Lew Frederick learned the importance of public service as a young man in Atlanta during the height of the civil rights movement, where a mentor once told him “Use the talents and opportunities you have. You’re supposed to make this world better for those who come after you.”
That mentor was the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Those words, reinforced by his parents’ example, led Lew to a career in public service. They still influence him deeply today, always urging him to make a difference, especially for young people.
Testimony to Portland School Board, April 16th, 2012
Good evening chair Gonzalez, members of the Board and Superintendent Smith. Again, I am Lew Frederick, State Representative for House District 43, which includes the North Portland schools identified for closure or major changes.
First some general comments:
I appreciate the bind that you are in. I know that the budget you get handed is the budget you have, and most of the so-called “innovation” that has often been invoked as the magical solution to everything has already been Read more [...]
May 11, 2012
Testimony to Portland School Board Budget Hearing on Monday, April 9th
Good evening Chair Gonzalez, members of the Board. I am Lew Frederick, State Representative for House District 43, North and Northeast Portland. The schools slated for closure and/or major disruption are in my district.
That’s nothing new, and that’s what I’m going to talk about.
I suppose there is an emergency now. The budget cuts are so severe, that something drastic has to be done.
But it’s always an emergency, isn’t it. Budget. “Achievement gap.” Low Read more [...]
April 11, 2012