The Office of Government Relations monitors and analyzes policy issues considered by government entities at the local, state, and federal levels. It serves as the primary point of contact for elected officials and policymakers, helps craft legislation and advocates for the enactment of policies and budgets that support the priorities identified by the Board and the Superintendent to promote student achievement.

Portland Public Schools’ legislative and funding priorities call for cultivating rigorous, high quality, and joyful academic learning experiences and disrupting racial inequities to create vibrant environments for all students to demonstrate excellence. The 2024 Legislative Agenda is aligned with PPS Board Goals to eliminate student gaps in opportunities and outcomes. Our advocacy priorities will allow us to leverage the District’s role as a meaningful member of local, state, and national communities. In addition to the issues identified below, the Office of Government Relations will continue to support and advocate for legislative proposals and initiatives that are consistent with the PPS Strategic Plan and bring more investments to our schools and communities. The Government Relations team will pursue the necessary policy and funding flexibilities in 2024 as new issues arise.

2024 Legislative Agenda

Who Represents You?

Elected officials at the federal and state level play large roles in the funding that Portland Public Schools receives. Here is how to find the elected officials who have the most impact on PPS (names link to official website, where contact information is available):

United States Senate

• Jeff Merkley
• Ron Wyden

United States House of Representatives

• Earl Blumenauer

Governor, State of Oregon

• Tina Kotek

Oregon Legislature

• The enrollment area for PPS is represented by several different state representives and senators. To find yours, use the state's Find Your Legislator tool. 
• The Oregon Legislature regularly has bills up for consideration that affect public education. To see what potential laws are being considered, use the Session Details tool that outlines each day's agenda for the full house and senate and their committees.

Other key organizations

• Oregon School Boards Association: Serves boards for K-12 school districts, education service districts, community colleges and the State Board of Education. Practices legislative advocacy at state and federal levels.
• Coalition of Oregon School Administrators: Represents Oregon school leaders at the state and U.S. Capitol buildings.