Episodes
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This Learning in Lake Oswego episode explores our school district’s evolving Talented and Gifted (TAG) program. We discuss our identification process, student experiences, and ways Lake Oswego supports its gifted learners. Special guests include master educator Aletia Cochran, the TAG program coordinator for our middle schools, and Rain Obiesie, an 8th-grader from Lakeridge Middle School, who shares her journey and perspective as a gifted learner. Tune in to gain insights into how our schools foster the growth and development of our students.
Dr. Jennifer Schiele, Superintendent, LOSD
Mary Kay Larson, Executive Director of Communications, LOSD
Aletia Cochran, TAG Coordinator, Lake Oswego and Lakeridge Middle Schools, LOSD
Rain Obiesie, Student, Lakeridge Middle School, and TAG representative
About LOSD TAG
To learn more about the topics we discussed, ask a question, or share ideas for future episodes, please visit LOSDSchools. org. And remember to like and follow us wherever you get your podcasts. Thank you for engaging with Learning in Lake Oswego. We appreciate your support and look forward to having you with us for our next episode.
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This episode explores the importance of Holocaust education in our schools. While the subject is weighty, our two guests, Claire Sarnowski and Brittany Larson, bring hope and inspiration through their impactful work in this field.
Claire Sarnowski, a Lakeridge alum from the Class of 2022, played a pivotal role in her freshman year by spearheading Senate Bill 664, which mandated Holocaust and Genocide Education in Oregon schools. Brittany Larson, also an alum, is a beloved educator who has made a lasting impact in the social studies department at Lakeridge for the past 17 years.
Join us as we learn more about their stories and gain valuable insights into the enduring lessons of Holocaust education.
Dr. Jennifer Schiele, Superintendent, LOSD
Mary Kay Larson, Executive Director of Communications, LOSD
Brittany Larson, Teacher and Alum, Lakeridge High School
Claire Sarnowski, Lakeridge Alum, Activist, Author, and College Student
@clairesarnowskiauthor
Remember My Story: A Girl, a Holocaust Survivor, and a Friendship That Made History by Claire Sarnowski (Author), Sarah Durand
To learn more about the topics we discussed, ask a question, or share ideas for future episodes, please visit LOSDSchools. org. And remember to like and follow us wherever you get your podcasts. Thank you for engaging with Learning in Lake Oswego. We appreciate your support and look forward to having you with us for our next episode.
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Missing episodes?
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In this episode of Learning in Lake Oswego, we explore the strong partnership between the Lake Oswego School District and the Lake Oswego Police Department. Superintendent Dr. Jennifer Schiele sits down with Police Chief George Burk and School Resource Officers Bryan Sheldon and Oscar Fregoso to discuss how this collaboration benefits our students and strengthens our community.
Dr. Jennifer Schiele, Superintendent, LOSD
Mary Kay Larson, Executive Director of Communications, LOSD
George Burk, Chief of Police, Lake Oswego Police Department
Bryan Sheldon, School Resource Officer, Lake Oswego Police Department
Oscar Fregoso, School Resource Officer, Lake Oswego Police Department
SchoolResourceOfficers
To learn more about the topics we discussed, ask a question, or share ideas for future episodes, please visit LOSDSchools. org. And remember to like and follow us wherever you get your podcasts. Thank you for engaging with Learning in Lake Oswego. We appreciate your support and look forward to having you with us for our next episode.
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We’re back with the second episode of the 2024-2025 school year! This time, we’re delving into the important work of the Lake Oswego School Board. Join us as we chat with Board Chair John Wallin and student board representative Drishti Singh for a look at the roles and responsibilities of our board members.
Curious about what motivates someone to serve on the school board? Want to know how decisions that impact our schools are made? We cover it all—from the board’s current priorities to the real-life stories behind the dedication and drive to serve our students and community.
Tune in to stay informed and get engaged with the issues that shape our schools.
Dr. Jennifer Schiele, Superintendent, LOSD
Mary Kay Larson, Executive Director of Communications, LOSD
John Wallin, Chair, Lake Oswego School Board
Drishti Singh, Student Representative, Lake Oswego School Board
Lake Oswego School Board
Strategic Plan
Sextortion Prevention Event
To learn more about the topics we discussed, ask a question, or share ideas for future episodes, please visit LOSDSchools. org. And remember to like and follow us wherever you get your podcasts. Thank you for engaging with Learning in Lake Oswego. We appreciate your support and look forward to having you with us for our next episode.
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In our first episode of the 2024-2025 school year, we warmly welcome the new families and staff joining our schools. We introduce Connie Harrell, our district’s new Belonging Coordinator, and discuss the intentional efforts and initiatives we've put in place to ensure that every member of our learning community feels welcomed, valued, and supported.
A sense of belonging is essential for effective learning, growth, and development, and it is one of our district's top priorities. In 2023, our School Board adopted the top recommendation from the Culture of Belonging Advisory Committee to establish the position of Belonging Coordinator. This role is vital in coordinating and enhancing all efforts to foster belonging across our schools.
Dr. Jennifer Schiele, Superintendent, LOSD
Mary Kay Larson, Executive Director of Communications, LOSD
Connie Harrell, Belonging Coordinator, LOSD
To learn more about the topics we discussed, ask a question, or share ideas for future episodes, please visit LOSDSchools. org. And remember to like and follow us wherever you get your podcasts. Thank you for engaging with Learning in Lake Oswego. We appreciate your support and look forward to having you with us for our next episode.
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In our final episode for the school year, we delve into a foundational topic: Public School Funding 101. Join us as we sit down with special guest Stuart Ketzler, Assistant Superintendent of Business Services for the Lake Oswego School District. Stuart brings his expertise to the table, explaining how public schools in Oregon and Lake Oswego are funded and walking us through the intricate budgeting process.
School finance might seem like a dry subject, but Stuart's pearls of wisdom and thoughtful insights make it accessible and engaging. This episode provides a comprehensive funding framework for Oregon and our local school district, clarifying the complexities of school finance.
Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of how public school funding works and why it matters for our community.
Dr. Jennifer Schiele, Superintendent, LOSD
Mary Kay Larson, Executive Director of Communications, LOSD
Stuart Ketzler, Assistant Superintendent of Business Services, LOSD
LOSD Business Services
Lake Oswego School Board
To learn more about the topics we discussed, ask a question, or share ideas for future episodes, please visit LOSDSchools. org. And remember to like and follow us wherever you get your podcasts. Thank you for engaging with Learning in Lake Oswego. We appreciate your support and look forward to having you with us for our next episode.
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Join us on this Learning in Lake Oswego episode as we explore our Model United Nations program, an outstanding extracurricular activity that offers our students invaluable experiences. This program is key in helping participants understand and appreciate diverse global perspectives. Hear insights from Sarah Mock, who is not only a teacher and parent but also a Model UN advisor in our district, and Zainab Khan, a standout student ambassador in the program. They will discuss the educational and personal growth opportunities that Model UN provides.
Dr. Jennifer Schiele, Superintendent, LOSD
Mary Kay Larson, Executive Director of Communications, LOSD
Sarah Mock, Teacher, Lakeridge High School, and Advisor, MUN
Zainab Khan, Student, Lakeridge High School, and Ambassador, MUN
Ryan Inahara, Teacher, Lakeridge High School, and Advisor, MUN
Katrina Levin, Teacher, Lake Oswego High School, and Advisor, MUN
Oregon Model United Nations
Best Delegate
CIA World Factbook
To learn more about the topics we discussed, ask a question, or share ideas for future episodes, please visit LOSDSchools. org. And remember to like and follow us wherever you get your podcasts. Thank you for engaging with Learning in Lake Oswego. We appreciate your support and look forward to having you with us for our next episode.
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In this episode, we explore our schools' safety and security measures, concentrating on the Standard Response Protocols (SRP) that have been successfully implemented for many years. Scott Thran, our district’s Safety and Security Coordinator, explains these protocols, equipping our families and community with essential knowledge. Additionally, the superintendent and the communications director enhance the discussion with real-life examples from our schools, offering insights into the significance and effectiveness of these safety measures.
LOSD Safety and Security Information
I Love You Guys Foundation
Dr. Jennifer Schiele, Superintendent, LOSD
Mary Kay Larson, Executive Director of Communications, LOSD
Scott Thran, Safety and Security Coordinator, LOSD
To learn more about the topics we discussed, ask a question, or share ideas for future episodes, please visit LOSDSchools. org. And remember to like and follow us wherever you get your podcasts. Thank you for engaging with Learning in Lake Oswego. We appreciate your support and look forward to having you with us for our next episode.
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Join us as we dig deeper into how Lake Oswego School District is planting the seeds for a greener, more sustainable future through education and learn about our blossoming elementary school gardens. Our special guest, Sarah Vannice, one of our dedicated elementary innovation teachers, shares her insights and experiences in fostering our green havens of learning and discusses the development and impact of outdoor learning spaces across our schools. Accompanying Sarah are two passionate fourth-grade gardeners, Devyn Barney and Rowan Carper, from River Grove Elementary. They share their firsthand experiences of the joys and learnings of gardening at school.
Dr. Jennifer Schiele, Superintendent, LOSD
Mary Kay Larson, Executive Director of Communications, LOSD
Sarah Vannice, Elementary Innovation Teacher, River Grove Elementary
Devyn Barney and Rowan Carper, Students, River Grove Elementary
To learn more about the topics we discussed, ask a question, or share ideas for future episodes, please visit LOSDSchools. org. And remember to like and follow us wherever you get your podcasts. Thank you for engaging with Learning in Lake Oswego. We appreciate your support and look forward to having you with us for our next episode.
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In the milestone 10th episode of Learning in Lake Oswego, we spotlight the thriving world of the Oregon Battle of the Books (OBOB). This beloved program has become a cornerstone of academic engagement in our schools, showcasing our students' prowess on the statewide stage.
Our guest, Darcy Benson, the library tech at Oak Creek Elementary and a key figure in our district's OBOB initiative, joins us. Alongside Darcy, we hear from some of her exceptional students from the renowned OBOB team, The Flying Coyote Readers: Jack Brody, Jai Lim, Keenan McGhee, and Pearl Sun. Together, they offer insights into the program's growth and impact, highlighting the importance of fostering a love for reading and teamwork among students.
Oregon Battle of the Books
Dr. Jennifer Schiele, Superintendent, LOSD
Mary Kay Larson, Executive Director of Communications, LOSD
Darcy Benson, Library Tech and OBOB Coordinator, Oak Creek Elementary
Jack Brody, Jai Lim, Keenan McGhee, and Pearl Sun, Students, Oak Creek Elementary
To learn more about the topics we discussed, ask a question, or share ideas for future episodes, please visit LOSDSchools. org. And remember to like and follow us wherever you get your podcasts. Thank you for engaging with Learning in Lake Oswego. We appreciate your support and look forward to having you with us for our next episode.
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Tune in as we delve into the awe-inspiring advancements in enriching our school facilities via our comprehensive three-phase capital bond improvement program. Our executive director of project management offers expert insights into the building plans and developments, and we hear firsthand from a student who contributed to the design team for his new elementary school. Additionally, we share how our families and residents can explore the latest assets in our community, all made achievable through the steadfast support of our voters dedicated to crafting a bright future for our students.
LOSD Capital Bond Improvement Program
Dr. Jennifer Schiele, Superintendent, LOSD
Mary Kay Larson, Executive Director of Communications, LOSD
Tony Vandenberg, Executive Director of Project Management, LOSD
Cameron Sosebee, student, River Grove Elementary School
To learn more about the topics we discussed, ask a question, or share ideas for future episodes, please visit LOSDSchools. org. And remember to like and follow us wherever you get your podcasts. Thank you for engaging with Learning in Lake Oswego. We appreciate your support and look forward to having you with us for our next episode.
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This episode of Learning in Lake Oswego looks into the diverse career opportunities within the Lake Oswego School District. Our executive director of human resources offers insights into the array of roles available, and we hear firsthand from alumni turned teacher and a parent turned administrator, who share their inspiring career journeys. Plus, listen for valuable tips on securing a position within our district and discover how we celebrate the achievements of individuals in our vibrant learning community. Join us in exploring the pathways to success in Lake Oswego!
LOSD Career and Job Opportunities
Educational Excellence Awards Event
Dr. Jennifer Schiele, Superintendent, LOSD
Mary Kay Larson, Executive Director of Communications, LOSD
Dr. Donna Watson, Executive Director of Human Resources, LOSD
Annie Johnson, Learning Specialist and Pathways Coordinator, Lakeridge High School
To learn more about the topics we discussed, ask a question, or share ideas for future episodes, please visit LOSDSchools. org. And remember to like and follow us wherever you get your podcasts. Thank you for engaging with Learning in Lake Oswego. We appreciate your support and look forward to having you with us for our next episode.
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In this episode of Learning in Lake Oswego, we shine a spotlight on Unified Sports, a Special Olympics program that brings high school students with and without disabilities together on the same team. Lake Oswego Learning Specialist Erin Cealey, who serves as the program coordinator, and Unified Sports athlete Amaya Edgar share their personal experiences and discuss how the program actively fosters inclusivity and diversity. Additionally, we provide information about upcoming opportunities to celebrate Black History Month, Lunar New Year, and Respect Week in our learning community.
Special Olympics Unified Sports
Polar Plunge LO Unified Sports
Dr. Jennifer Schiele, Superintendent, LOSD
Mary Kay Larson, Executive Director of Communications, LOSD
Erin Cealey, Unified Sports Coordinator and Learning Specialist, LOSD
Amaya Edgar, Unified Sports Partner Athlete, and Student, Lake Oswego High School
To learn more about the topics we discussed, ask a question, or share ideas for future episodes, please visit LOSDSchools. org. And remember to like and follow us wherever you get your podcasts. Thank you for engaging with Learning in Lake Oswego. We appreciate your support and look forward to having you with us for our next episode.
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In this episode, we're exploring an essential skill foundational to school and life – the science of reading. Although we could easily dedicate an entire year to this topic, today's discussion is tailored to the most pertinent aspects for our learners in Lake Oswego. We're thrilled to have Kelly Troike, our esteemed Elementary Literacy TOSA (Teacher on Special Assignment), who has been instrumental in teaching thousands of students to read. We're joined by Aria Hoch, a dedicated student member of the LO Reads steering committee, who will share insights and highlights of this inspiring community initiative.
LOSD Curriculum & Instruction/Literacy
LOSD Dyslexia Handbook
Lake Oswego Reads
Dr. Jennifer Schiele, Superintendent, LOSD
Mary Kay Larson, Executive Director of Communications, LOSD
Kelly Troike, Literacy Coach and Teacher on Special Assignment and Literacy, LOSD
Aria Hoch, student, Lake Oswego High School, and LO Reads Steering Committee
To learn more about the topics we discussed, ask a question, or share ideas for future episodes, please visit LOSDSchools. org. And remember to like and follow us wherever you get your podcasts. Thank you for engaging with Learning in Lake Oswego. We appreciate your support and look forward to having you with us for our next episode.
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It's already time to start thinking about the next school year! January is a key month in the educational landscape, particularly here in Lake Oswego, where preparations for the upcoming academic year are in full swing. Join us for a new episode of Learning in Lake Oswego, where we delve into the essential process of student class forecasting. As we gear up for the next school year, we're excited to have school counselor Carrie Trullinger share her expertise. She'll show how class forecasting shapes our schools and benefits students and their families. Tune in for an informative discussion on preparing for a successful academic future in Lake Oswego.
Lake Oswego Middle School Counseling
Lakeridge Middle School Counseling
Lake Oswego High School Counseling
Lakeridge High School Counseling
Dr. Jennifer Schiele, Superintendent, LOSD
Mary Kay Larson, Executive Director of Communications, LOSD
Carrie Trullinger, School Counselor, Lake Oswego Middle School
To learn more about the topics we discussed, ask a question, or share ideas for future episodes, please visit LOSDSchools. org. And remember to like and follow us wherever you get your podcasts. Thank you for engaging with Learning in Lake Oswego. We appreciate your support and look forward to having you with us for our next episode.
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In this episode of Learning in Lake Oswego, we spotlight our district's expanding language immersion program, including the exciting addition of Mandarin Chinese to our curriculum. Superintendent Dr. Jennifer Schiele interviews special guests Noah Hurd, principal of Palisades World Language School and district coordinator for K12 Language Immersion, and Christy Appleberry, kindergarten teacher of the inaugural Mandarin Chinese class. Plus a few delightful kindergartners demonstrate their Mandarin skills through song. We explore the rewards and challenges of an immersion school and learn more about the Mandarin Chinese teaching methodology and student experience. All in time for registration and application openings for new students entering our district in the fall!
LOSD Kindergarten and New Student Registration
Palisades World Language SchoolDr. Jennifer Schiele, Superintendent, LOSD
Mary Kay Larson, Executive Director of Communications, LOSD
Noah Hurd, Principal, Palisades World Language School, and Coordinator for K12 Language Immersion, LOSD
Christy Appleberry, Teacher, Mandarin Chinese, Palisades World Language School
Henry Wei-Li Burt, Nora Lin, and Brooks Scheinfeld, kindergarten singers
To learn more about the topics we discussed, ask a question, or share ideas for future episodes, please visit LOSDSchools. org. And remember to like and follow us wherever you get your podcasts. Thank you for engaging with Learning in Lake Oswego. We appreciate your support and look forward to having you with us for our next episode.
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Welcome to the third episode of Learning in Lake Oswego! This installment highlights student-led initiatives and extracurricular activities in our schools. We open up the conversation with two students sharing their experiences in Robotics, DECA, and the Winter Read-a-Thon, discussing the skills they've developed and the impact these programs have had on their educational journey.
We also provide an insider’s view into snow day delays and cancellations, shedding light on the factors and considerations that go into making these important decisions.
As the year ends, we focus on reflection and recognition. We encourage our listeners to consider those who have brought special meaning and contributions to our educational community and nominate deserving individuals for an educational excellence award.
Join us in this intriguing mix of topics where we connect the dots between student activities, administrative decisions, and the power of reflection and recognition in the educational sphere.
Lakeridge Robotics
Lake Oswego Robotics
Winter Read-a-Thon
Educational Excellence Awards Nominations
Dr. Jennifer Schiele, superintendent, LOSD
Mary Kay Larson, executive director of communications, LOSD
Darren Sze, student, Lakeridge High School
Jeb Scipio Del Campo, student, Lake Oswego High School
To learn more about the topics we discussed, ask a question, or share ideas for future episodes, please visit LOSDSchools. org. And remember to like and follow us wherever you get your podcasts. Thank you for engaging with Learning in Lake Oswego. We appreciate your support and look forward to having you with us for our next episode.
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In this episode, we delve into the career and college preparation journey. Join us as we share one student's diverse experiences navigating this pivotal phase. Dak Steinback's story offers unique insights and practical advice for students and parents alike. We're also thrilled to feature an interview with one of our experienced school counselors, Lisa Sheehy. She provides valuable perspectives on the preparation process, highlighting essential resources and strategies for students' educational and career quests.
Additionally, this episode highlights the heartwarming community support evident in Lake Oswego. We discuss the substantial gift card donations for assisting families with essential needs like food, clothing, and transportation.
Finally, we introduce a unique new addition to our elementary libraries - a book authored by a LOHS alumnus who experiences autism. This inspiring work is a testament to our community's diverse talents and voices.
Listen to discover the many facets of preparing for Lake Oswego's future and celebrate the strengths and supports that make our community unique.
District Calendar Website
Lakeridge High School Counseling Website
Lake Oswego High School Counseling Website
Rotary Club of Lake Oswego
The Coffin Master
To learn more about the topics we discussed, ask a question, or share ideas for future episodes, please visit LOSDSchools. org. And remember to like and follow us wherever you get your podcasts. Thank you for engaging with Learning in Lake Oswego. We appreciate your support and look forward to having you with us for our next episode.
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Join us for our first episode as we introduce Dr. Jennifer Schiele, Lake Oswego School District's Superintendent, and discuss the motivation behind creating this podcast. Hear from Daniel Hartley, our high school band director, who was instrumental in helping make it happen. Plus, we'll have a brief roundup of the upcoming events fun for the whole family.
District Calendar Website
Pacer Band Website
Dr. Jennifer Schiele, superintendent, LOSD
Mary Kay Larson, executive director of communications, LOSD
Daniel Hartley, band director, Lakeridge High School
Cover Art by: Sera Parker, digital media specialist, LOSD
Podcast theme music written, produced and recorded by these Pacer Band musicians:
Mattias Balogh (piano), Emory Guyer (bass), Declan Southard (drums), Tyler Waltner (tenor Sax), Elaina Stuppler (trombone) Ocean Punsalan (piano), Spencer Becker (alto sax), Kento Klasen (trumpet)
About your hosts:
Jenn Schiele
Dr. Jennifer Schiele, or Jenn, is an experienced and compassionate administrator dedicated to keeping students at the forefront of Lake Oswego School District’s mission. She balances prioritizing social and emotional support and advocating for the best in teaching and learning to provide educational excellence. Jenn has served our schools in various capacities since 2003. She started as a school counselor at Waluga Junior High (now Lakeridge Middle School), then served as assistant principal and principal at Waluga and Lakeridge High School and as assistant superintendent and executive director of curriculum and instruction at the district office. Before moving to Oregon, Jenn was a guidance counselor for Ladue School District and a guidance counselor and math teacher for Kansas City School District in Missouri. Jenn holds a doctorate in education leadership and administration from Lewis & Clark College, a master's degree in counseling psychology from the University of Kansas, and a bachelor's degree in education from Iowa State University. Growing up in Minnesota as the youngest of nine children has shaped who she is today. Jenn is married to her college sweetheart and has raised her son and daughter while supporting our district's children.
Mary Kay Larson
Mary Kay Larson, a household name with anyone receiving a message from LOSD, has served as the Executive Director of Communications at Lake Oswego School District since 2019. Recognized for listening to dissenting viewpoints, clarifying confusion, and building community, Mary Kay supports our learning community through challenges and changes. Before working in education, Mary Kay spent over a decade managing corporate communications and product marketing for high-tech firms in Silicon Valley. She took a break from the corporate world when she and her husband moved their family of four to Lake Oswego for better schools. Mary Kay put her skills to work as a volunteer leader in our schools before returning to the workforce full-time as the Director of the Lake Oswego Schools Foundation in 2016. Having grown up in the California Bay Area, Mary Kay can trace her career path back to her time as a campaign manager for student government and editor of her school paper. She earned her Bachelor of Science in journalism with a minor in public relations from Cal Poly State University, San Luis Obispo. Mary Kay is uniquely positioned in the district office as a Lake Oswego resident and a parent who has raised children in our schools.
To learn more about the topics we discussed, ask a question, or share ideas for future episodes, please visit LOSDSchools. org. And remember to like and follow us wherever you get your podcasts. Thank you for engaging with Learning in Lake Oswego. We appreciate your support and look forward to having you with us for our next episode.
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Educational Insights for an Engaged Community
Join Superintendent Dr. Jennifer Schiele as she gives us an inside look at the Lake Oswego School District. With over 20 years of experience as a school counselor, principal, and administrator, Jenn provides invaluable insight into K12 education and our district. In this podcast, you will hear candid conversations with knowledgeable guests who care deeply about our learning community. Mary Kay Larson, the communications director, district parent, and community resident, will host the show and add her perspective to the conversation. Whether you are new to the community or have been with the district for decades, there is always something to learn in the Lake Oswego School District. Tune in every month to learn more.
Jazz Band Director: Daniel Hartley
Jazz Band Members on LILO Theme Music:
Ocean Punsalan (piano), Emory Guyer (bass), Declan Southard (drums), Spencer Becker (alto sax), Kento Klasen (trumpet)
To learn more about the topics we discussed, ask a question, or share ideas for future episodes, please visit LOSDSchools. org. And remember to like and follow us wherever you get your podcasts. Thank you for engaging with Learning in Lake Oswego. We appreciate your support and look forward to having you with us for our next episode.
