Portland schools advocates get a new homegrown leader (Portland Business Journal, June 2019)

The group that advocates for Portland-area students has a new leader.

Lavert Robertson will become the new CEO of All Hands Raised on July 1. The group’s board of directors made the announcement Tuesday.

Robertson, who’s currently principal of Portland’s George Middle School, brings two decades-plus of experience to the role. As principal of Portland Public Schools’ George Middle School, he manages a $3 million budget and a staff of 50-plus workers.

He’s also held leadership roles at Cesar Chavez K-8 School, Franklin High School, Jefferson High School and Centennial High School. Robertson graduated from Jefferson High School, earning his undergrad degree at the University of Oregon and his Master’s degree at Portland State.

“Lavert is a highly respected and visionary leader whose deep connection to our mission was evident — his ability to inspire and elevate is impressive.” said All Hands Raised Board Chair Trever Cartwright, in a release. “He brings excellent perspective to building collective responsibility across the community to advance shared goals for educational equity.”

“As a first-generation college graduate I have been on a path to transform the systems that have historically failed our kids and their families,” Robertson added. “As the CEO of All Hands Raised I am committed to the work of the All Hands Raised Partnership to align systems to accelerate progress for our kids.”

All Hands Raised is an independent community-impact organization that looks to ensure all Multnomah County children are well-served on the education front. The group, which covers seven school districts, focuses on racial equity, as well as economic and social mobility.

Robertson replaces Dan Ryan, who’s leaving the group after 11 years.