DOLPHIN DIGEST 5/7/2026
Weekly Newsletter by Arleta School and Arleta PTA
WELCOME TO ARLETA'S WEEKLY NEWSLETTER!
We’re so glad to have you as part of our school community!
This weekly newsletter is developed and sent in partnership between school administration and the PTA. If you have information you'd like shared in the newsletter, please email it to ArletaSchoolPTA@gmail.com. Keep scrolling for the latest.
INDIGENOUS LAND ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
We acknowledge Portland rests on traditional village sites of the Multnomah, Kathlamet, Clackamas, Chinook, Tualatin Kalapuya, Molalla and many other Tribes who made their homes along the Columbia River. #HonorNativeLand https://youtu.be/ETOhNzBsiKA
ARLETA BOOK FAIR SEEKS VOLUNTEERS
Arleta's Spring Book Fair set-up is tomorrow, May 8th, from 11am-1pm, and we have just two volunteers to help! The book fair istelf starts Monday (May 11th) and runs through Friday (May 15th).
Ms. Street splits her time between Arleta and Llewlyn and we always need parents to help keep the doors open for the kids! The book fair is open from 7:45-3pm (with a break for lunch). Volunteer shifts average about an hour long!
Packing up the Book Fair will happen on Friday, May 15th from 3:30pm to 4:30pm.
Ms. Street still needs help on all days and times!
GIVE A BOOK TO A CHILD AT THE BOOK FAIR
Our upcoming Book Fair is a special opportunity to spark a love of reading across our school community. If you’d like to help make the experience even more meaningful, you can contribute to our Book Fair fund.
These donations help ensure that more students can participate, discover a new favorite book, and feel part of the excitement. Every contribution—big or small—helps put books into the hands of kids and supports a joyful, inclusive library experience for all.
VOLUNTEERS NEEDED AT THE DASH
We need adult help during the event. Sign up here to cheer, track laps, or hand out treats!
Event times:
- K–2: 12:30–1:00 PM
- 3–5: 1:30–2:00 PM
Please plan to arrive 30 minutes early for quick instructions and setup. It’s a short shift and a super fun way to support our students!
Volunteer requirement:
- All volunteers must have a current PPS background check.
- Apply here: pps.net/volunteer
- (Approval is often quick, though you should allow about two weeks, and valid for 3 years.)
Questions? Email arletaptafundraiserchair@gmail.com
We still need help for both shifts, but especially the 3rd-5th grade shift!
SUN SCHOOL SUMMER CAMP SIGN UP!
Need a safe, fun place for your kids to be this summer? Our Arleta SUN School offers summer camps for current 1st through 4th graders, from 9am - 5pm. You can view the camps here! Each camp is one week long and has its own theme. The one-week camps are in June and July.
Arleta families will have a 2 hour window to register online for camps from 5pm- 7pm on Wednesday May 20th. SUN Staff will be in the Cafeteria on 5/20 from 5-6pm to assist any Arleta families with registering online. Please email Raina Bilbrew with any questions!
SUN SCHOOL SEEKING SNACKS TO SHARE
SUN School is seeking donations of snacks to help feed kids in the program. Please make sure donations of kid-friendly snacks are healthy and shelf-stable. Donations can be collected in the school office! Thank you so much.
ARLETA FOOD PANTRY, CLOTHES CLOSET, & FAMILY TOILETRIES
Arleta has a small food pantry, clothes closet, and a variety of toiletries available for the use of any Arleta family. To set up an appointment to use the pantry or the closet, please email our SUN School Coordinator, Raina Bilbrew at rbilbrew@pps.net or raina.bilbrew@portlandoregon.gov or call or text her at 971-803-8986.
TODAY - NEURODIVERGENT FAMILY GATHERING - MAY 7
The last Neurodivergent Family Gathering is coming up on Thursday, May 7th - please join us! We'll be meeting in the cafeteria starting at 5:30pm, with dinner provided, and we'll play and socialize until 7:30pm.
TODAY - CPPS SCHOOL FUNDING FORUM - MAY 7
SCHOOL FUNDING FORUM - THURSDAY, MAY 7
WITH SPECIAL GUESTS SENATOR KATE LIEBER AND REPRESENTATIVE TAWNA SANCHEZ.
Hosted by Community and Parents for Public Schools
Join Community and Parents for Public Schools (CPPS) as we ask questions about the state of school funding with the co-chairs of the powerful Joint Committee on Ways and Means, Senator Lieber and Representative Sanchez. The event will bring together families, educators, school leaders, and policymakers from across the region to engage in a meaningful dialogue about how our public schools are funded. The event aims to build a shared understanding of the current funding landscape, highlight the real-world impacts on students and classrooms, and explore pathways toward more equitable, sustainable investment in public education in our district and across the state.
📌May 7th, 2026, Lincoln High School, 1750 SW Salmon Street
6-8 pm (dinner available at 5:30 pm)
Childcare available, please RSVP here
TOMORROW - DOLPHIN DASH - MAY 8
It's the final countdown!
THANK YOU, amazing Arleta community! We are so close to reaching our $11,000 goal — we’re currently at 73%!
We are also still looking for a few volunteers to help support the event—thank you to everyone who has already signed up to cheer, track laps, and help make the day special for our students! Sign up here.
Reminder: We happily accept donations by check made out to Arleta PTA, which can be delivered to the school office.
Dash Day reminders for students:
- Wear comfy shoes
- Bring a full water bottle
- Apply sunscreen at home
- Eat a hearty breakfast
Families are welcome to come cheer on and support students as they dash around the school!
Run times: k-2nd 12:30pm-1pm & 3rd-5th 1:30pm-2pm
Thank you for helping create another incredible year of opportunities, events, and enrichment at Arleta. Our students are excited, energized, and ready to give it their all—and we’re so grateful for the amazing community supporting them every step of the way! 💙
TOMORROW - ARLETA BIKEAPALOOZA - MAY 8
When: Friday, May 8 • 4:30–6:30 PM
Where: Arleta blacktop
What: A fun, family friendly bike event to get ready for spring riding. We’ll have quick bike safety checks (air, brakes, chain), a simple skills course, karaoke, and more! We’ll wrap up with a short neighborhood group ride, a great way to see how Bike Bus works and build confidence.
Who: Kids and adults of all abilities, whether you ride often, are just getting started, or just curious. No bike? Come anyway!
Hosted by the Arleta Bike Bus in partnership with SUN and the Arleta PTA.
FINAL GENERAL PTA MEETING OF THE SCHOOL YEAR - MAY 11
🤝 Join us on May 11th from 6-7 PM at the Arleta Library to connect with other community members and hear the latest PTA updates!
📋 We’ll review the draft PTA budget for 2026-27, Principal Hawking will give an update on how blended classes will work next year, vote in incoming PTA Board Members for 2026-27, and more!
🍕 To make it easier for everyone to participate, we’ll provide childcare and dinner.
🗣️ While we encourage you to attend in person, a remote option via Zoom will also be available (link will be shared the week before).
☑️ Everyone is welcome to join, but only current PTA members can vote. Make sure to become a PTA member before May 11th!
PTA Membership: Sign up at arletapta.givebacks.com/shop! A suggested donation of $15 helps cover expenses for membership dues to the state and national PTA chapters. However, to ensure everyone can participate, the Arleta PTA will cover the membership cost for one person per household each year.
🖐️ Please submit questions ahead of time by emailing the PTA at: arletaschoolpta@gmail.com
We look forward to seeing you there!
The PTA Crew
PORTLAND PUBLIC SCHOOL BOARD BUDGET HEARING
On April 28th, the PPS Superintendent, Dr. Kimberlee Armstrong, submitted her draft of next year's budget to the school board, at a meeting you can watch here. You can see the calendar for the budget process, here. The board's goal is to approve the budget by May 26th. While the draft of the budget does not appear to be publically available, the PPS Board wants your input to help them make informed decisions that support student success and well-being going forward. We hope you’ll join them for an upcoming Board Budget hearing at Benson Polytechnic High School.
What: Portland Public School Board Budget Hearing
When: Wednesday, May 13 at 6:00 PM
Where: Benson Polytechnic High School, 546 NE 12th Ave., Portland, OR 97232
If you would like to sign up in advance to provide public comment – either in-person or virtually – please go to this link to register.
Anyone who would like to provide comments virtually needs to register by 12:00 PM on May 13. We’ll send you a meeting link ahead of the session.
You’re also welcome to submit written comments about the proposed budget here. All comments will be shared with the School Board.
Read a KATU article about the April 28th budget meeting and the proposed budget here.
Read an OPB article about the April 28th budget meeting and the proposed budget here.
Read a Willamette Week article about the April 28th budget meeting and proposed budget here.
SCHOOL PLAY - THE EXCELLENT ADVENTURE - MAY 14-15
Join us for an unforgettable journey in The Excellent Adventure! Arleta’s talented students bring humor, heart, and imagination to the stage in this lively production. When Bill and Ted travel back in time to create the most bodacious history project ever, they encounter famous figures, unexpected challenges, and plenty of hilarious moments along the way. Packed with fun, creative storytelling, and totally excellent surprises, this is a show the whole family will enjoy. Don’t miss the adventure!
The play runs from May 14 to May 15th, starting at 6pm each night in the school auditorium. Be sure to arrive early to grab a seat with a friend—seating is first come, first served. All tickets are available by suggested donation, so everyone has the opportunity to attend. Your support not only helps make this production possible but also funds future performances by our talented students. Pay what you can, enjoy the show, and join us for an unforgettable evening!
The Excellent Adventure is directed by Sarah Johnson, Amanda Jones and Greta West. Dan Jones is the Technical Director. Adinah D'Andrea is the Costume Designer/Shop Manager. Marek Zbiegien is the videographer, Joseph Wilde is the photographer, and poster design is Matthew Halbert-Howen. Skye Weadick is organizing backstage helpers. It takes a village to make a show!
LANE MIDDLE SCHOOL FAMILY NIGHT - MAY 19
May 19th - Family Night - 6-7pm start in LMS cafeteria. Come learn about Ultimate Frisbee and have an opportunity to play a game! Pizza and dessert provided. Incoming 6th-grade families are welcome to join!
MIKE'S DRIVE-IN DINE-OUT - MAY 20
Join us for a fun night out at Mike’s Drive-In (Milwaukie location) on Wednesday, May 20 from 4:00–8:00 PM! Enjoy classic burgers, crispy fries, shakes, and Mike’s famous $1.95 soft serve cones!
Mike’s Drive-In – Milwaukie location
3045 SE Harrison St, Milwaukie, OR 97222
25% of all regular-priced sales go to Arleta!
To make sure Arleta receives credit:
- Show the fundraiser flyer (printed or digital), OR
- Mention the Arleta fundraiser at checkout, OR
- Use promo code ASP26 for online orders
Bring your friends, family, and neighbors — every meal helps support our students and school programs!
END OF YEAR JAMBOREE - JUN 4
Let’s celebrate the end of the school year with a Jamboree! Everyone is invited on June 4th from 5-7pm to enjoy food, fun, and friends.
Know Before You Go!
5:00pm: Everything kicks off & is open
- Hot dog dinner (vegan & gluten-free options available)
- Sparkling water, juice, & Otter Pops
- Bounce houses
- Temporary tattoos
- Karaoke
- Meet Dillon the Pickle!
- Take a photo at the photo booth
7:00pm: Time to say goodbye and clean up!
What to Bring:
- A blanket and camping chairs. There will be a few cafeteria tables for seating
- Soccer or basketball to play with friends on the blacktop courts
- Lawn games! Like Corn Hole, Horseshoes, or Giant Jenga that you can share, feel free to bring them along! No need to check with anyone beforehand.
Pets: Service animals are always welcome; otherwise, please leave your pets at home.
Volunteers, click the button below to sign up to help!
The Jamboree is one of Arleta's biggest events of the year! It’s a fantastic way to bring the school community and families together, but we really need wonderful volunteers to make it happen! We especially need assistance with set-up, clean-up, giving temporary tattoos, and bubble management!
POPSICLES AT THE PICNIC TABLES - JUN 5
Come celebrate the sweet taste of a school year well spent and a scintillating summer to look forward to, with popsicles at the picnic tables, after the last day of school, June 5th at 2:30pm!
PORTLAND PICKLES FUNDRAISER - JUN 5
Come hangout with the Arleta PTA and the Portland Pickles on June 5th, 2026! 50% of proceeds from tickets purchased through this page will be going back to Arleta PTA. Get your tickets now and enjoy a night at the ballpark to celebrate the end of the school year and the beginning of summer vacation!
BRING BOOKS BACK TO THE LIBRARY!
Next week is the last week of the year for students to check out library books and ALL books must be returned by May 22nd. Classes who "clear their list" by the deadline will get a popsicle party from Ms. Street! Notices will be sent home on Thursday or Friday this week. If your student has a missing book, please return it, replace it with a like-new or new copy (or an equivalent book from home), or pay the fine to replace it in the front office. You can contact our librarian, Ms. Street, if you think there has been an error: tstreet@pps.net.
MAY IS ASIAN AND PACIFIC ISLANDER HERITAGE MONTH
May is Asian And Pacific Islander Heritage Month! This month serves to galvanize exploration, education and celebration because AANHPI communities are too often overlooked in U.S. history. 42% of Americans cannot name a single Asian American historical experience and only a few states require public schools to teach Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander history.
Asian/Pacific encompasses all of the Asian continent and the Pacific islands of Melanesia (New Guinea, New Caledonia, Vanuatu, Fiji and the Solomon Islands), Micronesia (Marianas, Guam, Wake Island, Palau, Marshall Islands, Kiribati, Nauru and the Federated States of Micronesia) and Polynesia (New Zealand, Hawaiian Islands, Rotuma, Midway Islands, Samoa, American Samoa, Tonga, Tuvalu, Cook Islands, French Polynesia and Easter Island).
Asian and Pacific Islander Heritage Month has its roots in a federal House Joint Resolutions in 1977, introduced by Rep. Frank Horton and Sen. Daniel Inouye to proclaim the first ten days in May as Pacific/Asian American Heritage Week. While the resolutions didn't pass in '77, it did the following year and was signed by President Carter. During the next decade, each President passed anunual proclamations for Asian/Pacific American Heritage Week until the early 90s when Congress expanded the celebrations to the whole month of May and made it a law.
We have many local opportunities to celebrate the contributions of Asian Americans and explore the many cultures included in this month. There's so much to explore with your family, so click on the resources below to look for events and locales to take your kids to!
Places and Events
Multnomah County Library Asian/Pacific Islander Heritage Month Resources
Oregon Historical Society's exhibit: "The Yasui Family: An American Story."
Organizations and Businesses
Local History
For more resources for kids, check out this list for resources for parents put together by Boys & Girls Clubs of America with recipes, reading lists, movies, history and more!
REGISTRATION FOR KINDERGARTEN IS NOW OPEN!
You can sign up at arleta.pps.net/kindergarten/connect-to-kindergarten
Enrolling early helps us secure the resources and staff our school needs. Click below to download the flyer for details on our upcoming Arleta Kinder Connects and New Student Open House! Thank you!
BEAT THE BELL
For the 4-day week of April 27-30, we had 93% positive attendance (up from 89% the 5-day week before) and 111 tardies, averaging 27.75 tardies a day, which is lower than the average of 29 tardies a day the five-day week before.
Looking for some tips to help you get out of the door on time? Check back here each week for ideas.
This week's tips:
Choose clothes and shoes the night before, lay them out in same place.
At a quiet time, ask if anything about school is scary or upsetting. Follow up with teacher or Lisa.
Walk by a special place before school; go by the chicken house!
IT'S THE END OF THE WORLD AND I'M IN MY BATHING SUIT, BY JUSTIN A. REYNOLDS
Twelve-year-old Eddie Gordon Holloway has concocted his most genius plan ever to avoid chores . . . especially the dreaded L-A-U-N-D-R-Y. If he can wears every item of clothing in his wardrobe, summer will be halfway over before he has to do laundry!
On the day of the highly anticipated Beach Bash, Eddie ends up grounded until he can get his clothes clean. While left home alone to do his laundry, the power goes out mid-cycle. With his first load of laundry soaking wet and the rest still filthy, Eddie sets out to explore the seemingly empty neighborhood in just his swim trunks and flip-flops.
As he meets up with other neighborhood kids to find out what happened, they realize that their families aren't coming back anytime soon. And as night falls, the crew realizes they aren't just the only people left in the neighborhood -- they might be the only people left . . . anywhere.
Get The Book
- Click here to borrow the book from Multnomah County Library.
- Buy the book at Powell's Bookstore.
- Buy the book, ebook, or audiobook at Barnes and Noble.
- Purchase the book on Amazon.
- Read a review of the book.
May Night
The spring is fresh and fearless
And every leaf is new,
The world is brimmed with moonlight,
The lilac brimmed with dew.
Here in the moving shadows
I catch my breath and sing--
My heart is fresh and fearless
And over-brimmed with spring.
But toucan!
One in six children in Oregon and SW Washington face food insecurity. Food insecurity can arise for anyone. Should you need a little help, or you want to give a little help, here is a list of nearby resources.
Search for food pantry by day and time open, using the Portland Free Food Calendar.
Urban Gleaners takes advantage of Oregon's bountiful harvests, making sure they don't go to waste, sharing food through a variety of free markets around the region. You can find those markets on their website. Find a location by clicking here. The closest location to the school is at Mt. Scott Community Park, from 12:15-1pm on Tuesdays. Market is held on the corner of the park by SE Ellis St & SE 74th Ave. Lottery numbers are handed out at 12:15PM. The next closest market to the school is held at Lents Park on Thursdays from noon to 2pm. Market is held in the parking lot on the corner of SE 88th Ave & SE Steele St, next to the community garden. Lottery numbers are handed out at 12pm. If you arrive after numbers have been handed out, there is still an opportunity to shop after everyone with a number has gone through, though the quantity and variety of food left at this point varies week to week.
St. Mark's Lutheran Church, 5415 SE Powell Blvd. Hours are on Fridays from 2-5pm and the entrance is in the rear of building. They use a lottery system to give out the initial entry numbers. Those who have arrived by 1:45 pm on Friday will be entered into the lottery. Those who arrive after 1:45pm will be given the next number available.
SVDP Our Lady of Sorrows, 5221 SE Knight street. Referral only. Call Portland Council for food box at 503-235-8431.
Groceries 4 Grout, 4028 SE 34th Ave. This food pantries is hosted every Friday at Kenilworth Presbyterian Church parking lot. The outdoor pantry is shopping-style, available to everyone and we invite people to bring their own bags. Call (503) 235-3977 with inquiries.
The Woodstock Food Pantry 4033 SE Woodstock, provides groceries on Fridays and Saturdays, between 12:00 P.M. – 2:00 P.M. to anyone who needs them. Drive-through or walk-up pantry. Cars – line up and stay in your car. Walkups – line up on the sidewalk.
The Francis Center 6535 SE 82nd provides food boxes Monday through Thursday from 10am -2pm. They ask that people gather one box per month, unless they're homeless, in which case, they can come once a week.
Kellogg Middle School Free Food Market, 3400 SE 69th Ave, is generally open on the 3rd Friday of every month and is open to the public (you do not have to have a student at Kellogg to attend). Please bring your own bag. The Kellogg pantry is next open on: May 15, & June 5 from 3:30-5pm. For more information, email info@kelloggmsptsa.org.
Lane Food Pantry, 7200 SE 60th, in the back parking lot, is open both to school families and the public, every Tuesday from 2:30-4pm, and offers 3-5 days worth of food, including fresh produce, to all comers. Please do not arrive more than 15 minutes early for the safety of the students. The pantry is run in partnership between the SUN program, the Latino Network, and the Oregon Food Bank.
The Equitable Giving Circle provides food boxes, compiled with Black farmers, for BIPOC people in our area and provides home delivery.
Portland Open Bible Community Food Pantry, 3223 SE 92nd Avenue Portland, has an open pantry on Tuesday 4pm-7pm and Thursday 10am-1pm except on federal holidays. Online ordering is open 24 hours per day / 7 days per week (click here to order food online). Walk in, call (503) 442-8228, or visit their website for more information.
PDX Free Fridge is a community based and informed mutual aid effort to increase access to free food and vital supplies by creating a network of independent fridges and pantries in Portland, OR. Go to their website to find a fridge or pantry near you! (Note: this map is out of date, and is currently being updaated.)
Milk Crate Kitchen delivers meals twice a month. To learn more, click here for the Milk Crate Kitchen website.
During these unprecedented times, some local restaurants are stepping in to fill the gap. Click here for a list of local restaurants providing SNAP meals.
To research more resources, go to the Oregon Food Bank Food Finder, Findhelp.org, or the Multnomah County Food Assistance page which has been updated to include resources for folks on SNAP not getting their SNAP payments. Multnomah Education Service District has a document with a list of resources for SNAP beneficiaries, translated into multople languages. To donate food, consider the Portland Food Project, which will pick up shelf-stable food from your home and deliver it to food pantries.
MINIDOKA ON OUR MINDS AT THE JAPANESE AMERICAN MUSEUM OF OREGON NOW - JUNE 14
The Minidoka National Historic Site was officially established in 2001 as part of the National Park Service after years of Japanese American advocacy. This exhibition celebrates 25 years of preservation at this site where many Nikkei from Oregon and Washington were incarcerated during World War II. Artwork by survivors, descendants, and Japanese American youth explore the park’s history and its importance as a site of memory.
Minidoka on Our Minds was created in partnership with the National Park Service and is generously supported by the JA Community Foundation, Ronald W Naito MD Foundation, Betty Lou Roberts Fund of Oregon Community Foundation, and Henri and Tomoye Takahashi Charitable Foundation.
The Japanese American Museum of Oregon is open Wednesday-Saturday 10am-4pm and Sunday 11am-4pm at 411 NW Flanders St (entrance on 4th Avenue) Portland, OR 97209. Tickets are $8 for adults, $6 for seniors, $5 for students, and children under 11 enter free. Click here for more details.
INVITE HOPE: MARCELO FONATANA AND WAVE CONTEMPORARY AT THE COLLINS GALLERY - NOW THROUGH JULY 5
Central Library is transforming into a space for poetic resistance. Marcelo Fontana and Wave Contemporary invite the viewer to see hope as an active power rather than a passive wish. Eighteen artists will create small and shareable acts of hope displayed in the Collins Gallery. The title for the exhibition, Invite Hope, comes from a Maya Angelou quote: “Hope and fear cannot occupy the same space. Invite one to stay.”
The Collins Gallery, at the top floor of the Central Library, is used for exhibits created by library personnel or by community members in cooperation with library personnel. Use of space by a community organization does not constitute an endorsement of the organization's beliefs by the library.
Central Library
801 SW 10th Avenue
Portland, OR 97205
503.988.5123
TODAY - FREE FIRST THURSDAY AT THE PORTLAND ART MUSEUM - MAY 7
On the first Thursday of each month, the Portland Art Museum and PAM CUT Tomorrow Theater offer free admission. The museum brings global and regional art, culture and history to our city.
Museum admission is free on the first Thursday of every month from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Free First Thursday tickets can be reserved online one week in advance and are also available at the door.
TODAY - READ TO THE DOGS - MAY 7
Thu May 7
3:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Woodstock Library
Improve your reading skills and make a new friend by reading aloud to a therapy dog. The dogs and handlers are from Alliance of Therapy Dogs, Dove Lewis Portland Area Canine Therapy Teams, Paws for Love, and Pet Partners®. Click here to see the event on the library website.
TODAY - CREATIVE LEARNING: INTRO TO 3D PRINTING - MAY 7
Creative Learning: Intro to 3D Printing
Thu May 7
3:30 PM - 5:30 PM
Holgate Library
Learn to prepare an existing model for 3D printing on one of the library's Bambu P2S printers, then start experimenting with 3D modeling. All materials will be provided.
Space is limited and registration is required. Registration opens April 16.
TOMORROW - WOODSTOCK LIBRARY TWEEN COUNCIL - MAY 8
Fri May 8
4:15 PM - 5:15 PM
Woodstock Library
Help your librarian choose the best books, movies, comics, programs and events for you and your friends. Have fun working on special projects, making new friends, and creating the perfect library for you! This is a volunteer position and snacks will be provided. For kids ages 9-12. See the event on the Woodstock Library event calendar.
FOSTER-POWELL CLEANUP - MAY 9
You're invited to participate in a community-driven monthly litter cleanup initiative happening every second Saturday sponsored by SOLVE. This is a chance for residents, patrons of Foster Road businesses, and environmental advocates to make a tangible difference.
Supplies will be provided. Participants are asked to bring their own water, dress for the weather, and bring their own generous energy. RSVPs are encouraged!
📅 Saturday, May 9
⏰ 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.
📍Meet at Laurelwood Park, SE 64th Ave & Foster Rd
MAD HATTER'S TEA PARTY - MAY 9-24
Mad Hatter's Tea Party at Northwest Children's Theatre
May 9 - 24
Black Box • Weekends at 10am, 12:30pm & 3pm • Most enjoyed by ages 4 and up
Box Office Phone Number: 503-222-2190
1000 SW Broadway, T-100
Pdx, OR 97205
Back by popular demand!
You are cordially invited to join the Hatter for tea. Travel through the looking glass to enjoy an interactive extravaganza filled with music, magic, and just a touch of madness. Enjoy tea and treats as the Hatter takes you through interactive stories, songs, and a magic show!
Costumes/tea party attire encouraged!
Youth tickets include tea and a variety of treats!
Adult tickets include tea and coffee!
Northwest Children’s Theater is proud to participate in the Arts for All Program. Oregon Trail/SNAP Card holders can purchase up to 4 tickets at $5 each. Additional tickets are full price.
Arts for All tickets can be reserved beginning two weeks in advance of each production and must be purchased over the phone or in person at the Box Office.
For closing weekend performances, Arts for All tickets are only available for purchase via walk-up at the Box Office one hour prior to the start of the performance. To check availability, please email us at info@nwcts.org with your preferred show dates and times or call the Box Office at 503-222-2190, option 1.
Important: NWCT’s Box Office is currently staffed on weekends and other show days. If you call during the week, please leave a message and we will call you back as quickly as possible. We check Box Office emails and phone messages daily.
BIKE TO BOOKS RIDE - MAY 9
Sat May 9
10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Join PBOT on a fun, family-friendly bike ride exploring neighborhood greenways connecting two Southeast libraries in celebration of May's PBOT/MCL Bike to Books program!
The ride starts at Woodstock Library and ends at Sellwood Library. After the ride, stay at Sellwood Library's Community Room to complete your Bike to Books design sheet for a chance to see your art on a real street bike lane!
This is a moderate-pace (8-10 mph), no drop ride, and will be approximately 4 miles. Bike to Books Family Ride is free and open to everyone.
Provided by Portland Bureau of Transportation (PBOT). No registration required
READ TO THE DOGS - MAY 9
Sat May 9
11:00 AM - 1:00 PM
Holgate Library
Improve your reading skills and make a new friend by reading aloud to a therapy dog. For kids and teens. Call 503.988.5123 to register.
MULAN DRUM TEAM - MAY 9
Sat May 9
1:30 PM - 2:30 PM
Holgate Library
The Mulan Drum Team is an all-women drumming group comprised of community members from diverse backgrounds. The sound of their drums is entrancing, powerful, and impactful, echoing the beauty and strength of Chinese women and contributing to the celebration of Chinese culture in our community.
INTERCAMBIO LANGAUGE EXCHANGE - MAY 9
Intercambio / Language Exchange
Sat May 9
3:30 PM - 4:30 PM
Woodstock Library
Practique inglés o español y ayude a los demás que están aprendiendo en un ambiente amable. Los participantes hablan la mitad del tiempo en inglés y la otra en español. Están bienvenidos los principiantes.
Practice English or Spanish and help other learners in a friendly atmosphere. Participants speak half the time in English and half in Spanish. Beginners welcome.
FOSTER-POWELL NEIGHBORHOOD ASSOCIATION MEETING - MAY 11
The next Foster-Powell Neighborhood Association Meeting is this Monday, May 11 from 6:30-8:30pm.
General meetings are always the second Monday of the month from 6:30 – 8:30 PM with the exception of August. Check meeting notices for location. All neighbors are welcome at meetings. Anyone who lives, works, or owns property in Foster-Powell is considered a neighbor.
URBAN GLEANERS FREE FOOD MARKET AT MT. SCOTT - MAY 12
The next local Urban Gleaners Free Food Market is at Mt. Scott Park from 12:15-1pm on Tuesday, May 12th. Urban Gleaners have over 35 sites in the Portland Metro area. Urban Gleaners deliver food to schools, public Mobile Markets at parks and apartment complexes, and through a variety of hunger services organizations.
No sign up required to attend. Markets are open everyday unless there is a closed date listed.
https://urbangleaners.org/free-food-markets/
LEGO CLUB - MAY 12
Tue May 12
3:30 PM - 5:00 PM
Woodstock Library
Join us for a fun and imaginative LEGO building session. We'll provide the building blocks, you bring the creativity! Ideal for grades K-5, but younger and older siblings are welcome.
KEIKI STORIES WITH HAWAIIAN CIVIC CLUB - MAY 12
AANHPI: Keiki Stories with Hawaiian Civic Club
Tue May 12
6:30 PM - 7:30 PM
Holgate Library
Join a ʻAha Lāhui O ʻOlekona, Hawaiian Civic Club of Oregon & SW Washington, for an hour of stories and crafts celebrating Native Hawaiian culture and traditions!
This program is intended for children up to six years old with their grown ups.
Made possible by The National Endowment for the Humanities Fund of The Library Foundation.
CRAFTERNOON FOR ADULTS - MAY 13
Wed May 13
1:00 PM - 3:00 PM
Holgate Library
Join a make-and-take crafternoon! Each craft will be selected from the library's craft book collection.
This event is first come, first served.
KELLOGG BAND SUMMER SEND-OFF POPS CONCERT - MAY 14
Summer Send Off Pops Concert:
- Thursday May 14, 2026
- 5:50 PM Doors Open
- 6:00-6:20 PM Rose City Pride (Rose City Pride Jazz Band will play 30 minutes prior to middle school bands.)
- 6:30-7:30 PM Kellogg MS Band Perform
- Where:
- Kellogg Middle School Gymnasium
- Other notes:
- Candy and Chips will be for sale
REGISTRATION OPENS FOR THE BIRD DAYS OF SUMMER - MAY 15
Registration for the Bird Alliance of Oregon's Bird Days of Summer opens on May 15. All summer long, from June through August, they’re hosting a jam-packed lineup of free, nature-loving events across Oregon. Whether you’re in Portland, out at the Oregon Coast, or deep in the sagebrush of Malheur National Wildlife Refuge and the Klamath Basin, there’s something for everyone. Expect a diverse set of outings: dusk birding, hiking, bat walks, dragonfly explorations, botanical drawing, queer birding, Malheur After Dark, and so much more.
These laidback adventures are designed for all ages and experience levels—just bring your curiosity! Come celebrate the magic of Oregon’s diverse landscapes, connect with community, and discover the joy of birds and beyond.
PRIDE RESOURCE FAIR - MAY 15
Pride Resource Fair
- Friday, May 15, 2026
- 5:00 PM 7:00 PM
- The Q Center4115 North Mississippi AvenuePortland, OR, 97217United States (map)
Join us for a Pride Resource Fair hosted by All Minds and the Q Center! Discover LGBTQIA2s+ and gender affirming mental health and wellness resources.
READ TO THE DOGS - MAY 15
Fri May 15
4:30 PM - 5:30 PM
Improve your reading skills and make a new friend by reading aloud to a therapy dog. The dogs and handlers are from Alliance of Therapy Dogs, Dove Lewis Portland Area Canine Therapy Teams, Paws for Love, and Pet Partners®. For kids and teens. Call 503.988.5123 to register.
INTERCAMBIO LANGUAGE EXCHAGE - MAY 16
Intercambio / Language Exchange
Sat May 16
3:30 PM - 4:30 PM
Woodstock Library
Practique inglés o español y ayude a los demás que están aprendiendo en un ambiente amable. Los participantes hablan la mitad del tiempo en inglés y la otra en español. Están bienvenidos los principiantes.
Practice English or Spanish and help other learners in a friendly atmosphere. Participants speak half the time in English and half in Spanish. Beginners welcome.
WILDFIRE AWARENESS AT THE WORLD FORESTRY CENTER - MAY 17
“Be Wildfire Aware” at World Forestry Center
As wildfire season approaches, Oregonians must take steps to protect their homes and communities. This event offers residents a unique opportunity to learn how to reduce wildfire risk in their homes and communities. Attendees can get involved in protecting our state from wildfires. There will be expert speakers, interactive exhibits, and hands-on demonstrations.
Admission to Be Wildfire Aware at the World Forestry Center, 4033 SW Canyon Road, 97221 + Google Map, is free for the whole event thanks to support from Hampton Lumber and Portland General Electric. Host partners include: Oregon State Fire Marshal, Portland Fire and Rescue, Portland General Electric, and the World Forestry Center.
Date: May 17, 2026
Time: 10 am – 4 pm
Add to calendar: Be Wildfire Aware - Free Day at the Discovery Museum/World Forestry Center
SIT AND STITCH - MAY 18
Woodstock Library’s Sit & Stitch
Mon May 18
10:30 AM - 12:00 PM
Woodstock Library
Join your neighbors for a friendly, informal sewing/knitting/crochet/embroidery bee! Bring your own projects and socialize (sew-cialize?) at the library.
YOU TOO CAN CRAFT: BEGINNING KNITTING- DISHCLOTHES - MAY 19
Tue May 19
3:30 PM - 5:00 PM
Holgate Library
Come join this short class for beginning knitters or for those who want to learn to knit. Life long knitter will teach how to begin a project and the basic knitting stitches needed to make a dishcloth. Dishcloths are a really good way to practice new stitches.
Materials will be provided or bring your own. Click here to register for the beginning knitting class.
HOLGATE LIBRARY TWEEN COUNCIL - MAY 19
Tue May 19
4:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Holgate Library
Join Holgate Library's Tween Council and help your librarian choose the best books, movies, comics, programs and events for you and your friends. Have fun working on special projects, making new friends, and creating the perfect library for you! This is a volunteer position and snacks will be provided. For kids ages in grades 4-6
READ TO THE DOGS - MAY 21
Thu May 21
3:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Woodstock Library
Improve your reading skills and make a new friend by reading aloud to a therapy dog. The dogs and handlers are from Alliance of Therapy Dogs, Dove Lewis Portland Area Canine Therapy Teams, Paws for Love, and Pet Partners®. Call 503.988.5123 to register.
CREATIVE LEARNING: BAMBU 3D PRINTER - MAY 21
Use a 3D printer and get help from staff on creating a project of your choice (subject to time limits). No experience necessary! A selection of colors of PLA will be available for you to use.
Space is limited and registration is required. Registration opened April 30.
Children in grades 5 and under must be accompanied by an attentive teen or adult.
Click here to see the 2:15-3:45pm session on the Holgate Library website.
Click here to see the 4-5:30pm session on the Holgate Library website.
READ TO THE DOGS - MAY 22
Fri May 22
3:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Woodstock Library
Improve your reading skills and make a new friend by reading aloud to a therapy dog. The dogs and handlers are from Alliance of Therapy Dogs, Dove Lewis Portland Area Canine Therapy Teams, Paws for Love, and Pet Partners®. Call 503.988.5123 to register.
WOODSTOCK LIBRARY TWEEN COUNCIL - MAY 22
Fri May 22
4:15 PM - 5:15 PM
Woodstock Library
Help your librarian choose the best books, movies, comics, programs and events for you and your friends. Have fun working on special projects, making new friends, and creating the perfect library for you! This is a volunteer position and snacks will be provided. For kids ages 9-12.
THE ORCHID TRIO AT WOODSTOCK LIBRARY - MAY 23
AANHPI: The Orchid Trio presents Music from Asia
Sat May 23
2:00 PM - 3:00 PM
Woodstock Library
Come enjoy music from around Asia! Presented by The Orchid Trio, a string trio with violinist Siying Ge, violist Deborah Shuster, and cellist Quinn Liu.
NATURE MEETS ART: UPCYCLE WITH THE EARTH IN MIND - MAY 23
Sat May 23
2:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Holgate Library
Connect with nature through art at Holgate Library's one-time class, Nature Meets Art: Upcycle With The Earth In Mind! Use reclaimed materials to make projects inspired by plants, animals, and ecosystems. Recycle materials like fabric and cardboard to make art. This class blends artmaking with lessons about how we can protect our environment. Learn how to build community through creative reuse
.
This program is intended for a youth audience and has limited space.
INTERCAMBIO LANGUAGE EXCHANGE - MAY 23
Intercambio / Language Exchange
Sat May 23
3:30 PM - 4:30 PM
Woodstock Library
Practique inglés o español y ayude a los demás que están aprendiendo en un ambiente amable. Los participantes hablan la mitad del tiempo en inglés y la otra en español. Están bienvenidos los principiantes.
Practice English or Spanish and help other learners in a friendly atmosphere. Participants speak half the time in English and half in Spanish. Beginners welcome.
READ TO THE DOGS - MAY 23
Sat May 23
11:00 AM - 1:00 PM
Improve your reading skills and make a new friend by reading aloud to a therapy dog. For kids and teens. Call 503.988.5123 to register. The dogs and handlers are from Alliance of Therapy Dogs, Dove Lewis Portland Area Canine Therapy Teams, Paws for Love, and Pet Partners®.
CRAFTERNOON FOR ADULTS - MAY 27
Wed May 27
1:00 PM - 3:00 PM
Holgate Library
Join a make-and-take crafternoon! Each craft will be selected from the library's craft book collection. This event is first come, first served. See Crafternoon for Adults on the Holgate Library website.
ARLETA TRIANGLE SQUARE WORK PARTY - MAY 30
The next Arleta Triangle Square Work party is Saturday May 30th from 10am-12pm at Arleta Triangle Square, 5961-5999 SE 72nd Avenue.. Make a good place better with your neighbors! The Arteta Triangle summer work parties are back for the season. Meet at the Arleta Triangle to help weed, paint, and support the community. Gloves, tools, and drinks provided. The work parties meet on the last Saturday of each month from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. throughout the summer. On days with excessive heat warnings, the work parties start and end times each move to an hour earlier.
If you’ve ever walked or driven through the intersection of SE 72nd & Woodstock Boulevard, you noticed an unusual street pattern. A wide, sweeping curved road creates a triangular island of land.
On that space are trees and plants as well as a decorative wall with a canopy.
If you’re like me, you passed this spot and wondered, “Who is in charge of this space?” The answer is you are. And now is the time to help make it even better.
INTERCAMBIO LANGUAGE EXCHANGE - MAY 30
Intercambio / Language Exchange
Sat May 30
3:30 PM - 4:30 PM
Woodstock Library
Practique inglés o español y ayude a los demás que están aprendiendo en un ambiente amable. Los participantes hablan la mitad del tiempo en inglés y la otra en español. Están bienvenidos los principiantes.
Practice English or Spanish and help other learners in a friendly atmosphere. Participants speak half the time in English and half in Spanish. Beginners welcome.
LAST SUNDAY CRAFTING CLUB - MAY 31
Sun May 31
12:00 PM - 2:00 PM
Woodstock Library
Express your creativity with a variety of art and craft projects! Library staff will provide all materials necessary.
This event is first come first served due to limited space.
AUTORETRATO DE FRIDITA - JUN 6
Sat Jun 6
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Holgate Library
Set during the Mexican Revolution, and told through table-top puppetry, Autoretrato de Fridita tells the story of young Frida Kahlo who becomes inspired by her father’s creativity. With his support, she uses her imagination and a box of paints to help her overcome challenges and create her own world. Adapted from Milagro’s original play Mijita Fridita, the production explores resilience, creativity, and identity.
FREE PORTLAND TAIKO CONCERT - JUNE 7
Portland Taiko and Oregon Symphony present People of the Drum 2026. This FREE, family-friendly event features live music, drumming and dance workshops.
Scheduled performers include: Mexica Tiahui, Oregon Korean Performing Arts, Alex Addy & Woshishijee and Portland Taiko.
When: Sunday, June 7, 11AM – 1:30PM
Where: Outside on Main Street, next to the Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall (1037 SW Broadway, Portland, OR 97205)
This event is FREE, but RSVPs are appreciated so we know approximately how many people will attend. This event is supported by the City of Portland Office of Arts & Culture and the Arts Access Fund. RSVP HERE
A ticketed event, Danny Elfman’s Percussion Concerto, will take place at 2:00 pm inside the Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall. Discounted tickets will be available at People of the Drum.
CITIZEN ACTIVISM 101 - JUN 7
Citizen Activism 101: Making Change Happen
Sun Jun 7
2:00 PM - 3:30 PM
Woodstock Library
Learn ideas for bi-partisan civic and political engagement with Donna L. Cohen, civics educator. In this civics for adults course, Donna will show examples of historical perspective and successful advocacy, including different types and tools or strategies for change. Learn how your voice can be heard through lessons in tracking legislation, submitting testimony, and learning who makes the rules in a governing system.
FOSTER SUMMER SOIREE - JUN 13
The Foster Area Business Association is pleased to announce that they are hosting the 4th Annual Foster Summer Soiree on Saturday, June 13th from 12-5pm celebrating businesses, artists, community and the organizations that continue to help make Portland vibrant. The central Soirée will take place between SE 58th and SE 72nd Ave, but many more events and specials will be available up and down Foster Road.
We would love to have you come help us Foster better community together!
📅 Saturday, June 13
⏰ 12:00 - 6:00pm
📍 SE 58th thru SE 72nd Ave along Foster Rd
RED CASTLE GAMES AFTERSCHOOL AND SUMMER CAMPS
Did you know that our local board & card game shop, Red Castle Games, offers afterschool programming and summer camps? Click here to explore their Youth Programs! Red Castle is located at 7160 SE Foster Rd. Their phone number is 503-477-5727.
Spring Hours
MON:12PM-9:30PM
TUE:11AM-9:30PM
WED-THU:12PM-9:30PM
FRI-SAT:10AM-10PM
SUN: 10AM-7PM
FOSTER-POWELL GARDEN TOUR - JUN 20
Foster-Powell Neighborhood Association organizes an annual Garden Tour, where neighbors all over Foster-Powell put their gardens on display! It is a fun and welcoming event where neighbors meet and gardens are admired. The tour always happens on the third Saturday of June. This year’s tour will be on June 20th from 10am - 2pm.
Want go get involved? We’re still taking garden nominations! Please email our Garden Chair, Debbie Armendariz here. Or, you can click here to see more information about the tour and to check for updates!
We’ll be releasing a map one week before the tour!
📅 Saturday, June 20
⏰ 10:00am - 2:00pm
📍 Foster-Powell neighborhood
PORTLAND SIDEWALK JOY MAP - ANYTIME
Take a self-guided tour of local creations using the PDX Sidewalk Joy Map. This map showcases fun, interactive neighborhood galleries, exchanges and displays.
The map has more than 100 community joy spots throughout the city. All of these projects created by homeowners exist to bring a bit of whimsy and inspiration to the community.
These displays are viewable from front yards, curbside gardens, alleyways, side yards and sides of buildings.
The map shows a description, image and the location of each display. There’s also Instagram handles so you can follow your favorite Joy Map creators.
All locations on the map are free to enjoy, but you may want to bring quarters for the Super Awesome Prizes vending machine or pay for a pottery piece at the Poetry Pottery Box. View the map.
MULTNOMAH COUNTY LIBRARY CULTURAL PASSES
The Multnomah County Library has cultural passes to allow free admission to select cultural institutions around Portland. To check out a cultural pass from the library and see the list of institution, please click the button below.
ARTS FOR ALL TICKETS
Anyone who gets food relief through the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and has the Oregon Trail Card or Washington State Quest Card qualifies to purchase $5 tickets to theatre, arts, and culture events around Portland through the Arts for All program.
Arts For All envisions a community where everyone—regardless of financial resources—can experience and enjoy arts and culture.
Over a decade ago, Arts For All was founded by dedicated arts leaders to ensure Oregon Trail Card/SNAP recipients could access specific arts events for just $5 per ticket.
Click here to be taken to the Arts for All Website and to purchase tickets. I
ATTENDING SCHOOL BOARD MEETINGS
The School Board meets regularly at the school district's Dr. Matthew Prophet Education Center (Prophet Center), 501 N. Dixon Street, at 6:00 pm on select Tuesdays of each month - and on certain other occasions. Some scheduling changes do occur; if you plan to attend, please see below for the upcoming public meeting notices.
Under the provision of ORS 192.670 all meetings will be live-streamed at http://www.youtube.com/@ppsboardofeducation/live, except for those meetings that fall under the provisions set forth for executive sessions.
To subscribe to email notifications of public meeting notices, email kbradshaw@pps.net to request to be added to the email list. After an email address has been subscribed to the mailing list, a notice of a Public Meeting of the School Board will be sent before each scheduled meeting.
VACCINE RESOURCES FOR YOUR CHILD'S HEALTH FROM THE DISTRICT
Vaccines play a crucial role in protecting our students from serious illnesses and help keep our community safe. Parents/ Guardians of students who are due to receive vaccines should receive a letter in the mail. Please check if your child’s vaccinations are current, including their recommended flu shot, and contact your medical provider or any of the resources listed below.
Multnomah County Student Health Centers
Multnomah County Vaccination Clinic (English)
Email: ArletaSchoolPTA@gmail.com
Website: arletapta.org
Location: 5109 SE 66th Avenue
Phone: 503-916-6330
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ArletaElementaryK5