This week, two board members reflect on how Oregon Well-being Trust’s values impact their work on the Board of Trustees.
Jordan Ng is a Physical Education teacher at West Powellhurst Elementary, which is part of David Douglas School District.
Stephanie is a Special Education Director and Special Education High School Teacher at Falls City School District.
Value 1 – People are paramount. Education employees should be able to do their work without sacrifice to their health and well-being.
Small shifts in things like staff rooms, communication styles, bathroom breaks, and meeting expectations, for example, can make a big difference in physical and emotional well-being. We want each employee to feel they belong when they work in Oregon education. We want them to joyfully stay in their important jobs because they feel respected, valued, and that their well-being matters.
I believe education is one of the most difficult jobs and yet, one of the most important. The heart of what we do is try and give all educators the opportunity to make sure they are taking care of themselves so they can care for, inspire, and educate their students.
Jordan Ng
Physical Education Teacher, David Douglas School District | Board Chair
There’s a saying, “You can’t take care of anyone else unless you first take care of yourself.” As a trustee, I see my role as a partner in facilitating the caretaking of all staff so each person is able to be fully present in their roles in their districts.
Stephanie McEwen
Special Education Director and Special Education Teacher, Falls City School District | Board Member
