Cascadia Tech News
June 17, 2020
From our Director
We are doing great things a Cascadia Tech Academy!
-Joan Huston, Director
Goodbye to staff
Goodbye to Doug Niemi. Thank you for supporting staff and students during a transitional year in Diesel Technology. All the best in your new endeavors!
Congratulations Barb Carlson, who has accepted a Special Education teaching position at Mt. View High School. We will miss you!
It's "California Dreaming" for Chef Jason DeLeon, as he moves to begin a new life adventure in the Sunshine State. Congratulations and good luck!
Guidance for reopening schools
Washington State Superintendent, Chris Reykdal announces fall guidance for reopening schools: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J-xrxjW7eAs
embracing continuous learning
Information Technology, Systems, Service & Support (ITS3) students integrated distance learning in their school day by continuing to plan for college or returning to Cascadia Tech in the fall. Students earned certifications, installed IT systems at work or for their church and assisted friends with their home networks. Instructor, Ray Nelson shared, “I am proud of my students, their attitudes and commitment to furthering their education and skills.”
ITS3 prepares students for careers in the Information Technology field. Setting up devices, networks and learning about cyber security are all aspects of the training. “Our partnership with Pearson Vue has been instrumental to my students during the Covid-19 pandemic”, stated Nelson.
During distance learning, the ITS3 students have been preparing for the Microsoft Technology Associate certifications. GAC Scholarship winner, Max Milliner plans to attend Clark College this fall. While attending Cascadia Tech, he earned Microsoft Technical Associate certifications and is studying for the Server Administration and Networking Fundamentals exams. These certifications will allow him to secure an entry level IT position of employment while attending college. After a successful internship at SEH this winter, he has a portfolio filled with IT related certifications. Max is well on his way to his goal of working in Web Development!
Culinary, Baking & Pastry Arts students embraced distance learning by really "slicing" into the online lessons. Instructors Gregory Retchless, Jason De Leon, and guest Chef Andrew McColley all participated in offering interesting, fun and relevant opportunities for student learning.
At the start of the Covid-19 Pandemic closure, Chef Jason instantly began posting assignments to keep the students engaged and continuing to progress with skill development, well before it was required. Teaching videos included such diverse recipes as macarons, gumbo and teriyaki pork tenderloin. Students reviewed culinary math, foundational sauces and earned certifications through the Federation of Dining Room Professionals. They were encouraged to “just go cook!”, a favorite saying of Mr. Retchless.
Distinguished Graduate and Sous Chef, Rhianna Soft offered her comments about remote learning, “Being at home almost took the close family feel out of the class. But, we are too close of a family for that! I have really enjoyed seeing pictures and videos of my classmates’ culinary creations from home.” Chef Jason was impressed by their participation, questions and desire to continue to improve their culinary skills. “I am so proud of the students, adapting to this new challenge in their lives and really trying to make the best of it.”
Breaking news
Cascadia Tech is offering a new Medical Assisting program for students who successfully complete the first year of Applied Medical Sciences. AMS program instructor, Brea McAllister shared how thrilled they are to have this additional opportunity for students. “We have worked hard the past few years, along with our community advisory board members and Clark College, to bring this dream to fruition. This course is much needed in our community, will help youth get a step up in this exciting career path and be a great asset to local providers.”
The second-year AMS program will focus on the skills and knowledge needed to become a Medical Assistant in this growing and rewarding field. Students will delve deeper into the subjects presented in the first year, such as Anatomy and Physiology and legal aspects of the field. New curriculum will include the study of pharmacology, reading and interpreting lab results, patient positioning for examinations and testing, intake practices, how to best assist the provider and more!
The role of the Medical Assistant in today’s clinical settings can act both as a healthcare professional and office administrator. These settings include medical offices, laboratories, hospitals, in-home care, rehabilitation centers and long term care facilities. Ethics, precise record keeping, adherence to safety standards, state and federal laws, and most importantly a true love of offering compassionate patient care are all qualities and skills needed to become a Medical Assistant. Cascadia Tech Academy is looking forward to offering this additional year of training for our Applied Medical Sciences students.
Thank you sponsors
Cascadia Technical Academy thanks all 2020 sponsors. For information about becoming a corporate sponsor, please contact Dennis Kampe at dennis.kampe@evergreenps.org.