In a remarkable initiative at Benson Polytechnic High School in Northeast Portland, students are learning the value of community and compassion through an innovative program. Guided by teacher Melissa Kennybrew, these young individuals recite a meaningful poem daily to remind themselves of their interconnectedness. This ethos extends into their participation in Schnitzer Cares: Student Grantmaking, where they research and distribute grants for causes close to their hearts. Through this experience, students gain invaluable skills such as teamwork, leadership, and empathy, preparing them for future endeavors.
A Community-Minded Approach to Education
At Benson Polytechnic High School during the golden hues of autumn, Melissa Kennybrew leads her junior AVID elective class in a unique endeavor. Each day begins with a heartfelt recitation of "In Lak'ech," a poem penned by Chicano playwright Luis Valdez. This practice fosters a sense of unity among the students, emphasizing that their actions towards others reflect their self-perception. The spirit of compassion is further cultivated through their involvement in Schnitzer Cares: Student Grantmaking. Previously known as CommuniCare, this program invites students to engage actively in identifying societal issues within their communities and finding solutions. In its inaugural 27 years, over $5.2 million has been distributed to more than 560 nonprofit organizations, impacting countless lives across Oregon.
This year, Kennybrew's class focuses on aiding youth transitioning out of the foster care system. With over 3,170 students enrolled in Oregon schools having experienced foster care in 2023-24, there is a pressing need for support. Students raise funds creatively—through basketball challenges and donut sales—and collaborate with Schnitzer Cares to amplify their efforts. Their goal is to ensure vulnerable populations receive necessary resources, including housing, food, clothing, academic assistance, legal advice, and healthcare. By evaluating potential grant recipients, students like Han Quach, Brenda Martinez-De Jesus, and Salihat Abdalla exercise agency and decision-making power typically reserved for adults.
The Impact of Empowerment
This initiative offers profound insights into the transformative power of education when it extends beyond academics. By allowing students to take charge, programs like Schnitzer Cares instill confidence and responsibility. It underscores the importance of nurturing community-minded individuals capable of contributing positively to society. As Kristen Engfors-Boess, program director, highlights, fostering these qualities equips students for success in college or careers. Moreover, it exemplifies how empowering young people can lead to meaningful change, ensuring no one feels overlooked or alone during challenging transitions. This approach not only benefits those directly involved but also strengthens the broader community fabric.
The Ohio House has recently approved a budget that promises substantial relief to property owners with over $4 billion in tax cuts. Simultaneously, the plan ensures an increase in funding for all state school districts in fiscal years 2026 and 2027. This significant financial adjustment aims to ease the economic burden on residents while enhancing educational resources across the state.
Record-breaking Property Tax Relief
This legislative move introduces one of the most extensive property tax reductions Ohioans have ever experienced. The initiative is designed to alleviate financial stress for homeowners and property investors by significantly cutting their tax obligations. With this measure, the government seeks to boost local economies and encourage property ownership.
By approving more than $4 billion in property tax relief, the Ohio House demonstrates its commitment to supporting citizens' financial well-being. This relief is expected to make home ownership more accessible and reduce the economic strain on existing property holders. Moreover, it could stimulate real estate market activity as individuals may feel more financially secure to invest in properties. Such a step reflects a strategic effort to strengthen community stability and promote long-term economic growth within the state.
Enhanced School Funding Across Ohio
In addition to tax relief, the new budget guarantees increased funding for all public schools statewide during the next two fiscal years. This decision underscores the importance placed on education by ensuring every district receives additional resources to improve facilities and programs. It signifies a pivotal moment in Ohio's educational landscape, promising better learning environments for students.
With the assurance that each school district will receive augmented financial support in 2026 and 2027, there is optimism about improving educational standards throughout Ohio. The added funds can be utilized for upgrading infrastructure, hiring qualified teachers, and implementing innovative teaching methods. Furthermore, these investments aim to bridge disparities among districts, offering equitable opportunities for all students regardless of location or socioeconomic background. This focus on educational advancement highlights a forward-thinking approach towards nurturing future generations effectively.
Recently, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent urged individuals planning to retire to pay closer attention to stock market dynamics. During a segment on NBC's "Meet the Press," he suggested that those relying heavily on their savings accounts might be overlooking daily market changes. This sparked curiosity about whether retirees or pre-retirees are indeed monitoring these fluctuations and why they do so.
A Deep Dive into Retiree Market Awareness
In a golden autumn season filled with vibrant hues, an inquiry was sent out through the Your Money newsletter asking readers nearing retirement if they were observing market trends. An overwhelming response of nearly 400 participants revealed that over 90% were actively keeping tabs on the markets. One such individual is Nancy London from Plain City, Ohio, who due to Parkinson’s disease cannot work but closely follows daily market performances to secure her financial future.
This investigation took place last weekend, initiated by Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent's televised comments urging awareness among potential retirees about stock market movements.
From diverse locations across the nation, responses poured in highlighting personal reasons behind this vigilance. Many shared stories similar to Nancy London’s, demonstrating how critical market observation can be for those dependent solely on accumulated savings.
The engagement shown by these soon-to-be retirees indicates a deep understanding of the importance of staying informed about economic conditions as they transition into life after employment.
As a journalist reflecting upon this matter, it becomes evident that there exists a significant disconnect between official advice and actual practices adopted by people preparing for retirement. While some may argue that constant monitoring could lead to unnecessary stress, others believe being well-informed empowers them to make better financial decisions during uncertain times. Ultimately, each person must decide what level of involvement suits their situation best while considering long-term stability and peace of mind.