Lake Oswego High School garden, outdoor classroom and greenhouse dedicated to former superintendent

Great weather and good timing meant that, when Superintendent Jennifer Schiele took the podium at Lake Oswego High School’s new outdoor classroom and gardens, enough shade had settled to keep everyone cool.

“On this beautiful afternoon, which I dialed in myself — as superintendent I get to dial in the weather I want for any kind of event we have,” joked Schiele. “We’re gathered to dedicate this garden, outdoor classroom and greenhouse to a remarkable individual.”

On Tuesday, May 14, the outdoor classroom, garden and greenhouse was officially dedicated to former superintendent Dr. Bill Korach.

“For those who know Bill, it’s clear this dedication could not be more fitting. Not only did Bill serve as superintendent in Lake Oswego for more than two decades he was also the principal here at Lake Oswego High School. His leadership and vision shaped the educational landscape in ways that have benefitted countless students. His passion for gardening parallels his passion for education.”

Korach served as the superintendent of the Lake Oswego School District from 1987 to 2014. He guided the district through countless changes such as the passage of Measure 5 in 1990, which radically altered the way schools were funded in Oregon, and in 1999 implementation of the first Oregon student assessment system. Before he was superintendent, Korach was principal of LOHS for five years.

“We had a lot of challenges that we had to face,” said Korach during his remarks at the dedication. “There were all kinds of needs and people stood up and made a difference — the teachers, the administrators, the kids, the parents, all of our staff and the community. They helped us immensely and we needed it. This honor also has a special significance to me because I’m a ‘dirt person.’ I’m a gardener. I find it restoring.”

The new outdoor classroom features an LCD TV display, adjustable seats and full AV capabilities. The state-of-the-art learning greenhouse and gardens let students experience the trial-and-error of learning to grow vegetables, flowers and herbs in the “intro to farming” courses offered at both high schools.