The start of a new school year is almost upon us. This is always an exciting time at Portland Public Schools. As the summer is winding down, we are gearing up for a productive and fun year of learning and growing together.

The first day of school for most PPS students is Tuesday, August 29. There are some notable exceptions. See below for a detailed breakdown.

Today was disappointing – for us but, most importantly, for our students and families. The Portland Association of Teachers offered no counter proposals – and yet declared impasse.

Today, we offered compromises that would both reward our educators and further our students’ success. We were able to raise our compensation offer substantially. We are not there yet, but we are committed to the hard work of finding common ground.

Today, we started the state-led mediation process with one priority: our children’s success. We offered compromises that would keep that vision at the heart of our work – and maintained our position on proposals that would negatively impact students.

On behalf of the Board of Education and district leaders at PPS, our best wishes for a positive and joyful start to your school year!