Raquel Laiz has a new job with Portland Public Schools this school year, but she has been honored for her work at her previous position in the district. Laiz was one of nine counselors around the country to win a Counselors That Change Lives Award.

In this week's PPS Pulse: Deadline coming for students to be immunized; Jefferson students discuss Black History Month

If you are the parent or guardian of a Portland Public Schools student, ask yourself: How is the educational climate at the school? Portland Public Schools is looking for answers to this and other key questions from family members of PPS students as part of the Successful Schools Survey. Students in grades 5, 7 and 10 also are being surveyed, and school-based staff will participate starting Feb. 19.