teams, we recommend browsing our board packets. Each department drafts a report on a monthly basis and they are dense with exciting news and updates. You can find packets on our board meeting pages (https://www.nwresd.org/about/board-of-directors/meetings). We have also posted more than 100 news articles to our website in the past year (https://www.nwresd.org/about/news-and-publications).
Nov. 22, 2021
Suggestion: Recently our team held a meeting in the Clark room and I noticed that there were signs on the tables to sanitize the area after use. When we finished our meeting, we looked for something to use to sanitize the room and there was nothing there. We borrowed the sanitizer and paper towels from the break room, but this is not an ideal solution. It would be nice to have the materials necessary in the room that needs to be sanitized.
Response: Thank you for flagging this for us. The facilities team has been notified. In the future, if staff notice that sanitization supplies are missing or running low, you can let the reception desk know or anyone on our facilities team (Rick Wahlstrom, Sharon Meeuwsen, Lori Baker).
Nov. 8, 2021
Suggestion: Perhaps we can list preferred pronouns for New Staff on the Monday memos.
Response: We love this idea. We've been calling them "pronouns" (drop the "preferred"), since it's not typically about preference or what someone likes to be called, but rather the actual pronouns that they use. Your suggestion will take some planning work so we can do it well. We often announce incoming staff before we have all the information we get from them during onboarding. We also want to make sure we do not inadvertently announce someone's pronouns without their consent, because that's for them to share (or not share). We'll dig into this and hope to have a plan soon. Thanks for the suggestion!
Nov. 8, 2021
Suggestion: Many of us are spending more time in buildings but are still participating in zoom/ video calls. It's hard to know when people are on a call, I have unintentionally interrupted colleagues and they have unintentionally interrupted me during video calls. Additionally many of us wear headphones to listen to music etc but want to be accessible when needed. One idea/solution I have is to buy or create universal signage that we could hang/stick etc in easy to identify areas. Making our own version would work too. If that is the case perhaps we can send friendly reminders as we are all relearning how to work most efficiently in our building. Thanks for listening!
Response: Thanks for encouraging us to think more critically about designing an office space that works in our current, and relatively new-to-us hybrid context. This is a thoughtful idea. If anyone is aware of any templates we can share or tools available for purchase, you can send those to communications@nwresd.k12.or.us. Another fun idea for solving this problem might be to provide a template in Canva that everyone has access for downloading and printing for themselves. We are working on releasing a Canva enterprise account to NWRESD educators, so we will consider that when we get closer to the launch.
Oct. 21, 2021
Suggestion: I would like to know of resources where I can apply for a grant for my ECSE students? Thank you.
Response: In terms of NWRESD-specific resources, the Northwest Regional ESD Foundation has offered mini-grants to educators in Clatsop, Columbia, Tillamook and Washington counties since 2006. The foundation took a hiatus during the 2020-21 school year because of the pandemic. Mini-grants will be offered again this year. The application window will be Feb. 28-March 18, 2022. The online application will be posted at nwresd.org/foundation. If you are interested in supporting this work, the foundation has a number of fundraising opportunities, including giving through PayPal, automatic payroll deductions, AmazonSmile and the Fred Meyer Community Rewards program. This year, the foundation is hosting a virtual fundraising gala. Historically, the foundation has hosted this event in downtown Portland. However, this year's gala will be virtual and will be held from 5-6 p.m. on March 3. More information is available on the foundation webpage. There are of course many other non-NWRESD resources available to educators. These include donorschoose.org, OEA and NEA. -Tracey Goldner, NWRESD Foundation liaison
Oct. 18, 2021:
Suggestion: Bring back some sort of public peer recognition. Since many of us are not in a site full time (if at all), how are we supposed to get the postcards to send to our peers? I don’t think this replacement was well thought out.
Response: Employee recognition is very important to us, so thank you for putting this on everyone’s radar. We’ve evolved staff recognition at the agency level because, as the communications team, we are focusing our time on elevating success stories of staff, students and partners who represent our diverse and intersectional workforce and communities. As an example, we recognized former student Eliana Mason at last month’s board meeting.
This shift was very strategic and carefully considered. We used an equity lens, got feedback from our racial affinity group and human resources teams, looked at data and analytics (who is using the kudos program, who isn’t, how many people are reading the kudos, staff feedback from the annual staff survey on recognition, national data on meaningful employee recognition programs, etc.) With all these inputs, we decided that our two-person communications team could be using our time more effectively toward the goal of elevating staff success stories.
At the same time, we still think peer-to-peer kudos are important! All ten of our facilities have notecards that you can send via mail or our courier. If you are rarely at those sites, we recommend grabbing a supply at those times you are onsite. If you are never at any of our sites, consider expressing kudos via email or during team meetings. You can also request a supply of notecards by emailing communications@nwresd.k12.or.us or notify us if we need to restock any supplies. We will drop notecards in the courier for you.
Even still, we will continue to be nimble and adaptable to feedback so we can get better and better at contributing to a workplace culture where everyone feels a sense of belonging. Thanks, -Kelsey Cardwell, communications director
Oct. 14, 2021
Suggestion: I have a question. When will the ice machine be fixed?
Response: We are working to repair the ice machine at the Washington Service Center. However, because of the current global supply chain issues, some of the parts are back-ordered. We hope to have the machine running again sometime this winter. -The Facilities Team
Oct. 12, 2021
Suggestion: I can't nominate an outstanding employee for the monthly recognition as her work doesn't directly advance our agency's mission, vision, values and/or equity policy. Her work efforts were still meritorious. When will the Staff Kudos return?
Response: We have provided kudos cards at the reception desks of all NWRESD worksites so you can send personal kudos to your colleague via the courier or mail. Thanks, Kelsey Cardwell, communications director
Oct. 7, 2021
Suggestion: According to our annual training on FERPA, it states the following: FERPA protects the privacy of student education records. You should not allow students to post their images — or images of other students — on social-media sites related to school use. If you find any such images, remove them immediately. Seek parental permission every time student information is shared online. Can you please tell us how our photo/video policy follows this instruction? We have been told photos can be used if parents do not opt out.
Response: According to our board policy, student photos are considered directory information not personally identifiable information. See policies JOA and JOB. Those who post photos to official NWRESD media channels have information about whose families have opted out or opted in (in the case of special programs and special events). Students wouldn't have this information. Thanks for flagging this important topic. -Kelsey Cardwell, communications director
Sept. 27, 2021
Suggestion: I would suggest caution on the type of items you present to staff as gifts. The vaccine mandate is a very hot topic so I was very surprised to see a pen that replicated a syringe.
Response: After more than a year of high rates of loss of life, economic hardship, and other struggles caused by the pandemic, our employees were owed a huge thank you and celebration for playing their part to end the pandemic. We had overwhelmingly high vaccination rates even before it was mandated, especially compared to the communities in which we live. Vaccines may be polarizing in certain communities, but our staff are actually quite united on this one (by comparison, can you think of any board election, levy, bond campaign, etc. that receives 90+% support in the same direction? It simply doesn't ever happen). In the end, it seemed worth the risk to celebrate our employees. A thank you note delivered along with each pen also offered a sincere thank you and congratulations. If you or someone you know would not like the pen, you can return it to the reception desk at your work site. -Kelsey Cardwell, communications director
Sept. 22, 2021
Suggestion: Although it is appreciated that employees are provided with back to school swag, it would be great that if in the future, a more "green" lens was used when buying/gifting the items. Consumables are always great, a nice quality water bottle would be appreciated....So worried that some of the items that were given out this year will end up in the landfill within weeks of receiving.
Response: Anyone who will not use something in their swag bag (i.e. the tote, sunglasses, t-shirt or pen) is welcome to return that item to the reception desk at their worksite. We plan to use these items at job fairs and other events as well. -Kelsey Cardwell, communications director
Sept. 17, 2021
Suggestion: During new hire onboarding, make sure folks know the difference between then NWRESD main site and the MYNWRESD/portal site...when to use which site, what info is there, how families use the NWRESD site, etc.
Response: myNWRESD.org is a staff-facing intranet (internal) site with information specific to NWRESD staff needs (e.g. benefits, contracts, professional learning opportunities, key contacts for staff, standard forms you should have access to, etc.) nwresd.org is public information and its utility varies widely based on which program you work for. Every program is responsible for making their pages useful for the communities they serve, whether those are families of young children, families of students in our K-12 programs, educators, the general public or other audiences. If you have suggestions for improvements to those pages, please make sure your program leaders hear those. We will make sure those who conduct onboarding also have more information on the difference between the two. -Kelsey Cardwell, communications director
Sept. 7, 2021
Suggestion: Please consider including and representing religious holidays of all staff on the operational calendar for 2022-23. The current calendar includes some religious holidays. With a diverse staff, comes various religious holidays that should be recognized.
Response: We don't typically include religious holidays on the operational calendar except for those observed as holidays in employee contracts (those are listed at the bottom right of the operational calendar). Changes to holidays would need to be agreed upon in the collective bargaining processes. The operational calendar is intended to be brief and share when our facilities are open and when they are closed. This year, many of the schools districts in our region decided not to start the first day of school on Rosh Hashanah and we aligned our operational calendar accordingly. That's why you see it named in this year's operational calendar at the bottom left. I hope this provides helpful context. We are always looking for ideas on how to advance our diversity and inclusion goals as an organization so thank you for highlighting this!
Sept. 2, 2021
Suggestion: When is the NWRESD going to provide a full training on COVID protocols and student/staff safety that all employees are required to take? It seems like that should have been covered with everyone at the same time during the inservice on August 31st. It also seems like every employee should be emailed this document and informed that they need to read it all by, say, Sept 7th and keep a copy for reference on their computer and a printed copy in every department in every ESD building: https://www.oregon.gov/ode/students-and-family/healthsafety/Documents/Planning%20and%20Responding%20to%20COVID-19%20Scenarios%20in%20Schools.pdf
Response: All employees are required to take a COVID-19 training before accessing our facilities. This is facilitated through our Public Works required training portal. All facilities have a sign-in sheet that asks you to confirm you have taken this training. In addition, all student-facing positions were trained in more depth on our Communicable Disease Management Plan the week before starting with students. The PDF you shared has been shared with all building supervisors and RNs who are the ones making decisions about quarantine, isolation, etc. -Sarah Pope, Deputy Superintendent
Sept. 1, 2021
Suggestion: Please immediately make all NWRESD staff members aware of the "Planning for COVID-19 Scenarios in Schools" PDF document available on the ODE website and require every staff member to read it and perhaps do a training/test on it. The info in this document really needs to be shared with all staff right away. https://www.oregon.gov/ode/students-and-family/healthsafety/Documents/Planning%20and%20Responding%20to%20COVID-19%20Scenarios%20in%20Schools.pdf
Response: We have shared these resources with all building supervisors and our registered nurses who will be making these decisions. -Sarah Pope, Deputy Superintendent
Aug. 31, 2021
Suggestion: We have a number of colleagues who are Deaf, HoH, or have audio processing issues. Utilizing audio-based "name that tune" activities is inaccessible and inequitable.
Response: Thank you for that feedback! We will take this into consideration for next year's event and other future staff gatherings. We also plan to debrief with the ASL interpreters and others who were involved in creating a more accessible event so we can keep getting better! If you have ideas for more accessible virtual games and engagement activities, don't hesitate to send those my way (kcardwell@nwresd.k12.or.us). I am taking notes for next year! (“Do the best you can until you know better. Then when you know better, do better.” ― Maya Angelou) - Kelsey Cardwell, Communications Director
Aug. 30, 2021
Suggestion: I would like to get the mandatory trainings done before the first day of school. The district I work for already has them posted for their staff. Would it be possible to get them online at an earlier date? Thank you :-)
Response: The mandatory trainings were sent out on September 1. They typically are not sent out too far in advance because classified colleagues need to have returned to work prior to completing the trainings. That being said, we will look at the calendar for next year and see if the trainings can be provided earlier to allow staff more time to complete them prior to working directly with students. -Debbie Simons, Chief Human Resources Officer
Aug. 30, 2021
Suggestion: RE: your Thank you "gift" bag - I hope to goodness that you get them out to each of the ECSE sites for their staff - it is NOT reasonable or good use of our time to go out to the Washington Service Center. It doesn't feel like you "get" what we do !
Response: It sure was a lot easier to get goodies out to everyone when we gathered for an in-person inservice, and I am sorry my virtual process made you felt unseen! We have staff members who work at dozens (yes, plural!) of different locations and we wanted people to have the chance to select their t-shirt size. This would have been more difficult to do by sending small packages around to our various sites. I will offer to the TECC, BECC and Day Treatment admin teams that if they can gather sizes for your teams, I can deliver a package to your site. If you work somewhere else, feel free to suggest this option to your team. Thanks for your suggestion! -Kelsey Cardwell, Communications Director
Aug. 25, 2021
Suggestion: I would like to suggest that the NWRESD clarify the rules about what work spaces in the service centers are appropriate for staff to be able to go mask-less in when they are the only person in their space. There are many work areas with multiple desks, not just one desk, and I have seen many instances when someone has been working by themselves in a shared office area without wearing a mask, sometimes for hours, and then I or someone else arrive into that area and they quickly put on a mask. With the coronavirus being spread mainly through aerosols that can float and linger in the air for a long time - over an hour - it seems like allowing someone to go mask-less in an area where other people eventually show up to work on the same day is problematic, especially if the air filter isn't being run. Also, if someone is mask-less in their own office for hours but then opens their door and leaves it open for more than the few seconds it takes to enter/exit their office, that can allow the air they've been breathing out to spread into adjacent office spaces. That seems like a recipe for possible virus spreading in our office buildings. Should someone go mask-less in a shared office area if they don't know for sure that nobody else who works in that area will be in on the same day?
Response: This is currently allowable as long as the person is in the office by themselves when they have their mask off. We would recommend folks who share offices coordinate closely, however. -Sarah Pope, Deputy Superintendent
Aug. 10, 2021
Suggestion: Modify the way that we serve kids who qualify for "SAIL" services in areas that can not keep consistent staff or where we're unable to hire quality staff.
Response: The intention of SAIL classrooms is to provide evidence-based instructional strategies with a high rate of frequency. STAR workshops are offered annually so that new and returning staff can be trained/re-trained on the curriculum, Follow up coaching should be provided by the licensed staff that serve those classrooms. Staff can also visit OrPATS classrooms to observe and train on curriculum implementation. Instructional coaches are also be a resource in providing professional development and support to staff so that skills can be developed and utilized in the classroom. Services for students and families in SAIL may include a variety of evidence based instructional methodologies based on individualized goals and needs. In addition to the selected SAIL classroom curriculum, IFSP teams should consider how to incorporate parent coaching, PECS, Project Impact, sensory activities and many other programs to build a rigorous and meaningful individualized program for each student.
July 19, 2021
Suggestion: I would suggest to retain a transition class at the ECSE locations for the littles that do not succeed in the community. It could also be used as a next step for sail with routine classes. I could see it also being used as a possible training class for teachers in the district.
Response: We want to support the kids we serve being successful in a variety of different ways including through parent coaching and through supporting children in inclusive settings. Our team has increased support for children in inclusive environments in a number of ways including having increased instructional assistant time to serve kids in community, decreasing service provider caseloads, increased training hosted by NWRESD for community preschool programs, and having materials like visuals prepared or purchased so they are readily available. Having inclusive preschool opportunities that work for all children in ECSE is an ongoing project and we will continue to consider innovative solutions to increase options for all children.
June 11, 2021
Suggestion: In our required online trainings (bloodborne pathogens, sexual harassment, etc.) it would be fantastic include an Equity training with terminology and concepts to be tested on. Our organization has made bold claims of our collective anti-racism without staff accountability of truly knowing, only the unaddressed abidement of being a part of the institutions claims.
Response: Thank you for your feedback. This is an area that HR is working on, and we are planning to include an anti-bias training in our required trainings. This is something we are hoping to roll out in the next coming months. -Joseph Hernandez, chief human resources officer
June 9, 2021
Suggestion: Having an established Land Acknowledgement statement-- this was something mentioned at Equity Cafe 2020 but it has not been revisited. By stating we are an anti-racist agency, we must have this established and shared with staff promptly.
Response: Yes, we have created land acknowledgements for Clatsop, Columbia, Tillamook and Washington counties. These acknowledgements are available on each of our service center pages. There are also resources on those pages available for creating your own land acknowledgement. -Communications and Equity and Family Partnerships
June 1, 2021
Suggestion: That we go back to the old way or at least add it back in of the directory. I spent 20 minutes trying to find out who served our county in an area and finally had to e-mail the coordinator because all that's listed is the persons name and their title. NOT which district, school or service center they serve. It used to be so easy to just pull up the county directory and it would all be there for you to access. This new directory doesn't help when you don't know WHO you're looking for just what. Maybe that is something that could be added back into each service center or school we serve so this is readily available. I'm sure the coordinator's are very busy to be answering e-mails about who serves where.
Response: Use the dropdown menu for departments to filter by service center, county and for other services/programs. If you find that the list is not accurate, please email Tammie Wing so she can make updates. The previous staff directory was created manually. This left a lot of room for errors and meant it was constantly out of date. This new staff directory is pulled directly from our staff database on a monthly basis and should therefore be more accurate. We are still making sure our database accurately captures our services and programs and thank you for your help with this. You can send additional recommendations directly to us at communications@nwresd.k12.or.us if you would like. Thanks so much for helping improve our communications systems!
-Communications
May 28, 2021
Suggestion: Please consider moving toward using they/them/theirs pronouns in policies, staff evaluation tools, and other documents. Currently, most of these documents use he/she, him/her, and his/her language. We can acknowledge that including pronouns for two genders was an intention of inclusion, but gendering isn't needed and binary pronouns are not fully inclusive in the way ungendered pronouns are.
Response: Thank you for the feedback and as the HR team continues to make progress in many realms, we have pronouns on our radar. To start, we have removed gendered language from job descriptions and any policies our board has passed or updated in recent years. We agree that the use of they/them pronouns could be seen as inclusion and will work towards this goal in the coming months. Thanks again for the suggestion. -Joseph Hernandez, chief human resources officer
May 27, 2021
Suggestion: Please provide a stipend for use of personal cell phones as most staff are using their own. Some would prefer not to give out personal cell numbers, therefore it would be a good option to provide a forwarding system for calls and texts to personal cells that will not give out the numbers but still allow send and receive of texts and calls on personal phones that are reimbursed by NWRESD. Right now families technically cannot call into a number but must leave a voicemail. So no full telephone access unless we use a personal phone. There currently is no internet phone access that allows families to call in. We can use to call out only. This limits families from calling us right back or responding via text. Families need to be able to call or text us us without us providing personal phone information. This technology does exist.
Response: We understand that staff are looking for more and better ways to communicate with families using phones and text without giving away their personal contact information. We are working on releasing more tools this year, including those that will allow for texting and phone calls without using your personal device. More information will be available soon. -Stuart Long, Chief Information Officer
May 18, 2021
Suggestion: I feel that NWRESD should have a washer and dryer on site for staff to wash items that are checked in and out for student use. Items that have removable straps, weighted vests, etc...need to be cleaned as it relates to cross contamination. Handwashing some items work well but for sanitation certain items need to be sufficiently washed in a washing machine. Thank you!
Response: All of our larger sites have a washer and dryer with the exception of the Washington Service Center. If your site does not have a washer and dryer please work with the site administrator to discuss the need and to work on a solution. For the Washington Service Center, please contact Cathy Jensen or Johnna Timmes. -Rick Wahlstrom, Operations
April 19, 2021
Suggestion: Pay IAs in outer lying counties more and give IAs that stay year after year a sustainability bonus. NOT signing bonuses. Its easy to join the team its incredibly difficult to do all the things that is required of an IA when you make poverty wages.
Response: Thank you for your feedback. NWRESD greatly values all staff and all of their contributions. In addition, this is a topic you can take directly to your association President to explore. - Joseph Hernandez, Chief Human Resources Officer
April 5, 2021
Suggestion: I greatly appreciate all the work NWRESD has been doing to be actively anti-racist and anti-bias. I'd love to see the same the same energy continue and also move towards becoming anti-ableist. It would be wonderful if our EI/ECSE programs and our agency as a whole to embrace and accept neurodiversity for our fellow neurodiverse staff members and the neurodiverse children we serve.
Response: We hear you! Our agency is committed to integrating equity leadership across all teams and sites. As part of Strategy 1.1 of the Strategic Plan, we will be launching Equity Learning Teams in the 2021-22 school year to deepen our equity learning and action across all corners of the organization. We will measure our organization's progress by assessing where we are on our antiracist continuum, aiming for "integrative awareness," which recognizes intersectionality in this work. As we expand our equity work into more realms, Sharif Zakir Liwaru, director of equity and family partnerships, reminds us that it will be important to add on and not take away from the work that's already happening. If you're interested in getting in touch with Liwaru to learn more about the expansion of equity initiatives, email sliwaru2@nwresd.k12.or.us.
March 16, 2021
Suggestion: From the EI/ECSE Admin Board Report for March, there appears to be significant changes happening to Early Childhood Special Education Services. Have families had an opportunity to weigh in on these changes, especially the rural communities? Is relying on in-home consultations going to prevent families from seeking out services? What about the families who cannot access typical peer programs due to financial or transportation constraints (rural families) who traditionally relied on ECSE classrooms to provide safe and accessible social development? Inclusion can be a wonderful approach for many children, however it is not a one-size fits all approach. It will take special care to ensure that an inclusive setting is the right environment for each child, not solely dependent on need for “intensive services”.
Response: Empathy interviews were completed with families across the four counties to gather input. Also, information has been provided to each county advisory council to gather input and feedback. Currently, we provide in home consultation to the early intervention families and the program continues to receive referrals at a consistent rate. The administrative team is working with districts and community providers to increase environments where children who are experiencing a disability can receive services with their peers. Transportation is a responsibility of the residing district. If there are concerns, the EI/ECSE supervisor should be informed. -Nancy Ford, Executive Director of Early Intervention and Early Childhood Special Education
March 16, 2021
Suggestion: I would really like to hear more about the equity practices surrounding our Special Education Services, especially as we search for a new Executive Director of Early Learning. Specifically, can you detail how we as an organization are:
Response: The work of becoming an antiracist and actively anti-ableist organization takes place in many zones, including individual work of educators, in NWRESD committees and job-alike teams, and at the state level in partnership with organizations such as FACT Oregon, the Council for Exceptional Children Northwest Association of Blind Athletes, Oregon Commission for the Blind, The Oregon Deafblind project, and many more. NWRESD educators wishing to learn more and participate in this work can seek out the following opportunities:
March 16, 2021
Suggestion: This isn't a suggestion but a thank you! I loved Classified Appreciation. I think you all did such a great job of pulling off a fun virtual event! Thank you!
Response: We're so glad you enjoyed the week. Thanks so much for participating. It was our honor to recognize you. -Human Resources and Communications
March 9, 2021
Suggestion and response: We recently received a suggestion about the staff recognition program. We aren't publishing the full request because it was more of a complaint than a suggestion, but we want you to know we are currently working on reimagining the staff recognition program so that it aligns with strategy 1.4 in our new strategic plan that seeks to develop and implement best practices for recruitment, retention, and promotion of a diverse workforce. -Communications
March 8, 2021
Suggestion 1 re: reopening schools: It was very stressful to get an email update about returning to school at 4pm on a Friday. And to make such a blanket statement about returning completely to in-person starting on that date seemed quite rushed and I felt extremely surprised and unprepared for this information. So many things need to be figured with home life in adjustment for these next steps and it is very anxiety provoking especially not hearing the safety precautions and gradual progression for these next steps. Anxious about EVERYONE returning in full capacity in just a few weeks and concerns about so much exposure and risk without even discussion of hybrid model or limiting staff at site.
Suggestion 2 re: reopening schools: I would like to suggest that major announcements and program changes be sent to staff in a timely manner and within a staff meeting that allows for questions and answers prior to informing parents. It would also be helpful if there is an actual plan for the logistics of implementation before making the announcement of a change. Friday 4pm emails of major announcements creates significant angst for staff when we cannot ask our questions. It also implies that there is an agency expectation to check our emails outside of our work hours. Ultimately, it sets us up to look inept to parents when they come to us with questions regarding changes and no one has answers.
I know that the governor's announcement for reopening schools came as a surprise. This could have been handled by saying to parents "We are making plans to comply with the directive and we will have more information soon." Then follow up with staff to plan for the implementation of re-opening.
The plan for completely re-vamping the EI/ECSE program was also announced in an end of day meeting with no time for questions. There were significant logistical plans that had not been planned for.
As a staff member, it feels like these announcements are being made intentionally to disallow staff to be fully informed and it does not allow us to do our jobs effectively.
Suggestion 3 re: reopening schools: Please, please, PLEASE reconsider sending out important information to both families and staff on Friday afternoons. This practice sends staff into a panic when we are left with news that we are unable to get answers and clarification for until Monday, or even later. It really puts a damper on the weekend. In addition, it looks bad when we have parents emailing us all weekend asking us questions we do not know the answer to.
Suggestion 4 re: reopening schools: Could I suggest that big announcements to staff and families be made on a Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday or a Thursday? Or at the very least, not happen on a Friday afternoon?
Announcements to families and Staff are really tough to process and field questions on when they happen Friday afternoons, especially end of the day. Could I suggest we change that practice of late day Friday big announcements? It would be nice to save something big like the return to school for a time when staff has more availability, coordinator guidance and bandwidth to field questions from families. Thank you!
Response: We share your frustration about the statewide announcements relating to schools that have consistently occurred on Friday afternoons. This message was in response to the governor's reopening directive. We shared and translated her announcement so our staff and families could quickly access this new information. There are still many details to sort through and input that we will need from you and families. Expect more details in the coming days and weeks (starting with the Wednesday staff chat) as we work in collaboration with our associations to plan a safe, phased return to in-person services.
-Communications on behalf of Superintendent Dan Goldman
March 5, 2021
Suggestion: I just wanted to say that I really appreciated the gift cards from classified appreciation week. However, I am extremely proud of where I work and would prefer to have received something like a travel mug or quality water bottle with the company logo on it. I would love to show others how proud I am of what I do and where I work. I feel it would spark more conversations about what we do and I could talk about how wonderful it is to work here.
Response: This is a great idea. It's been challenging to distribute items during remote work. We will look for opportunities to do this in the future. We're so glad you love working for Northwest Regional Education Service District. -Communications
March 2, 2021
Suggestion: I would like to see acknowledgement of the fact I passed the language test recently offerred this year by the ESD. I received a $1000 stipend, which is great, but I would like a certificate and some form of public acknowledgement. I'm really proud of this achievement!
Response: Great idea. We look forward to recognizing these staff members soon. -Joseph Hernandez, Human Resources
Feb. 26, 2021
Suggestion: To add the cultural heritage months back on the Monday memo with the educational links. For example: Native American Heritage in November, Black History month, Asia-American month, Hispanic/Latinx in September. They help with awareness and the educational links can help with learning throughout the year, especially when educators are looking to embed in everyday activities.
Response: Thanks for this feedback. There are an overwhelming number of resources we are happy to share, including this recent message from the Oregon Department of Education, which announces, among other things, new ethnic studies standards. We will share more resources like this in staff communications, and you will also see your teams dig deeper into some of this work in the months and years to come thanks to priorities in the new strategic plan. Finally, you may remember a ton of instructional resources were shared by our Equity and Family Partnerships team early this year. We absolutely need to make sure our diverse student population sees themselves in the pages of their studies. -Kelsey Cardwell, Communications
Feb. 23, 2021
Suggestion: The message sent out by the ESD late on the night of Monday, February 15th, saying that instruction and services were canceled for the following day for the Washington Service Center was too vague. It would have been better to have explicitly stated that "Tuesday, February 16th, is a non-work day for all Washington Service Center employees and that all work-from-home is canceled for the day." The vagueness of the message sent out resulted in not just in me thinking I should still be working from home, but multiple coworkers thought the same thing and we all ended up working on February 16th for part or all of the day. We engaged in planning for future programming that day. Saying only that "instructions and services are canceled" is just too vague. Thank you!
Response: We did not call this a non-work day because some staff were working on this day. For instance, all administrators were still required to work. If you are in doubt, our recommendation is to ask your supervisor. We will make our best effort to provide clear and consistent communications in the future, however, knowing that situations may vary widely across our programs, services and functions, remember that your supervisor is always a resource. Thanks for this feedback. -Kelsey Cardwell, Communications
Feb. 23, 2021
Suggestion: In regards to the fogging up of the clear masks, has anyone tried the differing techniques and/or products available for keeping glasses from fogging up? Some of the techniques work well for glasses.
Response: This would be a great conversation to have with your colleagues, especially those participating on planning teams for reopening schools. Northwest Regional ESD has a vast range of services and supports we are planning for, and so your localized needs and solutions might vary from those in another program. You are also always welcome to show up to work in your own preferred face covering, as long as they meet our requirements. -Kelsey Cardwell, Communications
Feb. 17, 2021
Suggestion: Our personal heaters can no longer be used because of SAIF's rules that it must turn off immediately (mine turned off in 3 seconds). I cannot find a replacement heater that would qualify under these strict rules and I'm sure others will have the same problem. Since there is talk about returning to work in the near future I'm wondering if you can give us suggestions on where to find a heater that will qualify.
Response: Due to potential increased spread of COVID-19 through the air, no one should be using a fan-based heating or cooling system at this time. Facilities is reviewing passive radiant heating units and expects to have a recommendation later this month.
-Rick Wahlstrom, Operations
Feb. 11, 2021
Suggestion: I reviewed the box delivered to my classroom labeled "PPE". I noticed that the masks that are included are white and made of cloth. I am VERY concerned for our EI/ECSE students. I understand that a few see-through masks have been piloted and tossed aside. So, we need to keep looking!! I believe that it will be traumatizing for our students to be forced to interact with us in person when they cannot see our faces. Let's do what is really best for our students here. PLEASE.
Response: It's true that the COVID-19 pandemic has been hard on all of us, especially children. The safety and well-being of our staff and students continues to be the top priority, and this means we need to wear face coverings. We have purchased some transparent masks for certain staff members to pilot (speech-language pathologists and staff on our deaf and hard of hearing team). We are experiencing some challenges, such as fogging, but representatives on our reopening schools teams are monitoring what's working well and will provide recommendations. Consider offering feedback to your supervisor if you feel safe to do so. We are just starting to offer limited in-person instruction at some of our school sites. We have been extremely selective in identifying children most in need of LIPI so as to start small in order to ensure we reopen safely and effectively. Like this, we will be prepared and more experienced as we introduce more children back to our classroom.
Feb. 3, 2021
Suggestion: Please notify people who receive Kudos and who submitted them. Thanks.
Response: Staff kudos are posted on the staff kudos page.
Jan. 19, 2021
Suggestion: Please purchase see-through masks for EI/ECSE staff members upon their return to the classroom. Students in the ECSE classroom need to see the entire face of each teacher, therapist, and Instructional Assistant.
Response: We have purchased some transparent masks for certain staff members to pilot (speech language pathologists, staff on our deaf and hard of hearing team). We are experiencing some challenges, such as fogging, but representatives on our reopening schools teams are monitoring what's working well and will provide recommendations.
Jan. 19, 2021
Suggestion: Does anyone know if: I receive COVID vaccine. I go back into the classroom for work. Can I bring home the COVID virus to my family members? (They will not be vaccinated yet) Thanks
Response: You can find more information about educators and the COVID-19 vaccine on our new vaccine resource page: https://www.nwresd.org/vax. For health-related questions, please visit Oregon Health Authority's vaccine page: https://covidvaccine.oregon.gov/. Note that choosing to decline the vaccine is not expected to impact your ability to continue working in your current position.
Jan. 11, 2021
Suggestion: It would be very helpful if you had a zoom training class with the new Boardmaker 7. It is more difficult to navigate and find older versions of pre-made pages, icons, etc.
Response: The EI/ECSE coordinators are working on setting ups a Boardmaker 7 training for instructional assistants. The training will also be recorded for future use. -Nancy Ford, EI/ECSE
Dec. 15, 2020
Suggestion: SAIF has been a completely awful company to work with on several occasions for myself, family, and co-workers. They are non-responsive to calls and emails. In fact, I still have an open claim that no one followed up on that was few years ago and have never heard anything back from them. Additionally, in cases that have involved serious long term injuries to myself and other staff, SAIF has offered insulting settlements. Given our work with special needs children that often put our staff at risk for injury, it would be comforting to know that if we are ever injured we will be taken care of. Are there other insurance companies that we can look at to insure our employee wellbeing if they happen to get injured?
Response: Thank you for your input in regards to our worker's comp company. SAIF is one of the largest providers for worker's comp in the state of Oregon and they set the standard in this arena. There is always an option for staff to explore short term disability options on their own accord. If there is a specific follow up needed in regards to a SAIF claim, you can reach out to Kathy Fernandez, kfernandez@nwresd.k12.or.us. -Joseph Hernandez, Human Resources
Dec. 1, 2020
Suggestion: I was wondering if you notify people directly who get a Kudos. Recipients might miss it if going just by the newsletter or social media.
Response: Revised for clarity on 12/9: Here is our process for recognizing kudos recipients during the pandemic, as it is outlined in the Monday Memo: "Our staff kudos program is going virtual this year. You can recognize your colleagues using the same online form, but instead of postcards, they will receive a shoutout on our social media accounts. They will also be recognized in the memo and on the staff kudos webpage." Read about your colleagues who have received kudos and shoutouts here: http://www.mynwresd.org/staff-kudos.html.Thanks for spreading the love.
Nov. 30, 2020
Suggestion: Please make the collective bargaining agreements available on the website. And if they already are, please make them easier to find. They do not come up in the search or under any of the available links.
Response: Collective bargaining agreements can be found on the human resources page of mynwresd.org (our internal staff website).
Nov. 24, 2020
Suggestion: Respectfully, and without knowing the history, I feel at odds with the “Motor Team” title inclusive of both physical therapy and occupational therapy providers. “Motor Team” may better describe PT and PTA services, but OT and COTA services encompass a broader and more varied scope of practice. Curious if this has already been discussed and resolved, with explanation?
Response: We'll talk as a team at our first opportunity to learn more about the concern and any needed remedy.
Nov. 24, 2020
Suggestion: It would be helpful to add two more optional text-boxes to the OT Evaluation Report: (1) “child/student” ( to allow for an occupational profile - student’s strengths and interests) and (2) “other” to allow a space for other observation or assessment not already listed...such as feeding, executive functioning, etc.
Response: The recommendation has been sent to the ecWeb lead programmer to add this component to the OT evaluation.
Nov. 23, 2020
Suggestion: I really think honoring years of experience needs to be reevaluated. The ESD dropped the ball this year recognizing individuals that have been with the agency for 10 plus years and beyond. In the past employees where recognized and felt valued for their years of service. Many employees were disappointed and felt overlooked this year.
Response: We're sorry to hear this. If you have suggestions for meaningful ways to recognize our years-of-service honorees in the current format, please email Joseph Hernandez, chief human resources officer.
Nov. 16, 2020
Suggestion: I respectfully ask that the word receptionist be replaced with Administrative or Admin Assistants or Admin Specialists as that is our role in the schools and other departments throughout the agency. There may be some staff who are receptionists but most of seem to be admin assistants or specialists.
Response: Thanks for this feedback. We will be more thoughtful and inclusive with the language we use as it relates to the various roles and various settings. -Communications Team
Nov. 13, 2020
Suggestion: Last week, one of our team members missed a meeting and we were worried. What should we do in this situation? (This entry has been paraphrased to protect privacy and preserve anonymity.)
Response: In this situation, the right thing to do is contact your supervisor so they can respond appropriately. As always, remember staff have access to mental health resources through our benefits plan. Learn more: http://www.mynwresd.org/eap.html
Oct. 22, 2020
Suggestion: This new photo photo policy is not ethical. "Northwest Regional Education Service District and/or the news media will occasionally take photographs, record or film and/or interview children/students enrolled in programs. Photos,
recordings and audio interviews could be used in a variety of ways, including NWRESD’s websites, promotional and educational flyers and fact sheets, news releases, promotional and educational videos, social media channels and other promotional and educational projects as well as in news broadcasts and news articles." This is beyond comprehension. Students in our programs are understood as being not only disabled but also have medical conditions and you want to place photos on social media, news, etc without a release? This is highly unethical even outside of FERPA. I believe this is breaking serious educational ethical standards, FERPA and not to mention HIPPA. NWREAD is obligated not only to follow FERPA but HIPPA and photos without a release are not acceptable. NWRESD needs to seriously rethink this one. What is in the best interest of NWRESD is not always in the best interest of students. Student benefit needs to be the priority. If parents give permission then wonderful. We also need to be sensitive to cultural, religious & social preferences around photos of children.
Response: It's so important to celebrate and showcase the incredible work of our students, staff and programs in positive and meaningful ways, including students in our programs that experience disability. Photographs are considered directory information and can be released at an administrator's discretion. See our board policy JOA Directory Information. We have also created a new photo release adminstrative rule (AR) with a bilingual form so parents and caregivers have the opportunity to opt out of allowing their child's photograph to be shared. See JOB-AR General Use – Opt Out for Interviews/Photos/Recording/Filming with District and/or the News Media. Our current practice is to seek explicit permission to use a child or student's photos. Before we can fully implement an opt out administrative rule, there is a lot of work to do to make sure this information and the opportunity to opt out is accessible to families in handbooks, on the website and in communications. Thanks for advocating for your families! You can review our policies and adminstrative rules on our website: http://www.nwresd.org/policies.html
-Communications Team
Oct. 21, 2020
Suggestion: It would be nice if staff had access to the agenda for board meetings that we are invited to attend. Having staff at board meetings is important, but it can be frustrating to not have the agenda or know what to expect when watching the meeting. If we register for the meeting could an agenda be linked to the email we get from Lauren?
Response: All agendas for board meetings are posted a week in advance on our website. Click Board > Meetings. We will also include the link the next time we invite you to a board meeting via the Monday Memo. -Communications Team
Oct. 20, 2020
Suggestion: With the new executive order 20-27 will ESD have face coverings available for all at site entrances?
Response: Yes, face coverings are available at all NWRESD sites for visitors or staff who do not have one upon entering building.
-Facilities Team
Oct. 19, 2020
Suggestion: Instructional assistants have experienced a lot of hardship related to being laid-off and big delays in receiving unemployment. It would be great to seem them recognized in a district wide effort. They do amazing work for our teams and deserve to be seen!
Response: This is a great idea! Our instructional assistants and other members of our classified bargaining unit have been doing some amazing work during the pandemic. We would love to do a better job of recognizing their impact. We will determine the best way to do that in partnership with others around our organization. Stay tuned! In the meantime, please nominate an outstanding NWRESD instructional assistant for Oregon Education Support Professional of the Year. -Communications Team
Oct. 19, 2020
Suggestion: It would be nice if the agency continued to honor years of service with gift cards and a personal note. A pin is not necessary!
Response: We have been working on distributing personalized cards to years of services honorees to accompany the pins. Gift cards are not recommended due to ethics law and audit requirements. -Communications, Human Resources and Fiscal Teams
Oct. 1, 2020
Suggestion: I know that our families struggle anyway with trying to connect with so many educational and medical providers and now it is even more difficult & overwhelming for them. I have just realized that parents do not always have easy access to our contacts for each provider (these are in so many locations). I am making a suggestion to include a Contact line/column on the Family page in EcWeb that parents sign, that would include each providers contact (email & phone). It will be in one place for them. THE NWRESD website is a maze and difficult even for those inside to locate information. We can make this easier for them with some simple solutions. Thanks so much.
Response: It's true, our website is a labyrinth! The communications team is currently working with programs to overhaul the website, which will make it easier to find information. Expect a new site launch in November. The EI/ECSE program (specifically Nancy and Vicky) will also work with ecWeb programmers to see about adding contact information to the team page. Thanks for the thoughtful suggestion. -Nancy Ford, Executive Director of EI/ECSE and the Communications Team.
Sept. 10, 2020
Suggestion: It would feel very supportive for the ESD and our supervisors to offer thoughts and ideas for support for staff being impacted directly, or who have friends, family, or students, effected by the current fires. It is hard that there seems to be "business as usual" without holding space for the stress at an agency or administrator level. Of course individual staff are able to take time off work and get supervisor support for that, but a more global acknowledgment would be appreciated.
Response: First... a huge thank you and big virtual hug too all our ESD colleagues for continually showing up for kids and families, for your perseverance under the most challenging circumstances imaginable, and for your support of one another. You are all greatly and truly appreciated.
Since the time this suggestion was submitted, we have provided guidance and resources in our weekly message to leadership, in a Friday communication to all staff, and in the Monday Memo. I have also encouraged team leaders to hold space to process events in their regular meetings. I also highly encourage individuals to reach out to colleagues and check in on one another, to utilize resources through our Employee Assistance Program, and to work with supervisors when flexibility is needed. It goes without saying that these are tremendously difficult times, and I know I speak for our full leadership team when I say that we are deeply appreciative of the empathy ESD staff show to one another and to the children and families we serve. -Dan Goldman, Superintendent.
Aug. 28, 2020
Suggestion: As educators we should be critical thinkers looking at different opinions and looking at the data and research behind those opinions rather than consumers of what we are told. We should be teaching students to be critical thinkers as well. In that light, not all people of color agree with the opinions being given during equity trainings. It would be important to provide differing perspectives and the reasoning behind those perspectives rather than just being given the one opinion as if that is the only opinion that exists. I think that it is important to "educate" our staff rather than pushing one idea/opinion. Can differing viewpoints be presented during our trainings?
Response: Thank you for sharing your experience with equity training at NWRESD. As we spend more time focusing on our growth as an anti-racist, multicultural organization, we will have the opportunity to explore the works of more scholars, historians and experts on issues concerning equity and social justice. This will give us a diversity of views that are valued for authentic discourse. At last week's inservice, our Equity and Family Partnerships team shared a number of media sources we encourage you to check out. On slides 30-42, we list about 40 different diverse media sources. Hope that helps!
-Peace and blessings, Liwaru, Director of Equity and Family Partnerships
Aug. 26, 2020
Suggestion: There are many staff who have been laid off and therefore do not have access to their NWRESD employee email. It would be incredibly helpful to send the updates regarding unemployment to personal emails rather than just employee emails. All of the employees that are laid off are not receiving the updates that have been sent over the past few months including the most recent email with a survey.
Response: Beginning in late July we collected emails from staff that were laid off so we can provide the most up-to-date information from the Oregon Employment Department via those communications. We want to ensure that we are supporting affected staff and providing any new updates as they arise. If any individuals become aware that they are not receiving the communications, please have them reach out to Joseph Hernandez, Chief Human Resources Officer at jhernandez@nwresd.k12.or.us to be added to the email listserv. -Human Resources Team
July 29, 2020
Suggestion: I would encourage that our Superintendent, Dan G know that, as we have serious messages from him, that his extra large picture at the end of his emails doesn't match his message...please make it a much smaller picture and maybe a little bit more "somber". It would feel more respectful as well as understood/unified. Serious times!
Response: Thank you for this feedback. We will make it smaller. In the distance learning format and in the absence of face-to-face opportunities, we believe it's important we still find ways to show our humanity. This includes opportunities to see one another however possible (video, photo, etc.). That being said, we can work to make sure the images we use match our superintendent's words. -Kelsey Cardwell, Communications Director
July 21, 2020
Suggestion: Since all staff has been providing distance learning services only and as we move forward into the Fall looking at possibly providing more distance learning to some capacity, is it possible for the ESD to give staff a stipend/reimbursement for both internet services and personal phone use? I know that we all have been using our personal phones as well as personal internet services and feel that since these are necessary to complete our jobs it would be nice to be reimbursed for it.
Response: We are working on a phone solution that is independent of people's phone bills. And while we believe internet services in 2020 are ubiquitous in our staff's homes, we know internet has played a more central role in helping us all stay connected to work, family, friends and school during the COVID-19 pandemic. We also know that some staff members have experienced a more challenging time getting connected, i.e. lack of broadband and/or hotspot options. If you fall in the latter category, work with your supervisor to explore your options, such as an alternative worksite.
One positive outcome of the pandemic is that many of us have been able to cut down on time, costs and environmental resources associated with commuting. Previously, our wellness committee put together options for using pre-tax dollars for commuting on public transit. Staff might want to seek advice from a tax expert for further options to save during our new work format as we take safety precautions to reduce the spread of COVID-19. -Stuart Long, Chief Information Officer
June 23, 2020
Suggestion: Someone suggested that all bathrooms be gender-neutral, as a woman I DO NOT feel comfortable or safe sharing multi-stall bathrooms with men. I had a bad experience when I was younger and would like you to consider all people's feelings (including the people who attend meetings at the ESD).
"May 8, 2020
Suggestion: One thing other agencies have done to support marginalized gender identities is to make more/all restrooms, including multi-stall ones, gender-neutral. Another is to make sanitary products free and accessible in all restrooms.
Response: Thank you for your suggestion. When we reopen facilities, we will look into ways we can improve how we support the safety and inclusion of marginalized gender identities in our spaces."
Response: Thank you for offering your perspective. We will be sure to consider diverse perspectives and input for decisions and plans that impact staff. Our equity lens implores that we ask "How have you intentionally involved stakeholders who are also members of the communities affected by this policy, program, practice or decision?" As you can imagine, our facilities and operations--generally speaking--are going to look a lot different when we reopen. It will be important for us to use the equity lens in planning for our 2020-21 school year reality, which will be different than what we are used to. Long-term, the equity lens is also a tool and strategy that can help us create a more inclusive, welcoming workplace when our physical facilities are fully operational. -Rick Wahlstrom, Facilities
June 13, 2020
Suggestion: FACE SHIELDS: As we anticipate face-to-face interaction with students next fall, many of us will need for students to be able to see our faces and mouths as we speak. Also, I wear glasses and they fog up constantly when I wear a mask, necessitating much adjustment of the mask and glasses. Face shields are said by experts to be superior in many ways to face masks, and they would allow students to see our faces. As I work with students, it would also be extremely helpful for me to see their faces/mouths. If the ESD could provide specialists face shields both for us and for individual students with whom we work, this would increase the validity of assessment and also the effectiveness of instruction. Student face shields could be sanitized between students.
Response: Thanks for the suggestion! We always appreciate and look for opportunities to incorporate input from our instructional experts, specialists, etc. so that our operational plans consider what's best for staff and students. Planning teams in each of our counties are working closely with county public health offices to put together a plan for reopening. In addition representation from both unions will be part of the planning. These plans will then be submitted to the Oregon Department of Education and posted to our website. We will be sure to communicate clearly and often about the public health driven guidance specific to our schools and programs once the plans are solidified. -Sarah Pope, Deputy Superintendent.
June 11, 2020
Suggestion: It would be extremely helpful if the ESD provided small bottles of hand sanitizers and disposable masks for those of us who are providing work packets to the students that we are delivering to their homes.
Response: Staff wishing to be reimbursed for work-related hand sanitizer should request authorization from their supervisor prior to purchasing. -Facilities and Operations
June 10, 2020
Suggestion: I love that the district is making the time and effort to run equity/anti-racism trainings right now. That being said, I find it concerning that a lot of the department events are being run by staff who are not people of color and who aren't trained to lead equity discussions. I don't know that "being an educator" or "being an administrator" makes you a diversity and inclusion expert. Can we consider taking a more thoughtful approach to who is qualified to facilitate these trainings, and bring in assistance from outside the agency if we need to?
Response: Thank you for offering this feedback and sharing your concern. I am grateful for our staff who push for stronger, better equity leadership. It is our aspiration that everyone in our organization, especially our leaders, have the ability to lead for equity. That being said, we know that it takes time, training, individuals' commitment to developing their anti-racist skill set, and a structural investment. This next year, we will be planning a launch of equity learning teams at each of our sites, supported by experts in equity professional development. Our Office of Equity and Family Partnerships is also in the process of developing an anti-racist, multi-cultural continuum--a tool that will guide us in our process to infuse anti racism and anti-racist leadership into everything we do. This will no doubt support strategic decision-making when it comes to diversity and inclusion, and I am grateful for this team's hard work on that project. Equity, diversity and inclusion is a priority investment area to me and is reflective in our recently adopted budget. It is also a priority in the next iteration of our strategic plan that will be posted and shared with all staff shortly. If you have additional feedback on equity professional development opportunities within your department or team, don't hesitate to reach out. -Dan Goldman, Superintendent.
April 9, 2020
Suggestion: Can facilities please consider adding automatic faucets and toilets within our schools and various sites.
Response: We have received several suggestions about how to safely operate when we reopen facilities. We want you to know that we are following the updates and guidance provided by national, state-level and local public health officials. When state officials deem it safe to start reopening facilities, we anticipate a stark contrast from how we have operated in the past. We will keep staff formed about comprehensive plans that will prioritize your safety and the safety of those we serve.
April 9, 2020
Suggestion: Can additional touchless hand sanitizer dispensers please be added to our buildings to help reduce the spread of germs?
Response: We have received several suggestions about how to safely operate when we reopen facilities. We want you to know that we are following the updates and guidance provided by national, state-level and local public health officials. When state officials deem it safe to start reopening facilities, we anticipate a stark contrast from how we have operated in the past. We will keep staff formed about comprehensive plans that will prioritize your safety and the safety of those we serve.
March 30, 2020
Suggestion: On Jan. 21st someone asked about posting staff pictures in the directory. The response indicated that it wasn't feasible at that time, but a new website in the fall might have something like that. I respectfully request that, in order to preserve staff privacy and safety, pictures not be made available to the general public without our express permission. Some of us work with individuals who have significant behavioral/emotional/and affiliation issues. Posting our pictures could pose a risk to our safety.
Response: Thanks for sharing your concern. Please see our response from Feb. 20. Thank you. -Communications Team
March 12, 2020
Suggestion: NWRESD in-home providers are not provided with cleaning supplies for toys, nor hand washing items. This needs to be addressed immediately.
Response: We have received several suggestions about how to safely operate when we reopen facilities. We want you to know that we are following the updates and guidance provided by national, state-level and local public health officials. When state officials deem it safe to start reopening facilities, we anticipate a stark contrast from how we have operated in the past. We will keep staff formed about comprehensive plans that will prioritize your safety and the safety of those we serve.
March 5, 2020
We are responding to this comment from our anonymous comment box on this page because it is an internal issue from a staff member.
Comment: The switch to Gmail and Google Drive is a source of big frustration -- their email and software / operating system are causing me to spend a lot more time and work on things that I shouldn't have to spend extra time on. Its functionality is a lot worse than Outlook and MS Office. For example, with Outlook and Excel, I could copy a column of cells in Excel and then paste-special in Outlook to pick from a number of different options for pasting the data into the Outlook email message. That is not possible at all with Gmail. Thus, I now have to spend extra time messing with the formatting when I paste into Gmail. This is but one example of many examples of how inferior these products that Google offers truly are. You can't even sort emails in Gmail! No sorting is allowed at all. That is insanely frustrating and inefficient, and is something that Gmail users have been complaining about for a decade and have been asking Google to fix -- to add the basic email functionality of being able to sort your messages by sender, date, subject, size, etc. If we are sticking with this new way, which it seems like we are, can this agency not send a list of comments about the lack of functionality to Google? Not that they will care or do anything about it, probably, as a simple Google search turns up a number of ways in which their product functionality has actually gotten worse in just the past year. It's fairly maddening.
Response: We understand that transitions are difficult and we are here to help you. There are many methods to ease the pain in the example you mentioned - and other tasks in your workflow that you may feel are broken.
Any time you feel your work and communication flow has been disrupted and your initial research and conversations with colleagues about efficient practices aren't fruitful, please start a ticket by messaging helpdesk@nwresd.k12.or.us with the problem. -Technology Team
March 3, 2020
Suggestion: I'd like to see us ditch the plastic utensils and invest in stainless knives, forks and spoons. Just a suggestion, thank you. Reduce Reuse Recycle
Response: Staff are encouraged to pack their own utensils when bringing their own food. That is the most cost-efficient and environmentally friendly option. -Facilities Team
March 3, 2020
Suggestion: I'd like to suggest thorough disinfecting and cleanings of all our ESD reception and waiting areas, tables, chairs, etc. In some cases, this may be long overdue.
Response: Absolutely. This was a huge emphasis for our staff during the past few weeks and will continue to be emphasized once schools reopen.
March 3, 2020
Suggestion: I would love to see a question in the staff survey that acknowledges the service center where one works is not necessarily the service center where one's team or supervisor works. The service center where I am located makes up part of my work environment. But it is not the service center that contains my supervisor or teammates. I am the only person on my team at this service center. I want to acknowledge each part of the work environment accurately.
Response: Thank you for this feedback. We will look for ways to be more flexible about geographic regions in the future, while still protecting the privacy of respondents. We know those that review the survey feedback also look at qualitative data too, so we hope that for this year, you were able to convey your feedback through comments. -Communications Team
March 2, 2020
Suggestion: Please distribute the Racial Equity Lens bookmarks/stickers as a visual reminder to all NWRESD staff not just the leadership team.
Response: The Office of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion has distributed equity bookmarks, stickers and posters to different groups throughout this past year depending on the type of training that was being provided. Some staff have received bookmarks, some stickers and some books. If you would like to request equity-related resources for yourself or your team, please email Yashica Island. -Office of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Team
March 2, 2020
Suggestion: One thing other agencies have done to support marginalized gender identities is to make more/all restrooms, including multi-stall ones, gender-neutral. Another is to make sanitary products free and accessible in all restrooms.
Response: Thank you for your suggestion. When we reopen facilities, we will look into ways we can improve how we support the safety and inclusion of marginalized gender identities in our spaces.
Feb. 27, 2020
Suggestion: Per the CDC, 16,000 people have died and 280,000 people have been hospitalized during the 2019-20 flu season. Not to mention revolving colds and the possible new pandemic coming. EI, ECSE staff and community partners needs consistent access to hand sanitizer and wipes to clean toys/supplies. Staff who provide home visits should have hand sanitizer in the car as well as wipes to clean toys. We do not have access to this at this time. These should be in every classroom, workroom and in every EI staff person's car.
Response: We have received several suggestions about how to safely operate when we reopen facilities. We want you to know that we are following the updates and guidance provided by national, state-level and local public health officials. When state officials deem it safe to start reopening facilities, we anticipate a stark contrast from how we have operated in the past. We will keep staff informed about comprehensive plans that will prioritize your safety and the safety of those we serve.
Feb. 20, 2020
Suggestion: It would be very helpful to folks who do not regularly visit the ESD to always have a room number/location in the building along with the room name when identifying where a meeting will be. It that possible?
Response: We have a map of the building we can make available at the front desk once we are back open.
Feb. 20, 2020
Suggestion: I noticed a request to upload pictures into the directory. I respectfully suggest that not all of us want out pictures out there in cyberspace or web accessible with our names. This should only be done with permission of the individual. Some of us have worked hard to keep our pictures and names separated and out of internet access in order to preserve our privacy.
Response: There are currently no plans for adding staff photos to the directory. We will be sure to consider staff privacy as we make these plans. -Communications Team
Feb. 12, 2020
Suggestion: Would it be possible to reiterate to staff (including substitutes) that it is not acceptable to belittle marginalized gender identities (such as non-binary) in NWRESD workplaces? I've seen it several times this year and it's highly disruptive. Thank you!
Response: Yes, please see Superintendent Dan Goldman's email about creating safe and inclusive spaces.
Feb. 11, 2020
Suggestion: Hi! I thought there was a phone number for staff to call if they were experiencing stressful life events, but can't find it now. Is that something that still exists? If so, could be included somewhere regularly on the Monday memo? -Thank you!
Response: Yes, the Employee Assistance Program (EAP) provides free and confidential counseling and referral services to all benefits-eligible NWRESD employees and their dependents. Go to the Employee Assistance Program webpage >>
Feb. 4, 2020
Suggestion: Please have the chair massage person at the WSC stop using essential oils and schedule a conference room not embedded within a department. Many staff are sensitive and allergic to fragrances.
Response: Human Resources is providing this feedback to the massage therapist.
Jan. 21, 2020
Suggestion: Receiving ASHA reimbursement continues to be a time-consuming task. One SLP I work with spent about an hour trying to get the receipt to upload. Another spent a couple hours and numerous phone calls trying to find out what was wrong with her submission. I was repeatedly asked to enter a code that was not in my drop-down box and that I could not manually enter. Is there a way to streamlne the process for next year? Thank you.
Response: If you are having difficulty submitting a reimbursement request in the web portal, please reach out to fiscal for assistance. You can also refer to the how-to enter expense reimbursements document in the Staff Resources shared folder.
Jan. 21, 2020
Suggestion: Is it possible, or maybe already in the plans to add pictures to the staff directory? Everyone had their picture taken this year for their new ID badges, so I thought maybe those pictures could be shown next to their name in the staff directory even if just for internal viewing only. With so many staff, it's often hard to put names with faces.
Response: We are looking into launching a new website next year and can consider if that would be feasible during that process. Currently, we would need to manually input and update our 600ish staff photos. Unfortunately, we do not have capacity to do that right now. Thanks for the suggestion. We're excited to consider it. --The Communications Team
Jan. 9, 2020
Suggestion: Can we get a program that allows for faxing to and from email? Install for Administrative Assistants and Administrators.
Response: Due to the amount of time it takes to set up each account and train on its use we have not broadly advertised this capability. However, anyone needing this service can request it by sending a ticket into the help desk at helpdesk@nwresd.k12.or.us.
Jan. 6, 2020
Suggestion: Would it be possible to periodically showcase (or provide a brief snapshot) of a different department or service so that we all can better understand some of the different wheels of the organization? For example, I don't know what Promise Project Management is? There are so many departments, services, supports, etc., that are a part of NWRESD. Perhaps mention who is over that department (include a picture), service, or support, would also be helpful for new staff coming on to make that connection. Thank you for your consideration
Response: Yes. The Communications Team will discuss the best way to highlight programs in a consistent way on our various communications channels (website, internal communication, social media, flyers, etc.). In the meantime, you can learn more about our Northwest Promise program on our Instructional Services webpage >>
Suggestion: Please consider bringing back the superintendent video chats or a video walk through of what teams are up to. The videos were informative and helpful in understanding what each team does and the positive impact they make.
Response: The superintendent video chats took about ten hours of time to produce, but they had an average of 33 views per video. This was not an effective communications strategy. If you're interested in learning more about the outstanding work of our various departments and teams, we recommend browsing our board packets. Each department drafts a report on a monthly basis and they are dense with exciting news and updates. You can find packets on our board meeting pages (https://www.nwresd.org/about/board-of-directors/meetings). We have also posted more than 100 news articles to our website in the past year (https://www.nwresd.org/about/news-and-publications).
Nov. 22, 2021
Suggestion: Recently our team held a meeting in the Clark room and I noticed that there were signs on the tables to sanitize the area after use. When we finished our meeting, we looked for something to use to sanitize the room and there was nothing there. We borrowed the sanitizer and paper towels from the break room, but this is not an ideal solution. It would be nice to have the materials necessary in the room that needs to be sanitized.
Response: Thank you for flagging this for us. The facilities team has been notified. In the future, if staff notice that sanitization supplies are missing or running low, you can let the reception desk know or anyone on our facilities team (Rick Wahlstrom, Sharon Meeuwsen, Lori Baker).
Nov. 8, 2021
Suggestion: Perhaps we can list preferred pronouns for New Staff on the Monday memos.
Response: We love this idea. We've been calling them "pronouns" (drop the "preferred"), since it's not typically about preference or what someone likes to be called, but rather the actual pronouns that they use. Your suggestion will take some planning work so we can do it well. We often announce incoming staff before we have all the information we get from them during onboarding. We also want to make sure we do not inadvertently announce someone's pronouns without their consent, because that's for them to share (or not share). We'll dig into this and hope to have a plan soon. Thanks for the suggestion!
Nov. 8, 2021
Suggestion: Many of us are spending more time in buildings but are still participating in zoom/ video calls. It's hard to know when people are on a call, I have unintentionally interrupted colleagues and they have unintentionally interrupted me during video calls. Additionally many of us wear headphones to listen to music etc but want to be accessible when needed. One idea/solution I have is to buy or create universal signage that we could hang/stick etc in easy to identify areas. Making our own version would work too. If that is the case perhaps we can send friendly reminders as we are all relearning how to work most efficiently in our building. Thanks for listening!
Response: Thanks for encouraging us to think more critically about designing an office space that works in our current, and relatively new-to-us hybrid context. This is a thoughtful idea. If anyone is aware of any templates we can share or tools available for purchase, you can send those to communications@nwresd.k12.or.us. Another fun idea for solving this problem might be to provide a template in Canva that everyone has access for downloading and printing for themselves. We are working on releasing a Canva enterprise account to NWRESD educators, so we will consider that when we get closer to the launch.
Oct. 21, 2021
Suggestion: I would like to know of resources where I can apply for a grant for my ECSE students? Thank you.
Response: In terms of NWRESD-specific resources, the Northwest Regional ESD Foundation has offered mini-grants to educators in Clatsop, Columbia, Tillamook and Washington counties since 2006. The foundation took a hiatus during the 2020-21 school year because of the pandemic. Mini-grants will be offered again this year. The application window will be Feb. 28-March 18, 2022. The online application will be posted at nwresd.org/foundation. If you are interested in supporting this work, the foundation has a number of fundraising opportunities, including giving through PayPal, automatic payroll deductions, AmazonSmile and the Fred Meyer Community Rewards program. This year, the foundation is hosting a virtual fundraising gala. Historically, the foundation has hosted this event in downtown Portland. However, this year's gala will be virtual and will be held from 5-6 p.m. on March 3. More information is available on the foundation webpage. There are of course many other non-NWRESD resources available to educators. These include donorschoose.org, OEA and NEA. -Tracey Goldner, NWRESD Foundation liaison
Oct. 18, 2021:
Suggestion: Bring back some sort of public peer recognition. Since many of us are not in a site full time (if at all), how are we supposed to get the postcards to send to our peers? I don’t think this replacement was well thought out.
Response: Employee recognition is very important to us, so thank you for putting this on everyone’s radar. We’ve evolved staff recognition at the agency level because, as the communications team, we are focusing our time on elevating success stories of staff, students and partners who represent our diverse and intersectional workforce and communities. As an example, we recognized former student Eliana Mason at last month’s board meeting.
This shift was very strategic and carefully considered. We used an equity lens, got feedback from our racial affinity group and human resources teams, looked at data and analytics (who is using the kudos program, who isn’t, how many people are reading the kudos, staff feedback from the annual staff survey on recognition, national data on meaningful employee recognition programs, etc.) With all these inputs, we decided that our two-person communications team could be using our time more effectively toward the goal of elevating staff success stories.
At the same time, we still think peer-to-peer kudos are important! All ten of our facilities have notecards that you can send via mail or our courier. If you are rarely at those sites, we recommend grabbing a supply at those times you are onsite. If you are never at any of our sites, consider expressing kudos via email or during team meetings. You can also request a supply of notecards by emailing communications@nwresd.k12.or.us or notify us if we need to restock any supplies. We will drop notecards in the courier for you.
Even still, we will continue to be nimble and adaptable to feedback so we can get better and better at contributing to a workplace culture where everyone feels a sense of belonging. Thanks, -Kelsey Cardwell, communications director
Oct. 14, 2021
Suggestion: I have a question. When will the ice machine be fixed?
Response: We are working to repair the ice machine at the Washington Service Center. However, because of the current global supply chain issues, some of the parts are back-ordered. We hope to have the machine running again sometime this winter. -The Facilities Team
Oct. 12, 2021
Suggestion: I can't nominate an outstanding employee for the monthly recognition as her work doesn't directly advance our agency's mission, vision, values and/or equity policy. Her work efforts were still meritorious. When will the Staff Kudos return?
Response: We have provided kudos cards at the reception desks of all NWRESD worksites so you can send personal kudos to your colleague via the courier or mail. Thanks, Kelsey Cardwell, communications director
Oct. 7, 2021
Suggestion: According to our annual training on FERPA, it states the following: FERPA protects the privacy of student education records. You should not allow students to post their images — or images of other students — on social-media sites related to school use. If you find any such images, remove them immediately. Seek parental permission every time student information is shared online. Can you please tell us how our photo/video policy follows this instruction? We have been told photos can be used if parents do not opt out.
Response: According to our board policy, student photos are considered directory information not personally identifiable information. See policies JOA and JOB. Those who post photos to official NWRESD media channels have information about whose families have opted out or opted in (in the case of special programs and special events). Students wouldn't have this information. Thanks for flagging this important topic. -Kelsey Cardwell, communications director
Sept. 27, 2021
Suggestion: I would suggest caution on the type of items you present to staff as gifts. The vaccine mandate is a very hot topic so I was very surprised to see a pen that replicated a syringe.
Response: After more than a year of high rates of loss of life, economic hardship, and other struggles caused by the pandemic, our employees were owed a huge thank you and celebration for playing their part to end the pandemic. We had overwhelmingly high vaccination rates even before it was mandated, especially compared to the communities in which we live. Vaccines may be polarizing in certain communities, but our staff are actually quite united on this one (by comparison, can you think of any board election, levy, bond campaign, etc. that receives 90+% support in the same direction? It simply doesn't ever happen). In the end, it seemed worth the risk to celebrate our employees. A thank you note delivered along with each pen also offered a sincere thank you and congratulations. If you or someone you know would not like the pen, you can return it to the reception desk at your work site. -Kelsey Cardwell, communications director
Sept. 22, 2021
Suggestion: Although it is appreciated that employees are provided with back to school swag, it would be great that if in the future, a more "green" lens was used when buying/gifting the items. Consumables are always great, a nice quality water bottle would be appreciated....So worried that some of the items that were given out this year will end up in the landfill within weeks of receiving.
Response: Anyone who will not use something in their swag bag (i.e. the tote, sunglasses, t-shirt or pen) is welcome to return that item to the reception desk at their worksite. We plan to use these items at job fairs and other events as well. -Kelsey Cardwell, communications director
Sept. 17, 2021
Suggestion: During new hire onboarding, make sure folks know the difference between then NWRESD main site and the MYNWRESD/portal site...when to use which site, what info is there, how families use the NWRESD site, etc.
Response: myNWRESD.org is a staff-facing intranet (internal) site with information specific to NWRESD staff needs (e.g. benefits, contracts, professional learning opportunities, key contacts for staff, standard forms you should have access to, etc.) nwresd.org is public information and its utility varies widely based on which program you work for. Every program is responsible for making their pages useful for the communities they serve, whether those are families of young children, families of students in our K-12 programs, educators, the general public or other audiences. If you have suggestions for improvements to those pages, please make sure your program leaders hear those. We will make sure those who conduct onboarding also have more information on the difference between the two. -Kelsey Cardwell, communications director
Sept. 7, 2021
Suggestion: Please consider including and representing religious holidays of all staff on the operational calendar for 2022-23. The current calendar includes some religious holidays. With a diverse staff, comes various religious holidays that should be recognized.
Response: We don't typically include religious holidays on the operational calendar except for those observed as holidays in employee contracts (those are listed at the bottom right of the operational calendar). Changes to holidays would need to be agreed upon in the collective bargaining processes. The operational calendar is intended to be brief and share when our facilities are open and when they are closed. This year, many of the schools districts in our region decided not to start the first day of school on Rosh Hashanah and we aligned our operational calendar accordingly. That's why you see it named in this year's operational calendar at the bottom left. I hope this provides helpful context. We are always looking for ideas on how to advance our diversity and inclusion goals as an organization so thank you for highlighting this!
Sept. 2, 2021
Suggestion: When is the NWRESD going to provide a full training on COVID protocols and student/staff safety that all employees are required to take? It seems like that should have been covered with everyone at the same time during the inservice on August 31st. It also seems like every employee should be emailed this document and informed that they need to read it all by, say, Sept 7th and keep a copy for reference on their computer and a printed copy in every department in every ESD building: https://www.oregon.gov/ode/students-and-family/healthsafety/Documents/Planning%20and%20Responding%20to%20COVID-19%20Scenarios%20in%20Schools.pdf
Response: All employees are required to take a COVID-19 training before accessing our facilities. This is facilitated through our Public Works required training portal. All facilities have a sign-in sheet that asks you to confirm you have taken this training. In addition, all student-facing positions were trained in more depth on our Communicable Disease Management Plan the week before starting with students. The PDF you shared has been shared with all building supervisors and RNs who are the ones making decisions about quarantine, isolation, etc. -Sarah Pope, Deputy Superintendent
Sept. 1, 2021
Suggestion: Please immediately make all NWRESD staff members aware of the "Planning for COVID-19 Scenarios in Schools" PDF document available on the ODE website and require every staff member to read it and perhaps do a training/test on it. The info in this document really needs to be shared with all staff right away. https://www.oregon.gov/ode/students-and-family/healthsafety/Documents/Planning%20and%20Responding%20to%20COVID-19%20Scenarios%20in%20Schools.pdf
Response: We have shared these resources with all building supervisors and our registered nurses who will be making these decisions. -Sarah Pope, Deputy Superintendent
Aug. 31, 2021
Suggestion: We have a number of colleagues who are Deaf, HoH, or have audio processing issues. Utilizing audio-based "name that tune" activities is inaccessible and inequitable.
Response: Thank you for that feedback! We will take this into consideration for next year's event and other future staff gatherings. We also plan to debrief with the ASL interpreters and others who were involved in creating a more accessible event so we can keep getting better! If you have ideas for more accessible virtual games and engagement activities, don't hesitate to send those my way (kcardwell@nwresd.k12.or.us). I am taking notes for next year! (“Do the best you can until you know better. Then when you know better, do better.” ― Maya Angelou) - Kelsey Cardwell, Communications Director
Aug. 30, 2021
Suggestion: I would like to get the mandatory trainings done before the first day of school. The district I work for already has them posted for their staff. Would it be possible to get them online at an earlier date? Thank you :-)
Response: The mandatory trainings were sent out on September 1. They typically are not sent out too far in advance because classified colleagues need to have returned to work prior to completing the trainings. That being said, we will look at the calendar for next year and see if the trainings can be provided earlier to allow staff more time to complete them prior to working directly with students. -Debbie Simons, Chief Human Resources Officer
Aug. 30, 2021
Suggestion: RE: your Thank you "gift" bag - I hope to goodness that you get them out to each of the ECSE sites for their staff - it is NOT reasonable or good use of our time to go out to the Washington Service Center. It doesn't feel like you "get" what we do !
Response: It sure was a lot easier to get goodies out to everyone when we gathered for an in-person inservice, and I am sorry my virtual process made you felt unseen! We have staff members who work at dozens (yes, plural!) of different locations and we wanted people to have the chance to select their t-shirt size. This would have been more difficult to do by sending small packages around to our various sites. I will offer to the TECC, BECC and Day Treatment admin teams that if they can gather sizes for your teams, I can deliver a package to your site. If you work somewhere else, feel free to suggest this option to your team. Thanks for your suggestion! -Kelsey Cardwell, Communications Director
Aug. 25, 2021
Suggestion: I would like to suggest that the NWRESD clarify the rules about what work spaces in the service centers are appropriate for staff to be able to go mask-less in when they are the only person in their space. There are many work areas with multiple desks, not just one desk, and I have seen many instances when someone has been working by themselves in a shared office area without wearing a mask, sometimes for hours, and then I or someone else arrive into that area and they quickly put on a mask. With the coronavirus being spread mainly through aerosols that can float and linger in the air for a long time - over an hour - it seems like allowing someone to go mask-less in an area where other people eventually show up to work on the same day is problematic, especially if the air filter isn't being run. Also, if someone is mask-less in their own office for hours but then opens their door and leaves it open for more than the few seconds it takes to enter/exit their office, that can allow the air they've been breathing out to spread into adjacent office spaces. That seems like a recipe for possible virus spreading in our office buildings. Should someone go mask-less in a shared office area if they don't know for sure that nobody else who works in that area will be in on the same day?
Response: This is currently allowable as long as the person is in the office by themselves when they have their mask off. We would recommend folks who share offices coordinate closely, however. -Sarah Pope, Deputy Superintendent
Aug. 10, 2021
Suggestion: Modify the way that we serve kids who qualify for "SAIL" services in areas that can not keep consistent staff or where we're unable to hire quality staff.
Response: The intention of SAIL classrooms is to provide evidence-based instructional strategies with a high rate of frequency. STAR workshops are offered annually so that new and returning staff can be trained/re-trained on the curriculum, Follow up coaching should be provided by the licensed staff that serve those classrooms. Staff can also visit OrPATS classrooms to observe and train on curriculum implementation. Instructional coaches are also be a resource in providing professional development and support to staff so that skills can be developed and utilized in the classroom. Services for students and families in SAIL may include a variety of evidence based instructional methodologies based on individualized goals and needs. In addition to the selected SAIL classroom curriculum, IFSP teams should consider how to incorporate parent coaching, PECS, Project Impact, sensory activities and many other programs to build a rigorous and meaningful individualized program for each student.
July 19, 2021
Suggestion: I would suggest to retain a transition class at the ECSE locations for the littles that do not succeed in the community. It could also be used as a next step for sail with routine classes. I could see it also being used as a possible training class for teachers in the district.
Response: We want to support the kids we serve being successful in a variety of different ways including through parent coaching and through supporting children in inclusive settings. Our team has increased support for children in inclusive environments in a number of ways including having increased instructional assistant time to serve kids in community, decreasing service provider caseloads, increased training hosted by NWRESD for community preschool programs, and having materials like visuals prepared or purchased so they are readily available. Having inclusive preschool opportunities that work for all children in ECSE is an ongoing project and we will continue to consider innovative solutions to increase options for all children.
June 11, 2021
Suggestion: In our required online trainings (bloodborne pathogens, sexual harassment, etc.) it would be fantastic include an Equity training with terminology and concepts to be tested on. Our organization has made bold claims of our collective anti-racism without staff accountability of truly knowing, only the unaddressed abidement of being a part of the institutions claims.
Response: Thank you for your feedback. This is an area that HR is working on, and we are planning to include an anti-bias training in our required trainings. This is something we are hoping to roll out in the next coming months. -Joseph Hernandez, chief human resources officer
June 9, 2021
Suggestion: Having an established Land Acknowledgement statement-- this was something mentioned at Equity Cafe 2020 but it has not been revisited. By stating we are an anti-racist agency, we must have this established and shared with staff promptly.
Response: Yes, we have created land acknowledgements for Clatsop, Columbia, Tillamook and Washington counties. These acknowledgements are available on each of our service center pages. There are also resources on those pages available for creating your own land acknowledgement. -Communications and Equity and Family Partnerships
June 1, 2021
Suggestion: That we go back to the old way or at least add it back in of the directory. I spent 20 minutes trying to find out who served our county in an area and finally had to e-mail the coordinator because all that's listed is the persons name and their title. NOT which district, school or service center they serve. It used to be so easy to just pull up the county directory and it would all be there for you to access. This new directory doesn't help when you don't know WHO you're looking for just what. Maybe that is something that could be added back into each service center or school we serve so this is readily available. I'm sure the coordinator's are very busy to be answering e-mails about who serves where.
Response: Use the dropdown menu for departments to filter by service center, county and for other services/programs. If you find that the list is not accurate, please email Tammie Wing so she can make updates. The previous staff directory was created manually. This left a lot of room for errors and meant it was constantly out of date. This new staff directory is pulled directly from our staff database on a monthly basis and should therefore be more accurate. We are still making sure our database accurately captures our services and programs and thank you for your help with this. You can send additional recommendations directly to us at communications@nwresd.k12.or.us if you would like. Thanks so much for helping improve our communications systems!
-Communications
May 28, 2021
Suggestion: Please consider moving toward using they/them/theirs pronouns in policies, staff evaluation tools, and other documents. Currently, most of these documents use he/she, him/her, and his/her language. We can acknowledge that including pronouns for two genders was an intention of inclusion, but gendering isn't needed and binary pronouns are not fully inclusive in the way ungendered pronouns are.
Response: Thank you for the feedback and as the HR team continues to make progress in many realms, we have pronouns on our radar. To start, we have removed gendered language from job descriptions and any policies our board has passed or updated in recent years. We agree that the use of they/them pronouns could be seen as inclusion and will work towards this goal in the coming months. Thanks again for the suggestion. -Joseph Hernandez, chief human resources officer
May 27, 2021
Suggestion: Please provide a stipend for use of personal cell phones as most staff are using their own. Some would prefer not to give out personal cell numbers, therefore it would be a good option to provide a forwarding system for calls and texts to personal cells that will not give out the numbers but still allow send and receive of texts and calls on personal phones that are reimbursed by NWRESD. Right now families technically cannot call into a number but must leave a voicemail. So no full telephone access unless we use a personal phone. There currently is no internet phone access that allows families to call in. We can use to call out only. This limits families from calling us right back or responding via text. Families need to be able to call or text us us without us providing personal phone information. This technology does exist.
Response: We understand that staff are looking for more and better ways to communicate with families using phones and text without giving away their personal contact information. We are working on releasing more tools this year, including those that will allow for texting and phone calls without using your personal device. More information will be available soon. -Stuart Long, Chief Information Officer
May 18, 2021
Suggestion: I feel that NWRESD should have a washer and dryer on site for staff to wash items that are checked in and out for student use. Items that have removable straps, weighted vests, etc...need to be cleaned as it relates to cross contamination. Handwashing some items work well but for sanitation certain items need to be sufficiently washed in a washing machine. Thank you!
Response: All of our larger sites have a washer and dryer with the exception of the Washington Service Center. If your site does not have a washer and dryer please work with the site administrator to discuss the need and to work on a solution. For the Washington Service Center, please contact Cathy Jensen or Johnna Timmes. -Rick Wahlstrom, Operations
April 19, 2021
Suggestion: Pay IAs in outer lying counties more and give IAs that stay year after year a sustainability bonus. NOT signing bonuses. Its easy to join the team its incredibly difficult to do all the things that is required of an IA when you make poverty wages.
Response: Thank you for your feedback. NWRESD greatly values all staff and all of their contributions. In addition, this is a topic you can take directly to your association President to explore. - Joseph Hernandez, Chief Human Resources Officer
April 5, 2021
Suggestion: I greatly appreciate all the work NWRESD has been doing to be actively anti-racist and anti-bias. I'd love to see the same the same energy continue and also move towards becoming anti-ableist. It would be wonderful if our EI/ECSE programs and our agency as a whole to embrace and accept neurodiversity for our fellow neurodiverse staff members and the neurodiverse children we serve.
Response: We hear you! Our agency is committed to integrating equity leadership across all teams and sites. As part of Strategy 1.1 of the Strategic Plan, we will be launching Equity Learning Teams in the 2021-22 school year to deepen our equity learning and action across all corners of the organization. We will measure our organization's progress by assessing where we are on our antiracist continuum, aiming for "integrative awareness," which recognizes intersectionality in this work. As we expand our equity work into more realms, Sharif Zakir Liwaru, director of equity and family partnerships, reminds us that it will be important to add on and not take away from the work that's already happening. If you're interested in getting in touch with Liwaru to learn more about the expansion of equity initiatives, email sliwaru2@nwresd.k12.or.us.
March 16, 2021
Suggestion: From the EI/ECSE Admin Board Report for March, there appears to be significant changes happening to Early Childhood Special Education Services. Have families had an opportunity to weigh in on these changes, especially the rural communities? Is relying on in-home consultations going to prevent families from seeking out services? What about the families who cannot access typical peer programs due to financial or transportation constraints (rural families) who traditionally relied on ECSE classrooms to provide safe and accessible social development? Inclusion can be a wonderful approach for many children, however it is not a one-size fits all approach. It will take special care to ensure that an inclusive setting is the right environment for each child, not solely dependent on need for “intensive services”.
Response: Empathy interviews were completed with families across the four counties to gather input. Also, information has been provided to each county advisory council to gather input and feedback. Currently, we provide in home consultation to the early intervention families and the program continues to receive referrals at a consistent rate. The administrative team is working with districts and community providers to increase environments where children who are experiencing a disability can receive services with their peers. Transportation is a responsibility of the residing district. If there are concerns, the EI/ECSE supervisor should be informed. -Nancy Ford, Executive Director of Early Intervention and Early Childhood Special Education
March 16, 2021
Suggestion: I would really like to hear more about the equity practices surrounding our Special Education Services, especially as we search for a new Executive Director of Early Learning. Specifically, can you detail how we as an organization are:
- Ensuring that our programs, practices, and communications are vetted by those experiencing disabilities including the Autistic, Deaf and Blind Communities
- Collaborating with self-advocacy organizations and prioritizing staff trainings by those experiencing the disabilities in which we are severing
- Actively being anti-ableist
- Providing opportunities for those experiencing disabilities to volunteer and work with us.
- Using the Equity Lens in our Special Student Services Departments: “Our ASD Team members are committed to ensuring each student develops the skills and knowledge to pursue a productive and fulfilling life and succeed in a diverse and evolving global society. We recognize the responsibility for excellence, diversity and inclusion lies within each of us as service providers. It is our goal to uphold NWRESD’s core commitment to equity and social justice and to lead courageously in order to become an Antiracist Multicultural Organization.”
Response: The work of becoming an antiracist and actively anti-ableist organization takes place in many zones, including individual work of educators, in NWRESD committees and job-alike teams, and at the state level in partnership with organizations such as FACT Oregon, the Council for Exceptional Children Northwest Association of Blind Athletes, Oregon Commission for the Blind, The Oregon Deafblind project, and many more. NWRESD educators wishing to learn more and participate in this work can seek out the following opportunities:
- Discuss with your supervisor opportunities for professional learning both within NWRESD and throughout the state
- Participate in opportunities to provide feedback such as staff surveys, listening sessions, and committees
- Review the Strategic Plan and align your professional and department goals to the work
- Watch for more information to come this spring about the development of Equity Learning Teams (referenced in the strategic plan) throughout the agency and opportunities to participate in 21-22
- NWRESD leaders are open to direct feedback both in the form of email communication or 1:1 meetings. Please feel free to reach out to Executive Directors Cathy Jensen or Nancy Ford to discuss.
- The communications team recently updated nwresd.org in order for it to meet ADA Website Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) and had an analyst who experiences vision loss review the final product to make additional recommendations for improving the user experience. They are actively making these recommended updates to the content and processes.
March 16, 2021
Suggestion: This isn't a suggestion but a thank you! I loved Classified Appreciation. I think you all did such a great job of pulling off a fun virtual event! Thank you!
Response: We're so glad you enjoyed the week. Thanks so much for participating. It was our honor to recognize you. -Human Resources and Communications
March 9, 2021
Suggestion and response: We recently received a suggestion about the staff recognition program. We aren't publishing the full request because it was more of a complaint than a suggestion, but we want you to know we are currently working on reimagining the staff recognition program so that it aligns with strategy 1.4 in our new strategic plan that seeks to develop and implement best practices for recruitment, retention, and promotion of a diverse workforce. -Communications
March 8, 2021
Suggestion 1 re: reopening schools: It was very stressful to get an email update about returning to school at 4pm on a Friday. And to make such a blanket statement about returning completely to in-person starting on that date seemed quite rushed and I felt extremely surprised and unprepared for this information. So many things need to be figured with home life in adjustment for these next steps and it is very anxiety provoking especially not hearing the safety precautions and gradual progression for these next steps. Anxious about EVERYONE returning in full capacity in just a few weeks and concerns about so much exposure and risk without even discussion of hybrid model or limiting staff at site.
Suggestion 2 re: reopening schools: I would like to suggest that major announcements and program changes be sent to staff in a timely manner and within a staff meeting that allows for questions and answers prior to informing parents. It would also be helpful if there is an actual plan for the logistics of implementation before making the announcement of a change. Friday 4pm emails of major announcements creates significant angst for staff when we cannot ask our questions. It also implies that there is an agency expectation to check our emails outside of our work hours. Ultimately, it sets us up to look inept to parents when they come to us with questions regarding changes and no one has answers.
I know that the governor's announcement for reopening schools came as a surprise. This could have been handled by saying to parents "We are making plans to comply with the directive and we will have more information soon." Then follow up with staff to plan for the implementation of re-opening.
The plan for completely re-vamping the EI/ECSE program was also announced in an end of day meeting with no time for questions. There were significant logistical plans that had not been planned for.
As a staff member, it feels like these announcements are being made intentionally to disallow staff to be fully informed and it does not allow us to do our jobs effectively.
Suggestion 3 re: reopening schools: Please, please, PLEASE reconsider sending out important information to both families and staff on Friday afternoons. This practice sends staff into a panic when we are left with news that we are unable to get answers and clarification for until Monday, or even later. It really puts a damper on the weekend. In addition, it looks bad when we have parents emailing us all weekend asking us questions we do not know the answer to.
Suggestion 4 re: reopening schools: Could I suggest that big announcements to staff and families be made on a Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday or a Thursday? Or at the very least, not happen on a Friday afternoon?
Announcements to families and Staff are really tough to process and field questions on when they happen Friday afternoons, especially end of the day. Could I suggest we change that practice of late day Friday big announcements? It would be nice to save something big like the return to school for a time when staff has more availability, coordinator guidance and bandwidth to field questions from families. Thank you!
Response: We share your frustration about the statewide announcements relating to schools that have consistently occurred on Friday afternoons. This message was in response to the governor's reopening directive. We shared and translated her announcement so our staff and families could quickly access this new information. There are still many details to sort through and input that we will need from you and families. Expect more details in the coming days and weeks (starting with the Wednesday staff chat) as we work in collaboration with our associations to plan a safe, phased return to in-person services.
-Communications on behalf of Superintendent Dan Goldman
March 5, 2021
Suggestion: I just wanted to say that I really appreciated the gift cards from classified appreciation week. However, I am extremely proud of where I work and would prefer to have received something like a travel mug or quality water bottle with the company logo on it. I would love to show others how proud I am of what I do and where I work. I feel it would spark more conversations about what we do and I could talk about how wonderful it is to work here.
Response: This is a great idea. It's been challenging to distribute items during remote work. We will look for opportunities to do this in the future. We're so glad you love working for Northwest Regional Education Service District. -Communications
March 2, 2021
Suggestion: I would like to see acknowledgement of the fact I passed the language test recently offerred this year by the ESD. I received a $1000 stipend, which is great, but I would like a certificate and some form of public acknowledgement. I'm really proud of this achievement!
Response: Great idea. We look forward to recognizing these staff members soon. -Joseph Hernandez, Human Resources
Feb. 26, 2021
Suggestion: To add the cultural heritage months back on the Monday memo with the educational links. For example: Native American Heritage in November, Black History month, Asia-American month, Hispanic/Latinx in September. They help with awareness and the educational links can help with learning throughout the year, especially when educators are looking to embed in everyday activities.
Response: Thanks for this feedback. There are an overwhelming number of resources we are happy to share, including this recent message from the Oregon Department of Education, which announces, among other things, new ethnic studies standards. We will share more resources like this in staff communications, and you will also see your teams dig deeper into some of this work in the months and years to come thanks to priorities in the new strategic plan. Finally, you may remember a ton of instructional resources were shared by our Equity and Family Partnerships team early this year. We absolutely need to make sure our diverse student population sees themselves in the pages of their studies. -Kelsey Cardwell, Communications
Feb. 23, 2021
Suggestion: The message sent out by the ESD late on the night of Monday, February 15th, saying that instruction and services were canceled for the following day for the Washington Service Center was too vague. It would have been better to have explicitly stated that "Tuesday, February 16th, is a non-work day for all Washington Service Center employees and that all work-from-home is canceled for the day." The vagueness of the message sent out resulted in not just in me thinking I should still be working from home, but multiple coworkers thought the same thing and we all ended up working on February 16th for part or all of the day. We engaged in planning for future programming that day. Saying only that "instructions and services are canceled" is just too vague. Thank you!
Response: We did not call this a non-work day because some staff were working on this day. For instance, all administrators were still required to work. If you are in doubt, our recommendation is to ask your supervisor. We will make our best effort to provide clear and consistent communications in the future, however, knowing that situations may vary widely across our programs, services and functions, remember that your supervisor is always a resource. Thanks for this feedback. -Kelsey Cardwell, Communications
Feb. 23, 2021
Suggestion: In regards to the fogging up of the clear masks, has anyone tried the differing techniques and/or products available for keeping glasses from fogging up? Some of the techniques work well for glasses.
Response: This would be a great conversation to have with your colleagues, especially those participating on planning teams for reopening schools. Northwest Regional ESD has a vast range of services and supports we are planning for, and so your localized needs and solutions might vary from those in another program. You are also always welcome to show up to work in your own preferred face covering, as long as they meet our requirements. -Kelsey Cardwell, Communications
Feb. 17, 2021
Suggestion: Our personal heaters can no longer be used because of SAIF's rules that it must turn off immediately (mine turned off in 3 seconds). I cannot find a replacement heater that would qualify under these strict rules and I'm sure others will have the same problem. Since there is talk about returning to work in the near future I'm wondering if you can give us suggestions on where to find a heater that will qualify.
Response: Due to potential increased spread of COVID-19 through the air, no one should be using a fan-based heating or cooling system at this time. Facilities is reviewing passive radiant heating units and expects to have a recommendation later this month.
-Rick Wahlstrom, Operations
Feb. 11, 2021
Suggestion: I reviewed the box delivered to my classroom labeled "PPE". I noticed that the masks that are included are white and made of cloth. I am VERY concerned for our EI/ECSE students. I understand that a few see-through masks have been piloted and tossed aside. So, we need to keep looking!! I believe that it will be traumatizing for our students to be forced to interact with us in person when they cannot see our faces. Let's do what is really best for our students here. PLEASE.
Response: It's true that the COVID-19 pandemic has been hard on all of us, especially children. The safety and well-being of our staff and students continues to be the top priority, and this means we need to wear face coverings. We have purchased some transparent masks for certain staff members to pilot (speech-language pathologists and staff on our deaf and hard of hearing team). We are experiencing some challenges, such as fogging, but representatives on our reopening schools teams are monitoring what's working well and will provide recommendations. Consider offering feedback to your supervisor if you feel safe to do so. We are just starting to offer limited in-person instruction at some of our school sites. We have been extremely selective in identifying children most in need of LIPI so as to start small in order to ensure we reopen safely and effectively. Like this, we will be prepared and more experienced as we introduce more children back to our classroom.
Feb. 3, 2021
Suggestion: Please notify people who receive Kudos and who submitted them. Thanks.
Response: Staff kudos are posted on the staff kudos page.
Jan. 19, 2021
Suggestion: Please purchase see-through masks for EI/ECSE staff members upon their return to the classroom. Students in the ECSE classroom need to see the entire face of each teacher, therapist, and Instructional Assistant.
Response: We have purchased some transparent masks for certain staff members to pilot (speech language pathologists, staff on our deaf and hard of hearing team). We are experiencing some challenges, such as fogging, but representatives on our reopening schools teams are monitoring what's working well and will provide recommendations.
Jan. 19, 2021
Suggestion: Does anyone know if: I receive COVID vaccine. I go back into the classroom for work. Can I bring home the COVID virus to my family members? (They will not be vaccinated yet) Thanks
Response: You can find more information about educators and the COVID-19 vaccine on our new vaccine resource page: https://www.nwresd.org/vax. For health-related questions, please visit Oregon Health Authority's vaccine page: https://covidvaccine.oregon.gov/. Note that choosing to decline the vaccine is not expected to impact your ability to continue working in your current position.
Jan. 11, 2021
Suggestion: It would be very helpful if you had a zoom training class with the new Boardmaker 7. It is more difficult to navigate and find older versions of pre-made pages, icons, etc.
Response: The EI/ECSE coordinators are working on setting ups a Boardmaker 7 training for instructional assistants. The training will also be recorded for future use. -Nancy Ford, EI/ECSE
Dec. 15, 2020
Suggestion: SAIF has been a completely awful company to work with on several occasions for myself, family, and co-workers. They are non-responsive to calls and emails. In fact, I still have an open claim that no one followed up on that was few years ago and have never heard anything back from them. Additionally, in cases that have involved serious long term injuries to myself and other staff, SAIF has offered insulting settlements. Given our work with special needs children that often put our staff at risk for injury, it would be comforting to know that if we are ever injured we will be taken care of. Are there other insurance companies that we can look at to insure our employee wellbeing if they happen to get injured?
Response: Thank you for your input in regards to our worker's comp company. SAIF is one of the largest providers for worker's comp in the state of Oregon and they set the standard in this arena. There is always an option for staff to explore short term disability options on their own accord. If there is a specific follow up needed in regards to a SAIF claim, you can reach out to Kathy Fernandez, kfernandez@nwresd.k12.or.us. -Joseph Hernandez, Human Resources
Dec. 1, 2020
Suggestion: I was wondering if you notify people directly who get a Kudos. Recipients might miss it if going just by the newsletter or social media.
Response: Revised for clarity on 12/9: Here is our process for recognizing kudos recipients during the pandemic, as it is outlined in the Monday Memo: "Our staff kudos program is going virtual this year. You can recognize your colleagues using the same online form, but instead of postcards, they will receive a shoutout on our social media accounts. They will also be recognized in the memo and on the staff kudos webpage." Read about your colleagues who have received kudos and shoutouts here: http://www.mynwresd.org/staff-kudos.html.Thanks for spreading the love.
Nov. 30, 2020
Suggestion: Please make the collective bargaining agreements available on the website. And if they already are, please make them easier to find. They do not come up in the search or under any of the available links.
Response: Collective bargaining agreements can be found on the human resources page of mynwresd.org (our internal staff website).
Nov. 24, 2020
Suggestion: Respectfully, and without knowing the history, I feel at odds with the “Motor Team” title inclusive of both physical therapy and occupational therapy providers. “Motor Team” may better describe PT and PTA services, but OT and COTA services encompass a broader and more varied scope of practice. Curious if this has already been discussed and resolved, with explanation?
Response: We'll talk as a team at our first opportunity to learn more about the concern and any needed remedy.
Nov. 24, 2020
Suggestion: It would be helpful to add two more optional text-boxes to the OT Evaluation Report: (1) “child/student” ( to allow for an occupational profile - student’s strengths and interests) and (2) “other” to allow a space for other observation or assessment not already listed...such as feeding, executive functioning, etc.
Response: The recommendation has been sent to the ecWeb lead programmer to add this component to the OT evaluation.
Nov. 23, 2020
Suggestion: I really think honoring years of experience needs to be reevaluated. The ESD dropped the ball this year recognizing individuals that have been with the agency for 10 plus years and beyond. In the past employees where recognized and felt valued for their years of service. Many employees were disappointed and felt overlooked this year.
Response: We're sorry to hear this. If you have suggestions for meaningful ways to recognize our years-of-service honorees in the current format, please email Joseph Hernandez, chief human resources officer.
Nov. 16, 2020
Suggestion: I respectfully ask that the word receptionist be replaced with Administrative or Admin Assistants or Admin Specialists as that is our role in the schools and other departments throughout the agency. There may be some staff who are receptionists but most of seem to be admin assistants or specialists.
Response: Thanks for this feedback. We will be more thoughtful and inclusive with the language we use as it relates to the various roles and various settings. -Communications Team
Nov. 13, 2020
Suggestion: Last week, one of our team members missed a meeting and we were worried. What should we do in this situation? (This entry has been paraphrased to protect privacy and preserve anonymity.)
Response: In this situation, the right thing to do is contact your supervisor so they can respond appropriately. As always, remember staff have access to mental health resources through our benefits plan. Learn more: http://www.mynwresd.org/eap.html
Oct. 22, 2020
Suggestion: This new photo photo policy is not ethical. "Northwest Regional Education Service District and/or the news media will occasionally take photographs, record or film and/or interview children/students enrolled in programs. Photos,
recordings and audio interviews could be used in a variety of ways, including NWRESD’s websites, promotional and educational flyers and fact sheets, news releases, promotional and educational videos, social media channels and other promotional and educational projects as well as in news broadcasts and news articles." This is beyond comprehension. Students in our programs are understood as being not only disabled but also have medical conditions and you want to place photos on social media, news, etc without a release? This is highly unethical even outside of FERPA. I believe this is breaking serious educational ethical standards, FERPA and not to mention HIPPA. NWREAD is obligated not only to follow FERPA but HIPPA and photos without a release are not acceptable. NWRESD needs to seriously rethink this one. What is in the best interest of NWRESD is not always in the best interest of students. Student benefit needs to be the priority. If parents give permission then wonderful. We also need to be sensitive to cultural, religious & social preferences around photos of children.
Response: It's so important to celebrate and showcase the incredible work of our students, staff and programs in positive and meaningful ways, including students in our programs that experience disability. Photographs are considered directory information and can be released at an administrator's discretion. See our board policy JOA Directory Information. We have also created a new photo release adminstrative rule (AR) with a bilingual form so parents and caregivers have the opportunity to opt out of allowing their child's photograph to be shared. See JOB-AR General Use – Opt Out for Interviews/Photos/Recording/Filming with District and/or the News Media. Our current practice is to seek explicit permission to use a child or student's photos. Before we can fully implement an opt out administrative rule, there is a lot of work to do to make sure this information and the opportunity to opt out is accessible to families in handbooks, on the website and in communications. Thanks for advocating for your families! You can review our policies and adminstrative rules on our website: http://www.nwresd.org/policies.html
-Communications Team
Oct. 21, 2020
Suggestion: It would be nice if staff had access to the agenda for board meetings that we are invited to attend. Having staff at board meetings is important, but it can be frustrating to not have the agenda or know what to expect when watching the meeting. If we register for the meeting could an agenda be linked to the email we get from Lauren?
Response: All agendas for board meetings are posted a week in advance on our website. Click Board > Meetings. We will also include the link the next time we invite you to a board meeting via the Monday Memo. -Communications Team
Oct. 20, 2020
Suggestion: With the new executive order 20-27 will ESD have face coverings available for all at site entrances?
Response: Yes, face coverings are available at all NWRESD sites for visitors or staff who do not have one upon entering building.
-Facilities Team
Oct. 19, 2020
Suggestion: Instructional assistants have experienced a lot of hardship related to being laid-off and big delays in receiving unemployment. It would be great to seem them recognized in a district wide effort. They do amazing work for our teams and deserve to be seen!
Response: This is a great idea! Our instructional assistants and other members of our classified bargaining unit have been doing some amazing work during the pandemic. We would love to do a better job of recognizing their impact. We will determine the best way to do that in partnership with others around our organization. Stay tuned! In the meantime, please nominate an outstanding NWRESD instructional assistant for Oregon Education Support Professional of the Year. -Communications Team
Oct. 19, 2020
Suggestion: It would be nice if the agency continued to honor years of service with gift cards and a personal note. A pin is not necessary!
Response: We have been working on distributing personalized cards to years of services honorees to accompany the pins. Gift cards are not recommended due to ethics law and audit requirements. -Communications, Human Resources and Fiscal Teams
Oct. 1, 2020
Suggestion: I know that our families struggle anyway with trying to connect with so many educational and medical providers and now it is even more difficult & overwhelming for them. I have just realized that parents do not always have easy access to our contacts for each provider (these are in so many locations). I am making a suggestion to include a Contact line/column on the Family page in EcWeb that parents sign, that would include each providers contact (email & phone). It will be in one place for them. THE NWRESD website is a maze and difficult even for those inside to locate information. We can make this easier for them with some simple solutions. Thanks so much.
Response: It's true, our website is a labyrinth! The communications team is currently working with programs to overhaul the website, which will make it easier to find information. Expect a new site launch in November. The EI/ECSE program (specifically Nancy and Vicky) will also work with ecWeb programmers to see about adding contact information to the team page. Thanks for the thoughtful suggestion. -Nancy Ford, Executive Director of EI/ECSE and the Communications Team.
Sept. 10, 2020
Suggestion: It would feel very supportive for the ESD and our supervisors to offer thoughts and ideas for support for staff being impacted directly, or who have friends, family, or students, effected by the current fires. It is hard that there seems to be "business as usual" without holding space for the stress at an agency or administrator level. Of course individual staff are able to take time off work and get supervisor support for that, but a more global acknowledgment would be appreciated.
Response: First... a huge thank you and big virtual hug too all our ESD colleagues for continually showing up for kids and families, for your perseverance under the most challenging circumstances imaginable, and for your support of one another. You are all greatly and truly appreciated.
Since the time this suggestion was submitted, we have provided guidance and resources in our weekly message to leadership, in a Friday communication to all staff, and in the Monday Memo. I have also encouraged team leaders to hold space to process events in their regular meetings. I also highly encourage individuals to reach out to colleagues and check in on one another, to utilize resources through our Employee Assistance Program, and to work with supervisors when flexibility is needed. It goes without saying that these are tremendously difficult times, and I know I speak for our full leadership team when I say that we are deeply appreciative of the empathy ESD staff show to one another and to the children and families we serve. -Dan Goldman, Superintendent.
Aug. 28, 2020
Suggestion: As educators we should be critical thinkers looking at different opinions and looking at the data and research behind those opinions rather than consumers of what we are told. We should be teaching students to be critical thinkers as well. In that light, not all people of color agree with the opinions being given during equity trainings. It would be important to provide differing perspectives and the reasoning behind those perspectives rather than just being given the one opinion as if that is the only opinion that exists. I think that it is important to "educate" our staff rather than pushing one idea/opinion. Can differing viewpoints be presented during our trainings?
Response: Thank you for sharing your experience with equity training at NWRESD. As we spend more time focusing on our growth as an anti-racist, multicultural organization, we will have the opportunity to explore the works of more scholars, historians and experts on issues concerning equity and social justice. This will give us a diversity of views that are valued for authentic discourse. At last week's inservice, our Equity and Family Partnerships team shared a number of media sources we encourage you to check out. On slides 30-42, we list about 40 different diverse media sources. Hope that helps!
-Peace and blessings, Liwaru, Director of Equity and Family Partnerships
Aug. 26, 2020
Suggestion: There are many staff who have been laid off and therefore do not have access to their NWRESD employee email. It would be incredibly helpful to send the updates regarding unemployment to personal emails rather than just employee emails. All of the employees that are laid off are not receiving the updates that have been sent over the past few months including the most recent email with a survey.
Response: Beginning in late July we collected emails from staff that were laid off so we can provide the most up-to-date information from the Oregon Employment Department via those communications. We want to ensure that we are supporting affected staff and providing any new updates as they arise. If any individuals become aware that they are not receiving the communications, please have them reach out to Joseph Hernandez, Chief Human Resources Officer at jhernandez@nwresd.k12.or.us to be added to the email listserv. -Human Resources Team
July 29, 2020
Suggestion: I would encourage that our Superintendent, Dan G know that, as we have serious messages from him, that his extra large picture at the end of his emails doesn't match his message...please make it a much smaller picture and maybe a little bit more "somber". It would feel more respectful as well as understood/unified. Serious times!
Response: Thank you for this feedback. We will make it smaller. In the distance learning format and in the absence of face-to-face opportunities, we believe it's important we still find ways to show our humanity. This includes opportunities to see one another however possible (video, photo, etc.). That being said, we can work to make sure the images we use match our superintendent's words. -Kelsey Cardwell, Communications Director
July 21, 2020
Suggestion: Since all staff has been providing distance learning services only and as we move forward into the Fall looking at possibly providing more distance learning to some capacity, is it possible for the ESD to give staff a stipend/reimbursement for both internet services and personal phone use? I know that we all have been using our personal phones as well as personal internet services and feel that since these are necessary to complete our jobs it would be nice to be reimbursed for it.
Response: We are working on a phone solution that is independent of people's phone bills. And while we believe internet services in 2020 are ubiquitous in our staff's homes, we know internet has played a more central role in helping us all stay connected to work, family, friends and school during the COVID-19 pandemic. We also know that some staff members have experienced a more challenging time getting connected, i.e. lack of broadband and/or hotspot options. If you fall in the latter category, work with your supervisor to explore your options, such as an alternative worksite.
One positive outcome of the pandemic is that many of us have been able to cut down on time, costs and environmental resources associated with commuting. Previously, our wellness committee put together options for using pre-tax dollars for commuting on public transit. Staff might want to seek advice from a tax expert for further options to save during our new work format as we take safety precautions to reduce the spread of COVID-19. -Stuart Long, Chief Information Officer
June 23, 2020
Suggestion: Someone suggested that all bathrooms be gender-neutral, as a woman I DO NOT feel comfortable or safe sharing multi-stall bathrooms with men. I had a bad experience when I was younger and would like you to consider all people's feelings (including the people who attend meetings at the ESD).
"May 8, 2020
Suggestion: One thing other agencies have done to support marginalized gender identities is to make more/all restrooms, including multi-stall ones, gender-neutral. Another is to make sanitary products free and accessible in all restrooms.
Response: Thank you for your suggestion. When we reopen facilities, we will look into ways we can improve how we support the safety and inclusion of marginalized gender identities in our spaces."
Response: Thank you for offering your perspective. We will be sure to consider diverse perspectives and input for decisions and plans that impact staff. Our equity lens implores that we ask "How have you intentionally involved stakeholders who are also members of the communities affected by this policy, program, practice or decision?" As you can imagine, our facilities and operations--generally speaking--are going to look a lot different when we reopen. It will be important for us to use the equity lens in planning for our 2020-21 school year reality, which will be different than what we are used to. Long-term, the equity lens is also a tool and strategy that can help us create a more inclusive, welcoming workplace when our physical facilities are fully operational. -Rick Wahlstrom, Facilities
June 13, 2020
Suggestion: FACE SHIELDS: As we anticipate face-to-face interaction with students next fall, many of us will need for students to be able to see our faces and mouths as we speak. Also, I wear glasses and they fog up constantly when I wear a mask, necessitating much adjustment of the mask and glasses. Face shields are said by experts to be superior in many ways to face masks, and they would allow students to see our faces. As I work with students, it would also be extremely helpful for me to see their faces/mouths. If the ESD could provide specialists face shields both for us and for individual students with whom we work, this would increase the validity of assessment and also the effectiveness of instruction. Student face shields could be sanitized between students.
Response: Thanks for the suggestion! We always appreciate and look for opportunities to incorporate input from our instructional experts, specialists, etc. so that our operational plans consider what's best for staff and students. Planning teams in each of our counties are working closely with county public health offices to put together a plan for reopening. In addition representation from both unions will be part of the planning. These plans will then be submitted to the Oregon Department of Education and posted to our website. We will be sure to communicate clearly and often about the public health driven guidance specific to our schools and programs once the plans are solidified. -Sarah Pope, Deputy Superintendent.
June 11, 2020
Suggestion: It would be extremely helpful if the ESD provided small bottles of hand sanitizers and disposable masks for those of us who are providing work packets to the students that we are delivering to their homes.
Response: Staff wishing to be reimbursed for work-related hand sanitizer should request authorization from their supervisor prior to purchasing. -Facilities and Operations
June 10, 2020
Suggestion: I love that the district is making the time and effort to run equity/anti-racism trainings right now. That being said, I find it concerning that a lot of the department events are being run by staff who are not people of color and who aren't trained to lead equity discussions. I don't know that "being an educator" or "being an administrator" makes you a diversity and inclusion expert. Can we consider taking a more thoughtful approach to who is qualified to facilitate these trainings, and bring in assistance from outside the agency if we need to?
Response: Thank you for offering this feedback and sharing your concern. I am grateful for our staff who push for stronger, better equity leadership. It is our aspiration that everyone in our organization, especially our leaders, have the ability to lead for equity. That being said, we know that it takes time, training, individuals' commitment to developing their anti-racist skill set, and a structural investment. This next year, we will be planning a launch of equity learning teams at each of our sites, supported by experts in equity professional development. Our Office of Equity and Family Partnerships is also in the process of developing an anti-racist, multi-cultural continuum--a tool that will guide us in our process to infuse anti racism and anti-racist leadership into everything we do. This will no doubt support strategic decision-making when it comes to diversity and inclusion, and I am grateful for this team's hard work on that project. Equity, diversity and inclusion is a priority investment area to me and is reflective in our recently adopted budget. It is also a priority in the next iteration of our strategic plan that will be posted and shared with all staff shortly. If you have additional feedback on equity professional development opportunities within your department or team, don't hesitate to reach out. -Dan Goldman, Superintendent.
April 9, 2020
Suggestion: Can facilities please consider adding automatic faucets and toilets within our schools and various sites.
Response: We have received several suggestions about how to safely operate when we reopen facilities. We want you to know that we are following the updates and guidance provided by national, state-level and local public health officials. When state officials deem it safe to start reopening facilities, we anticipate a stark contrast from how we have operated in the past. We will keep staff formed about comprehensive plans that will prioritize your safety and the safety of those we serve.
April 9, 2020
Suggestion: Can additional touchless hand sanitizer dispensers please be added to our buildings to help reduce the spread of germs?
Response: We have received several suggestions about how to safely operate when we reopen facilities. We want you to know that we are following the updates and guidance provided by national, state-level and local public health officials. When state officials deem it safe to start reopening facilities, we anticipate a stark contrast from how we have operated in the past. We will keep staff formed about comprehensive plans that will prioritize your safety and the safety of those we serve.
March 30, 2020
Suggestion: On Jan. 21st someone asked about posting staff pictures in the directory. The response indicated that it wasn't feasible at that time, but a new website in the fall might have something like that. I respectfully request that, in order to preserve staff privacy and safety, pictures not be made available to the general public without our express permission. Some of us work with individuals who have significant behavioral/emotional/and affiliation issues. Posting our pictures could pose a risk to our safety.
Response: Thanks for sharing your concern. Please see our response from Feb. 20. Thank you. -Communications Team
March 12, 2020
Suggestion: NWRESD in-home providers are not provided with cleaning supplies for toys, nor hand washing items. This needs to be addressed immediately.
Response: We have received several suggestions about how to safely operate when we reopen facilities. We want you to know that we are following the updates and guidance provided by national, state-level and local public health officials. When state officials deem it safe to start reopening facilities, we anticipate a stark contrast from how we have operated in the past. We will keep staff formed about comprehensive plans that will prioritize your safety and the safety of those we serve.
March 5, 2020
We are responding to this comment from our anonymous comment box on this page because it is an internal issue from a staff member.
Comment: The switch to Gmail and Google Drive is a source of big frustration -- their email and software / operating system are causing me to spend a lot more time and work on things that I shouldn't have to spend extra time on. Its functionality is a lot worse than Outlook and MS Office. For example, with Outlook and Excel, I could copy a column of cells in Excel and then paste-special in Outlook to pick from a number of different options for pasting the data into the Outlook email message. That is not possible at all with Gmail. Thus, I now have to spend extra time messing with the formatting when I paste into Gmail. This is but one example of many examples of how inferior these products that Google offers truly are. You can't even sort emails in Gmail! No sorting is allowed at all. That is insanely frustrating and inefficient, and is something that Gmail users have been complaining about for a decade and have been asking Google to fix -- to add the basic email functionality of being able to sort your messages by sender, date, subject, size, etc. If we are sticking with this new way, which it seems like we are, can this agency not send a list of comments about the lack of functionality to Google? Not that they will care or do anything about it, probably, as a simple Google search turns up a number of ways in which their product functionality has actually gotten worse in just the past year. It's fairly maddening.
Response: We understand that transitions are difficult and we are here to help you. There are many methods to ease the pain in the example you mentioned - and other tasks in your workflow that you may feel are broken.
Any time you feel your work and communication flow has been disrupted and your initial research and conversations with colleagues about efficient practices aren't fruitful, please start a ticket by messaging helpdesk@nwresd.k12.or.us with the problem. -Technology Team
March 3, 2020
Suggestion: I'd like to see us ditch the plastic utensils and invest in stainless knives, forks and spoons. Just a suggestion, thank you. Reduce Reuse Recycle
Response: Staff are encouraged to pack their own utensils when bringing their own food. That is the most cost-efficient and environmentally friendly option. -Facilities Team
March 3, 2020
Suggestion: I'd like to suggest thorough disinfecting and cleanings of all our ESD reception and waiting areas, tables, chairs, etc. In some cases, this may be long overdue.
Response: Absolutely. This was a huge emphasis for our staff during the past few weeks and will continue to be emphasized once schools reopen.
March 3, 2020
Suggestion: I would love to see a question in the staff survey that acknowledges the service center where one works is not necessarily the service center where one's team or supervisor works. The service center where I am located makes up part of my work environment. But it is not the service center that contains my supervisor or teammates. I am the only person on my team at this service center. I want to acknowledge each part of the work environment accurately.
Response: Thank you for this feedback. We will look for ways to be more flexible about geographic regions in the future, while still protecting the privacy of respondents. We know those that review the survey feedback also look at qualitative data too, so we hope that for this year, you were able to convey your feedback through comments. -Communications Team
March 2, 2020
Suggestion: Please distribute the Racial Equity Lens bookmarks/stickers as a visual reminder to all NWRESD staff not just the leadership team.
Response: The Office of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion has distributed equity bookmarks, stickers and posters to different groups throughout this past year depending on the type of training that was being provided. Some staff have received bookmarks, some stickers and some books. If you would like to request equity-related resources for yourself or your team, please email Yashica Island. -Office of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Team
March 2, 2020
Suggestion: One thing other agencies have done to support marginalized gender identities is to make more/all restrooms, including multi-stall ones, gender-neutral. Another is to make sanitary products free and accessible in all restrooms.
Response: Thank you for your suggestion. When we reopen facilities, we will look into ways we can improve how we support the safety and inclusion of marginalized gender identities in our spaces.
Feb. 27, 2020
Suggestion: Per the CDC, 16,000 people have died and 280,000 people have been hospitalized during the 2019-20 flu season. Not to mention revolving colds and the possible new pandemic coming. EI, ECSE staff and community partners needs consistent access to hand sanitizer and wipes to clean toys/supplies. Staff who provide home visits should have hand sanitizer in the car as well as wipes to clean toys. We do not have access to this at this time. These should be in every classroom, workroom and in every EI staff person's car.
Response: We have received several suggestions about how to safely operate when we reopen facilities. We want you to know that we are following the updates and guidance provided by national, state-level and local public health officials. When state officials deem it safe to start reopening facilities, we anticipate a stark contrast from how we have operated in the past. We will keep staff informed about comprehensive plans that will prioritize your safety and the safety of those we serve.
Feb. 20, 2020
Suggestion: It would be very helpful to folks who do not regularly visit the ESD to always have a room number/location in the building along with the room name when identifying where a meeting will be. It that possible?
Response: We have a map of the building we can make available at the front desk once we are back open.
Feb. 20, 2020
Suggestion: I noticed a request to upload pictures into the directory. I respectfully suggest that not all of us want out pictures out there in cyberspace or web accessible with our names. This should only be done with permission of the individual. Some of us have worked hard to keep our pictures and names separated and out of internet access in order to preserve our privacy.
Response: There are currently no plans for adding staff photos to the directory. We will be sure to consider staff privacy as we make these plans. -Communications Team
Feb. 12, 2020
Suggestion: Would it be possible to reiterate to staff (including substitutes) that it is not acceptable to belittle marginalized gender identities (such as non-binary) in NWRESD workplaces? I've seen it several times this year and it's highly disruptive. Thank you!
Response: Yes, please see Superintendent Dan Goldman's email about creating safe and inclusive spaces.
Feb. 11, 2020
Suggestion: Hi! I thought there was a phone number for staff to call if they were experiencing stressful life events, but can't find it now. Is that something that still exists? If so, could be included somewhere regularly on the Monday memo? -Thank you!
Response: Yes, the Employee Assistance Program (EAP) provides free and confidential counseling and referral services to all benefits-eligible NWRESD employees and their dependents. Go to the Employee Assistance Program webpage >>
Feb. 4, 2020
Suggestion: Please have the chair massage person at the WSC stop using essential oils and schedule a conference room not embedded within a department. Many staff are sensitive and allergic to fragrances.
Response: Human Resources is providing this feedback to the massage therapist.
Jan. 21, 2020
Suggestion: Receiving ASHA reimbursement continues to be a time-consuming task. One SLP I work with spent about an hour trying to get the receipt to upload. Another spent a couple hours and numerous phone calls trying to find out what was wrong with her submission. I was repeatedly asked to enter a code that was not in my drop-down box and that I could not manually enter. Is there a way to streamlne the process for next year? Thank you.
Response: If you are having difficulty submitting a reimbursement request in the web portal, please reach out to fiscal for assistance. You can also refer to the how-to enter expense reimbursements document in the Staff Resources shared folder.
Jan. 21, 2020
Suggestion: Is it possible, or maybe already in the plans to add pictures to the staff directory? Everyone had their picture taken this year for their new ID badges, so I thought maybe those pictures could be shown next to their name in the staff directory even if just for internal viewing only. With so many staff, it's often hard to put names with faces.
Response: We are looking into launching a new website next year and can consider if that would be feasible during that process. Currently, we would need to manually input and update our 600ish staff photos. Unfortunately, we do not have capacity to do that right now. Thanks for the suggestion. We're excited to consider it. --The Communications Team
Jan. 9, 2020
Suggestion: Can we get a program that allows for faxing to and from email? Install for Administrative Assistants and Administrators.
Response: Due to the amount of time it takes to set up each account and train on its use we have not broadly advertised this capability. However, anyone needing this service can request it by sending a ticket into the help desk at helpdesk@nwresd.k12.or.us.
Jan. 6, 2020
Suggestion: Would it be possible to periodically showcase (or provide a brief snapshot) of a different department or service so that we all can better understand some of the different wheels of the organization? For example, I don't know what Promise Project Management is? There are so many departments, services, supports, etc., that are a part of NWRESD. Perhaps mention who is over that department (include a picture), service, or support, would also be helpful for new staff coming on to make that connection. Thank you for your consideration
Response: Yes. The Communications Team will discuss the best way to highlight programs in a consistent way on our various communications channels (website, internal communication, social media, flyers, etc.). In the meantime, you can learn more about our Northwest Promise program on our Instructional Services webpage >>
