San Francisco school board reviews Safe and Supportive Schools resolution amid public feedback

In a recent San Francisco government meeting, the focus was on the ongoing efforts to create Safe and Supportive Schools within the district. Superintendent Matthews opened the session by introducing the Safe and Supportive Schools Resolution, which aims to enhance positive behavioral interventions and reduce suspensions, particularly those based on willful defiance—a term that has historically led to disproportionate disciplinary actions against students of color.

Chief of Student, Family, and Community Support, Veil Lau Smith, presented an update on the resolution, highlighting its origins in 2014 and the significant milestones achieved since then. The policy was designed to foster a more inclusive educational environment by implementing restorative practices and positive behavioral interventions. Smith emphasized the importance of increasing instructional time and addressing racial disparities in school discipline.

The meeting also featured a detailed analysis of suspension data from 2016 to 2020, presented by Devin Corrigan from the Research Planning and Accountability department. Notably, the data revealed a dramatic decrease in suspensions during the 2020 school year, attributed to the shift to distance learning due to the COVID-19 pandemic. While this reduction was welcomed, concerns were raised about the underlying issues that may persist once in-person classes resume.

Public comments during the meeting underscored the need for more comprehensive training for educators on culturally responsive teaching and restorative practices. Several speakers expressed frustration over the optional nature of professional development opportunities, arguing that mandatory training is essential for meaningful change. There were calls for increased funding to support these initiatives, with many participants stressing that without adequate resources, the goals of the Safe and Supportive Schools Resolution may not be fully realized.

The discussions also touched on the importance of addressing the needs of marginalized student populations, including those with disabilities and from economically disadvantaged backgrounds. Advocates urged the district to ensure that all students receive equitable support and that the curriculum reflects diverse experiences.

As the meeting concluded, it was clear that while progress has been made, significant work remains to create a truly supportive educational environment for all students in San Francisco. The commitment to ongoing dialogue and community involvement will be crucial as the district navigates the challenges ahead.