Jennifer Burger

Glencoe High School * Student Services Coordinator

(503)844-1900 ex 3572
burgerj@hsd.k12.or.us

To Whom It May Concern:

It is my distinct privilege to write a letter of recommendation for Shelby Beckwith. I have

known Shelby for her entire high school career. I have had the pleasure of being Shelby’s AVID
teacher, her tour leader on an educational trip abroad and a trusted adult as she has
navigated some significant challenges. Shelby is a tremendously diverse young lady with a
myriad of qualities and experiences that set her apart from the majority of her peers.

Shelby has challenged herself to carry a rigorous course load, while maintaining very good
grades. She is an AVID student, which means she has worked hard to hone her self-advocacy
and self-determination skills. She is an inquisitive learner and a consistent student of not only
the content of her current classes, but of the world around her. She consistently asks
thoughtful questions and has capitalized on every opportunity to learn as much as possible
about the world around her, as only a true student does.
In addition to being an excellent student, Shelby is a culturally competent individual. Despite
some considerable trepidation, she participated in an educational trip to Switzerland, Italy,
France and Spain. She immersed herself in the various cultures we experienced while abroad.
She stepped out of her comfort zone and learned not only about people from other cultures, but
also a great deal about herself. She plans to travel again in 2020 and is excited to experience
new and different places.
Not only has Shelby challenged herself as a learner, she has also had to manage some
challenges in her personal life. Due to circumstances in her family of origin, Shelby was forced
to become an adult far before her eighteen birthday. She resides in the home of a close friend’s
family, because living with either of her parents is no longer an option. As difficult as the
situation has been, Shelby has demonstrated maturity, integrity and initiative. Shelby is a
valued member of her current “family” and shows an incredible amount of respect and
appreciation for the family with whom she lives
Additionally, Shelby has solid skills in the areas of leadership. Shelby is a leader by examples.
She conducts herself in a manner that prompts other students to emulate her. She is fairly
quiet, but her peers have a deep sense of respect for her when she does share an opinion. She
conducts herself with a dignity and maturity which is rare in young people her age.
Shelby is truly an amazing young woman. She has a remarkable respect for people of all
abilities, races and backgrounds. She uses her own personal experiences, which include
international travel, high academic achievement, and disenfranchisement from her family of
origin and stellar work ethic to inform her actions toward others. I have no doubt Shelby will
become a consummate professional, in whatever path she ultimately chooses.
I have no reservations of any kind recommending Shelby. She will be an incredible asset to any
organization fortunate enough to have her as a member.
Sincerely,
Jennifer Burger, Student Services Department coordinator/Learning Specialist/AVID elective
teacher