Portland Public Schools opened its official back-to-school welcome video for teachers and staff with drag performer Poison Waters, who thanked district employees for their work as the 2026-27 school year began. The choice has drawn sharp criticism from conservative commentators and school choice advocates, who accuse the district of promoting "gender ideology" and prioritising ideological messaging over education, while the district has not commented publicly on the backlash.

Waters, whose legal name is Kevin Cook, was introduced onscreen as an advocate, educator and host, and delivered a message wishing staff a successful year. Critics including Heritage Foundation fellow Corey DeAngelis, California superintendent candidate Sonja Shaw and Moms for Liberty co-founder Tina Descovich condemned the decision, arguing schools should focus on academics rather than "adult entertainment". The video, which also featured messages from Senator Jeff Merkley and Representative Maxine Dexter, surfaced weeks after a Portland mother sued the district and her children's elementary school over alleged retaliation for objecting to gender-identity curriculum content.