Urban Mamas

Our family lives in North Portland and our son will be attending Ockley Green Arts and Technology Magent School for kindergarten next year. We're very excited about this school but since it's not a "neighborhood school" you may not have heard about it (it's a public school but it's a "choice school for K-5 if any of this makes sense). I agree that PTA meetings are a great way to learn about a school as others have mentioned and become a part of your community. You can also go to the School Chat section on this website and follow comments on specific schools. There's a lot of growing energy in North Portland Schools these days- Beech has a sought after Spanish Immersion Program and all the Chief Joseph Elementary families I've met in NoPo, rave about their school.

I recommend joining the school's PTA...even if your child isn't there yet. I can't think of a better way to get to really know the ins and out and MAKE the school a place where you want your child to be. Just because you don't have a child there yet doesn't mean you can't be part of the school community.

I'm a teacher....Kelly T.

There was no event this year due to budget cuts unfortunately. the websites, talking to moms, getting tours, KG roundups are the most useful. Just being educated on all the many choices.

You are in the luxurious position of having time to go to the schools near you and actually visit. Talk to parents in the nearby parks. Enjoy your research- it's a special time to explore what is right for you and our family. The PPS wesbite is useful and there is an event every year, usually in Jan. to explore each school. Maybe it was at the Coliseum? You can call PPS and ask. I know you will be surprised with what you find. Have fun with it!