Ethnic Studies in SFUSD
We value the historical memory, impact, and lessons of movements for racial justice organized to improve our education system. Prior to the formal founding of our project, collective members organized to institutionalize Ethnic Studies in SFUSD, starting with 5 pilot sites in 2009. In 2014 we led grassroots advocacy to expand the pilot to all 19 high schools. We proudly consider SFUSD as a model district, providing valuable lessons and best practices. The successes of the Ethnic Studies pilot was documented by Stanford in 2016, analyzing student data between 2011-14. There is quantitative data that correlates these courses to reduce unexcused absences, while significantly increasing a student’s attendance, cumulative GPA, and credits earned.
In coalition with partners, we developed the Solidarity Organizing Project’s school-to-community leadership model at Balboa High in the Excelsior District. In partnership with the Balboa’s CAST (Creative Arts for Social Transformation) and PULSE (Peers United for Leadership, Service and Equity) pathways we cultivated youth engagement in campaigns addressing issues of equity, racial justice, and health. Together we contributed to various critical policy fights that have positively impacted the lives of thousands of young people and their lives, such as the victory to make MUNI Free for Youth in 2014. SOP was an incubator for the evolution of our 5E model, informing our best practices, providing us with valuable professional experience, and strengthening strategic partnerships.
