The Duniway PTA Advocacy Committee (DAC) welcomes families, educators, and community members to join us in supporting robust public education for all. We work to improve access to clear and timely K-12 education information from Portland Public Schools, the school board, advocacy organizations and State legislative actions, helping families and the wider community engage in shaping equitable education policies and practices. By centering the voices of historically underserved students—including BIPOC students, LGBTQIA+ students, immigrant students, students who receive special education services, and other students belonging to marginalized groups—we aim to foster a school environment where every child feels seen, supported, and empowered to succeed.

Public education benefits everyone, and together, we advocate for a stronger, more inclusive future for all students.

2025-2026 Focus and Goals:

• Legislative Advocacy and Funding Reform: We will continue to advocate for meaningful education policy and funding at the state level during the 2026 short legislative session. This includes supporting tax reform efforts that prioritize public education and communicating the importance of sustainable school funding through coordinated messaging with educators, families, and union leaders.
  

• Special Education and Systemic Equity: Following the 2025 legislative session’s failure to advance special education reform, we will use this interim period to build connections across the state and elevate the experiences of students with disabilities to inform future policy. Our goal is to push for more equitable, inclusive, and fully funded special education services.

• Representation and Belonging: We aim to foster a school culture where LGBTQIA+, BIPOC, immigrant, and other historically marginalized communities feel seen and valued. This includes integrating representation into everyday school life through inclusive art, physical spaces, visibility efforts, and cultural practices such as land acknowledgments and inclusive discipline conversations.

• Inclusive Events and Community Access: We will work with event committees to ensure all Duniway families feel welcome and represented at PTA and school events. This includes implementing sliding fee scales, sensory-friendly hours, inclusive themes, and highlighting BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ businesses. We also plan to deepen connections with broader community efforts.