ORABSE Educator Awards 2025 - Kenneth W. Berry

Kenneth W. Berry is a lifelong educator, mentor, musician, and arts advocate whose distinguished career spans over 48 years in public education. He retired as an elementary principal in 2003 but has continued serving part-time as an Integrated Arts and Music teacher and Student Management Specialist in Portland-area schools.

He holds degrees from the University of Oregon and University of Portland, along with an administrative certificate from Portland State University.

Throughout his tenure with Portland Public Schools, Mr. Berry led numerous initiatives, including serving as acting principal at Jefferson High School and participating in statewide curriculum alignment efforts. He also held leadership roles in mentoring programs such as DADS (Dads Are Doing Something) and served on the Selective Service Appeals Commission.

Beyond the classroom, Mr. Berry has been a tireless champion for the arts. For nearly five decades, he served as Secretary/Treasurer of World Arts Foundation, Inc., and as executive producer of Keep Alive the Dream, a nationally recognized tribute to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. He is currently Board President of Albina Music Trust and has served on numerous other boards focused on education, arts, and community health.

Mr. Berry has received many honors, including the KOIN-TV Jefferson Award, the NEA’s Carter G. Woodson Award, the MLK Drum Major Award, and the Emerald Award for the Arts. His work reflects a deep belief in young people's potential and a lifelong commitment to equity, education, and community empowerment.