Why is Superintendent Carole Smith proposing Measure 26-121, the school facilities bond for safety and buildings?
PPS students do not have the same up-to-date classroom equipment, technology and other modern learning spaces as students in neighboring school districts with newer buildings. PPS school buildings have never been fully updated. The buildings are worn out with leaking roofs and drafty windows; energy-inefficient and antiquated heating, ventilation and plumbing systems; overtaxed electrical systems with few outlets and outdated safety systems. Measure 26-121 would provide dedicated money to address these needs and provide students and teachers with modernized schools. Without the bond, Portland Public Schools must continue to use scarce operating dollars for the most urgent building needs.
