Former MultCo Chair Deborah Kafoury named Portland Public Schools Chief of Staff

PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) – Former Multnomah County Chair Deborah Kafoury has been named chief of staff for new Portland Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Kimberlee Armstrong, the school district announced Monday.

“I am thrilled to welcome Deborah to our team at this critical time,” Superintendent Armstrong said. “With her enhanced experience in education and government, she will provide transformational leadership for our philanthropic initiatives, Climate Justice objectives, and strategic partnerships across private and public sectors.”

“Advancing PPS is not just a district priority; our continued rise is integral to the city’s economic and social success,” Armstrong continued. “Deborah’s expertise will be invaluable and will contribute significantly to the overall success of our district and our city.”

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Kafoury previously spent 14 years on the Multnomah County Board of Commissioners, eight of which she served as chair. She was later succeeded by current Chair Jessica Vega Pederson when her term was up in 2022.

Kafoury’s first elected position was in the Oregon House of Representatives representing North and Northeast Portland from 1999 to 2005. Kafoury was also a House Democratic Leader for two years.

In a press release announcing the new chief of staff pick, PPS highlighted Kafoury’s county leadership overseeing $1 billion-worth of new projects including the new Sellwood Bridge, the Central Courthouse, the Multnomah County Health Department headquarters, and increased investments in culturally specific organizations.

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“I am thrilled to have this opportunity to work alongside Dr. Armstrong. The last few years have been challenging for PPS and for our community. Her commitment to advancing student achievement, inspiring teacher excellence and valuing community input is exactly what we need right now.” Kafoury said. “My number one goal is to ensure that she is successful in her endeavors.”

Kafoury will start her position as top advisor to Superintendent Armstrong July 16, 2024.

The announcement comes amid a leadership change at PPS after the district board approved Armstrong’s contract in early June.

Armstrong was one of three finalists for the role after former superintendent Guadalupe Guerrero stepped down in February 2024. His departure came after a month-long teacher strike that ended with a three-year deal and while the district needs to slash tens of millions of dollars from its budget.

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