NHPI Matua Advisory Council urges SFUSD to address 69% chronic absenteeism and expand culturally specific programs

The Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander (NHPI) Matua Advisory Council presented demographic data and a set of recommendations asking SFUSD to act on persistent disparities for Pacific Islander students.

Council presenters reported that NHPI enrollment was about 888 students in 2022–23 (down from 927 the prior year) and highlighted a chronic absenteeism rate of roughly 69% for NHPI students in 2021–22. The council also cited proficiency gaps: NHPI third‑grade reading proficiency at 24% and eighth‑grade NHPI math proficiency at 19% (presentation slides and verbal remarks).

The advisory council asked the district to: expand culturally relevant curriculum and programming; sustain and expand pre‑K Samoan dual‑language offerings and create a kindergarten pathway; recruit and retain NHPI staff in roles from classroom teacher to principal and counselor; and invest in community‑based strategies to reduce chronic absenteeism. Presenters urged consistent, disaggregated data reporting and regular status reports on implementation of recommendations.

Board reaction and next steps: Commissioners thanked Matua presenters and asked staff to ensure Matua recommendations are reflected in the district’s LCAP (Local Control and Accountability Plan). Staff described targeted recruitment efforts in HR and existing partnerships that can support pipeline development. Commissioners asked for regular status updates and stronger linkages between advisory recommendations and district budget and planning cycles.

Why it matters: The council’s data show a concentrated gap for NHPI students that district leaders and community members say requires tailored, long‑term investments. Commissioners acknowledged the longstanding nature of these disparities and the need for accountability to move council recommendations into actionable district plans.