5/26/26 Board approves PAT contract
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 26, 2026
Contact:
Candice Gross
Portland Public Schools Board Approves One-Year Agreement with Portland Association of Teachers
Agreement provides near-term stability while positioning district to address long-term financial challenges
PORTLAND, Ore. — The Portland Public Schools Board of Education tonight approved a one-year collective bargaining agreement with the Portland Association of Teachers (PAT), following ratification by union membership.
The agreement provides short-term stability for educators, students, and families while allowing the district to continue navigating significant financial challenges facing public education locally and nationwide.
Portland Public Schools entered bargaining with a responsibility to balance support for employees with stewardship of public resources during a period of declining enrollment, rising operational costs, and a substantial structural budget deficit.
Dr. Kimberlee Armstrong, Superintendent: “In this critical moment, I appreciate the Portland Association of Teachers’ recognition of the financial realities facing our district and the difficult decisions required ahead. We are committed to doing the work necessary to protect student learning, preserve meaningful school experiences, and steward public resources with discipline and urgency. Strong financial stewardship cannot be a side conversation; it must be central to how we lead, and we are moving forward with that focus."
Because this is a one-year agreement, it creates an opportunity for both parties to revisit compensation conversations with greater clarity around future budget conditions.
PPS remains focused on protecting classroom learning, maintaining safe and supportive school environments, and making responsible decisions that support the long-term health of the district.
The district recognizes the complexity of this moment for school systems across the country and remains committed to continued partnership with educators in service of students.
For more information about Portland Public Schools budget planning and district priorities, visit pps.net.
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About Portland Public Schools
Portland Public Schools, founded in 1851, is Oregon’s largest PK-12 school district, with more than 43,000 students in 81 schools. PPS aspires to graduate compassionate, critical thinkers who are able to collaborate to solve problems, and lead a more socially-just world. Central to this goal is affirming and operationalizing our deeply held community value of racial equity, social justice and inclusion. Learn more at pps.net.