By Seth Gordon, Newberg Graphic

The Newberg School District is conducting a poverty simulation Nov. 23 at Newberg High School and needs volunteers to play a wide variety of roles in the training exercise. With nearly half of the district’s 5,224 students considered “economically disadvantaged,” the simulation will help employees to better understand what it might be like to live in a typical low-income family trying to survive month to month. Personal experience in a particular role isn’t required, but does contribute to effective portrayals. Roles needed include banker/loan collector, community action staff, mortgage/rent collector, pawnbroker, police officer, utility company, social service caseworker, grocer, quick cash manager, employer, school teacher, child care worker, faith-based agency staff and community health care staff.

Two sessions will be held, from 7:15 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and from 12:45 to 3:30 p.m., including an orientation period. For more information or to sign up, call Claudia Stewart at 503-554-5014, email her at stewartc@newberg. k12.or.us. or visit www.newberg.k12.or.us/district/ poverty-simulation.