On Dec. 3, Portland Public Schools Superintendent Ryan Scallon sent a letter to the PPS community disagreeing with recent hateful rhetoric regarding immigrants and specifically the Somali community. The superintendent reiterated the district's support for all students, staff and community members. Read the letter below:

December 3, 2025

Dear PPS Students, Staff and Community,

Yesterday, President Trump made horrible and disparaging comments about immigrants, and specifically Somali immigrants.

As an individual and as the Superintendent of Portland Public Schools, I want to be clear that I fully disagree with his statements and the harm that they create. These types of statements create fear and divide communities. In March 2025, I made comments about our support for our immigrant and LGBTQIA+ communities. Based on this most recent statement from President Trump and the impact it is having on our community, I feel a need to reiterate our rejection of his hateful rhetoric and our support for all students, staff and community members.

I also want to remind everyone that hateful speech that creates an environment of harassment and discrimination will not be tolerated in our schools or offices. Anyone can report concerns using our Harrasment, Discrimination, and Sexual Harassment/Title IX form.

The Portland Public Schools is committed to creating safe, joyful and rigorous learning environments for all students and staff. Our schools reflect the rich diversity of Portland, including many students and staff from immigrant and multilingual backgrounds. Their identities, languages, and experiences are a valued and integral part of who we are as a district. We are fortunate to be the most diverse district in the state, and our community is stronger because everyone belongs here and contributes to our shared learning environments.

Our staff is available for any student who needs additional assistance. I encourage you to connect with your schools’ social workers or counselors or another trusted adult for support, when needed.

Sincerely,

Ryan Scallon

Superintendent