San Francisco Unified launches Empower SF platform and reports graduation rate progress

The San Francisco Unified School District (SFUSD) held a meeting on July 4, 2025, focusing on community safety, educational advancements, and upcoming enrollment deadlines. Superintendent highlights included gratitude for the community's efforts to maintain safety during challenging times, emphasizing the importance of vaccinations to prevent severe illness.

A significant milestone was announced with the launch of Empower SF, a new online human resources and business management platform. This system aims to modernize payroll and attendance processes, with over 5,000 employees already engaged. The first paycheck through this system is set to be distributed soon, marking a key achievement for the district.

The meeting also addressed improvements in graduation rates, with SFUSD reporting an increase from 84.4% in the 2016-2017 school year to 88.3% in 2021. This improvement is attributed to enhanced tracking systems and early intervention measures for students at risk of not graduating.

Additionally, the district reminded families that the application deadline for the next school year is February 4. Parents of children entering kindergarten, middle school, or high school are encouraged to apply through the district's website or visit designated offices for assistance in multiple languages.

Lastly, the meeting highlighted the district's Career Technical Education (CTE) programs, which provide students with practical learning experiences and industry partnerships, preparing them for future careers. These initiatives reflect SFUSD's commitment to equipping students with the skills necessary for success in both college and the workforce.