Sellwood Middle School Principal says goodbye, introduces new leader

By David F. Ashton

The Bee, Jul 7, 2010

Retiring Sellwood Middle School Principal Helen Nolen, left, tours the school with its new leader, Charlene Russell.

David F. Ashton / THE BEE

Since Helen Nolen started her career — teaching third grade students in Colfax, Washington, in 1971 —she’s seen many changes, in society and in her profession.

Nolen, retiring Principal of Sellwood Middle School (SMS), talked with THE BEE as she turned over the keys to the school’s new Principal, Charlene Russell.

The most notable change Nolen says she’s seen during her four years at SMS has been the way the staff and teachers have adopted and adapted to computer technology. “When I came here, perhaps two or three staff members were really comfortable using e-mail. Now, everyone’s using e-mail. And, I’ve written grants that have brought in 66 Mac mobile labs. The kids come in totally interested in technology. In a way, they’re ahead of us.”

About the students she sees in the schools now, Nolen comments, “Children are coming into school more aware of what’s happening in the world. Our students in Sellwood are very aware of what's happening in Haiti, in South Korea — and the oil disaster in the Gulf of Mexico. These kids want to know more, and are concerned about world issues. They’re getting information as fast as the adults are — perhaps faster.”

It used to be that middle and high schools prepared students for established jobs or careers, Nolen recalls. “In effect, now, we need to prepare them for jobs that don’t yet exist. We don’t have a clue about what those jobs are going to be. Today’s jobs could undergo a metamorphic change by the time our students enter the job market as contributing people.”

Asked what concepts can then be taught, Nolen suggests, “We’re teaching good citizenship skills, analytical thinking, creative thinking — all of these things are now more important than ever, given the rapid pace of change.”

The best thing about her time at Sellwood, Nolen says, has been “Being with the rich energy these students bring. They want to grab it, take it, and get involved in it — whatever ‘it’ may be. They already have so many skills. In kindergarten or first grade, their smiling little faces can cheer you up if you feel down. But when you meet middle school kids, you know you’re looking at young people, many of them who already have skills that can change the world.”

She’s grateful that the community, parents, and businesses support SMS, Nolen says. “In fact, we’ve the support of the entire community. It’s heartwarming; and I’m really happy to pass this support to the new Principal. When I first came here, there wasn’t an educational foundation; the parents came together to form that organization to support our programs. I’m totally indebted to them for making it work, and doing it well.”

Nolen looks sad as she relates an unmet goal. “Three years ago, I had the dream of building a greenhouse here, where kids can have hands-on science. I have not been able to bring it to fruition.”

Given her chance to speak directly to the Sellwood community through the pages of THE BEE, Nolen thought before she said, “Thank you so much for the trust you’ve shown, by sending your delightful, incredible kids to us.”

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