Portland Public Schools looks to attract, retain more teachers of color Two-year teachers union agreement prioritizes workforce diversity and support for BIPOC educators A newly approved contract with the Portland Association of Teachers aims to increase diversity within the ranks of Portland Public Schools teaching staff, while offering extra compensation and support for teachers who lead affinity clubs and teach students in more than one language. The Portland Public Schools Board unanimously approved a two-year agreement with the teachers' union Tuesday, June 29. The contract, which spans the current and next academic year, was hailed as a step forward for attracting and supporting educators of color.