Aletia Cochran - 2019 Educator Recipient
For the last seven years, Aletia has run the Lake Oswego Junior High Speech and Debate Club. In addition to her regular teaching duties, Aletia spends countless hours with over 20 students every week after school, teaching them the skills of research, critical thinking, organization, persuasion, and communication. Students also participate in tournaments, several of which Aletia hosts herself so that students all over the Portland Metro area have a place to practice their skills. She also serves on the board of Hunger Fighters Oregon and volunteers her time there monthly. Aletia currently serves on the district's social studies curriculum adoption committee and on LOJ's Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion committee.
Andrew Duden - 2019 Educator Recipient
Andrew’s commitment to the students of Lake Oswego earned him this recognition. As a teacher at LOHS, Andrew inspires students on a daily basis in his role as a social studies teacher, but three years ago, he started the School to Farm Internship program. Students at both high schools can participate in the program which is a partnership between the city and the district. His service includes spending his summers at the farm working with students. Students are not only learning how to plant, cultivate, and grow food. They also are learning about the business aspect of farming and sell their produce at the LO Farmer’s Market.
Ben Kinkley - 2019 Educator Recipient
As the music teacher at River Grove Elementary School, Ben inspires children to develop a love for music. His commitment to this program led him to begin an advanced choir. He lives the principles of diversity and inclusion through the music program. Students learn and sing music in a variety of languages including English, Spanish, and Arabic. Working with the core content teachers, Ben integrates their curriculum into music. Two examples are incorporating songs about honeybees and adapting songs to support the social-emotional curriculum. He also performs with various groups and maintains a YouTube channel where he shares his work with other teachers.