Pictured above are students from my Visual Arts 2/3 class attending a fieldtrip at the Portland Art Museum as a part of the Peer to Peer Mentorship program in 2018. This image is shared with permission from the Portland Art Museum who also used it in their publication PORTAL.

Professional Biography

Whether in the role of teacher, advisor, mentor, council member, or advocate; the focus has always about the students. Alissa Tran is the daughter of two accomplished educators, the product of Oregon’s public education system, and a feisty voice for her students and colleagues. Art education, equity, empowering youth, and cultivating a lifelong love of learning motivate her to grow.

Her career began at West Salem High school, where she created and implemented a freshman academic success program. The goal was to build strong relationships amongst all stakeholders and help struggling students find relevance, feel valued, and build self-efficacy. Students previously identified as at-risk for dropout improved their attendance, academic performance, and mindsets.

Alissa then transitioned to yearbook advisor and art teacher. She was able to transform a struggling yearbook program into one that met deadlines, received design recognition, and had strong student leaders. As an art teacher, Alissa taught a variety of media and levels from graphic design, sculpture, and printmaking. Her students had many opportunities to showcase their problem solving, technique, and artistic vision. She also worked with staff and students to create cross-curricular connections and push for excellence across the board.

Currently Alissa Tran teaches art at Molalla High School. Her focus on rigorous content, real world connections, and fostering an artistic community have empowered her students to be become well-rounded Renaissance people. She has taken on leadership roles within her building, district, and beyond to challenge the status quo and continue advocating for staff and students.


References available upon request

Awards and Recognition

Molalla High School Teacher of the year 2017-2018

Scholastic Art & Writing Award 2020

Clackamas County Regional Teacher of the year and Oregon Teacher of the Year Finalist 2020

Testimonials

" I am full of gratitude for the 11 years of which I have had the pleasure of working with Alissa at Molalla High School, and I know that any school community would benefit greatly from her teaching and leadership experience. I know that you will be in awe of her abilities based on her portfolio, awards, and honors, and in addition to her vibrant and strategic teaching, I want to tell you that Alissa is full of empathy and humor, is a supportive and engaged student advocate, and an overall wonderful human. "

Hayley Zeal, English Department Chair at Molalla High School 2022

"By title, Alissa is an art teacher. In reality, Ms. Tran teaches so much more than just art. Alissa has an incredible ability to connect with students. She is one of those teachers that I describe as a “kid magnet." Her classroom is always filled with students seeking her out, sometimes for art and sometimes just to connect with a teacher they lean on for support. Ms. Tran is an amazing advocate for students. She sees the students that are most likely to slip the cracks of our school structures, She consistently goes above and beyond to ensure that these students have the supports they need to be successful both in and out of school. In this same vein, Ms. Tran has taken a lead role at Molalla High School and throughout the work around equity. Additionally, Ms. Tran plays a lead role as a support for her colleagues. She holds the title of chairperson of our Site Council and is a voice of reason within that committee. Beyond this official title, Alissa is often the staff member that colleagues lean on for support. "

Brad Berzinski, Principal MHS 2019

" Her teaching methods are among the best, her commitment to education is contagious, and her thirst to grow professionally is continuous. I do not doubt that you will be delighted with Alissa on your staff, and she will be an instant leader for your building, not just for the arts program but for the entire school."

Randy Dalton, Principal at Molalla River Middle School (Former Principal at Molalla High School) 2022

" For many students, myself included, Mrs. Tran was a teacher that could always be counted on. She was comforting mentor figure that helped set me on the path I am currently on and for that I am forever grateful."

Erin Swanson, former MHS student class of 2018

" She leaves every individual feeling worthy, capable, and fearless. I am an overcomer because she taught me how to break down my barriers of fear, all by being the fearless leader that she is. She is a noble woman of strength, and educator who empowers those around her to thrive."

Aliya Imholt, former MHS student, Class of 2017

"Alissa has exceptional people skills. She relates well with staff, students and parents. She is also a valued member of her art department and PLC group that work to create an outstanding art department."

Ed John, former principal at WSHS 2011

"She is not afraid of work in any way. Alissa has a good rapport with her students and her peers in the school. Alissa is one of those teachers that seeks out advice and suggestions from her colleagues and supervisors. She is truly a life-long learner who is trying to hone her craft of teaching".

Ken Phillips, former VP and Principal at WSHS 2011

" She has a great, enthusiastic attitude that shines through while she works with her students. Alissa takes command of her classroom in a caring, non-confrontational manner. Students respond to her and she rarely has a discipline issue. Perhaps her greatest asset is her strong ethical value system and caring nature. She is an exemplary role model for young people. She is visible throughout our building, and is well-liked and respected by student, staff and administrators alike!"

Carol Kilfoil, WSHS Business teacher and electives Chair 2011

" While in her class, I came to learn that she always spoke with a strong heart, she acted with a kind spirit, and acknowledged each and every one of her students in a unique way. Regardless of the school’s reputation as “the privileged”. Her passion for art was a gateway for her to manifest her love and compassion to all whom she met, regardless of social status."

Declan Mora, former student, WSHS class of 2011

"Alissa was always one of the first staff member to arrive and leave. When I arrived in the morning she had the daily lesson on the board, her art supplies ready for her lessons, and she had the previous days student work graded. She is always professional in appearance and attitude. She clearly has a well-designed art curriculum that is sequenced and challenging to all levels of student ability levels. She established a positive classroom climate in which all behavior expectations were clearly communicated to the students"

Cliff Larson, Mentor Teacher at Junction City High 2005