Belonging

As a staff member, you become a part of an inclusive community of educators and support staff ready to share the knowledge, skills, and abilities essential to thriving in a diverse environment. We recognize the importance of representation and the need for teachers and leaders to reflect the demographics of the student body. We strive to actively recruit, support, and retain BIPOC staff and work to create a culturally responsive and representative learning environment where everyone feels connected, supported, recognized, and empowered. 

We focus on embracing the diversity of thought, identity, and experience of our staff and students, and on creating opportunities for fellowship and relationship building within our schools and community. 

We commit to nurturing and developing teachers and leaders within Portland Public Schools and to investing in the long-term career growth of our staff in order to attain our goals of increased job satisfaction, personal fulfillment, and career success.We offer career and leadership development opportunities through district-wide programs such as professional development, on-the-job learning experiences, and mentoring that are intended to help you fulfill your career goals and aspirations. 

Listed below are some great opportunities to help PPS staff feel connected, supported, recognized, and empowered: 

• Opportunities for career advancement and leadership development (learn more about Elevating Educators)
• Mentoring, coaching, and professional development
• Participating in a staff Affinity Group: Affinity groups for BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) and LGBTQ+ staff
• Utilizing Course Reimbursement: Continue your education or advance your certifications all while working for PPS