Dear Portland Public Schools Families,
 
Across the country and in our schools, we have seen a number of incidents of hate speech over the last several months, and it has risen significantly since last Wednesday. We know that families and students are feeling upset and unsafe and we must come together to create a caring and welcoming community for all students. We want you to know that Portland Public Schools remains steadfastly committed to ensuring that every student is safe, supported and included in our schools.

The policy of the Board of Education has explicit language stating there will be zero tolerance of any form of discrimination, bullying or harassment of individuals or groups at PPS based on their identities. This kind of behavior toward anyone in our schools will be dealt with swiftly and appropriately.

Portland Public Schools is comprised of a diverse and beautiful student body. This diversity makes PPS stronger and better. Our District will continue to honor this by remaining a safe, and inclusive environment for all students, and continue to support and stand by all of our students and families during this time.

We encourage you to please talk to your students about how to be inclusive of their classmates. Or, if your students, staff or families sees or hears of any hate speech, or experiences any harassment, violence, or intimidation, please encourage them to tell an adult or administrator, or if necessary to report it to police. With your help, PPS will set the example for unity and diversity in these challenging times.

Thank you for supporting our students,

Robert McKean
Interim Superintendent