Our vision…..

PPS Special Education Services will develop inclusive academic and social emotional learners, promote belonging and engagement, and empower students to meet their futures proactively.

Our mission…..

The Special Education Department is committed to providing instructional services in inclusive environments that will prepare students who receive special education services for life and careers

Our Core Values…..

Belonging and Engagement
Inclusive Academic and Social Emotional Learners
College, Career and Post School Readiness

Special Education Contacts

Special Education

(503) 916-3152

Dr. Kelli Charles

Senior Director of Special Education

kcharles@pps.net

Nancy Robles

Business Operations Analyst

503-916-3297

nrobles@pps.net

Maria Gianotti

Director of Elementary

mgianotti@pps.net

Sabrina Wood

Director of Secondary

swood@pps.net

Records Request

sped-records@pps.net

Paulina Larenas

Special Ed Family Liason

971-413-8802

plarenas@pps.net

Special Education Advisory Council (SPEAC)

Meetings Monthly September through May, alternating in-person and virtual.

More information

Family Support

Specialized Support Services

Specialized Support Services provides districtwide expertise and specialized supports for students with intensive and unique educational needs. Through collaboration with schools, families, and IEP Teams, our specialists help ensure students receive individualized services, equitable access to learning, and the supports necessary to achieve their educational goals.

Augmentative & Alternative Communication (AAC)
Autism Services
Assistive Technology
Behavior Support
Blind & Low Vision (Columbia Regional Inclusive Services)
Child Find
Community Transition Program (CTP)
Deaf and Hard of Hearing (Columbia Regional Inclusive Services)
Early Childhood Evaluation & Support
Nursing Services
Orientation & Mobility (Columbia Regional Inclusive Services)
Occupational Therapy
Physical Therapy
Pioneer Special School

Special Schools & Programs

Portland Public Schools offers a continuum of special education services to meet the unique strengths and needs of students with disabilities. While most students receive services in their neighborhood school, some students may require more specialized supports delivered through district special schools or programs. These programs provide individualized instruction, specialized services, and intensive supports designed to help students access their education, build independence, and make meaningful progress toward their IEP goals.

Pioneer Special School
Community Transition Program (CTP)

Pioneer Special School

Pioneer Special School provides a highly specialized educational program for students with significant support needs who require intensive instruction, individualized programming, and comprehensive related services. The program emphasizes communication, functional academics, independence, social-emotional development, and meaningful participation in school and community life.

Website: https://pioneer.pps.net/

Principal: Angie Dillingham, adillingham@pps.net

Community Transition Program (CTP)

The Community Transition Program (CTP) serves young adults ages 18–21 who continue to be eligible for special education services after high school. Through individualized transition planning, community-based instruction, employment experiences, and independent living skill development, CTP supports students in preparing for life after school, including employment, postsecondary opportunities, and active participation in their communities.

Placement in a special school or program is determined by the IEP Team based on each student's individual needs and is considered only after the team has determined the services and supports necessary to provide a Free Appropriate Public Education (FAPE) in the Least Restrictive Environment (LRE).