Portland Public Schools
Collective Bargaining

Dear PPS Staff, Families and Community,

We are pleased to share that Portland Public Schools has reached a Tentative Agreement with the Service Employees International Union (SEIU). Out of respect for the process, we are allowing SEIU to communicate the agreement to its members before sharing further details with the broader community.

PPS remains committed to good-faith negotiations that are fair to our employees and fiscally sustainable for our schools and students. Additional updates will be posted on our PPS Collective Bargaining page as they become available.

PPS Bargaining Communications

Dear PPS Staff, Families and Community,

We are pleased to share that Portland Public Schools and the Portland Association of Teachers (PAT) reached a Tentative Agreement on the Substitute contract. Out of respect for the process, we are allowing PAT to communicate the agreement to its members before sharing further details with the broader community. Additional updates will be posted on our PPS Collective Bargaining page as they become available.

PPS Bargaining Communications

Dear PPS Staff, Families and Community,

Portland Public Schools (PPS) and SEIU met for their seventh bargaining session on Tuesday, June 23. The session resulted in Tentative Agreements on four articles.

Both parties exchanged proposals and counterproposals across a range of topics, including working conditions, scheduling, employee safety, and wages. Discussions on several open articles are ongoing, and the parties are scheduled to meet again on Tuesday, June 30.

PPS remains committed to good faith negotiations that support our employees and are fiscally sustainable for our schools and students. For ongoing updates on PPS labor negotiations, please visit the PPS Bargaining Updates page.

PPS Bargaining Communications

Dear PPS Staff, Families and Community,

Portland Federation of School Professionals (PFSP) and Portland Public Schools (PPS) met for their ninth bargaining session on June 18 at PEC. The parties exchanged proposals and continued discussions across a range of articles, including compensation, leaves, safety, insurance, and professional development.

The next bargaining session is scheduled for June 23. PPS will continue working through the bargaining process with PFSP and provide updates as negotiations progress. For ongoing updates on PPS labor negotiations, please visit the centralized PPS Collective Bargaining page.

PPS Bargaining Communications

Dear PPS Staff, Families and Community,

We are pleased to announce that the District Council of Unions (DCU) has ratified its Tentative Agreement with Portland Public Schools (PPS).

PPS remains committed to good-faith negotiations that are fair to our employees and fiscally sustainable for our schools and students.

For updates on all PPS labor negotiations, please visit the PPS Collective Bargaining page.

PPS Bargaining Communications

Dear PPS Staff, Families and Community,

SEIU and Portland Public Schools (PPS) met for their sixth bargaining session on Tuesday, June 16. The session resulted in Tentative Agreements on two articles.

Both parties exchanged proposals and counterproposals across a range of topics, including wages, union rights, transfers and vacancies, leaves, working conditions and employee safety Discussions on several open articles are ongoing, and the parties are working to schedule upcoming sessions.

These bargaining sessions reflect our shared commitment to supporting the people who show up every day for Portland's students and schools. We will continue to keep you informed through our centralized PPS Bargaining Updates page.

PPS Bargaining Communications

Dear PPS Staff, Families and Community,

Portland Federation of School Professionals (PFSP) and Portland Public Schools (PPS) met for the sixth bargaining session on May 28 at Peninsula Elementary School. The parties advanced several proposals and reached a tentative agreement.

PPS also presented an overview of the district's current budget outlook, highlighting the structural budget gap and its impact on these negotiations. Both teams acknowledged the difficult fiscal environment as discussions continue toward a new agreement.

The next bargaining session is scheduled for June 4. PPS will continue working through the bargaining process with PFSP and provide updates as negotiations progress. For ongoing updates on PPS labor negotiations, please visit the centralized PPS Collective Bargaining page.

PPS Bargaining Communications

Dear PPS Staff, Families and Community,

The District Council of Unions (DCU) and Portland Public Schools (PPS) met for mediation on Wednesday, May 27 for a third mediation session. 

We are pleased to report that a Tentative Agreement has been reached. DCU will be communicating the details to its membership over the next few days.

For ongoing updates on PPS labor negotiations, please visit the PPS Collective Bargaining page, where additional details will be posted as they become available.

PPS Bargaining Communications

Dear PPS Staff, Families and Community,

SEIU and Portland Public Schools (PPS) met for the fifth bargaining session on Wednesday, May 27, to discuss several articles related to working conditions, employee rights, and district operations. The session was productive, with both parties bringing proposals and counterproposals to the table.

Topics discussed during the session included wages, scheduling, transfers and vacancies, personnel files, and employee evaluations. The session also included a financial presentation covering district budget information, enrollment trends, and the fiscal impact of current proposals.

We will continue to share updates as negotiations progress.

These bargaining sessions reflect our shared commitment to supporting the people who show up every day for Portland's students and schools. We will continue to keep you informed through our centralized PPS Bargaining Updates page.

PPS Bargaining Communications

Dear PPS Staff, Families and Community,

Portland Association of Teachers (PAT) Substitutes and Portland Public Schools (PPS) met for the third bargaining session on Tuesday, May 26. Discussions centered around substitute safety, classroom support, and access to student information. Both sides exchanged proposals and counterproposals across several articles, with conversations touching on communication access, substitute preparedness, and student information systems.

Bargaining is expected to continue next week. PPS will continue working through the bargaining process with PAT Substitutes and provide updates as negotiations progress. For ongoing updates on PPS labor negotiations, please visit the centralized PPS Collective Bargaining page..

PPS Bargaining Communications

Dear PPS Staff, Families and Community,

Portland Federation of School Professionals (PFSP) and Portland Public Schools (PPS) met for the fifth bargaining session on May 21. The session included the exchange of proposals and counters across several contract articles, with both teams engaging in discussion on a range of workplace topics.

The parties reviewed and exchanged language on a number of articles, including provisions related to federation rights, no-strike language, personnel files, overtime, lunch and rest periods, and new employee orientation. Discussions were productive, with both sides asking clarifying questions and working to better understand the intent behind various proposals.

PPS will continue working through the bargaining process with PFSP and provide updates as negotiations progress. The next bargaining session is scheduled for May 28. For ongoing updates on PPS labor negotiations, please visit the PPS Collective Bargaining page.

PPS Bargaining Communications

Dear PPS Staff, Families and Community,

The Amalgamated Transit Union (ATU) and Portland Public Schools (PPS) met with the mediator on Wednesday, May 20. After one session in mediation, we are pleased to report that a Tentative Agreement has been reached. ATU will be communicating the details to its membership over the next few days.

For ongoing updates on PPS labor negotiations, please visit the PPS Collective Bargaining page, where additional details will be posted as they become available.

PPS Bargaining Communications

Dear PPS Staff, Families and Community,

Portland Association of Teachers (PAT) and Portland Public Schools (PPS) met for our ninth bargaining session on May 18. We are pleased to report that a Tentative Agreement has been reached.

Out of respect for PAT, we are allowing them to communicate the Tentative Agreement to their members before we provide details to the community. Additional updates will be made available on our PPS Collective Bargaining page as they become available.

PPS Bargaining Communications

Dear PPS Staff, Families and Community,

Portland Association of Teachers (PAT) and Portland Public Schools (PPS) met for the ninth bargaining session on May 14 at the Portland Teachers Association. The session focused on economics, with both parties continuing to work through the remaining economic articles.

Article 12 (Compensation): The parties discussed compensation for the 2026–27 school year, with both sides acknowledging the current financial context.

Article 13 (Insurance): Discussion centered around insurance proposals and the need for cost containment conversations as premiums continue to grow.

Article 15 (Retirement): The parties exchanged proposals on retirement benefits for professional educators electing early retirement.

Article 17 (Leaves): The parties reached general agreement on several leave provisions. Immigration leave remains an open item, with further review needed.

Overages: The parties discussed overages as an area of budget concern, with both sides acknowledging the need to address the structural challenges it presents.

The next bargaining session is scheduled for Monday, May 18.

PPS will continue working through the bargaining process with PAT and provide updates as negotiations progress. The next bargaining session is scheduled for Monday, May 18. For ongoing updates on PPS labor negotiations, please visit the centralized  PPS Collective Bargaining page.

PPS Bargaining Communications

Dear PPS Staff, Families, and Community,

On Wednesday, May 7, 2026, Portland Public Schools (PPS) and Portland Association of Teachers (PAT) Substitutes Unit held their second bargaining session, continuing contract negotiations for a one-year successor agreement. 

PPS presented several proposals that included the following articles:

• Article 2 (Association Rights). PAT proposed expanding time without loss of compensation from five to 10 Substitute Educators, which is a change from the current language of five Substitute Educators, and requested updated language changing “times” to “days” regarding their payment allocation.
• Article 6 (Discipline Procedure). PAT proposed reducing the disciplinary document retention period from six years to three years; the district counterproposed four years to align with the core PAT collective bargaining agreement. 
• On paid administrative leave, PAT proposed paying substitutes at the daily rate for up to two weeks. The district counterproposed a minimum days-worked threshold with a cap of ten (10) paid days, after which substitutes on paid administrative leave would be unpaid. 
• Article 7 (Substitute Rights). PAT proposed a substantial rewrite of this article, including overload pay for substitutes assigned to classrooms where the main unit teacher is receiving overload pay. The district is reviewing the scope of proposed changes in the context of a one-year agreement.
• Article 8 (Work Hours & Work Days). PAT proposed revisions to the late cancellation policy and the removal of minimum work day requirements. The district proposed  adding clarifying language for student contact days, specifying that two half-day assignments would constitute one full student contact day.
• Article 9 (Sick Leave). PAT proposed increasing the sick leave accrual rate to one day per fourteen days paid, granting sick days after their 31st day of employment, and providing a one-time additional five days for renewed and continuing substitutes. The district is evaluating the fiscal and operational impacts of the proposed accrual changes.
• Article 11 (Insurance). PAT proposed a new section offering an alternate insurance onboarding pathway, including lowering the eligibility threshold from 55 to 50 full workdays. The district is considering the proposal in the context of overall benefits costs and sustainability.
• Article 14 (Substitute Systems and Assignment of Substitutes). PAT proposed a new article to address concerns with substitute assignment and school-site experience. The District counterproposed a non-contractual approach: sending a best practices guide for substitute folders to building administrators three times a year, which it believes can meaningfully approve the substitute experience without requiring material contract changes given the one year agreement timeframe. 

The next PAT Substitutes Unit bargaining session is scheduled for May 26, 2026. We will continue to keep you informed as bargaining progresses through our centralized PPS Bargaining Updates page.

PPS Bargaining Communications

Dear PPS Staff, Families and Community,

Service Employees International Union (SEIU) and Portland Public Schools (PPS) met for the fourth bargaining session on May 5 at PEC.

The majority of the session was devoted to the following articles:

• Article 9 (Grievance). PPS presented a counterproposal that restructured the article for clarity, placing general procedural language at the beginning of the section. PPS proposed standardized 14-day timelines for meetings and responses at each step, and 45 days for escalation to arbitration. The parties discussed grievance tracking and numbering.
• Article 10 (Discipline, Demotion and Discharge). PPS presented a counterproposal with several language updates, including changing "disciplinary conference" to "disciplinary action" and maintaining the 24-hour notice provision while ensuring members have the opportunity to access union representation.
• Article 16 (Leaves). SEIU presented a proposal to add a section on Paid Leave Oregon (PLO) under the unpaid leave section.
• Article 17 (Insurance). SEIU presented a proposal regarding the Insurance Committee and related provisions.
• Appendix A/B (Compensation). SEIU presented a proposal to update wage scales, which includes Cost of Living Adjustments (COLA) of 5% in the first and second years and 6% in the third year for nutrition service workers and custodians. Additionally, the proposal includes a bilingual/multilingual stipend for employees utilizing these skills in their duties and updates to the step system for new hires.
• Article 24 (Duration). SEIU proposed extending the contract through 2029, with a reopener provision if inflation reaches 10% or higher.

SEIU also presented a proposed new article on Immigration Safety and Related Protections, and has one additional proposal to be presented at the next session.

The next bargaining session is scheduled for May 26 at SEIU.

PPS remains committed to a constructive and transparent bargaining process and will continue to share updates through our centralized PPS Bargaining Updates page.

PPS Bargaining Communications

Dear PPS Staff, Families, and Community,

Portland Public Schools is sharing this update to keep our community informed throughout the collective bargaining process.

The District Council of Unions (DCU) and Portland Public Schools (PPS) met on May 4, 2026, for a second mediation session. During this session, the mediator worked with both parties to make significant progress in negotiations.

Michelle Morrison, CFO, presented the state of PPS's budget, including the Board's authorization of a one percent cost of living increase for all unions for the 2026–27 year.

A third mediation session is scheduled for May 27, 2026, with additional discussions continuing in the weeks ahead.

PPS remains committed to good faith negotiations that are fair to our employees and fiscally sustainable for our schools and students and will continue to share updates through our centralized PPS Bargaining Updates page.

PPS Bargaining Communications

Portland Public Schools

Dear PPS Staff, Families, and Community,

Portland Public Schools (PPS) and the Portland Association of Teachers (PAT) met for their eighth bargaining session on April 30.

The session opened with PPS’ Chief Financial Officer Michelle Morrison presenting a comprehensive economic package, grounded in the district’s current financial outlook and the proposed 2026–27 budget that was shared at the April 28 board meeting. Chief Morrison provided context on the ongoing structural challenges facing PPS, including declining enrollment, rising pension costs, and limited revenue growth. As part of that discussion, Morrison emphasized that while projections guide planning, financial assumptions will continue to shift as estimates become actuals.

This framing set the stage for the day’s discussions, which focused on both economic and non-economic proposals. Updated information regarding the district's budget realities can be found on the district's budget webpage.

Economic Package Overview

PPS presented Package Proposal #4, a limited-term agreement intended to address immediate financial constraints while preserving flexibility for future negotiations.

Key components included:

• Compensation: A proposed 1% cost-of-living adjustment (COLA), effective March 1, 2027, aligned with what is currently budgeted across the district. 
• Insurance: A proposed shift to a fixed monthly contribution increase, rather than a percentage-based adjustment.
• Leaves (Article 17):
  • Increase to the sick leave bank contribution cap
  • Clarifications to bereavement leave
  • Addition of immigration and citizenship leave, including the ability to use existing leave banks or access limited unpaid leave

During discussion, PAT raised questions about the structure and impact of these proposals, particularly around leave flexibility, job protection related to immigration status, and the real-world implications of increased leave usage. PPS acknowledged these concerns and committed to further review, especially where questions of employee protection and legal requirements intersect.

Budget Context and “Why It Matters”

Throughout the session, PPS returned to a central point: The financial constraints driving these proposals are not theoretical, they are shaping real decisions across the district. District leaders highlighted:

• A projected multi-year deficit
• Increased costs tied to pensions and benefits
• Continued enrollment decline, which directly impacts funding
• Reductions already made at the central office level to prioritize school-based resources

This context is critical to understanding the District’s position. Any proposed increase beyond current budget assumptions would require reductions elsewhere.

Noneconomic Discussions

PPS presented updated proposals on all outstanding noneconomic articles, with active discussion and clarification from both teams.

Article 2 (Association Rights):

Both PPS and PAT are nearing alignment, particularly around the Instructional Program Council (IPC). Discussions included how educator voice is incorporated into decision-making, especially on emerging topics like artificial intelligence. PPS emphasized that while educator input is critical, the District retains responsibility for final decisions, particularly where accountability and implementation are concerned.

Article 6 (Work Year):

Conversation focused on calendar structure, planning time, and professional development. PPS reiterated the importance of maintaining flexibility at the school level rather than codifying certain practices (such as remote planning days) in the contract.

Article 7 (Workday):

Significant discussion centered on how time is structured during the workday, particularly at the high school level. PPS presented a proposal to create more consistent time for professional learning communities (PLCs), aimed at strengthening collaboration and improving student outcomes.

PAT raised questions about how these changes would impact planning time, workload, and implementation across different school contexts.

Article 17 (Leaves):

Beyond economic implications, the conversation surfaced broader themes:

• Balancing flexibility for educators with operational costs
• Ensuring equitable access to leave
• Addressing emerging needs, such as immigration-related circumstances

Article 26 (Personnel File) and Article 30 (Student Services):

Discussions emphasized clarity, communication, and shared responsibility, particularly around student supports and case management. There was alignment on the importance of ensuring students receive appropriate services, even as details of implementation remain under discussion.

Where Things Stand

The April 30 session reflected meaningful progress in some areas and continued dialogue in others.

• The parties are close to agreement on several noneconomic provisions, including Article 2.
• Key economic issues remain under discussion, particularly compensation, benefits, and leave structures.
• Both teams continue to ask deeper questions, not just about contract language, but about how proposals will function in practice.

What’s Next

While challenges remain, the District is committed to:

• Grounding discussions in clear, shared information
• Continuing to answer questions and provide context
• Working toward an agreement that reflects both fiscal responsibility and support for educators.

The next PAT bargaining session is scheduled for May 14, 2026. We will continue to keep you informed as bargaining progresses through our centralized PPS Bargaining Updates page.

PPS Bargaining Communications

Dear PPS Staff, Families and Community,

During their fourth bargaining session on Thursday, April 29, Portland Public Schools (PPS) and the Portland Federation of School Professionals (PFSP) covered a wide range of economic and non-economic proposals. PFSP's priorities centered on enhancing safety and working conditions for classified staff, securing adequate support and equipment for those working with students with complex needs, and achieving greater parity in pay and rights with other district employee groups.

Tentative Agreement

The session resulted in one tentative agreement (TA): Article 5 – Non-Discrimination. This article was updated to include protections for gender identity, color, national origin, genetic information, and disability — replacing the previous term 'physical handicap' — as well as protections for participating in discrimination lawsuits or investigations.

Economic proposals

PFSP proposed an 8% wage increase for the first year and 3.5% for the second year of a two-year contract.

Non-economic proposals overview

Both parties introduced and responded to several articles. Below is a summary:

Article 18 – Discipline

PPS presented a counter-proposal on discipline, confirming letters of expectation remain non-disciplinary, refining investigatory meeting notice language to reference the general nature of the issue, and adding just cause protections with substantial deference to the district for discharge of probationary employees during arbitration.

Article 24 – Safety

PFSP proposed substantial additions to the safety article, including the right to request PPE, radio access for staff working with students on a Behavior Support Plan, inclusion on the safety committee, training requirements for staff working with students on IEPs and 504s, and property loss reimbursement.

Article 23 – Insurance

PFSP proposed updates that include revised workers' compensation language and the ability for employees to supplement their compensation check with accrued sick leave. New provisions modeled after PAT contract language were also added.

Article 3 – Contract administration

PFSP added a new section to establish regular check-in touchpoints between PFSP representatives and program supervisors. This is intended to benefit both parties and is particularly relevant for itinerant staff such as CSAs, SLIs, and Virtual Scholars employees who are not site-based.

Article 4 – Federation rights

PFSP presented updates to federation rights reflecting HB2016 changes, new-hire information required within 10 days of hire, 60–120 minutes at New Employee Orientations (NEOs), protections for worksites with fewer than 8 members, and the right to 15 minutes on staff meeting agendas monthly.

Article 8 – No strike clause

New language was proposed by PFSP to ensure employees will not suffer a reduction in days, hours, or pay as a result of the protected activity of another employee group; a direct response to impacts experienced during the recent strike.

MOU – Artificial intelligence

PFSP presented a proposed memorandum of understanding requiring at least 30 days' notice before employees are expected to use any AI tool, along with mandatory training, no obligation to use AI to create differentiated instruction, and no reduction in force as a result of AI implementation.

Article 26 – Reduction of staff

PFSP proposed changes that include removing the exclusion of less-than-half-time employees, adding protections around packing and moving during reassignment, updated layoff and bumping rights language, clarified seniority provisions, and a new requirement for a monthly report of employees eligible for recall.

Article 14 – Career development and job training

PFSP proposed expanding career development funds to cover travel, lodging, and meals; a streamlined approval process tied to racial equity and climate justice goals; asynchronous and virtual training options; and Classified Connections funds to carry over year to year.

Article 22 – Vacations and holidays

PFSP proposed updates that include mutual agreement requirements for vacation scheduling, advance notice of blackout dates, updated vacation accrual protections, and new paid winter and spring break provisions for eligible PFSP staff.

Appendix F – SLI

PPS responded to PFSP's proposal addressing travel time, compensation for extra hours when reassignment results in a longer workday, and temporary reassignment when a student is absent. Both teams acknowledged the language is intended to address complex situations such as repeated refusals or multiple site changes.

Where things stand

While one tentative agreement was reached, key economic and non-economic issues remain under discussion. Both teams continue to examine not just contract language, but how proposals will function in practice for classified staff across the district.

What's next

Bargaining will continue on May 21 at PEC, with both teams working toward agreement on outstanding articles. We will continue to keep you informed as bargaining progresses through our centralized PPS Bargaining Updates page.

Dear PPS Staff, Families and Community,

On Wednesday, April 23, 2026, Portland Public Schools (PPS) and the Portland Association of Teachers (PAT) Substitutes Unit held their first bargaining session, marking the beginning of contract negotiations for substitute teachers. Both parties presented proposals and counterproposals, covering a wide range of topics including substitute rights, working conditions, compensation, and district systems.

The session moved through a full agenda, touching on the following articles: 

• Article 2 (Association Rights). Both parties addressed housekeeping updates to compensation structure language, including clarifying that substitutes are compensated at a daily rate rather than hourly. 
• Article 6 (Discipline Procedure). The parties discussed due process concerns for substitutes removed from assignments without formal documentation or hearings. PAT proposed reducing disciplinary document retention from six to three years and a simplified two-week paid administrative leave cap. 
• Article 7 (Substitute Rights). PPS accepted PAT’s proposal to standardize substitute folders across all schools and strengthen safety provisions, including guaranteed access to a communication device. Classroom size and overage pay remain under active discussion. 
• Article 8 (Work Hours & Work Days). The parties discussed protections for prep time at elementary schools, the right to decline reassignment after accepting a job, and remedies for canceled jobs that remain visible in Frontline. 
• Article 9 (Leave). PAT presented a proposal for a one-time grant of five additional leave days after a substitute’s 31st day worked, along with a leave donation program and an online form to simplify union release time requests. 
• Article 11 (Insurance). The parties discussed lowering the days-worked thresholds for insurance eligibility to better support substitutes in long-term assignments. 
• Article 12 (Compensation and Incentives). PAT proposed adjusting the base pay formula to reflect actual available workdays and adding compensation for substitutes covering duties during another educator’s prep period.
• Article 14 (Substitute System and Assignment of Substitutes). PPS agreed to explore improvements to the Frontline system, including prioritizing endorsed substitutes for qualifying positions, making job notes visible prior to acceptance, and ensuring equal no-cost access to third-party scheduling applications.

 The next PAT Substitutes Unit bargaining session is scheduled for Thursday, May 7 2026, with a full day of negotiations planned. We will continue to keep you informed as bargaining progresses through our centralized PPS Bargaining Updates page.

 PPS Bargaining Communications

Dear PPS Staff, Families and Community,

Portland Association of Teachers (PAT) and Portland Public Schools (PPS) met for the seventh bargaining session on April 21. During this session, PAT presented a comprehensive non-economic package addressing multiple remaining articles.

The PPS team is currently reviewing the full package and will return with a response at the next scheduled session.

The bulk of the session focused on:

Article 1 (Status of Agreement)

PAT indicated agreement with a two-year probationary period for educators who have completed three years in another Oregon district.

Article 2 (Association Rights)

The parties are nearing agreement, with a few remaining areas requiring additional clarification.

Article 5 (Grievance Procedure)

Discussion continued around response timelines and arbitration processes. While there is alignment in some areas, a few procedural elements remain unresolved.

Article 6 (Work Year)

PAT presented several proposals related to working conditions, including remote work for planning and grading days, adjustments to evening event expectations, and flexibility for virtual family conferences. PPS continues to assess the operational impact of these proposals.

Article 7 (Work Day)

PAT shared a proposal adjusting the high school workday and emphasizing educator-directed planning time during the student day. Additional proposals included transition time for elementary core enrichment educators and limitations on the number of buildings itinerant staff are assigned to. PPS raised questions regarding feasibility and potential impacts on school scheduling and operations.

Article 26 (Personnel File)

PAT maintained its proposal to reduce the retention timeline for certain documents in personnel files. This remains an open item.

Article 30 (Special Education)

PAT introduced new proposed language focused on clarifying service delivery expectations, staffing responsibilities, and working conditions for specialized staff. PPS is reviewing these proposals, particularly where implementation may extend beyond district control or existing processes.

Throughout the session, both teams engaged in clarifying questions and discussion to better understand the intent and potential impact of the proposals presented.

PPS will return with a comprehensive response package at the next bargaining session.

The next bargaining session is scheduled for April 30, with a full day of negotiations planned.

PPS remains committed to a constructive and transparent bargaining process and will continue providing updates as negotiations progress. For ongoing updates on PPS labor negotiations, please visit the District’s Bargaining Updates webpage: PPS Collective Bargaining. This webpage is the primary source for official PPS bargaining communications and will be updated as new information becomes available.

PPS Bargaining Communications

Dear PPS Staff, Families, and Community,

Portland Public Schools is providing this update as part of our commitment to transparency during the collective bargaining process.

The District Council of Unions (DCU) and Portland Public Schools (PPS) met on April 16, 2026, for an initial mediation session. During this session, the mediator worked with both parties to establish a shared understanding of the remaining open issues and support continued progress in negotiations.

The conversation was productive, and progress was made. PPS remains encouraged, as mediation is a well-established and effective step in the bargaining process. In Oregon public sector bargaining, mediation results in agreements in the overwhelming majority of cases, helping parties move toward resolution without further escalation.

A second mediation session is scheduled for May 4, 2026, with additional discussions continuing in the weeks ahead.

We recognize that collective bargaining is important to our community. PPS remains committed to engaging in good faith negotiations and working toward fair, fiscally responsible agreements that support our employees while maintaining long-term stability for our schools and students.

PPS Bargaining Communications

Portland Public Schools

Dear PPS Staff, Families and Community,

SEIU and Portland Public Schools (PPS) met for the third bargaining session on Wednesday, April 13, to discuss several articles related to working conditions, employee rights, and district operations. The session was productive, with both parties bringing proposals and counterproposals to the table.

Here is a closer look at the articles and topics the parties worked through:

• Article 4 (Union Rights). Both parties addressed housekeeping updates to existing language.
• A key topic was Article 9 (Grievance Procedure), where SEIU proposed returning to a formal written Step 1 grievance process, moving away from the oral process adopted three years ago, which has caused confusion for both sides. The proposal includes a standard 30-day filing window across all grievance steps, clarity around employee meetings with their manager at Step 1, and a requirement that Step 4 grievances be submitted to an Arbitration Grievance Committee.
• In discussing Article 10 (Investigatory Meetings), SEIU proposed that employees and their representatives be allowed to review any video recordings prior to an investigatory meeting, and that the District provide 48 hours rather than 24 hours notice before such meetings. The parties also discussed clarifying terminology around "investigatory meetings" versus "disciplinary conferences." PPS noted that Weingarten Rights, which allow employees to request union representation during investigatory meetings, do not apply when discipline is being issued. In those situations, it is appropriate for the employer to ask the employee whether they would like representation present.
• On Article 12 (Personnel File). PPS expressed that management should retain discretion over how long reprimands remain in a personnel file, particularly in serious cases, and proposed removing the automatic three-year removal of reprimands. Both parties agreed that the evaluator shall be the employee's manager or their designee.
• Regarding Article 13 (Employee Evaluations). Both parties agreed that employees should have the opportunity to complete an annual self-evaluation. PPS maintained that evaluations should not be used for disciplinary purposes, as disciplinary language already exists in Article 10.
• Turning to Article 14 (Overtime), PPS presented proposed language to first offer overtime to volunteers at the site level before moving to a district-wide seniority list. Mandatory overtime would be rotated at the site level. The parties also clarified that employees are not required to respond to after-hours contact unless they choose to accept an assignment.
• Article 15 (Lunch and Rest Periods) centered on ensuring all employees receive a duty-free lunch period consistent with BOLI and state mandates, including safety concerns around shift transitions and consistency in lunch break practices across school levels.
• Budget Overview & Financial Impact. District budget staff joined the session to walk through a financial impact tool developed to assess compensation costs for custodians and nutritionists. An updated budget overview is expected at the April 28 Board meeting, followed by community hearings. SEIU also requested a future conversation regarding layoff language in the context of potential building closures.

These conversations reflect our shared commitment to supporting the people who show up every day for Portland's students and schools. We will continue to keep you informed through our centralized PPS Bargaining Updates page.

PPS Bargaining Communications

Dear PPS Staff, Families and Community,

Portland Association of Teachers (PAT) and Portland Public Schools (PPS) met for the sixth bargaining session on April 9 at the Prophet Education Center (PEC). The session began with PPS providing a comprehensive package in response to all eight of the remaining noneconomic articles proposed by PAT.

We are pleased that we were able to reach a tentative agreement on Article 29, which adjusted the number of days for union release time and added annual training on the collective bargaining agreement. 

The bulk of the afternoon was spent on:

• Article 1 (Status of Agreement). PPS agreed to the addition of language to clarify the positions within the bargaining unit. The parties also discussed PAT’s proposal that a contract teacher from another Oregon district serve only one year of probation with PPS. PPS explained the concern that, with the statutory timeframe of requiring notice by March, PPS would only have approximately six months experience with a teacher before they become a contract teacher with PPS.  
• Article 2 (Association Rights). PPS accepted PAT’s approach to time for PAT meetings in buildings. PPS also expressed its strong desire for inclusion of educator voices and perspective in development and adoption of curriculum, but concern about negotiation of curriculum.  
• Article 5 (Grievance). PPS accepted several of PAT's proposed changes to streamline the process, with only one relatively small issue seeming to remain open (about the arbitrator pool).
• Article 6 (WorkYear). PPS responded to PAT’s proposal on the school calendar and working conditions. There were several areas where PPS accepted PAT’s proposed language, although the PPS expressed hesitation about formalizing certain remote practices and some of the other changes that affect the work year.  
• On Article 10 (Academic Freedom). PPS and PAT discussed the best method to handle situations where concerns are raised about curriculum in a class. The parties discussed the lack of consistency in how such concerns are handled and how best to develop consistency in application of the Administrative Directives.
• On Article 26 (Personnel File). PPS agreed to reduce the time that a Letter of Expectation remains in a personnel file from six years to four.
• Article 28 (Negotiation Procedure). PPS offered a counterproposal to PAT’s approach for compensation for negotiations.

In the evening, PAT made its opening proposal on Article 12 (wages), proposing an 8% increase. The PPS team spoke briefly about the current financial context, and we anticipate much further discussion at the next sessions. 

The next bargaining sessions are scheduled for April 21 and 30. 

PPS remains committed to a constructive and transparent bargaining process and will continue to share updates and provide additional information, including calendar adjustments and implementation details, through our centralized PPS Bargaining Updates page.

PPS Bargaining Communications

Dear PPS Staff, Families and Community,

Portland Public Schools (PPS) and the Portland Association of Teachers (PAT) met on April 2 for their fifth bargaining session in this round of negotiations. The session focused on continued review of contract articles, District counterproposals, and discussion of operational impacts connected to proposed changes.

Throughout the day, both teams engaged in small group and full team discussions to clarify proposals, ask questions, and better understand the intent and potential impacts of proposed language.

As part of this work, PPS continues to evaluate how to best support students and educators while aligning with the District’s current financial realities and long-term stability.

Grievance Procedures

Workday, Collaboration, and Professional Time

Hiring and Staffing Processes

Dear PPS Staff, Families and Community,

Portland Public Schools (PPS) and the Service Employees International Union (SEIU) met on March 24 for their second bargaining session. During this session, SEIU presented several proposals across multiple articles. The District focused on listening, asking clarifying questions, and gathering additional information to better understand the proposals and their potential impacts.

Personnel Files

SEIU presented proposed updates to Article 12: Personnel Files. The proposals included housekeeping edits and revisions related to the maintenance and removal of materials in employee personnel files. The District asked clarifying questions to better understand how the proposed changes would be applied.

Employee Evaluation

SEIU presented proposed changes to Article 13: Employee Evaluation. The proposals included clarifications regarding the evaluation process, opportunities for employee self-evaluations, and the overall use of evaluations. The District asked questions to better understand how these changes would function in practice.

Overtime and On-Call

SEIU presented proposed updates to Article 14: Overtime and Call Back. The proposals included clarifications regarding how overtime is assigned and distributed, as well as additional language related to on-call duty and compensation. The District asked clarifying questions about implementation and operational considerations.

Lunch Periods

SEIU presented a proposal related to Article 15: Lunch and Rest Periods. The proposal focused on clarifying language regarding lunch periods for employees working shorter shifts. The District asked questions to better understand how the proposed change would affect current practices.

Safety

SEIU presented proposals related to Article 18: Safety. The proposals included updates related to employee complaints, safety meetings, and employee support following workplace incidents.

SEIU’s proposals addressed employee complaint processes, including communication and follow-up during investigations, as well as safety planning in certain situations. SEIU also proposed that Nutrition Services and Custodial hold quarterly safety meetings accessible to represented employees working on the day of the meeting.

Injury Benefits and Property Loss

SEIU also presented proposals related to injury benefits and property loss, including support, resources, and compensation considerations following workplace incidents involving physical harm or threats. The District asked clarifying questions about implementation and alignment with existing practices.

What Happens Next

The next SEIU bargaining session is scheduled for April 14. PPS will continue working through the bargaining process with SEIU and will provide updates as negotiations move forward. For ongoing updates on PPS labor negotiations, please visit the District’s Bargaining Updates webpage: PPS Collective Bargaining. 

PPS Bargaining Communications

Dear PPS Staff, Families, and Community,

We want to share an important update regarding recent discussions between Portland Public Schools (PPS) and the Portland Association of Teachers (PAT).

PAT members have voted to ratify a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) that includes four furlough days for the remainder of the 2025–26 school year. This agreement reflects a shared effort to address the district’s current budget shortfall while maintaining stability in our schools.

As outlined in the agreement, the designated furlough days are:

• May 1, 2026
• May 25, 2026
• June 9, 2026
• June 10, 2026

Furlough days are unpaid and no work will occur on those days.

Importantly, this agreement allows the district to avoid educator layoffs for the 2025–26 school year. This agreement also includes several adjustments to the school calendar and work schedules for the remainder of the year, including:

• Moving the final student day to June 5, 2026
• Shifting planning and grading schedules to accommodate instructional time
• Converting previously scheduled late start/early release days (April 22 and May 13) into full instructional days

PPS recognize that furloughs represent a real impact for our educators and school communities. At the same time, this decision reflects a collective effort to protect classroom continuity and minimize disruption for students during a challenging financial period.

The MOU will be brought forward to the PPS Board for final ratification and voted on during the March 31 board meeting.

We will continue to share updates and provide additional information, including calendar adjustments and implementation details, through our centralized bargaining updates page.

As always, our focus remains on supporting students, maintaining stability in our schools, and navigating this moment with transparency and care.

PPS Bargaining Communications

Portland Public Schools

Dear PPS Staff, Families, and Community,

Portland Public Schools (PPS) is sharing an update following the 17th bargaining session with the District Council of Unions (DCU). 

Both parties discussed ongoing work from the joint wage subcommittee, which continues to gather materials and is scheduled to meet again on March 25. The DCU presented an updated package proposal, which was discussed in detail with clarifying questions from the District. The District did not bring forward any proposals this session.

Mediation remains part of the process and is scheduled for April 16, and negotiations are ongoing. PPS remains committed to a constructive, open bargaining process and will continue providing updates as negotiations progress.

For ongoing updates on PPS labor negotiations, please visit the District’s Bargaining Updates webpage: PPS Collective Bargaining. This webpage is the primary source for official PPS bargaining communications and will be updated as new information becomes available.

PPS Bargaining Communications

Portland Public Schools

Dear PPS Staff, Families and Community,

Portland Public Schools (PPS) and the Portland Association of Teachers (PAT) met for their fourth bargaining session of this negotiation cycle. The session focused on PAT’s opening remarks with both sides discussing contractual impacts for a 12 month agreement.

Opening Context and Priorities

PAT opened by highlighting the District’s current financial challenges and the difficult decisions facing educators, including potential furloughs or layoffs. The Association emphasized prioritizing student outcomes, educator voice, and working conditions, and expressed interest in a 12-month agreement focused on safety, working conditions, and maintaining strong instructional support for students, as this is in the best interest given the current economic environment. PAT also noted the importance of advocating for additional education funding in the next legislative session.

The District acknowledged these challenges and the shared impact of difficult decisions, and expressed appreciation for the collective focus on supporting students, staff, and school communities while working to maximize outcomes for students.

Overview of Articles

PAT provided an overview of contract articles, identifying those already proposed, open for discussion, or serving as placeholders for future conversations. Topics included compensation, insurance protections, evaluation, and professional development. Both parties emphasized the importance of clarity, consistency, and understanding the operational and financial impacts of potential changes.

District Proposal: One-Year Agreement

PPS presented a proposal in the form of a memorandum of understanding (MOU) keeping the current contract in place and incorporating proposals as an amendment. This approach would maintain the existing agreement while incorporating agreed-upon updates for one year. The intent is to address immediate priorities and return to negotiate a full successor agreement after 12 months.

The proposal centers largely on articles already opened by PAT, including areas such as staff meetings, workload considerations, compensation, and provisions related to potential school consolidations, with the district emphasizing articles from the previous round that had unintended consequences once implemented.

What Happens Next

Both teams will continue refining proposals and setting agendas for upcoming sessions, with a focus on article-specific discussions. 

The next bargaining sessions are scheduled for April 2 and April 9.

PPS remains committed to a constructive, open bargaining process and will continue providing updates as negotiations progress. For ongoing updates on PPS labor negotiations, please visit the District’s Bargaining Updates webpage: PPS Collective Bargaining. This webpage is the primary source for official PPS bargaining communications and will be updated as new information becomes available.

PPS Bargaining Communications

Dear PPS Staff, Families and Community,

Portland Public Schools (PPS) and the Portland Federation of School Professionals (PFSP) met on March 12 for their second bargaining session in this round of negotiations. The meeting continued discussions from the first session and focused on reviewing the District’s responses to proposals previously presented by PFSP, as well as hearing new proposals from the union.

During the session, PPS shared counterproposals related to several contract articles and asked clarifying questions to better understand PFSP’s priorities and the intent behind their proposals. PFSP also introduced additional proposals for consideration. Both teams engaged in discussion about how the proposed language might affect employees and District operations.

Lunch and Rest Periods

The District presented a response to PFSP’s proposal regarding Article 15: Lunch and Rest Periods. The discussion focused on how contract language aligns with state labor requirements and how break periods are scheduled during the workday. PPS shared proposed adjustments to portions of the language and discussed how break times are typically handled when interruptions occur.

Employee Discipline

The District also presented a counterproposal related to Article 18: Employee Discipline. The conversation included discussion of how discipline procedures apply to employees, particularly during the early stages of employment, and how legal standards such as “just cause” may affect disciplinary processes.

Employee Evaluation

Discussion continued around Article 19: Employee Evaluation. PPS shared a counterproposal with revisions to the timeline for performance evaluations and addressed how evaluation processes relate to updated legal requirements. The teams discussed how evaluation timelines may affect opportunities for feedback and support during the school year.

Additional Proposals

During the session, PFSP also introduced new proposals related to contract language addressing leaves, personnel files, job duties and position descriptions, and employee orientation. These proposals focused on clarifying expectations around job responsibilities, documentation, and how job duties may be communicated and updated.

What Happens Next

The March 12 session focused on responding to initial proposals and introducing new topics for discussion. Both teams will continue reviewing proposals and considering operational and contractual impacts as bargaining continues.

Additional bargaining sessions are expected in the coming weeks as PPS and PFSP continue the negotiation process.

For ongoing updates on PPS labor negotiations, please visit the District’s Bargaining Updates webpage: PPS Collective Bargaining. This webpage is the primary source for official PPS bargaining communications and will be updated as new information becomes available.

PPS Bargaining Communications

Dear PPS Staff, Families and Community,

Portland Public Schools (PPS) and the Service Employees International Union (SEIU) met on March 10 for their first bargaining session. The session marked the beginning of discussions and focused on establishing the framework for negotiations and reviewing initial proposals presented by SEIU.

During the meeting, the bargaining ground rules were finalized which will guide the bargaining process moving forward. SEIU also presented two proposals for consideration. The District did not present proposals during this session and instead focused on listening, asking clarifying questions, and gathering additional information about the proposals and their intended outcomes.

Ground Rules

Early in the session, both bargaining teams reviewed and finalized the ground rules. These ground rules help establish expectations for how bargaining sessions will be conducted and how the teams will communicate and exchange proposals throughout the process.

Compensation

SEIU presented a proposal related to Article 21: Compensation. The proposal included clarifications to existing contract language and longevity pay enhancements. During the discussion, the District asked questions to better understand how the proposed changes might function in practice and how they could interact with current district operations.

Vacations and Holidays

SEIU presented a proposal related to Article 20: Vacations and Holidays. The discussion focused on clarifying contract language related to holiday provisions. The District asked clarifying questions to better understand how the proposed language might affect existing practices.

What Happens Next

The next session is scheduled on March 24. The District will continue evaluating the operational and fiscal considerations associated with the proposals that were presented.

PPS will continue working through the bargaining process with SEIU and will provide updates to staff, families, and the community as negotiations move forward. For ongoing updates and information about PPS labor negotiations, please visit the District’s Bargaining Updates webpage: PPS Collective Bargaining. This webpage serves as the primary source for official PPS bargaining communications and will be updated as new information becomes available.

PPS Bargaining Communications

Dear PPS Staff, Families and Community,

Portland Public Schools (PPS) and the Portland Association of Teachers (PAT) met on March 5 for their third bargaining session at the Marshall Campus. The session continued the early stages of this round of negotiations and focused on reviewing proposals presented by PAT.

During this meeting, PAT shared proposals related to several contract articles, including Association Rights, Work Year, Work Day, and Academic Freedom. The District did not present proposals or counterproposals during this session and instead focused on listening, asking clarifying questions, and gathering additional information about the proposals and their intended outcomes.

Association Rights
PAT presented proposed updates related to association rights and educator participation in collaborative processes. The proposals focused on clarifying language within the contract and exploring ways educators can provide input on school and district initiatives. The District asked questions to better understand how the proposed changes would function in practice and how they might interact with existing processes.

Work Year
PAT also shared proposals related to the educator work year. These proposals addressed topics such as professional development, planning and grading time, and certain calendar-related considerations. The discussion included questions about how proposed changes could affect school schedules, educator responsibilities, and district operations.

Work Day
Another portion of the session focused on proposals connected to the educator work day. PAT discussed ideas related to planning time, collaboration, and the structure of staff meetings. The District asked clarifying questions to better understand how these proposals might affect instructional time, school schedules, and staffing practices.

Academic Freedom
PAT also presented proposals related to academic freedom and processes for addressing concerns related to instructional materials or classroom discussions. The discussion centered on understanding the intent behind the proposals and how they might align with existing district policies and practices.

What Happens Next
The March 5 session focused on reviewing proposals and clarifying interests. The District will continue evaluating the operational and fiscal considerations associated with the proposals that were presented.

Additional bargaining sessions are scheduled in the coming weeks as both teams continue discussions.

PPS will continue working through the bargaining process with PAT and will provide updates to staff, families, and the community as negotiations move forward.

PPS Bargaining Communication

Dear PPS Staff, Families and Community,

Portland Public Schools (PPS) and the Portland Federation of School Professionals (PFSP) met on March 5, 2026, for their first bargaining session of the current negotiations. The meeting took place at the PEC and included time for both parties to review proposals, ask clarifying questions, and discuss the financial context facing the district.

Financial Overview

During the session, the District shared a financial overview to provide context for the current budget environment. The presentation outlined the district’s financial outlook, including ongoing efforts to stabilize the budget and maintain core services for students and schools.

District leaders reviewed recent budget projections and discussed the difference between mandatory operational costs and areas where the District has more flexibility. The presentation also highlighted the importance of continued collaboration as PPS works to address financial challenges while supporting staff and students.

Contract Language Proposals

PFSP presented proposals related to contract language in several areas.

One proposal addressed lunch and rest periods. The proposal included clarifications to existing language to reflect current legal requirements and to ensure breaks occur at appropriate points during the workday. The proposal also included adjustments intended to reflect the variety of schedules used across schools.

PFSP also presented a proposal related to the employee evaluation process. The proposal seeks to align contract language with current practices and recent changes in state law related to employee discipline standards. The proposal also includes clarification about how performance improvement plans are used within the evaluation process.

The District asked clarifying questions about how these proposed changes would work in practice and how they align with current operational procedures.

What Happens Next

The March 5 session primarily focused on introductions, financial context, and initial review of proposals. Both parties will continue reviewing the proposals and discussing potential impacts in upcoming sessions.

Additional bargaining sessions are scheduled in the coming weeks, and discussions will continue as both teams work through proposals and identify areas for further dialogue.

PPS is committed to maintaining transparency during the bargaining process and will continue sharing updates with staff, families, and the community as discussions move forward.

PPS Bargaining Communications

Dear PPS Staff, Families and Community,

Portland Public Schools (PPS) and the Portland Association of Teachers (PAT) met on February 19 for their second bargaining session. The first session in this round of negotiations took place on January 29 and served as the formal kickoff to discussions.

The February 19 meeting focused on PAT proposals related to contract language governing leave provisions, transfer processes, and certain clarifications to bargaining unit definitions.

Leave Provisions

A significant portion of the session centered on proposed changes to educator leave. PAT presented proposals that would expand or adjust several leave categories, including sick leave, personal leave, bereavement leave, professional development leave, immigration and citizenship leave, and association leave.

Some proposals would increase the number of available days in certain categories, remove caps or usage limitations, or revise return-from-leave provisions. The District asked clarifying questions about how these changes would operate in practice and what fiscal or operational impacts may need to be evaluated.

Transfer and Staffing Processes

PAT also presented proposals related to transfer and assignment procedures. These proposals address internal hiring phases, resignation incentives, vacancy posting timelines, planning time for educators who are reassigned, seniority exception processes, timelines in the unassigned process, and potential strategies to support schools experiencing high turnover.

The District sought clarification on how these proposals could affect staffing workflows, school-level operations, and spring staffing processes.

What Happens Next

The February 19 session focused on review and clarification of proposals. The District will continue evaluating fiscal and operational considerations associated with the proposals presented. The next bargaining session is scheduled for March 5, 2026, at the Marshall Campus. Additional bargaining sessions are planned, and discussions will continue.

In the coming weeks, PPS will launch a dedicated PPS–PAT Bargaining webpage, which will serve as the primary source of information for staff, families, and community members. The page will include meeting summaries, proposal updates, and important timeline information to ensure transparency throughout the bargaining process.

PPS remains committed to good-faith bargaining and to keeping our community informed as negotiations move forward.

PPS Bargaining Communications