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School News

SUNset in SW Portland?
Because of cuts in the Multnomah County budget and Children’s Investment Fund, the SUN programs at Robert Gray and Jackson are in danger of being eliminated. These are among the few programs available at these schools for kids in special need of a stimulating enrichment program. For more, go to swni.org/schools and click on “SUNset”.

What’s a Schools Committee?

Go to our website swni.org/schools and click on “About the Schools Committee”, then “Schools Committee Role and Issues”.


Long-range Facilities Plan for Portland Public Schools
My report last month was premature on a November retry on the construction bond that suffered a narrow 600-vote construction bond defeat in May. Portland Public Schools (PPS) is not saying when, if ever, a bond measure will appear on the ballot. Meanwhile PPS is going to the public for feedback on its long-range facilities plan to repair and upgrade schools. PPS is working to improve public process and clarity on the specific needs at each school, so please attend public meetings or go to the PPS website for information. The SWNI Schools Committee will be working to be sure SW Portland is getting its fair share of improvements in the plan.

“State of Our Schools” Survey Results
out this month.
We’ll send out an email and post the results on our website when they are available. Results will be used to determine priorities for community support of our schools, and help answer questions about the current condition of our neighborhood schools.

Renewed Call for Schools Committee Members
Some neighborhood associations have not sent reps to the Schools Committee. They’re missing a chance to weigh in on a government agency that has a huge impact on our neighborhoods. Not only is Portland Public Schools one of the biggest public agencies in Portland, families often choose where to live by the quality of schools, so a good neighborhood needs good schools. We protect and support our schools through vigorous, continued oversight. Email schools@swni.org or call Will Fuller at 503-764-5501 for more information.

Next Meeting:

Thursday, March 15, 7 PM at the SWNI Office – Room 5, Multnomah Center 7688 SW
Capitol Hwy at 31st