Leigh Wilcox

Even though it' s been 42 years since I was a middle school aged student at school he principled, I still can remember talking to him. He had a greater sense of humor than any principal I remember. One time I was being reprimanded and he told me, "Sounds like you were putting your nose where it doesn't belong," and that to me was both serious and comical at the same time. I remember some people making fun of him the day he got a perm, and when those kids were talking about it to another...

Leigh was the most skilled principal I ever had in all my years of teaching. He was not only great at hiring teachers and staff, he knew how to dialogue with teachers, parents, and of course, students. I want to share this Leigh example. In the first year West Sylvan opened as a middle school, it was the end of September, and we were supposed to receive our first pay check. I went to my mail box and I did not see a pay envelope. I went to the secretary, and I said, "I didn't receive my pay...

Leigh was one of the finest people I have ever met. When you think of all the fine qualities that a person could possess that describes him. We are all fortunate to have had Leigh in our lives.

I had the honor and privilege to know Leigh Wilcox as both a friend and as a supervisor. As fellow principals, Leigh's insights, long history with Portland Public Schools, and unwavering support meant a great deal to me as a friend and colleague. As a Director of Instruction, his leadership helped set both high expectations for student success and provided much appreciated support and guidance. However, what I will remember most is Leigh's positive attitude and the joy he expressed when he...

Leigh was one of the most talented and gifted school administrators ever! He was smart as a whip, kind , thoughtful and devoted to education. It was always clear how much he loved kids and they came first! He had excellent interpersonal skills and would engage colleagues in problem solving difficult issues rather than taking care of everything. To work with him was a huge gift to me. I also was so inspired in his deep love for Sharon, a beautiful, kind woman herself. He was so proud of...

Leigh and I worked together in the Portland Public Schools, Leigh was at Ockley Green and I was at Beach School. We helped each other. I admired his devotion to education.

I met Leigh thru the VCCA in the late 80's and early 90's when he had his black 1950 Chevy 2 door hardtop with a split manifold that he and Joe Kordic had spent much time restoring. Leigh was a no nonsence pragramatic guy who spent countless hours working on many commitees with the club. He always got the job done! Leigh helped me get involved with different postions with the club and always had words of encouragment. I kept threating to play golf with him, but never got around to it. My...