4J Parent News
February 2024, Volume 1
Our district has been recognized by the National Association of School Psychologists for excellence in school psychological services, receiving the second-highest designation possible.
This designation demonstrates our district is providing strong support to students in need of those services as well as becoming an ideal employer for school psychologists. Given the national shortage, which has greatly impacted our region, this designation will make it easier to recruit and retain these highly skilled professionals.
Congratulations to our team for this well-deserved recognition, and thank you for the invaluable support you provide our students!
Former 4J Superintendent Honored as First Citizen
Congratulations to former 4J Superintendent George Russell for being honored as the Eugene Area Chamber of Commerce’s 2023 First Citizen. The chamber has given this prestigious award annually since 1938 to an individual whose business and public service efforts make a notable impact on the community.
Russell was one of 4J's longest-tenured superintendents, serving for more than a decade (1998–2011). He was named Oregon Superintendent of the Year in 2015. After retiring from our district, Russell continued to serve our youth on the Oregon State Board of Education, Children’s Institute Board, Looking Glass Community Services Board and United Way of Lane County’s Advisory Board. He continues to work as a consultant and as a mentor for new school superintendents throughout the state.
Russell was honored at the Chamber's 70th annual Celebration of Business on Wednesday, Jan. 30.
Super Insights: New Podcast Episode Available
The newest episode of Super Insights, our podcast featuring Superintendent Andy Dey, is now ready for your listening pleasure.
The newest episode continues the conversation about 4J's expanded partnership with the Lane Arts Council. Dr. Dey talks with Karen Ramirez-Gutierrez, principal at River Road/Camino del Río Elementary School, and a fifth-grade student there about what the partnership has brought to their school and classroom. This is part two of a two-part series focusing on the value of arts education.
Super Insights podcast gives listeners an in-depth look at the major programs, priorities and issues for our district. Happy listening! Submit your questions / topic suggestions for Superintendent Dey.
Immunization Exclusion Day is Feb. 21
Routine immunizations are required by state law for students for diseases such as polio, measles and pertussis. If your student does not meet the state requirements for immunization, your student will be excluded from in-person learning and on-campus activities, such as sports, starting on Wednesday, Feb. 21, and until their immunizations or medical records are in compliance.
Vaccines are available at 4J's school-based health centers and at many pharmacies, healthcare providers’ offices and Lane County Public Health.
Neurodivergent Student Town Hall & Parent Night
Neurodivergent students and their families are invited to an event on Tuesday, February 6, from 5–7 p.m., at Roosevelt Middle School, 500 E. 24th Ave.
The event combines a student town hall with a parent resource night. Students will have the opportunity to talk and connect with their peers, while their parents can talk with one another while learning about valuable resources in the community.
Childcare, Spanish interpretation and snacks will be provided. Questions? Contact Jené Conrad at conrad_j@4j.lane.edu.
Reminder: Special Education Job Fair is Feb. 10
Special education teachers and specialists—we want YOU to join Team Eugene! As a student-centered district, we are looking for highly motivated individuals who have a calling to work with a special population of students.
Special Education Job Fair, Saturday, Feb. 10, 9 a.m.–noon
4J Education Center, 200 N. Monroe St.
• Job openings for 2024–25: School Psychologists • School Psych Interns • Speech Language Pathologists • Special Education Teachers • Occupational Therapists • Nurses
• Apply online: www.schooljobs.com/careers/laneedu, then
• Schedule an interview: Email scroggins_s@4j.lane.edu for an interview time. In-person & zoom interviews are available.
*Walk-ins welcome!
Whether you are a soon–to–be education graduate, veteran teacher, or exploring other jobs in education, we have full and part-time opportunities for you!
Join The Team, Apply for 4J Jobs
Bilingual First Grade Teacher • Bus Aides • Bus Drivers • Building Behavior Support Assistants • Coaches • Educational Assistants • Fleet Mechanic • Jewish Student Union Program Coordinator • NATIVES Program Tutors • Plumbing Specialist • Special Ed Educational Assistants • Student Success Coordinators • and more!