Rightsize. Right Support. Right for Students.
Portland Public Schools is undertaking a districtwide rightsizing process to better align our schools, programs, and resources with the needs of today’s students and the realities shaping our future.
PPS Certified Drug & Alcohol Counselors (CADCs) provide individualized, school-based substance use support for students across the district. Our CADCs bring extensive experience working with young people and families and partner with students, caregivers, school staff, and community providers to help students access support that meets their individual needs.
Marysol brings extensive experience providing culturally responsive substance use services to PPS students, families, and schools. Prior to joining PPS, she partnered with the district through Central City Concern's Esperanza Juvenil Program, a culturally specific program serving young people and families.
Marysol worked with Central City Concern for a total of 12 years and also has experience with the Gospel Mission of Seattle. She brings a depth of knowledge in building relationships with students and families and providing culturally responsive substance use support.
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Elijah, known to many students and families as Uncle E, brings more than 15 years of experience providing substance use services and supports. He is well known throughout the district for his ability to build strong relationships and engage students and families.
Prior to joining PPS, Elijah provided prevention services through the Community Healing Initiative (CHI) Program at POIC. He previously spent seven years with the LifeWorks NW REAL Program providing culturally focused services for Black youth and their families.
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Jennifer brings professional experience in adolescent drug and alcohol counseling and approaches her work through a trauma-informed, pro-harm reduction lens. Her professional and lived experience helps create a welcoming environment for both students and families.
Prior to her work in substance use counseling, Jennifer spent 12 years supporting people in moving through trauma as a yoga therapist with Living Yoga and in private practice.
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