Tracing the Path of Success through Public Schools, May 7

In a video that debuted today as part of “The Promise of Oregon” campaign, 10 adult Oregonians describe how their public school experiences led to professional successes. Among them are Dan Wieden, co-founder of an internationally recognized advertising firm, Linda Tamura, a Hood River historian and author, and Greg Bell, an author and motivational speaker. Along with the other video subjects, they emphasize the need to invest in public schools. “Public schools are our gift to our kids,” Tamura says. “They’re our future.” The “Promise” campaign, which launched last November, aims to create public support for K-14 education, to help meet the state’s 40-40-20 goals and lift student achievement and graduation rates. The newest video is among several featured on the campaign website, www.promiseoregon.org The “Promise” campaign is being coordinated by the Oregon School Boards Association (OSBA). The campaign is based on two defining principles: 1) Today’s students are Oregon’s greatest natural resource. 2) We as Oregonians must invest in our public schools so the next generation can reach its potential. OSBA is a member services agency for more than 200 locally elected boards serving school districts, education service districts and community colleges. It also provides services to charter schools and their boards.