Last Wednesday our students participated in the National School Walk Out where thousands across the country protested against and to gain awareness of gun violence. Our PYP students created signs, while singing, led by staff and families marched the perimeter of the school. Our MYP students lead a panel discussion with community leaders on gun violence, safety, and awareness. Here is a link to a brief video capturing just a few moments of our student's thoughtful, and moving protest.

The school year was over, but more than 500 K-5 teachers were hard at work preparing for the 2018-19 academic year at the PPS Summer Institute at Roosevelt High School. The two-day training gave teachers the opportunity to dig into the new language arts curriculum, and hear from teachers who are already using it. The teachers also learned how the curriculum aligns with state standards and the district’s newly adopted scope and sequence — an academic term for what will be taught and in what order. 

Portland Public Schools has refined and expanded its policy for handling complaints. The Board of Education, at its June 12 meeting, approved a revision of its complaint policy, with significant details added on procedures, types of complaints, timeframes and more.

Michelle Nicola, who recently completed her stint as a language arts and Spanish teacher at Bridger School, has received a Fulbright grant to study in Mexico.

Dear PPS Families,

As the 2017-18 school year comes to a close, I would like to appreciate our students, teachers, support staff, and school leaders for all their hard work. They have all earned a well-deserved summer break. This past week, more than four thousand students walked across the stage at the various high school graduation ceremonies and received their diplomas. Congratulations to our seniors on reaching this important milestone. We wish you much success in your next endeavors.