Oregon City School District proudly recognized 10 outstanding staff members during Welcome Back Day in September. The annual Staff Awards celebrate employees whose work brings the district’s Strategic Plan to life and reflects OCSD’s commitment to putting students first.
This year’s recipients were selected across the district’s five Strategic Plan pillars: Instructional Excellence; Career & College Readiness; Robust Systems of Belonging & Well-Being; Engaged Communities; and Safe & Engaging Learning Environments.
More than 120 staff members were nominated for this year’s awards. Each nomination reflected the care, expertise, collaboration, and student-centered service happening every day across Oregon City schools and departments.
Instructional Excellence
Student Impact Award: Dan Lau, Clackamas Academy of Industrial Sciences
Dan Lau creates a structured, respectful learning environment where students build confidence, responsibility, and practical skills. Through engaging math and shop instruction, hands-on learning opportunities such as robotics and 3D printing, and support for activities including Outdoor School and Ski Bus, Lau helps students strengthen problem-solving skills, perseverance, and connection to their school community.
Professional Practice Award: Dana Henson, Oregon City High School
As Oregon City High School’s band director, Dana Henson creates meaningful, high-quality learning experiences that inspire and challenge students. Through steady mentorship, clear communication with families, and opportunities including band camp, honor band, travel, and individualized encouragement, Henson helps students grow as musicians, learners, and confident members of the school community.
Career & College Readiness
Future Ready Award: Angie Gilbert, District School-to-Career TOSA
Angie Gilbert expands future-ready opportunities for students by building partnerships with industry, community organizations, and career-training programs. Her work connects students to experiences such as Women in Trades, Women in Manufacturing, field trips, robotics and woodshop projects, and the Youth Trades Initiative. Gilbert also supports the district’s BOLI pre-apprenticeship program, helping students explore career pathways and see new possibilities for their futures.
Real-World Connected Award: Juliana Inglish, Clackamas Academy of Industrial Sciences
Julianna English brings career-connected learning to life through hands-on woodshop instruction, career exploration, and industry partnerships. She has connected students with trade professionals, launched pathways including a BOLI-registered pre-apprenticeship program, and led projects that serve both students and the wider community. Her work helps students develop technical skills, safety awareness, confidence, employability skills, and meaningful connections to future careers.
Robust Systems of Belonging & Well-Being
Lift and Lead Award: Alissa Sherman, John McLoughlin Elementary
Alissa Sherman creates a caring, inclusive classroom where students feel supported, understood, and capable of success. Through patient guidance, consistent family communication, and thoughtful problem-solving, she helps students navigate academic and social challenges while building confidence, connection, and meaningful progress.
Wellness Award: Russell Copeland, Gardiner Middle School
Russell Copeland, head day custodian at Gardiner Middle School, strengthens student and staff well-being through his dependable, caring presence. Known for working patiently with students, explaining tasks with care, and following through on what needs to be done, Copeland helps create a school environment where students and staff feel safe, respected, and valued.
Engaged Communities
All-In Award: Jess Barchus, Gardiner Middle School
As Gardiner Middle School’s dean of students, Jess Barchus demonstrates student-centered leadership, collaborative problem-solving, and a commitment to helping students and staff thrive. She develops thoughtful, multi-tiered supports; builds trust with families, students, and educators; and works to remove barriers, strengthen motivation, and move shared goals forward.
Connector Award: Elizabeth Gonzalez, Candy Lane Elementary
Elizabeth Gonzalez strengthens the connection among school, home, and community through compassionate outreach and consistent family support. As a family liaison and instructional assistant, she helps ensure families have the resources, communication, and encouragement needed to support students’ academic and emotional well-being. She also helps create a welcoming sense of belonging through the ¡Todos Unidos! community and student literacy and math support.
Safe & Engaging Learning Environments
Spark Award: Cody Hole, Holcomb Elementary
Cody Hole sparks student confidence by creating meaningful opportunities for every learner to participate, lead, and succeed. Through inclusive classroom practices that provide students with choice, encouragement, and multiple pathways to recognition, Hole helps students see their own potential and feel supported in pursuing it.
Space Maker Award: Megan Simms, Beavercreek Elementary
Megan Simms creates a calm, caring first-grade classroom where every student feels safe, valued, and ready to learn. With patient guidance, clear expectations, and a gentle approach to helping students regulate and reengage, she supports children’s academic, social, and emotional growth while building a strong sense of confidence and belonging.
Congratulations to the 2026 Oregon City School District Staff Award recipients. Their work represents the dedication of employees across the district who create exceptional learning experiences, strengthen relationships, expand opportunities, and ensure every student is supported.
Where Students Are First. / Donde los estudiantes son primero.