Family Resources

Partnering With Families for Safe and Inclusive Schools

At Portland Public Schools (PPS), we believe that families are essential partners in creating safe, respectful, and inclusive learning environments for every student. When families understand their rights, know how to access support, and feel confident communicating with schools, we strengthen our entire community.

The Office for Civil Rights (OCR) provides information, guidance, and tools to help families navigate school policies, understand complaint procedures, and advocate for their children with confidence and care.

 

Your Rights as a Family

All families have the right to:

• Participate fully in their child’s education and school activities
• Be treated with respect and fairness regardless of background, language, or identity
• Raise concerns or file complaints about discrimination, harassment, or retaliation
• Access translation, interpretation, and disability accommodations when communicating with the district
• Receive clear information about school procedures, policies, and timelines
   

If you have questions about how to resolve a concern, the Office for Civil Rights can help.

 

Resources for Families

The following tools and documents are designed to help families understand PPS processes, protections, and supports related to student safety, civil rights, and equal opportunity.

• Student Rights and Responsibilities Handbook - A guide that explains student conduct expectations, disciplinary procedures, and the rights every PPS student and family hold under district and state law.
• Leveled Response Framework - Outlines how the district responds to incidents involving bias, discrimination, or harassment — ensuring consistency and care across all schools.
• Civil rights Response Toolkit - Provides guidance on how schools and families can respond to reports of discrimination or bias, and how to partner with the Office for Civil Rights to address concerns.
• Division 22 Complaint Information - Guidance for families on filing formal complaints under Oregon’s Division 22 standards if concerns about curriculum, equity, or educational access are not resolved at the school level.
• Section 504 and ADA Resources - Information for families about accommodations, eligibility, and planning for students with disabilities.

 

How Families Can Get Help

• If you or your child has a concern regarding harassment or other forms of discrimination, please contact the  Department of Civil Rights by email at civilrights@pps.net.
• Report discrimination, harassment, bullying or any incident under civil rights. Submitting a report does NOT mean an investigation will occur.
• Prior to an investigation, a representative from the Office for Civil Rights will contact you using the information you provide. The representative will share options for support and interventions and the process for determining the need for an investigation and response.
• For questions, please email civilrights@pps.net or call us at 503-916-3462.