PORTLAND, Ore. — Hundreds of educators gathered in Pioneer Courthouse Square calling for more education funding.
The “Take it to the MAX” rally on Wednesday was organized by the Oregon Education Association. Educators rode the MAX train to Pioneer Courthouse Square, where they held signs and chanted for 45 minutes.
Teachers said the proposal by the Joint Committee for Student Success that would put $2 billion into school across Oregon has not changed their efforts.
The proposal hinges on a new business tax called a commercial activity tax.
“We’re hopeful but that’s far from a done deal,” said Beaverton Education Association president Sarah Schmitt.
Suzanne Cohen, president of the Portland Association of Teachers, said members are still planning to participate in a state wide walk out May 8.
Classrooms in Crisis. KGW has interviewed dozens of teachers and school administrators about an increase in verbal, physical and sometimes violent disruptions in Oregon and Southwest Washington classrooms. We’ve received emails from hundreds of additional teachers who tell similar stories. Many teachers say they don’t have the proper training, support or resources to deal with this disruptive behavior. The teachers don’t blame the kids, pointing out that many students have suffered trauma in their lives; however, they say the current law makes it difficult to handle these incidents effectively. In many cases they are forced to clear all other students out of a classroom until a disruptive student can calm down. We will continue to tell these stories and push for solutions from lawmakers and school officials.
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