This release was just sent out by the Portland Public Schools. District spokesman Matt Shelby says it does not cover the schools which were closed or the central office staff who already received pink slips, including the community engagement staff dedicated to working with immigrant and refugee families.

More details as they are made available.



Tentative Agreement Restores School Cuts, Maintains Full School Year

The Mayor's Office, the Portland Association of Teachers, and Portland Public Schools have reached a tentative agreement that would restore school staffing cuts and maintain a full school year for PPS students.

Full details of the agreement will not be formally released until ratification of the tentative agreement by members of the Portland Association of Teachers.

"As we strive for a more prosperous economy and community, we recognize that a key to that success is education," Portland Mayor Sam Adams said. "Our recently adopted Portland Plan calls for partnerships such as the one we're announcing today, as we work together to make sure that all youth have the necessary support and opportunities to thrive."

The outline of the City's contribution will included in the Mayor's Proposed Budget, released later today. The Mayor's proposed budget is subject to approval by the Portland City Council.

Portland Public Schools Superintendent Carole Smith said, "I deeply appreciate the collaborative commitment of the Mayor, the City Council and the Portland Association of Teachers to safeguard our students from this funding shortfall. We all recognize the shared sacrifices of our hardworking staff. This is a one year solution which underscores our need to work together to find a long-term answer that delivers adequate and permanent funding for our schools."

Portland Association of Teachers President Gwen Sullivan said, "Our students, parents, and teachers know and understand what these devastating cuts mean in their schools.  Our Mayor also recognizes the adverse effects that these cuts would have on our whole city.  It is vital for every student to have a full school year.  Year after year cutting programs and instructional staff has had a harmful impact on our kids' future.   If we truly want our kids to reach their full potential, we need to invest in them.  Now is the time to join together on their behalf for stable and adequate funding."