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Students at the Center: Focus on Student Voice and Empowerment | Wednesday, 8:30am

October 23, 2024 @ 8:30 am – 9:30 am PDT
This series of collaborative meetings is designed to equip school leaders with the knowledge and skills to create a school culture where student voice is valued, heard, and acted upon. By exploring strategies to empower students as partners in their education, leaders will develop the capacity to:
- Cultivate a student-centered learning environment
- Develop effective structures for capturing and responding to student feedback
- Empower students to take ownership of their learning and school community
- Build partnerships with students to address school challenges and opportunities
- Measure the impact of student voice on school improvement
Through a combination of research-based practices, collaborative discussions, and practical application, this series will inspire leaders to create schools where every student feels seen, heard, and valued.
Portico Coaches
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Kate Barker
Kate Barker’s illustrious 34-year career includes 17 years as a principal, cultivating vibrant cultures despite challenges like poverty and diversity. Her education, including a master’s in Special Education and a reading endorsement, equips her with strategies for equitable practices. Driven by a passion for collaboration, Kate believes in the power of relationships to optimize growth. She aims to create a trusting space where leaders can flourish.
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Ken Parshall
Ken Parshall, a seasoned educator with a wealth of experience in school leadership, currently serves as a leadership coach and school improvement consultant, leveraging his extensive background to support educational institutions. Previously, he held the role of Superintendent in Jefferson County School District, Central Oregon, following successful tenures as Assistant Superintendent in Salem-Keizer Schools and principal in various Oregon districts, including Crook County and McKay High School.
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Paul Coakley
Dr. Paul E. Coakley brings over a decade of diverse educational leadership experience to his role as Superintendent of Multnomah Education Service District (ESD), a position he assumed in July 2021. Beginning his career as Principal of Hudson Park Elementary School in Rainier, Oregon, Dr. Coakley swiftly progressed to serve as Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum & Instruction in Rainier before transitioning to Centennial School District, where he held positions as Assistant Superintendent/Human Resources Director and Superintendent.
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Rachael George
Rachael’s journey from battling wildland fires with the U.S. Forest Service to extinguishing educational challenges in the classroom reflects her unwavering commitment to making a profound impact. A pivotal conversation in Grangeville, Idaho prompted her transition, leading her to embrace a role in education. Recognized as a member of the ASCD Emerging Leaders Class of 2015, Rachael currently serves as the Executive Director of Elementary Programs and Prek Principal in the Oregon Trail School District. Prior to this role, Rachael served as the Executive Director of Student Services, a building principal at the middle and elementary level, as well as…
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Manuel Colón
Manuel Colon served as the Chief Academic Officer for the Anaheim Union High School District in Anaheim, CA. With a distinguished career in education, Manuel held key roles including Assistant Superintendent of Educational Services and Principal at Savanna High School and Sycamore Junior High School within the same district. He was also an ACSA Certified Coach and served as an AVID Regional Coordinator for the Los Angeles County Office of Education.
Meeting Dates:
This group will meet monthly on approximately the third Wednesday of the month at 8:30am Pacific.
- September 25th, 2024
- October 23rd, 2024
- November 20th, 2024
- December 18th, 2024
- January 29th, 2025
- February 26th, 2025
- March 19th, 2025
- April 23rd, 2025
- May 21st, 2025
RSVP to Secure Your Spot
Portico Facilitator

Michelle Liebhardt
Michelle is a lifelong learner with a passion for education. With experience in research, technology, and consulting, her focus has always been on improving student experiences. Believing in the power of curiosity-driven learning, she champions educators who empower students through engaging experiences. Currently, her work centers on helping schools move beyond traditional systems to create a more meaningful learning environment.
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