Commissioners Alexander and Sanchez propose SFUSD instructional funding resolution amid $100M deficit

In a pivotal meeting held at San Francisco City Hall, the Board of Education addressed a pressing issue: the significant budget deficit facing the San Francisco Unified School District (SFUSD). As the clock ticked towards the 2022-2023 school year, commissioners Matt Alexander and Mark Sanchez introduced a resolution aimed at prioritizing classroom instructional spending amidst an alarming projected deficit of approximately $100 million.

The resolution, which was discussed and refined since its introduction on May 4, emphasizes the need for SFUSD to align its budget with its core values of student-centered education, social justice, and diversity. The commissioners highlighted that California consistently ranks low in per-pupil funding, despite being one of the largest economies in the world. This disparity is particularly evident in San Francisco, where only about 30% of property tax revenue is allocated to schools, one of the lowest percentages in the state.

During the meeting, the commissioners read a series of "whereas" clauses that outlined the challenges SFUSD faces, including the need for an additional $180 million to reach the national average in per-pupil spending. They noted that while SFUSD has made strides in increasing classroom instruction spending, it still lags behind other large California districts. The resolution calls for a commitment to prioritize funding for classroom instruction and support services, aiming to keep resources as close to students as possible.

Public comments during the meeting reflected a mix of gratitude and concern. Alita Fisher, a community advocate, praised the resolution for incorporating feedback from previous discussions and for its specific calls for support in classrooms, such as the inclusion of paraeducators. However, she raised questions about oversight and accountability in implementing these initiatives. Reverend Brown, a teacher in the district, echoed the sentiment, emphasizing that the effectiveness of educational programs hinges on having the right personnel in place.

As the Board of Education moves forward with this resolution, it is clear that the path to achieving the ambitious goals laid out in SFUSD's Vision 2025 will require not only financial resources but also a collaborative effort from the community, educators, and policymakers. The resolution sets a foundation for ongoing discussions about how to best allocate funds and support the diverse needs of students across the district, ensuring that every child has the opportunity to succeed.