

The Owl Post
October 21, 2023
Message from our Principal
Dear Vernon Families and Friends,
As we near the end of the first qurter of the school year, I want to express my deep appreciation for all of the educators here at Vernon. Our teachers are truly remarkable people, and they deserve our support and recognition.
Teaching is more than a profession; it's a calling. Vernon teachers work to inspire, educate, and nurture our students, helping shape their futures. Their commitment to this challenging yet rewarding work is commendable. Join me in celebrating our Vernon teachers and their dedication to creating a positive learning environment. They strive to be role models, and guides, fostering curiosity, creativity, and a love for learning.
We are all aware of ongoing negotiations between Portland Public Schools (PPS) and the Portland Association of Teachers (PAT). A negotiated contract will help ensure teachers can continue their incredible work. I remain hopeful for a positive resolution that will maintain our full school year and work for all parties involved.
In times like these, our community's support for our remarkable educators is vital. Let's come together to champion the remarkable work they do and remain hopeful for a resolution in the ongoing negotiations that works for all involved.
Thank you for your continued support and understanding.
Ben Keefer
Principal
School Office Hours
7:30am – 4:30pm – School Office Hours
Attendance email
SUN School Starts Monday!
SUN will run October 23rd - December 14th
Questions? Reach out to ...
Tatiana Andre
Sun Program Manger - Eastside, Self Enhancement, Inc.
Apples for Vernon! Fundraiser
Today is the last day to pre-order farm fresh apples for pick-up Nov 2nd.
Encourage your friends, family and neighbors to snag a bag or box, too.
Great amounts for sharing and baking!
Details click here
1st Spirit Week of the School Year is Coming!
10/30 Monday - Pajama Day - wear those cozy clothes, robes & slippers
10/31 Tuesday - Costume Day - make sure it is school appropriate -no scary costumes, weapons, or face coverings please
11/1 Wednesday - Thorns Day - Wear red and black, Thorns gear, or a Thorns button to celebrate our Portland's soccer team!
11/2 Thursday - Color Wars - wear your grade colors
- K-2 Students Wear Red & Orange
- 3-5 Students Wear Yellow & Green
- 6-8 Students Wear Blue & Purple
Resources for Families
Empoderando Familias
This free Spanish language event represents a collaboration between all three counties in the metro area and Portland Public Schools. Empoderando Familias is focused on giving Spanish speaking families access to information about parenting for prevention of substance use. Strategies that are going to be highlighted include how to advocate for yourself in English speaking systems, setting boundaries for your kids that help them to grow up healthy, and how to maintain relationships and connections through the teen years. The event will also cover information about commonly used substances among youth. The Multnomah County event location is McDaniel High School.
Fall Conferences are November, 16th, 20th & 21st
Reach out to the classroom teacher if you have questions or need to schedule an alternative time.
Wednesday Nov. 1st is the final day for Fun For The Owl Pledges!
Fun For The Owls Pledges
Fun For The Owls Pledge Reminder: Wednesday Nov. 1st is the final day for Fun For The Owl Pledges! Pledge sheets can be dropped off with teachers or at the PTA lock box in the office. They can also be made online at www.vernonpta.org/fun-for-the-owls. Thanks to everyone. Every little bit counts!
District News
Our IB Learner Profile Trait this Month is Open-Minded
Open-mindedness gives students the ability to:
- embrace different points of view
- listen to and consider the perspectives of others before making a decision
- understand new ideas and experiences broaden their mind and challenge their thinking
- understand mistakes or failure leads to a deeper understanding
- be eager to learn new things and build on existing knowledge, even if it challenges existing views
- be honest, understanding they don’t know everything and can admit it
- know the first answer is not always correct and search for alternatives before settling on an answer
- be an effective team player and collaborator
- be fair and objective, building trust with others
- handle constructive feedback, understanding they learn from their mistakes.
School Office Hours
7:30am – 4:30pm
(503) 916-6415
attendance email - vernonattendance@pps.net
Bell Schedule for 2022-2023
8:38am – MYP (6th-8th) First Bell
8:45am – MYP (6th-8th) Classes Begin
8:53am – PYP (K-5th) First Bell
9:00am – PYP (K-5th) Classes Begin
*Breakfast is available for all Vernon students in the cafe from 8:25-8:55am.
3:15pm – PYP & MYP (K-8th) Dismissal