Portland Schools Policy for Music on Buses Gets Bad Rap

Portland Public Schools are backing away from a memo saying rap music is inappropriate.

The memo, which had been sent to all PPS drivers, listed several "approved" radio stations that could be played while students are present on the bus.

Approved stations play pop, country, and jazz.

"The stations that are deemed inappropriate include any religious, rap music, or talk show programs."

The outcry didn't take long once the memo started circulating with parents.

Portland Public Schools quickly backed off.

"We regret the way this was communicated," said district spokeswoman, Courtney Westling. " Our intent was to limit student exposure to religious teachings, profanity and violent lyrics.

"The transportation department will be revising its guidance to bus drivers shortly to be more inclusive of different genres of music."

The music ban is far from the first action in Portland that has raised questions of racial sensitivity.

Last week, the former owner of Exotica, a men's club, sued the city saying she had been targeted by over-regulation because of her race and that if she'd been white, her place would still be open.