Warm Springs K-8 Academy in need of dedicated educators

(Update: Adding video, students' comments)

Teachers candidly share their challenging experiences

WARM SPRINGS, Ore. (KTVZ) -- Warm Springs K-8 Academy, dedicated to preparing tribal youth for growth and success, is in need of more teachers and other staff members.

The current vacancies include several new positions, some the school, which is part of the Jefferson County School District, have been unable to fill.

CURRENT WSK8 LICENSED VACANCIES

Mental Health Specialist (new position)

School Counselor (new position)

Middle School Math Teacher (new position)

(4) Intervention Specialists (new positions, haven't been able to fill this year)

Instructional Coach - Math

6th Grade Teacher (Planning Underway)

3rd Grade Teacher (Currently Temp)

More information at: https://jeffersonco.tedk12.com/hire/index.aspx

Many teachers at Warm Springs K-8 Academy say what's kept them at the school, even during the bad times, is the relationships established with students and the community.

"The challenges of working at Warm Springs are plenty," third-grade teacher Sarah Kollen said. "These kids are dealing with a lot. If you are there for the children, they know that as well. Make sure you are there to love them and support them through it."

Kollen shared that students at the school sometimes deal with abuse, and even loss in their families. She believes dedicated teachers who are willing to understand the uniqueness of each student and their backgrounds is key.

Another educator says they need teachers who are going to stay and take the challenge.

"Here, it's really tough -- you might go home crying sometimes, you might go home laughing sometimes," first-grade teacher Kevin Rodin said. "I want this place to be a place where the families, and the community and the students, can count on people being here, year after year."

Several third-grade students told NewsChannel 21 on Friday what they enjoy most about school.

"My favorite subject is math. It's because you can learn everything, every single day," said one girl.

Other students said they enjoyed physical education, and a variety of school subjects.

A third-grade boy said, "The thing I like about PE is that you get great exercise and drink healthy water."

"We get to learn a lot and have fun," shared another third-grader.

"My favorite thing about school is my teacher, math, reading, PE -- and that's about it."