PPS Superintendent Announces 450 Job Cuts to Address Deficit

Portland Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Kimberlee Armstrong announced on Monday that the district may eliminate up to 450 full-time equivalent positions before the start of the 2027 school year. The move addresses a $65 million budget deficit facing the district.

Armstrong stated that 223 of the at-risk roles are school-based positions. These include teachers and other staff who work directly inside classrooms. The remaining cuts affect other district positions. Armstrong noted that the reduction means fewer educators and support staff available to serve students.

The district is weighing two specific plans to close the financial gap. One proposal involves closing as many as 14 schools. Both options would change programming for K through 8 students. Armstrong said selling the buildings from closed schools would provide one-time funds. Those funds could be used to improve facilities or reinvest in programs.

According to Armstrong and other district officials, rising pension rates and lower enrollment are the primary drivers of the financial crisis. She explained that funding is tied to student numbers. Fewer students result in less money for the district while operating costs continue to increase. Armstrong said staff members affected by the potential layoffs have not yet been notified.

More details regarding the proposed cuts are expected in January or February. Armstrong will submit a final recommendation on school closures to the board by the end of next week. The school board is scheduled to vote on the issue in December.

During the press conference, Armstrong acknowledged community efforts to save schools. She said the district needs financial help to maintain resources. Armstrong emphasized that supporting students with complex needs remains the primary focus of the district.

The announcement follows a period of declining birth rates in the area. Armstrong said the district aims to use building sales to stabilize the budget. The final decision will rest with the school board following their December vote.