This spring, Open Meadow Middle School students participated in the Kennedy Center’s On Location filmmaking project. On Location provides students with experiences using digital media to tell stories, share, and explore their world. Check out their documentary featuring Master Drummer, Obo Addy from Homowo African Arts and Culture as he shares his experience with us.

Open Meadow graduate and now board member, Josh Monda wrote a guest column on OregonLive on August 19. Josh was responding to a recent article that was highly critical of Portland’s alternative school network. Click here, or keep reading below.

Alternative schools: Success outside the cookie cutter

Published: Thursday, August 19, 2010, 6:29 PM

Guest Columnist

By Josh Monda

In its July 25 story, “Dropouts in Portland Public Schools,” The Oregonian displays a remarkable disconnect with secondary education in the 21st Century. I strongly agree with the premise that programs need accountability and high standards, but I seriously question the newspaper’s understanding of the task at hand when reporter Betsy Hammond criticizes the ability of alternative schools to “get the job done”.

As a 1999 graduate of Open Meadow High School, a North Portland alternative school, I know that holding up high school graduation as an end completely misses the point. At a time when the unemployment rate for youth ages 16-24 is at an all-time historical high—nationally and globally—success in the 21st Century economy clearly requires advanced training and skills far beyond the diploma. A diploma does not get a real job.

As a student at Open Meadow, I took college classes and eventually earned my way into Oregon State University. But, at Open Meadow I learned something far more important than what it takes to graduate high school and go to college: I learned what it takes to succeed in life. I learned that hard work pays off and doesn’t go unnoticed. I learned that I am capable and responsible for my own achievement. I learned that goals matter.

The Commerce Company is celebrating 15 years of business in the Pacific Northwest, and as part of their ongoing 15th Anniversary celebration, they are recognizing Open Meadow with a special contribution. For every 15 people that email (JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) between now and September 15th, 2010, The Commerce Company will donate $15 of bookstore gift cards to Open Meadow Alternative School, up to $1,500.  So, come on and help out our students! All you have to do is send one more email today.

Career Services student Michelle recently sent this amazing letter to the staff that helped her get on the path to a bright and promising future. It is such a sweet letter that we just couldn’t keep it to ourselves, so we are sharing it with the world. Thank YOU, Michelle, for giving us your all.

Dear Open Meadow Staff,

I started writing this as a journal halfway through the class. Originally, it was just going to be for my own reflection. Then I thought maybe I should share it with everyone as a means to show my appreciation. I will try not make it too long.

When you were a child, what did you want to when you grew up? A scientist? Professional athlete? Doctor or lawyer? When I was young I really didn’t have big aspirations. I would simply say I wanted to be a mom. Even as a teenager, I didn’t have any dreams or goals. As I started my college career I didn’t have any set goals, and I didn’t have the drive to make any. I never had meaningful employment because I never cared. I wanted a paycheck and nothing more. There were, and still are a few memorable people at PCC who made a huge impact on me. One of them is John Mathews, my former GED resource specialist. I graduated three years ago, and he is still helping me better myself. Thank goodness for that because he is directly responsible for me applying to Career Connections. He threatened to “disown” me if I didn’t stop procrastinating with my life!

On July 15, a group of Open Meadow High School students embarked on the trip of a lifetime to Ecuador with The Pangaea Project. The students, who will be traveling with peers from Mt. Scott Learning Center and Portland YouthBuilders, will explore issues of human rights, social change, and community organizing as they explore the country and meet with hosts at Decoin, Sarayacu, & Yunguilla. The Ecuador Pangaea group has a blog which they will regularly update over their 5-week journey. Read about their exciting adventures here!

On July 15, a group of Open Meadow High School students will leave for a four-week educational excursion in Ecuador with The Pangaea Project. Please join them on July 13 at 7pm for a send-off party and benefit concert to celebrate the students as they prepare for departure. The event, to be held at the Tin Shed Garden Cafe at 1438 NE Alberta, will feature the music of Stephanie Schneiderman and costs $10 in advance ($15 at the door). Please help support our students as they prepare for the one of the biggest journeys of their lives! Visit The Pangaea Project website for more information or call 503-517-8999.