Rebuilding public trust after a school health crisis

Abstract

Portland Public Schools serves nearly 50,000 students in 90 schools averaging 77 years of age. Building age combined with decades of deferred maintenance created serious health and safety issues, numerous unfavorable media reports and an irate public. In response, PPS Board of Directors commissioned an independent evaluation of various building-based risks and related operational and personnel breakdowns. This is the story of how PPS regained public trust, and along with it voter support for a $790M health, safety and modernization bond that includes funding to improve water quality, lead paint, radon, fire systems, roof repairs, asbestos, security and accessibility.