Students in Portland Public Schools (PPS) will be dismissed early on Monday due to anticipated high temperatures, affecting all grade levels from elementary through high school. According to an announcement by district officials cited by OregonLive, elementary schools will release at 11:30 a.m., followed by K-8 and high schools at 12:30 p.m., and finally middle schools at 1:00 p.m.
The decision, which aims to quickly ensure the safety of students in the face of the heatwave, also calls for the cancellation of after-school activities, including childcare services, as stated in a report by KOIN. PPS athletics will adhere to the Oregon School Activities Association (OSAA) regulations when deciding on the status of practices and other activities. Students, however, will not leave without a meal. Officials confirmed they would be "served meals before being dismissed."
This heat contingency plan is not just affecting public schools. Albina Head Start and Early Head Start programs are set to dismiss students early as well, with all classrooms closing their doors by 1:00 p.m. This information comes parallel to PPS's announcement and was independently reported by KOIN.
The district is also actively giving out advice to cope with the high heat. They encourage families to make certain their children stay hydrated, take regular breaks, and avoid excessive physical activity under the hot sun, according to a statement provided to KATU. As the temperatures continue to climb, PPS has indicated that more information regarding heat safety response is readily available for those concerned.
