Why kids can miss school next week

Vacation Absences Excused

Portland Public Schools isn’t "leaning hard" on persuading parents and students to cancel vacation plans, OPB reports. For next week, students can receive an excused absence for a previously planned winter break vacation, even as schools will be open to make up days missed during the strike. [OPB]

• Related: The teachers strike is over. Now what? [City Cast Portland 🎧]

Alaska Pilot Drives Home

The Alaska Airlines pilot who tried to shut off a plane was released from jail last week to await trial. Joseph Emerson told investigators he had recently taken psychedelic mushrooms before the flight on which he was a passenger. He’s also said he was suffering from depression. As a condition of his release, he can’t get near an airplane or use any substances, including alcohol — but he could return home to California by car. [KOIN]

County Challenges Zenith Permit

Multnomah County officials are asking state regulators to deny Zenith Energy’s air-quality permit, saying the "fossil fuel company … presents a danger to the community," the Oregonian reports. By contrast, the city of Portland has approved Zenith’s recent land-use permits, citing the company’s commitment to transition to renewable fuels. [Oregonian]

The Best Snowshoeing Trails Around Portland

Expert outdoor adventurer Norther Emily of Wild Solitude Guiding shares where to go to have the best snowshoeing experience in and around Portland. She’s also offering some good advice on how to stay warm while tromping out in the snow.