School
Our Story
Founded in 2003 by a team of educators and parents, The Emerson School was built on a passion for hands-on, experiential learning through project-based education. From its beginning, Emerson has combined the Project Approach, Positive Discipline, Service Learning, and multi-age classrooms to create a unique and supportive learning community—one that continues to serve as a model of engaged teaching and learning.
Emerson students are frequently out in the city, exploring local parks, libraries, and cultural centers, learning directly from their environment and community experts. Alongside this real-world learning, students enjoy daily physical education and recess, while meeting all Oregon State Standards and Benchmarks. Our students consistently perform above both State and District averages on assessments, reflecting our commitment to academic excellence and whole-child development.
The Emerson School is a non-profit public charter school, sponsored by the Portland Public School District. Admission is open to all district residents through a blind lottery process, ensuring fair access for every family.
23 years serving Portland
Educating over 1000 students
6 Local Partners
Including independent and corporate sponsers
Nominated Best of Rose City
For Schools in 2025
Emerson’s teachers are dedicated, passionate, and student-centered, creating hands-on, engaging lessons that meet individual needs. Using project-based learning, positive discipline, and multi-age instruction, they foster classrooms where students feel safe to explore, ask questions, and grow. Every child is known, supported, and empowered to thrive.
The Emerson School is overseen by a Board of Directors committed to supporting the school’s mission and community.
The board holds open public meetings the second Tuesday of each month at 5:30 pm (except July), usually in The Harrison Square Boardroom. Agendas and Zoom links are shared in advance, and all community members are encouraged to attend.