UPDATE: Portland police have just cleared a homeless encampment near Portland High School on Lancaster Street, raising immediate safety concerns for students and local residents. This urgent action took place on Monday, as school officials and city authorities grapple with ongoing safety issues in the area.
Superintendent of Portland Schools has voiced strong concerns about the encampment, emphasizing that student safety is the top priority. “This situation has become untenable,” the superintendent stated, underlining the need for swift action. Reports confirm that Lancaster Street is a common parking area for students, heightening worries among parents and community members.
Residents living near Portland High School expressed their unease, with many feeling unsafe walking around the vicinity. Local parent groups are demanding more measures from the city to protect their children. “We simply want our kids to feel safe,” one parent remarked.
Portland Mayor Mark Dion acknowledged the complexity of the situation, stating, “They’re refusing services. So there’s the dilemma.” He highlighted that shelters in the area have available beds and are even contemplating the opening of a day shelter to assist those in need. “It’s a cycle,” Dion added. “They’ll go from there to another spot.”
The mayor also pointed out that the city previously had school resource officers, a program discontinued in 2020, which parents now wish could be reinstated for enhanced security. “I wish I had them today,” Dion admitted. “Once upon a time, we had them focusing directly on safety concerns.”
Currently, Portland’s police force is facing significant staffing shortages, with the mayor noting, “I’m still 27 officers down for full staffing. There’s a consequence to that.” The city has yet to receive a response from the school district regarding the potential revival of the school resource officer program.
As this situation continues to develop, parents and community members are calling for immediate action to ensure the safety of students at Portland High School. What happens next will be crucial for the community as they navigate these pressing concerns.
Stay tuned for further updates on this urgent matter as authorities work to address the safety needs of students and residents alike.
