From the bottom of my heart: thank you

Friends, results have come in, and I have good news. Portland has elected, for this Portland School Board Zone 6 seat, one of the smartest, hardest campaigning, level-headed, and impressive candidates in recent memory. From experience in the PTA, to championing of Bike Buses and student health and independence, to a low-emissions lifestyle, Portland got a win today with the election of this first-time candidate.

I’m talking of course about my opponent, Stephanie Engelsman.

Steph deserved this win, as an accolade for her two decades as a public defender, her unceasing campaign work ethic, and someone I watched rocket from a relative unknown to dominating the endorsement scene. I am not disappointed in my loss. I've learned an incredible amount, and I know my platform helped advance some tough conversations and creative ideas. The final numbers don't tell the story of this race. In any other situation, I'd be over the moon with Steph's candidacy and election. I can say with confidence that you should be too.

I'm also excited that I get to continue my advocacy and community work full steam ahead, knowing I have a kindred spirit on the School Board to help overcome challenges at PPS. In fact, we have a board that seems poised to open a new chapter at PPS, to go along with this year's wonderful PPS superintendent and Portland city government.

I am exceptionally proud of the campaign we ran, and grateful to everyone who volunteered, donated, shared, or made any time for this race given what's going on nationally. Today is not an ending, or even the start of something new. For both the winners and losers, it is the growth and acceleration of a grassroots movement that gives me hope for this city and country.

If you want to stay in touch, you can email me at robg.pdx@gmail.com, or on Bluesky, @robgalanakis.bsky.social. Or catch me riding around town.

In gratitude and solidarity,
Rob Galanakis

PPS and the City of Portland are both facing historic budget crises. Getting out the other side requires the strong fiscal stewardship and commitment to community I know Rob will provide. I’m proud to endorse Rob G for Portland School Board, Zone 6.

— Portland City Councilor Mitch Green

My name is Rob Galanakis. I’m a parent of a 4th and 6th grader in PPS. Small business owner. Education, climate, and transportation advocate.

PPS faces a crisis: despite nationally average funding, our results are near the bottom.

We cannot base our solutions on a bailout from Salem or a tax hike.

We need inexpensive, urgent change based on deep community experience and policy expertise.

Let’s elect more than good intentions and unfunded promises. Elect the only candidate ready to start turning things around today.

On May 20th, vote for Rob “G” Galanakis, for your kids, schools, and city.

rob riding his bike and throwing the shaka hand sign, with his yard sign on his bike

Rob with an ice cream cone helmet talking to some kids

Policy Matters

We need more than unfunded good intentions. Let’s act with extreme urgency and creativity across our school, city, and county governments.

6th grade soccer team, with Coach Rob in the back

Healthy Kids

Animals have brains so they can move. We must increase the physical activity our kids get, both inside and outside of school.

Get moving

Safe Streets

Our transportation system robs youth of independence, health, and wealth. We can build a healthy, social, sustainable network.

Let's go

Rob giving testimony to the Portland City Council

Rob discussing housing with some advocates

Increased Enrollment

Broad upzoning will allow more housing in our most desirable neighborhoods, improving performance and enrollment.

Build it

Urgent Climate Action

Climate disasters are bearing down, and schools need to support the larger changes our community is making.

Stop wasting time

Families riding on the Bike Bus together with the sun behind them

Fiscal Stewardship

Read my comprehensive breakdown of the $1.8B May 2025 Bond.

Check it out

Meet Rob

You may have already seen me biking around the city on my bright orange e-cargo bike, usually with my two kids. Or on a Bike Bus in my bright yellow jacket, or Pedalpalooza ride. Or I've helped you cross a busy street, corked for your march, or shopped at your store.

If you see me, please say "Hi Rob G!"

Or shoot me an email robg.pdx@gmail.com, I love hearing from folks in our wonderful city.

Meet Rob