In light of significant student absences in the wake of a surge in immigration enforcement, the Portland Board of Public Education held a special business meeting on Thursday, Jan. 29, to consider a targeted and limited emergency remote school plan. After public comment and discussion, the Board voted not to approve an emergency remote option at the present time but to continue to monitor attendance daily; and if absences rise to 20 percent district-wide, the Board will hold an emergency meeting. In the meantime, the district will continue to provide support for students who are experiencing learning loss.

Watch the meeting on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vs99Wbl9i0I

Here is the specific motion that the Board voted on Jan. 29 to approve: "To not move forward with activation of an emergency remote option, but continue to monitor attendance daily. If absences rise to 20% overall, it will trigger an emergency meeting of the Board. This monitoring will start February 2, 2026. The Board will continue to expect the district to prepare for future emergency learning and proceed to redistribute resources to provide tutoring and supports for students who have experienced learning loss."