Please join the Gladstone School Board in congratulating Jennifer Hollenbeck as our newest board member; she was appointed on Dec. 17 and will take the oath of office on Jan. 14.
Hollenbeck has lived in Gladstone for the past 10 years, and her child has attended Gladstone schools for four years.
“I view this role as a meaningful opportunity to serve the district that has been such a positive part of my family's life, and I am ready to contribute the time, energy and thoughtfulness the position deserves,” she said.
From the moment that the Hollenbeck family entered the Gladstone Center for Children & Families, she has been actively involved in supporting Gladstone schools. Hollenbeck has volunteered regularly in classrooms, spending many hours reading with students and supporting teachers with administrative and organizational tasks.
As a mechanical engineer specializing in facility management and energy efficiency, Hollenbeck brings experience that aligns closely with key responsibilities of the school board. Her role with the Bonneville Power Administration has meant that she has already managed complex projects, collaborated with diverse stakeholders and made decisions that balance budget constraints with long-term needs.
During her years volunteering for Gladstone schools, Hollenbeck has served as a chaperone on multiple field trips, helping ensure students have safe and meaningful experiences beyond the classroom. For the past three years, she has been an active member of the John Wetten Elementary Parent Faculty Organization, contributing to planning, coordinating and assisting in various school activities.
Hollenbeck said that her involvement in our school community has allowed her to collaborate closely with families, staff and other volunteers.
“These experiences have deepened my appreciation for the dedication of our educators and the strength of our community. They have also given me a grounded perspective on the strengths of our schools and the needs of our students, perspectives I would bring thoughtfully to the Gladstone School Board,” she said.
Hollenbeck’s philosophy of education is rooted in the belief that every student deserves equitable access to high-quality learning opportunities that help them grow academically, socially and emotionally. She believes all students have the capacity to succeed when they are given the right tools, strong foundations and the support they need to thrive.