Portland Public Schools (PPS) has released its proposed budget for the next school year, which outlines plans to reduce staff positions amidst a $30 million shortfall. Interim Superintendent Sandy Husk emphasized the district’s commitment to students, families, and employees during a news conference announcing the budget proposal.
The cuts will be distributed across central offices and schools, affecting licensed positions (teachers, counselors, and support staff) as well as classified staff (educational assistants, clerical, and maintenance). In special needs programs, licensed staff will increase by 59 positions, while classified staff will be reduced by 30. Support services for instructional staff will see cuts of 30 licensed and 26 classified positions.
The proposed budget would reduce the full-time employee count at PPS from 6,246 to 5,995, a loss of 251 positions. Husk encouraged the community to engage in a respectful discussion about the proposal, urging them to review the detailed budget document for rationale and context.
A public meeting is scheduled for Wednesday to present the plan, with the aim of approving a revised budget within a month.
