PORTLAND, Ore. - For the first time in 10 years, the Portland Public Schools budget doesn't include major cuts.

School Superintendent Vicki Phillips unveiled her proposed budget Monday to reporters, saying the passage of the local option property tax in November helped prevent the sweeping cuts of years past.

Instead, she said her budget will allow students to put classes such as art, music, technology and physical education back into their schedules.

It is a dramatic contrast to last year, when all the talk centered on school closures and cutbacks.

Phillips described the 2007-2008 school year as one where advanced students will get new challenges and those struggling will get help early on.

Other spending priorities outlined Monday included:

• Expanding International Baccalaureate and Advanced Placement programs
• Adding alternative education slots to keep students in school
• Helping eighth grade students transition to high school
• Preparing low-income students for college readiness and success

Phillips will present her proposed budget at Monday night's school board meeting, which starts at 7 p.m.

A public hearing on the budget is scheduled for March 6. The school board is expected to vote on approving it on April 16. Final formal adoption by the board won't occur until June 25.