Families Impacted by Portland Public Schools Staffing and Budget Shortfalls

Parents in the Portland area are facing challenging and complex circumstances at neighborhood schools. A recent story reported by KGW8 details that in December 2025 parents and staff at Peninsula Elementary in North Portland filed a formal grievance with Portland Public School District. Families describe heightened safety concerns stemming from widespread behavioral issues and a significant and ongoing lack of staff supervision. Additionally, staff members themselves at Peninsula Elementary have filed formal complaints with their professional union citing the same concerns. From conversations with families and clients, we at Havensight know that Peninsula parents are not the only parents worried about supervision, safety planning and access to special education resources and staff. 

To add to these pressures, local journalists report that PPS is proposing cutting almost 300 full time staff as it faces a $50 million budget crisis. Proposed cuts would include “reductions across multiple grade levels: 73 elementary school positions, 24 K–8 positions, 45 middle school positions, and 65 high school positions.” The balance of the staff cuts would be central office staff, school counselors and other mental health professionals. 

In a letter to Oregon state lawmakers dated 1/30/26 PPS Superintendent Dr. Kimberlee Armstrong called on the state for immediate relief and support. Dr. Armstrong noted that without swift financial intervention from the state legislature, Portland Public Schools risks reversing hard-won progress for students: 

“Essential reading and math interventions are at risk, as are enrichment opportunities and college- and career-readiness programs that are critical to students’ long-term success and their transition into adulthood…Cuts of this magnitude would undermine years of collective work and disproportionately harm students who already face the greatest barriers.”

Havensight Law is here to assist parents in advocating for their children and all children. You should feel confident that your child is safe at school and receiving their legal right to a free and appropriate public education. Connect with us today for a free 15 minute consultation about your student and learn how we can support your family’s educational journey.