Portland Public Schools

A year later, no one could have imagined that our daily routines would be upended by an unprecedented health crisis. Teaching and learning is now taking place at our kitchen tables and in our living rooms, and celebrations like Teacher and Administrator Appreciation Week must happen virtually.

And yet, in the middle of this pandemic, innovative, caring and resilient are three words that have taken on a deeper meaning. During my twenty-five year career, I have served as an educational assistant, a classroom teacher, and a school administrator; I have experienced many challenges in school systems, but confronting this health crisis demands a new level of attention and out-of-the-box thinking. Our organization’s ability to turn disruption into transition, crisis into opportunity, potential chaos into a clear focus on students and families, is due to the flexibility and perseverance demonstrated by you, our educators and school administrators. Your thoughtfulness and care, innovation and resilience is making distance learning, and essential services and supports for students, possible.

You my friend, are a #PPSsuperhero. 

Tonight, the Board of Education will consider a resolution acknowledging this week as Teacher and Administrator Appreciation Week. Traditionally, each year, we recognize, congratulate and extend our deepest appreciation to staff who have exhibited exceptional service to the students, families and staff of PPS. Tonight, we honor 700 teachers and administrators for this major accomplishment. 

Thank you for everything you do. With your continuing dedication, we will get through this crisis, stronger together.

With gratitude and appreciation,

Guadalupe Guerrero
Superintendent