Academics

The Portland High School academic program serves over 1000 students from more than 30 countries with a spectrum of academic areas and levels of challenge. Each school day is four blocks long, with an eight -block schedule over two days, and an eight-day rotation for lab classes. Students attend advanced placement, honors, college, basic and practical level classes. In addition, many classes are non- leveled. For incoming non-English speaking students there are four levels of ESOL classes. IEP placements are available for special needs students. Many PHS students attend one of two sessions of the Portland Arts and Technology High School (PATHS).

Academic Departments are joined together in five Clusters which meet monthly to develop programs and disseminate information. Teachers are supported through membership in the Portland Education Association, and by the Liaison Committee in each building.

Students are assessed four times a year on a standard Portland High School Numerical Grade Scale. Students are supported in selecting courses from a Course Catalog, and in understanding school expectations through a clear and in-depth Student Portland High School Handbook. Each student is assigned to a homeroom teacher, a guidance counselor, an assistant principal and an available social worker.

Since 1991 Portland Public Schools, Parents and Portland High School, have been in a continuing process of defining, and putting into use Learning Results, a framework of curriculum standards which details expectations for behaviors and critical thinking skills manifest in successful students and the School Improvement (SIT) Process. Learning Results are a framework of curriculum standards which detail expectations for behaviors and critical thinking skills manifest in successful students. The School Improvement Process provides collaborative school operation by administration, staff, parents and students.

Academic Teams and Societies encourage student achievement beyond the classroom. Student Achievement is recognized in many ways.

PHS is a member of the New England Association of Schools and Colleges, and renews its accreditation every ten years.