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Commission Members

Title
Secondary Principal
Committees
Executive Committee Chair
Terms

​1st Term
9/28/2018 - 12/31/2020

Bio

​I have seen first-hand the important role TSPC fills in education in Oregon, and I feel called to support the Commissions important work. I know that high standards for both current and aspiring educators is an essential component in meeting Oregon’s goals for our youth.  In order to increase the quality and diversity of professional educators, we must begin in K-12 schools preparing all students for college and career, and continue to improve our teacher preparation programs with a tireless focus on Equity.
 
After earning both my Bachelors of Arts and Master’s Degree in Education from the University of Oregon, I began as a special educator in the West-Linn Wilsonville School district in 2001. I had the joy of working in both resource and self-contained settings. I then had the opportunity to serve as a Teacher on Special Assignment for Special Education in the Medford School District. The next step was into my current home as an administrator at Ashland High School in 2012, first as Assistant Principal, and transitioning to Principal in 2015.
 
I have two wonderful children, adding to my commitment to serve all students. Outside of my passion for education, I enjoy exploring the many natural wonders Southern Oregon has to offer, reading a great book, and spending quiet time with family and friends.

Email
Erika.bare@ashland.k12.or.us
Title
Secondary Teacher
Committees
Program Approval Committee
Terms

​1st Term
1/1/2019 - 12/31/2021

Bio

​I was interested in becoming a Commissioner because I am passionate about advocating and supporting educators. If I could roll out a red carpet for teachers every day I would. I believe that the single greatest impact on a student at school, is the teacher in the classroom. Therefore, it is a position that deserves the utmost support. I received a Bachelor’s Degree in Archaeology from Oregon State University in 2007, and spent some time working for the BLM and private firms as an archaeological field tech. In 2009 I followed up with a Masters of Arts in Teaching from Southern Oregon University. For the first 8 years of my teaching career I worked in the elementary setting, teaching 1st, 2nd and 4th grades in the Medford School District. Currently I just finished my 9th year of teaching and have transitioned into a middle school science teacher at McLoughlin Middle School in Medford, Oregon. At McLoughlin I loop with students through their 7th and 8th grade years. I love to read a lot of books, drink a lot of tea and spend time outdoors. My summers are filled with backpacking trips, while my winters are consumed with cross-country skiing. I love exploring all that Oregon has to offer and spending time with my husband Ryan, my two teenage stepchildren Lyrik and Kaleb, and our Golden Retriever Tucker. I am also very proud to have generated the idea of formally recognizing our educators with the Golden Pear Teacher Recognition Program in the Medford School District. The Golden Pear Teacher Recognition Program’s mission is to celebrate and honor excellence in teaching for those teachers who are improving the lives of students.  Publicly recognizing outstanding teachers elevates the profession of teaching, encourages students to think about teaching as a career, and provides the community a sense of pride and investment in their teachers who are making a positive impact on student’s lives every day. Each year our school district, local unions, chamber of commerce, local businesses and community members work together to elects three Golden Pear Teachers, one from an elementary, middle and high school level that we announce in a red carpet gala event. It is truly the academy awards for educators in Medford! In 2020 we will celebrate our 4th year with the program.

Email
jessica.barney@medford.k12.or.us
Title
Public Representative
Committees
Licensure Committee
Terms
1st Term
10/1/2020 – 12/31/2020


Bio

​I have been working in Education for over 20 years and am currently the Education Program Lead at Klamath Community College.  My program has a pathway to teacher education and my passion lies with growing our own teachers. I helped create a partnership program with Southern Oregon University in which our local community members can earn their Bachelor's degree in Elementary Education, K-12 licensure, and complete their student teaching locally.  This partnership program was the first of its kind in the state of Oregon and I'm very proud of this work. Being a TSPC Commissioner is a wonderful opportunity to grow in my profession while serving my state.

I have a BS degree from Southern Oregon University in Sports Medicine/Athletic Training and my Masters in Education (Curriculum and Instruction) from Freed-Hardeman University.  I taught secondary Health, Physical Education, and Special Education before working at Klamath Community College, where I have been since 2002.

My hobbies include trail running, hiking, kayaking, rafting, backpacking, and camping.  I love Oregon’s outdoors and I try to immerse myself in nature as often as possible!  I have a teenage son, four adult step-children, and two fluffy dogs.

I have presented my partnership teacher education program to ESDs in the state and to the Coalition of Oregon School Administrators (COSA) as a model for other institutions to follow. This opportunity to be involved with my state as a Commissioner with TSPC is a very special achievement and it will be an honor to serve.

Email
bullock@klamathcc.edu
Title
Elementary Teacher
Committees
Licensure Committee
Terms

​1st Term
9/28/2018 - 12/31/2020

Bio

​When I first considered the commission it was to make the career path to education less about hoops to jump through and more about creating quality teachers more diverse. I have since, had a child and now believe being on this commission better ensures my own child will have quality teachers as he goes through the public education system.
 
Education:
Educated through (Title One) public schools in Salem. Received a B.S. Science degree and a Master’s Degree in Education from OSU.
 
Professional Background:
Nutrition Educator for OSU Education – 9 years
2nd grade teacher for Greater Albany School District – January 2018
 
I love gardening, hiking the PCT (portions), and traveling around the world with my partner and best friend (they are the same person).
 
First in family to graduate with college degree and masters and travel around the world. My biggest achievement is my little Chance (4 month old son).

Email
iris.carrasco@albany.k12.or.us
Title
Secondary Teacher
Committees
Executive Committee, Professional Practices Committee Chair
Terms
1st Term
11/17/2017 – 12/31/2018
 
2nd Term
1/1/2019 – 12/31/2021

Bio

​It is truly an honor to serve on the TSPC commission. My desire to join stems from the fact that the work this commission does is integral to the success of our teacher workforce, and subsequently to the success of students.
 
A child of teachers, I grew up with prime examples of people dedicated to the profession, and as I entered adulthood, I wished to follow in their footsteps. I received my MAT from Concordia University in 2005. Since then, I have spent my teaching career at David Douglas High School where I teach Language Arts.
 
Over my 12 years of teaching, I have continued to engage in ongoing education, receiving a reading endorsement and eventually a certificate in the teaching of writing. I have also had the opportunity to mentor multiple student teachers and taught for nine years in an MAT program.
 
When not teaching, I am indulging my daughter’s crafting whims, exploring new recipes, or hunkered down with a good book.

Email
jessica_classen@ddouglas.k12.or.us
Title
Public Member
Committees
Professional Practices Committee
Terms

​2/23/2022-
12/31/2023

Bio

​Josh Davies is a Hanis Coos citizen and current Director of Education for the Confederate Tribes of Coos, Lower Umpqua and Siuslaw Indians (CTCLUSI). Josh has earned his BA in Liberal Arts from Evergreen State College, MA from City Univesrity Vancouver, Administrative Licensure from University of Concordia - Portland. He has held various educational positions beginning with his journey as an educational assistant, classroom teacher, assistant principal, athletic director, athletic coach for many sports/many levels. Formerly, Josh served on CTCLUSI's Tribal Counsel from 2018-2022. Director Davies is married to his wife Delilah, and father of four children; Jorney, Jordan, Sailee and Justus. Currently Director Davies sits on many committees and boards relative to education and leadership, however his ultimate goal is to provide equality and equitable service for all children of all cultures. 

Email
jdavies@ctclusi.org
Title
Elementary Teacher
Committees
Licensure Committee
Terms

​1st Term
01/01/2018 - 12/31/2020

Bio

​My interest in becoming a TSPC commissioner stems from my passion for teaching, and giving back to my community. The experiences I’ve had as a member of several teams, including the Clatsop County Search and Rescue, Alameda Community Association board, Tongue Point Volunteer Fire Department, Multnomah County Amateur Radio Emergency Service, Alameda Neighborhood Emergency Team, my immersion school teaching team, and with much pride I’d be remiss if I didn’t also include my Astoria City Champion Softball team (not community service but it sure was a lot of fun going to state), and other team experiences have all contributed to who I am today, and brings a breadth of experiences that will serve to help me be a productive member of the TSPC team.
 
I have had the privilege of teaching for Portland Public schools for 18 years, and I currently teach at the Richmond Japanese Immersion School in SE Portland. My three sons also attended K-12 in PPS. Two of my sons, and I, attended Oregon State University, my other son is a graduate of Portland State Universality. I also obtained my MAT, Reading and ESOL endorsements from Lewis and Clark College.
 
Paddling, biking, hiking, reading, traveling, and visiting with family and friends are some of the things I love doing when I’m not working. I also truly enjoy learning, so I’ve participated in many classes, and traveled to many places, included Japan.
 
Over the years I’ve been honored to be a recipient of several honors, including the Spirit of Portland Award, and the opportunity to be a member of a three-year NGSS Science Teacher Leader learning Cadre.
 
Contributing to the educational landscape of Oregon as a member of the Teacher Standards and Practices Commission by participating in assuring we have; outstanding teacher education programs; helping in maintaining professional standards of competent and ethical performance; and establishing and evaluating rules for licensure, will be an honor and a privilege.

Email
mgross@pps.net
Title
Elementary Teacher
Committees
Professional Practices Committee
Terms
1st Term
9/26/2016 – 12/31/2017

2nd Term
1/1/2018 – 12/31/2020

Bio

​I am interested in being a commissioner because I think that TSPC has a crucial job in Oregon's education. We not only need to make sure that all children receive the best education that is available; but also that teachers have the necessary teaching skills and methodologies to provide the best teaching experience for all of our students.
 
I was born in Colombia, there, I attended a special secondary school where student teachers learn teaching techniques and methodologies as well as children's psychology and pedagogy. After graduating from such high school I entered university and graduated as a languages' teacher.
 
I worked in Colombia as an English and bilingual teacher for six years before having the great opportunity to come to the United States to work as a volunteer Spanish teacher.
 
In 1999, I was hired by the Forest Grove School District where I have been working since then. I graduated from Portland State with a Masters in bilingual education in 2002. I worked as a first grade bilingual teacher in a self-contained classroom for 15 years.
 
In 2013, I decided I wanted to refine my skills as reading teacher. I graduated from Western Oregon University with a reading endorsement in 2014. I have been working as a Title I teacher since 2014, helping struggling readers. I am currently taking classes to learn and provide services to students with dyslexia.
 
I was born in Bucaramanga, Colombia. I have lived in Oregon since 1996 when I was invited to be a volunteer Spanish teacher. I love my family and teaching. I also enjoy singing, dancing traveling, and experiencing different kinds of food.
 
My special achievement is having the amazing opportunity of being part of this important commission.

Email
ljimenez@fgsd.k12.or.us
Title
Private University Faculty
Committees
Terms

​1st Term
9/23/2019 - 12/31/2020

Bio

​My desire to serve as a Teacher Standards and Practices Commissioner stems from a strong commitment ot cultivation systems, policies and partnerships with constituents and community members in ongoing efforts to nurture a more equitable education system.


I currently serve as the Director of Education at Linfield University. My experience in education began with working as a behavior therapist for pre-school children with autism, followed by K-12 teaching experience in special education and general education settings. Additionally, I have served in Oregon schools, primary in Beaverton School District, as a teacher, reading specialist, literacy coach and administrator. My career in higher education began at Concordia University in Portland. As an Associate Professor of Education, I taught and developed teacher preparation courses in the areas of equity, literacy, growth and development, and leadership at the undergraduate and graduate levels. I earned an Education Doctorate in Professional Leadership, Inquiry and Innovation, and my dissertation research focused on the cultural competency development and pre-service teachers.


I am from Tigard, Oregon in Washington County. I'm a proud to be a partner of MStg Andrew Kondor who serves in the Oregon National Guard and the mom of our daughter Natalie who attends Metzger Elementary School in Tigard-Tualatin School district. We love playing games, camping, traveling, and creating. I also enjoy yoga, and am currently studying Spanish. 

Email
ckondor@linfield.edu
Title
State Institution of Higher Learning
Committees
Executive Committee, Licensure Committee Chair
Terms

​1st Term
9/23/2019 - 12/31/2020

Bio

​Rae Ette Newman is the Chair of the College of Education and assistant professor at Eastern Oregon University (EOU). She is the program coordinator for the early childhood and Master of Arts in Teaching – Elementary programs. Rae Ette is committed to exploring high quality teacher education programs and continuous improvement for programs.  She is a national reviewer for the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation.

Rae Ette has taught in the public school system for nine years, in a large urban school district. She taught early childhood special education for children diagnosed with autism. She also taught in prekindergarten in a classroom with a high population of second language learners. Rae Ette’s classroom was designated as a model classroom for the Clark County District and Autism Partnership. During the 2004-05 academic year, Rae Ette was nominated for new teacher of the year. During the 2012-13, Rae Ette received the Teacher of the Game Award. Rae Ette earned her doctorate at the University of Nevada Las Vegas in 2013, in Special Education with an emphasis in early childhood education. She received her M.Ed. in 2006 at the University of Nevada Las Vegas with an emphasis in autism and cognitive disabilities. She received her B.A. from the University of Wisconsin Oshkosh with a dual major in education: prek-grade 3 (birth- age 11) and special education early childhood (birth – age 8).
 
Rae Ette resides in La Grande, OR with her family.

Email
rnewman@eou.edu
Title
Elementary Teacher
Committees
Program Approval Committee
Terms

​1st Term

3/1/2021 - 12/31/2022

Bio

​I was interested in becoming a commissioner because I knew I could be a strong representative for elementary teachers in the Eastern Oregon region and all of Oregon. By advocating for greater equality among Oregon's educational institutions and providing training to support teachers in developing culturally responsive practices, Oregon educators will be better able to ensure a high quality education for all students.
I was born and raised in Pendleton, Oregon. From a young age, I knew I wanted to become an educator, work alongside children and watch them grow through their educational experiences. I went on to attend college in La Grande, Oregon, at Eastern Oregon University. I graduated with a Bachelor's degree in Multidisciplinary Studies and Elementary Education with an endorsement in English For Speakers Of Other Languages. I also had the honor of graduating as a scholar of the Oregon Teacher Pathway Program, a program focused on producing quality teachers trained in culturally responsive practices. I Currently reside in Baker City, Oregon, as a third-grade teacher at the Baker 5j school district.
As a lifelong Eastern Oregonian, I love to enjoy the great outdoors when I'm not following my passion of being an educator.

Email
lindsey.rogers@bakersd.org
Title
Superintendent of City Schools
Committees
Professional Practices Committee
Terms

​1st Term
1/1/2019 - 12/31/2021

Bio

​I believe the committee’s work is extremely important and I wanted to actively support the important work that they have been doing.
 
Education:
BS Political Science SOSC 1990
Masters Educational Leadership SOU 2007
 
Professional Background:
Teacher Eagle Point Middle School 1996-2007
Athletic Director Eagle Point Middle School 2002-2007
Superintendent/Principal Butte Falls School District 2007-2010
Superintendent Coquille School District 2010-present
COSA Equity Summit Planning committee 2018
COSA Executive Committee 2016-present
Oregon Small Schools Association Board of Directors 2013-present
COSA Vision and Policy Committee 2013-2016
Coos County Parks Advisory Board 2011-2014
 
I find working in my garden to be very relaxing. I enjoy growing flowers for my wife.
 
Oregon Superintendent of the Year - 2019
Coquille Citizen of the Year - 2012
Who’s Who Among America’s Teachers - 2006
National Honor Roll’s Outstanding Teacher - 2005
Oregon middle Level Association Outstanding Service Award - 2004/2005
Dairy Farmers of Oregon Academic All-State Award - 2002

Email
tsweeney@coquille.k12.or.us
Title
Elementary Principal
Committees
Licensure Committee
Terms
1st Term
10/1/2020 – 12/31/2022

Bio

​I want to serve in the commission because I believe that my background and experience as related to working in diverse communities will provide an important perspective to the work. I look forward to collaborating with other educators as we strive to continued improvement and the best service to our community.


I earned a Bachelor of Science in Liberal studies and a Master of Education both from Oregon State University. I earned my Administrator License from PSU. I have worked in various capacities in the Salem-Keizer School District, including Instructional Assistant, Elementary Bilingual Teacher, English Language Acquisition Curriculum Specialist, and most recently as an Elementary School Principal. I have worked as an Adjunct Professor and University Supervisor at Western Oregon University. My experience as an educator has afforded my amazing opportunities to develop expertise in the field of bilingual education and second language acquisition.


I love spending time with my family on our little farm. Our family loves to vacation in rural Mexico, where we have a vacation home. Most recently, I've developed an interest in reading more about history.


I co-authored a research article in the Bilingual Resource Journal.

Email
tolento_teresa@salkeiz.k12.or.us
Title
Superintendent
Committees
Terms

​1st Term
9/28/2020 - 12/31/2022

Bio

​I am honored to serve on the TSPC Commission. Having grown up on Oregon, and subsequently raising my own family in rural Oregon with my wife, I am passionate about seeing communities thrive and grow. The single most important anchor institution in these communities is the school. TSPC is foundational in supporting these anchor institutions by ensuring a qualified and diverse educator workforce for our schools.


I have been in public education for over 30 years. I started my career as a science/math/CTE teacher in grades 7-12. I have also been an administrator in both K-12 and ESD's. I am first-generation college graduate and earned a BS in Biology and a Masters in Teacher Education from Eastern Oregon University. My administrator credential are from Lewis and Clark College.


My passion is small, rural communities. I enjoy being active in my community in various ways including volunteering as a firefighter/first responder, teaching Hunter Education courses, serving in different leadership positons within the community (including city government), and spending time with family.

Email
waltenburgr@grantesd.k12.or.us
Title
Public School Board Member
Committees
Terms

​1st Term
1/1/2020 - 12/31/2022

Bio

​Helen Ying's professional career spans 30+ years as a mathematics teacher, high school counselor, high school vice-principal, and hearings office. she has been serving as a board director for the Multnomah Education Services District since 2017.


Helen's service reaches a broad community in various capacities of organizations that rally for a causes of youth, civil rights, and leadership development. She also serves on a myriad boards connected to education, health care, civil rights, and social justice issues, including: National Executive Vice President on the national board of the Chinese American Citizens Alliance (C.A.C.A.) and Co-Chair of Asian American Youth Leadership Conference. Helen also sits on the board of Portland State University Foundation, A Home For Everyone, Shelter Now, We Can Do Better, Lan Su Chinese Garden, and the C.A.C.A. Portland Lodge. In her spare time, she likes to travel, hike and read.


Helen holds a BS in Mathematics and Master's degree in Education and Counseling, both from Portland State University.


Her vision statement is "Connection the dots for a better world" and her mission is "To engage and empower people to take action in improving their communities." She would like to bring her expertise and experience as an educator, a school board member of color, and a community leader to her service on this commission.

Email
discover2010@gmail.com
Title
Secondary Teacher
Committees
Program Approval Committee
Terms

​​1st Term
10/01/2020 - 12/31/2022

Bio

​My interest in being a member of the Teacher Standards and Practices Commission (TSPC) developed from my doctoral research on the
impact of the edTPA on teacher classroom practices. As I learned more about teacher preparation and licensure, I realized the critical role
TSPC plays as the steward of teacher growth and development in Oregon and as a regulatory body that is raising the level or rigor for
teacher preparation and licensure. Our teachers should be well-prepared to meet consistently high standards, ensuring that our
students get the best education possible, regardless of the school district or zip code. I hope to bring my experience and passion to the
commission in service of this mission.

I have been a classroom teacher in the Portland Public School system for more than 20 years and long before that, I experienced Oregon public schools as a student inBeaverton and at Oregon State University. I have a Master’s Degree in Business Administration,
 a Master of Arts in Teaching, and recently earned a Doctorate in education from the University of Portland. I have been National Board Certified in Early Adolescent Mathematics since 2005. During my years of teaching, I have had the pleasure of serving as a cooperating teacher for teacher candidates from several teacher preparation programs in Oregon. I embrace the
opportunity to support new teachers entering the field and it turns out that I learn as much from
them as I hope they learn from me.
 
I grew up in Oregon and graduated from Beaverton High school before attending Oregon State University to earn a Bachelor of Arts degree in English and a Master of Business Administration degree. After several years working in nonprofit in Washington, DC I went back to school to
pursue a career in education. My own two children graduated from public school in Beaverton and their vastly different perspectives on the experience of being a student have informed much of my professional growth. I understand the importance of community and relationships in the classroom and the trust that comes from students knowing they will be heard.

Email
myork@pps.net
Title
Superintendent of City Schools
Committees
Professional Practices Committee
Terms

​1st Term

​2/23/2022 - 12/31/2024

Bio

​After more than 20 years in education, I see the need to start giving back to the profession that has given me so much. I want to bring my knowledge and experiences form all over the state of Oregon with me in considering how to advance education for Oregon's future.


For 7 years, I worked as a JH/HS teacher in Pilot Rock, Oregon. My administrative career began next in Ontario where I served as an assistant principal for 3 years at the middle school. I became a middle school principal in Gervais and worked their for 2 years. My last role as a principal was at the JH/HS in Central Linn (Halsey, OR) where I worked for 8 years. Currently I am the Superintendent of the Reedsport School District.


My work life keeps me very busy but whatever I have the opportunity I enjoy exploring and traveling around Oregon. If travel doesn't get to happen, then hopefully I am crabbing for dinner in Winchester Bay just outside of Reedsport.


I am honored to get to serve on the Teacher Standards and Practices Commission.

Email
jzwemke@reedsport.k12.or.us