Our School

Dear Gilbert Heights Families,

Welcome to another year! I am so excited to partner with you. A little about myself: This is my second year at Gilbert Heights, my background before principalship was in special education. I have taught students in a variety of settings and strongly believe in inclusion being a positive possibility for all learners. I stand with servant leadership–we work with you for your students’ educational experience. My goal is collaborating to achieve a rigorous and equitable education for all children who walk through the doors of Gilbert Heights.

In my personal life, I am married to my husband of several years, and we have three children, a 1st grader, preschooler, and a two year old. They often join us here at Gilbert Heights for events which I love. I am a huge Oregon Duck fan, enjoy reading in my spare time, and I’m always eager to connect with our parents whenever possible.

This year we hope to increase our parent engagement with a focus on student centered events. At the end of the month we are having an information night with ways you can become involved here at Gilbert Heights along with volunteer packets being available. We hope to see you there!

Our big fundraiser for the year will be a partnership with Willamette Valley Pies, offering a variety of frozen holiday pies that will benefit our school and your holiday events! Be on the lookout for that towards the end of September. Our fundraising goal includes a Gilbert Heights shirt for every student, and updating our building mascot artwork including a new Mustang mural, gym stenciling, and more.

Please reach out if there are ways I can support your student here this year. The easiest way to reach me is via email or by phone, 503-256-6502. If you would like to arrange a meeting with me please reach out to my secretary Julie Keim and she will help you. I look forward to a great year together!

In admiration,

Shannon Deems (she/her)

Principal, Gilbert Heights Elementary

David Douglas School District

503.256.6502 | GH Website

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Gilbert Heights Elementary School Mission Statement
Gilbert Heights will provide meaningful, equitable and highly effective instruction so that each student will grow and thrive socially, emotionally and academically.  We will ensure this occurs in a safe, respectful and culturally responsive environment where all students, families and staff feel welcomed and supported. 

GET CONNECTED!
Most district communication and updates for families will occur via email and online platforms, and all student education will occur in this format.  If you need assistance with this, please reach out via DDSD family support for technology: Phone number-503.261.8391, Email: family_help_desk@ddsd40.org. The district is currently applying for grants to help provide Wifi to families in need.