What is this policy all about?

It focuses on teaching kindergarten through 2nd grade children with explicit, systematic phonics programs. Instead of relying on guesswork or inconsistent strategies, PPS would use proven methods (like Orton-Gillingham or Wilson) so kids learn how letters and sounds really work.

Why does it matter for Portland?

In many Portland classrooms, reading instruction has varied from school to school. This leads to gaps in learning, especially for students who move or start off behind. By giving every school the same research-based framework, PPS can reduce inequities and ensure kids across the city build strong reading skills early.

What does the research say about phonics?

Studies by the National Reading Panel and the Institute of Education Sciences show that structured phonics helps all learners, especially those who struggle with reading. Children who read well by third grade improve in every subject, from math word problems to science textbooks.

How can PPS implement it without breaking the bank?

• Reallocate some existing professional development money to train teachers in K–2 reading strategies.

• Focus on small-group reading sessions, which can happen within current class time or in short pull-outs.

• Keep early-grade class sizes as low as possible so teachers can work closely with students who need extra support.

Did PPS try something like this before?

 The district has used various reading curricula over the years. Some schools have reading specialists, and some have adopted more phonics-based programs due to Oregon’s dyslexia law. However, there’s no consistent approach across all elementary schools, so the results depend on where a child is enrolled.

What will PPS do under this plan?

✅ Adopt a district-wide, phonics-based curriculum for K–2, ensuring all schools use the same high-quality materials.

✅ Provide ongoing training so that every teacher understands the science of reading and can track each child’s progress.

✅ Monitor and share reading data regularly, catching issues early before they snowball into bigger problems.

✅ Make early literacy a top priority in the district budget so teachers and reading specialists have the necessary resources.

Is this realistic?

 It may take time and coordination, but it’s doable. By unifying the approach, PPS avoids scattering funds on different reading programs. The payoff is huge: children who can read confidently by third grade are more likely to succeed in later years, making this one of the smartest investments the district can make.

When Will PPS Do This?

Immediately.