Leveled Response Framework
At Portland Public Schools (PPS), we believe that every student deserves to learn in an environment that is safe, respectful, and free from discrimination, harassment, and retaliation.
The Leveled Response Framework helps schools respond to incidents in ways that are consistent, fair, and restorative, while keeping student well-being at the center.
It guides how we determine the level of response needed — from addressing misunderstandings to investigating serious civil rights violations — and ensures that each situation is handled promptly, respectfully, and in line with federal and state law.
Purpose of the Framework
The Leveled Response Framework is designed to:
- Provide clear, equitable responses to all reports of bias or discrimination
- Support students, families, and staff with transparency and fairness
- Align school actions with civil rights laws (Title VI, Title IX, ADA, Section 504, and Oregon Division 22)
- Promote learning and accountability rather than punishment alone
- Ensure that responses are consistent across schools
How It Works
When a concern or incident is reported, the school-based Civil Rights Coordinator or the Office for Civil Rights (OCR) reviews it to determine the appropriate response level.
Each level reflects the severity, intent, and impact of the incident, and helps the district decide what supports, interventions or investigations are necessary.
🟢 Level 1: Education and Prevention
Focus: Learning, dialogue, and reflection
Examples:
- A misunderstanding or insensitive comment
- Early-stage conflict between students or peers
Response may include:
- Restorative conversation or mediation
- Educational dialogue or reflection activity
- Classroom-based learning on inclusion and respect
- Counseling or guidance support
Goal: Increase understanding, repair harm, and prevent future incidents.
🟡 Level 2: Corrective and Supportive Action
Focus: Addressing repeated or more serious behaviors
Examples:
- Harassing language or behavior that causes harm
- Repeated bias-based comments or jokes
- Behavior that impacts another student’s ability to feel safe
Response may include:
- Bias or civil rights team review
- Parent/family meetings
- Targeted restorative circles
- Written documentation of concern
- Safety or support plan
Goal: Protect impacted students, change harmful behavior, and prevent escalation.
🔴 Level 3 & 4: Potential for Formal Investigation and Resolution
Focus: Legal compliance, safety, and accountability
Examples:
- Severe or persistent discrimination or harassment
- Sexual harassment or assault
- Hate-based incidents or retaliation
- Civil rights violations under Title VI, Title IX, or Section 504/ADA
Response may include:
- Formal investigation under Title VI, Title IX, or 504/ADA
- Coordination with the Office for Civil Rights
- Implementation of interim safety measures
- Written report with findings and next steps
- Notification of rights for complainant and respondent
Goal: Ensure compliance, accountability, and a safe learning environment for everyone involved.
Restorative Approach
Whenever possible, PPS uses restorative practices to help repair harm, rebuild trust, and promote healing among those affected.
Restorative responses:
- Center student voice and experience
- Encourage accountability and empath
- Rebuild relationships while maintaining safety
Supports for Students and Families
Throughout the process, all students and families have access to:
- Counseling or student support services
- Safety and academic accommodations
- Language translation and interpretation
- Disability-related supports or 504 accommodations
- Advocacy and outreach from the Office for Civil Rights
Retaliation is never allowed. Students and families who report incidents are protected from any form of retaliation or punishment.