FACT SHEET 2011-2012

MISSION: Thomas A. Edison High School empowers students with learning differences to experience academic success and personal growth, while preparing them for the future.

EDUCATIONAL PROGRAM: Edison’s academically challenging curriculum follows the State of Oregon’s graduation requirements. Instruction is individualized to meet each student’s needs. Enrollment is capped at 80 students and class size averages eight.

ORGANIZATION: Founded in 1973 as the Tree of Learning, Thomas A. Edison High School is accredited through the Northwest Accreditation Commission and meets the State of Oregon requirements for private alternative schools. The school is housed in its own building on the campus of Jesuit High School in Portland, Oregon. We have no official connection with Jesuit’s institutions or programs, though some Edison students also attend classes at Jesuit High School and some JHS students take classes at Edison. Thomas A. Edison is a charitable corporation under section 501(c)(3) of the IRS code. Thomas A. Edison High School does not discriminate on the basis of sex, race, religion, color, sexual orientation, or national and ethnic origin in the hiring of staff, administration of educational policies, student admissions, financial aid or other school-related programs.

STUDENTS: Edison is open to students in the greater Portland area who have learning disabilities such as dyslexia, dysgraphia, ADD, ADHD, and/or nonverbal learning disorders. We are unable to serve students whose primary disability is not of an academic nature. Students are referred by parents, public and private schools, counselors and medical professionals. Opportunities for social interaction exist through Advisory groups, Student Council, counseling groups, excursions and field trips, as well as Jesuit games, dances, clubs and athletic teams.

FACULTY: Our teaching staff consists of 20 credentialed faculty members, including three counselors and two coordinators for transition and special education.

DIRECTOR: Director Patrick J. Maguire has more than 32 years of experience as a teacher and administrator in the field of special education. He holds an M.A. in Special Education from Portland State University and an Administrative License from Lewis and Clark College.

BOARD OF DIRECTORS: The Board consists of 20 members from the local business community and includes former Edison parents, one former student, a faculty member and the director.

FUNDING: Tuition for 2011-2012 is set at $18,800. The school maintains service contracts with several school districts. Private gifts, grants, and two annual fundraisers help provide financial aid for families in need.

PARENT INVOLVEMENT: Our success is built on effective partnerships with parents. Communication with home is maintained through weekly mailings and frequent phone calls. Parents are expected to assist the school in a volunteer capacity.

RESULTS: Edison has a strong record of academic success, with the vast majority of our students receiving their high school diplomas. Most Edison students continue their education at a community college, trade school or a four-year college. All students who earn their diplomas from Edison receive career awareness and guidance.

OUR INSPIRATION: Thomas Alva Edison was a dyslexic who struggled in school. Despite his learning differences, he went on to great success. The example of his achievements drives us to help our students reach their potential. Just as Edison transformed the way we live, Thomas A. Edison High School works to transform the lives of our students.

Please click here to download a one-page version of our  fact sheet.