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Office of Government
Relations

Office of Government
Relations

  • The Office of Government Relations monitors and analyzes policy issues considered by government entities at the local, state, and federal levels. It serves as the primary point of contact for elected officials and policymakers, helps craft legislation and advocates for the enactment of policies and budgets that support the priorities identified by the Board and the Superintendent to promote student achievement.

    Advocacy Agenda 2025


2025 Legislative Agenda for PPS

  • View the 2024 Legislative AgendaThe Portland Public Schools’ advocacy agenda calls for policies and investments that make our schools safe, welcoming, and equitable spaces for learning. The 2025 Advocacy Agenda is aligned with PPS’s Strategic Plan and Board Goals. In addition to the issues identified below, the Office of Government Relations supports and advocates for legislative proposals, technical fixes, and initiatives that are consistent with the Strategic Plan and will pursue necessary actions in 2025 as new issues arise..

    2025 Legislative Agenda


  • Who Represents You?

    Elected officials at the federal and state level play large roles in the funding that Portland Public Schools receives. Here is how to find the elected officials who have the most impact on PPS (names link to official website, where contact information is available):

    United States Senate


    United States House of Representatives


    Governor, State of Oregon


    Oregon Legislature

    • The enrollment area for PPS is represented by several different state representives and senators. To find yours, use the state's Find Your Legislator tool. 
    • The Oregon Legislature regularly has bills up for consideration that affect public education. To see what potential laws are being considered, use the Session Details tool that outlines each day's agenda for the full house and senate and their committees.

    Other key organizations

Contact

Lisa Merrick
Senior Manager of Government Relations
971-271-3466 (cell)

Legislative Materials Archive

  • 2024 Legislative Agenda

  • 2021 Legislative Agenda

  • 2019 End of Session Legislative Report

  • 2019 OSBA/COSA Legislative Report

  • 2019 Legislative Platform for Portland Public Schools