Cascadia Tech News

We continue to see incredible momentum at Cascadia Tech, and it’s exciting to watch our students grow, achieve, and give back. From an out of this world experiences in Forest Management, to hands-on learning in programs like Culinary, Baking & Pastry Arts, to real-world community service opportunities in ITS3, our students are gaining the skills they need to be truly college and career ready. These experiences go beyond technical training; they are shaping compassionate, capable leaders for our community.

None of this would be possible without the dedication of our incredible staff and the continued support of our families and partners. Together, we are creating opportunities that truly change lives.

Summer School registration will open May 1 at 8 AM. Visit our website for more information.

If you’re looking for a way to support students at Cascadia Tech, plan to attend the upcoming Annual Foundation Dinner & Auction held on May 2nd.

Enjoy your Spring Break April 6-10th. We will see you back in the classrooms ready to get back to work on April 13th. Enjoy this edition of our newsletter!

We are doing great things!

-Joan Huston

Tai Phong - School Nurse

I’m a school nurse with over 20 years of experience, specializing in medically fragile pediatrics, and I’ll be celebrating 10 years with Evergreen Public Schools this fall. I’m especially excited to be the first school nurse at Cascadia Tech! I also teach CPR/AED, First Aid, and BLS certification. When I’m not at work, you’ll find me hiking, at the beach, painting watercolors, or collecting vinyl records with my husband and our three kids in our fun, chaotic household.

Paige Gregory - Culinary, Baking & Pastry Arts Catering Coordinator

I have built a diverse background in the hospitality industry, with experience ranging from Wine Educator to Food and Beverage Manager at a large membership club. Over the past two years, I made the intentional shift toward education, pursuing a path that aligns with my passion for mentorship and development. For more than a decade, I have coached and guided young adults, helping them grow in confidence and reach their full potential. Through that experience, I discovered a genuine love for teaching. Transitioning into education has allowed me to combine my passions for hospitality and teaching in a meaningful way. I am incredibly grateful to be part of a community like Cascadia Tech.

Troy Frahm- Diesel Technology Pro-Tech

I have just entered the education field after 35 years of working in semi-truck manufacturing and repair. I spent 25 years at Daimler trucks assembling trucks and another six years at Columbia Body Manufacturing assembling dump trucks. I have just finished my degree in elementary education and hope to transition from a pro-tech to a teaching position in the future. I am 25 years married with five children, nine grandchildren,a dog, and a cat. I weld and build old Chevy pickups in my spare time.

Kathryn DeMun - Dental Clinic Manager

I have a background in Fine Art/Textiles and Graphic Design. While attending college, I worked at a craft store where I was promoted to manager after graduating. After some time, I decided to pursue a new direction and developed an interest in dental assisting. I now bring both my clinical experience and leadership background into the classroom, where I love supporting students as they grow in their careers. Outside of work, I enjoy backpacking, making pizza from scratch, and hanging out with my pugs.

Alicia Johnson - Medical Assisting Pro-Tech

I am a Medical Assistant with over seven years of experience in family medicine, urgent care, and oncology. In addition to my clinical work, I have trained and mentored new staff and students, which has strengthened my passion for teaching and professional development. Outside of school, I enjoy spending time with my family, hiking, and being on the water.

Cascadia Technical Academy helps high school students across Southwest Washington build their future careers. Because the school doesn’t receive bond or levy funds, Cascadia Technical Academy Foundation (a 501(c)(3) nonprofit) raises money to provide essential equipment, scholarships, and emergency support for our students.

Our biggest fundraiser of the year—the ASPIRE Gala—will be held May 2, 2026, at ilani Casino Resort. Reserve your seat today!

Questions? Contact Dave Cole at 360.604.1098 or david.cole@evergreenps.org

April 6-10 - Spring Break (No School)

April 15 - Career Fair

April 17 - Orders Due for 25-26 Keepsakes

April 17 - E-Waste Recycling

April 20-23 - New Student Orientation

April 22 - Early Release (No Session 2/Cosmo 2)

April 29 - Dennis Kampe Scholarship Interviews

May 1 - Summer School Registration Begins 8 AM

May 4-8 - Teacher Appreciation Week

May 8 - Progress Report - T5 Ends

May 11 - Report Card - S2 Starts

May 15 - E-Waste Recycling

May 19 - Distinguished Graduates & Dennis Kampe Scholarship Awards Reception (Invite Only)

May 22 - All School Picnic

May 25 - Memorial Day (No School)

$15 - Memory Book

The Memory Book will be a keepsake of memories from your time at Cascadia Tech Academy. Limited supply will be available.

$15 - Personalized Announcement Cards with Envelopes

Send to family and friends to celebrate your hard work in completing a Cascadia Tech program. Use as an insert with your high school graduation announcements or send as a stand-alone card. Order cards and envelopes in sets of 48.

$15 - Class of 2026 Yard Signs
Celebrate being the class of 2026 at Cascadia Tech! Each sign will be double-sided and will include an "H" stake to display in your yard. Minimum order of 250 is required to move forward with the order. Tell your classmates to order too!

The video highlights an Educator Award presented by OnPoint Community Credit Union to Chef Andrew McColley, CEC, CCE, Culinary, Baking & Pastry Arts Instructor at Cascadia Technical Academy. The award recognizes his dedication to student success, hands-on teaching, and lasting impact in preparing students for careers in the restaurant and hospitality industry.

Andrew shares his personal journey, reflecting on how attending the then, Clark County Skills Center as a student gave him direction and inspired him to pursue a career as a chef. After years in the industry, he returned to the classroom to give back, where he has now taught for more than 30 years.

He emphasizes the importance of relationships, relevance, and rigor in education, while highlighting the program’s achievements, including national certifications, industry recognition, and alumni who have gone on to successful, high-profile culinary careers.

The video also honors the memory of his wife, Robbin, who played a vital role in his work and impact. “My wife that I worked with for 35 years just recently passed. She was kind of the face of driving everything because she worked here with us.” Robbin worked alongside Andrew at Cascadia Tech as the Catering Coordinator for more than 20 years, supporting both students and program operations.

Reflecting on their shared impact, Andrew speaks to the deeper meaning of his work: “I didn’t realize how many connections we had together and how much difference was made out there. And you walk away going, did I give enough? You hear that you get more than you give. It’s so fulfilling in your life that when you give fully, it’s amazing how much you get back.”

Forest Management students planted a Moon Tree! This Douglas Fir tree's seed actually orbited the moon during the NASA's Artemis I mission in 2022.

The project flew approximately 1,200 seeds from five tree species. The seeds, which left the Earth on Nov. 16, 2022, orbited the moon, and traveled 270,000 miles from Earth before splashing down on Dec. 11.

NASA and the USDA Forest Service partnered to send tree seeds to space on Artemis I and bring STEM education that connects Artemis I programming to Earth science, conservation education, data literacy, and citizen science to educators and youth nationwide. Seeds that orbited the Moon are from loblolly pine, Douglas-fir, giant sequoia, American sycamore, and sweetgum trees. Those seeds were germinated and grown by the Forest Service nursey system.

Research stations are a part of the Forest Service’s Research and Development program, which has been part of the Forest Service mission since the agency’s inception in 1905. This program informs the actions taken by the Forest Service and other land managers to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of forests and grasslands. In addition to growing some of the Artemis I Moon Tree seedlings, Forest Service scientists at the Moscow Forestry Sciences Laboratory are also investigating the effects of space travel on Moon Tree seed germination and subsequent seedling growth.

Thank you to Greater Vancouver Chamber for helping us celebrate this incredible milestone as our Forest Management students became Moon Tree stewards!

The parking lot at Cascadia Technical Academy came alive during the Annual E-Waste Recycling Event, where 70 Information Technology Systems, Service & Security students worked together to turn discarded electronics into something meaningful.

Led by the ITS SkillsUSA chapter, students took charge of logistics, sorted devices, and collaborated with former students, staff, and local partners, the event collected four van loads for an estimated total of 1.5 tons of electronic waste. Items ranged from printers and computer towers to monitors and miscellaneous electronics, all diverted from landfills for responsible recycling. An additional truckload was picked up by Earth Friendly Recycling, and a full box of headphones was donated to Cyber Acoustics. The result was more than just responsible recycling, it was hands-on, real-world learning in action.

Thank you to our ITS3 SkillsUSA student leaders, alumni, community partners, and all who contributed. Your efforts made a meaningful difference and showcased the positive impact of service learning in action.

Thank you to all who attended are largest VIP Tour yet! Special thanks to our Culinary, Baking & Pastry Arts students for creating a wonderful meeting space to accomedate such a large group and the superb lunch service.

Over 110 guests joined our 2026 VIP Tour for a day of connection and insight to learn how Cascadia Technical Academy serves high school students across Southwest Washington.

Our next event is scheduled for Fall of 2026.

Email wendy.anderson@evergreenps.org if you would like to be added to our invite list.

📣Are you a current sophomore or junior? Openings are still available for the 26-27 school year. Reach out to your high school counselor with any questions.

We have space in the following programs:
Aviation Science & Technology
Barbering-Incoming Juniors Only-Session 1 Only
Business Principles -Session 2 Only
Fashion Design
Forest Management -Session 1 Only
Information Technology Systems, Service & Security (ITS3)
Maritime Technology
Pre-Engineering Design Technology-Session 1 Only
Teaching Academy-North (Offered Session 1 Only)
Teaching Academy-East (Offered Session 1 Only)

At Cascadia Technical Academy, high school students can:
✅ Earn College Credit
✅ Obtain Industry Certifications
✅ Participate In Internships
✅ Gain Valuable Skills At No Cost
✅ Save Money On College Tuition And Other Training

Join us for an exciting adventure to explore the fascinating world of fire science. We can’t wait to see you there! This 3-day camp is designed to ignite the confidence of young women ages 14-19 who are interested in pursuing a career as a firefighter. Cost is $20. Space is limited. Visit CascadiaTech.org for more information.

For one Southwest Washington family, Cascadia Technical Academy has become more than just a school; it’s a generational pathway to opportunity.

“As a former student of The Skills Center, I know what a great place it is,” said Laura Weber. She attended the program in 1989–90 for dental assisting, gaining hands-on experience while still in high school. I worked as a dental assistant during my senior year, which gave me real confidence going into adulthood. Although she initially planned to pursue dental hygiene in college, her path shifted, and she ultimately found her calling in education. Today, she works at View Ridge Middle School in the Special Education department, continuing her commitment to supporting young people.

Now, decades later, that same hands-on, career-focused experience is shaping the next generation of her family. Her daughter, Megan, completed two years in Construction Technology at Cascadia and graduated in 2023. After working in the construction industry for a year and exploring college, she is now looking to return to the field with a long-term goal of becoming a construction manager. “Cascadia gave her a strong foundation and the confidence to pursue a career she’s passionate about,” Weber shared.

The family’s connection to Cascadia Tech doesn’t stop there. Weber’s son is set to attend next year in the Diesel Technology program, continuing a legacy that spans more than three decades. From one generation to the next, Cascadia Technical Academy continues to play a vital role in shaping the lives of students across Southwest Washington, helping them discover their strengths, explore career pathways, and build confidence for what comes next.

Click each photo to view the program video on YouTube. Follow us at @cascadiatechacademy.

Whether it is back to school, getting ready for a new job, getting yourself ready for the big day or just your everyday maintenance, our students can help you look your best.

There are a variety of services to choose from:

Hair Cuts

The Salon is open Monday-Thursday 11:45 AM - 5 PM.
Our last appointment is no later than 2:00 PM

Please call for an appointment at 360.604.1080 or book online.

All chemical services on these days will be scheduled at 12:00 PM (no later) to allow enough time for our students to perform the requested service.

All color appointments need an allergy test 24 hours prior to service.
Walk-in appointments are welcome before 1:00 PM

Salon hours, prices, and services are subject to change

Information Technology students at Cascadia Technical Academy accept e-waste donations.

When can I bring my donation?

8:00 am - 1:30 pm on the 3rd Friday of the month during the academic year:
April 17th
May 15th
June 12th - Last Day

​Email ray.nelson@evergreenps.org with questions about donation items or an alternative drop-off schedule.

We DO accept:

• Computers/Internal Components (Cases, RAM, Hard Drives, Motherboards, etc.)

• Printers

• Peripheral Devices (Keyboards, Mice, Headphones, etc.)

• Miscellaneous Cords/Data Cables (Ethernet Cables, Power Cables, etc.)

• Mobile Device (Cell Phones, Laptops, Tablets, etc.)

We do NOT accept:

• Cascadia Tech does not accept appliances, TV’s, Styrofoam or batteries

• Earth Friendly Recycling will take appliances

• Goodwill, West Van Recycling, and Central Transfer and Recycle accept TVs

Hovde and Hooser can help students and their families fill out their FAFSA, College/Tech School Applications, Apprenticeship Applications and any Scholarships you might be applying for.

If you are struggling with any social, emotional, academic or family issues, either counselor will be available to schedule a meeting with you. Please email them at Ryan.Hovde@evergreenps.org and/or Dena.Hooser@evergreenps.org.

For additional resources or help, Clark County has a 24/7 Crisis Line available by calling 360-696-9560 or 1-800- 626-8137. You can also call or text 988 to connect with a trained counselor with the National Suicide & Crisis Hotline.

We accept candidates from around the state of Washington at the following locations for the three in-person courses:

Cascadia Tech Academy - Vancouver
Sno Isle Tech Skills Center - Mukilteo
YV-TECH Skills Center - Yakima

CTE 101 - Elements of Teaching (Fall)

CTE 201 - Advanced Instructional Techniques (Winter/Spring)

CTE 302 - Student Personal Development and Leadership (Winter/Spring)

Cascadia Tech offers a Washington State-approved CTE Plan 2 Certification program. We accept candidates from around the state of Washington.

From the front lines of industry to the front of the classroom, your expertise is the ultimate curriculum. The most powerful lessons aren’t found in textbooks—they are lived. The CTE Plan 2 Business and Industry Route honors your professional journey, providing a pathway to turn your years of real-world mastery into a rewarding teaching career at the secondary level (grades 7-12). Lead your industry’s future by inspiring the next generation of innovators with your skills.

Why Choose Plan 2 Business and Industry Route?

• Fast-Tracked Pathway: Your documented years of industry experience serve as the foundation of your certification, significantly reducing the time spent in preparatory coursework compared to traditional academic teaching routes. Our program takes on average 1-3 years.

• Address the Skills Gap: You’ve seen firsthand the skills the workforce needs. By entering the classroom, you have the direct power to shape the local economy and prepare students for high-demand, high-wage careers.

• Career Longevity & Benefits: Transition into a role that offers a stable schedule, competitive public service benefits, and the emotional reward of mentorship—all while staying connected to the industry you love.

  
  

Why Choose Cascadia Tech?

• High-Quality, Relevant Curriculum

• Experienced CTE instructors

• Most Cost-Effective program in the state

• In-Person class components so that you can work in a cohort

• Asynchronous and hybrid components for flexibility
  
  

For more information contact:

Suzy Jajewski-Koehler, Coordinator, at Susan.JajewskiKoehler@evergreenps.org or 360.604.1090 Sayge Sword, Support Clerk, at Sayge.Sword@evergreenps.org or 360.604.1099

We are writing to provide you with important information regarding an upcoming adjustment to our program cost.

Effective August 2026, the cost of Cascadia Tech's CTE Plan 2 Program will increase. This adjustment is necessary to meet rising operational costs and to ensure that we continue to provide the high-quality instruction, administrative support, and clinical supervision essential for your certification.

Key Policy Information regarding Pre-payment: Please be advised that candidates and districts are not permitted to pre-pay for courses scheduled beyond the Summer 2026 semester at the current rate. All courses taken during or after the Fall 2026 term will be subject to the new fee structure, regardless of when payment is submitted.

We recognize that any adjustment to program costs requires careful financial planning. With this in mind, we have outlined all program cost changes in the following document: "Courses, Costs, and Clock Hours (Effective August 2026)".

Please take note of the following specific changes:

• Tuition & Course Fees: All updated rates are highlighted in green within the attached sheet for your convenience.
• Transcript Reviews: Effective August 2026, the fee for transcript reviews will increase from $35 to $50. This specific fee will be applied to all transcript review requests processed after the effective date.

We're thrilled to announce the new app for Cascadia Tech! It's everything Cascadia Tech, in your pocket. With the new app, you can access documents, events, news updates, and even emergency notifications.

Cascadia Technical Academy thanks our corporate sponsors! Contact Dave Cole at david.cole@evergreenps.org for additional information.

12200 NE 28th Street Vancouver, WA 98682

Main Office: 360.604.1050

Office Hours: 7:30 AM - 3:30 PM

Attendance: 360.604.1077; Spanish 360.604.4029; Russian 360.604.4028

CascadiaTech.org

info@cascadiatechnicalacademy.org

Session Times

Attendance_CascadiaTech@evergreenps.org

District Alerts & Weather Updates

District Safety & Security