As a parent of two children in the Portland Public Schools and a minister in this great and good city, I want to congratulate the Portland Association of Teachers and the PPS Board and Superintendent for coming to a contract resolution that avoids a strike. Faith leaders issued a statement this weekend calling on the parties to work for the common good of our children, and backing the teacher’s justifiable principles for a fair and just contract. I encourage the people of Portland to pray for our teachers, administrators and school children as we all seek reconciliation moving forward. We are deeply blessed to have so many in Portland committed to our public schools.

- Rev. Chuck Currie