(9-7-25) Portland, Oregon High School Band directors from Cleveland, Franklin, Grant, Jefferson, Lincoln and Ida B. Wells have made the decision after repeated failed attempts at clarifying the language in their employment contracts that they will not be performing at football or basketball games this season.
Band directors involved said their pay schedule for after school activities does not reflect what their position requires.
According to Portland Public Schools (PPS), band directors have always been paid according to their contract, which has never included additional pay for after school activities.
Portland Public Schools Director of Media Relations Valerie Feder told KOIN 6 –
“We recognize how valuable these programs are to students, athletes, and the broader school community. PPS remains committed to discussing the topic with PAT and exploring ways to support educators and maintain strong extracurricular programs during this process.”
The letter sent by the band directors to the PPS administration—
This all comes as PPS and the teachers union have been discussing a fair contract for the past two years, following the teachers strike that took place in 2023.
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