What is your name and pronouns?
“Jennifer Makinster. She/her.”
What is your position at Lincoln High School?
“I am a school nurse. I work PPS and Multnomah Education Service District (MESD) contracts, along with school and health services, so Nurse Mary and I are both working half-time this year. We’re alternating days that we’re here.”
What made you want to come to Lincoln?
“I was able to move from full-time to half-time this year. I’m semi-retired, so I could start my pension, and Nurse Mary and I have been friends for a long time. She also wanted to work half-time, and so it worked out well for both of us.”
Where were you before this?
“I was at Grant High School for six years. “
Why did you decide to go into the health and medical field?
“Ever since I was a little kid, I was going to either be a teacher or nurse. I decided to go into school of health in particular because it was a good match for my life experience, my work experience and my temperament. I’ve had work experience in hospitals, clinics, allergy clinics and community health with Multnomah County. I’ve had kids that have needed support. My own kids need support and have gone through Portland Public Schools… so it was nice to be able to work in a system that I was familiar with.”
What are some of your hobbies?
“Bike riding, hiking, walking my dog and taking my dog on hikes. I also like to read, knit, sew and spend time with my grandkids.”
What are you looking forward to this school year?
“Having another nurse to collaborate with and getting to know the Lincoln community better. They’ve been friendly and welcoming. Also being able to have a better work-life balance.”
