At the expense of a holistic, needs-based approach, Portland Public Schools is once again engaging in shell games (Portland Public Schools announces reduced costs to build what may have been the most expensive high schools in the United StatesDec. 4). The district is trying to justify its action by arguing that it is an equitable solution to costly development projects. However, there will be disparities between Ida B. Wells, Cleveland, and Jefferson high schools and the others that have previously undergone renovations if funds are diverted from their urgently needed replacement.
Comparing these three schools to the current benchmarks for these initiatives would result in a significant reduction. The administration, instructors, support staff, parents, students, and the community have all been heavily involved in the process of creating the current designs. The new facilities are built with realistic assumptions of what it will require to give every student a top-notch educational experience rather than unnecessary additions.
Elementary and middle schools undoubtedly require extensive renovations and repairs. Nevertheless, undermining the high schools’ budget and breaking community pledges is not the solution. Rather, the solution is to include the expenses of those projects in a comprehensive financial strategy that fully addresses the district’s future and overarching goal. PPS repeatedly tries to avoid advocating for a genuine and comprehensive policy that involves all stakeholders in laying the groundwork for a top-notch educational system for coming generations.
Portland’s Reuben Nisenfeld
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