SFUSD Adopts Arts Equity Plan

San Francisco (January 25, 2022) - The San Francisco Board of Education has formally adopted Arts and Creativity 2025, a plan for implementing equitable arts education in the San Francisco Unified School District (SFUSD).

Under the plan SFUSD outlines steps it will take to increase equity in the types and number of arts offerings at each school and improve the quality of curriculum centered on students’ interests and cultures. Programming will include targeted systems solutions for students who have been historically excluded from arts and creativity education, including students of historically disadvantaged racial groups, English learners, students with special needs, and students who have not had prior access/training in the arts. Expanded offerings may include hip-hop, Chinese traditional instruments, and Filipino dance. 

“As a teacher and author of the Arts Equity resolution, I know how important it is to include the arts in student learning, and have seen the positive impact having taught and implemented these values,” said Board of Education President Gabriela López. “As shared in this plan, our district is committed to continue to increase access and the cultural relevance of our arts programming.”

The plan will also focus on creating clarity and coherence, aligning programming across school/department staff, community partners and working artists. Key strategies include working with teachers to develop sequential curriculum aligned to the CA Standards for the Arts; needs-based resource assessments and allocation of diverse staffing; and the use of data to inform Arts programming. Additionally, SFUSD will galvanize the San Francisco community around arts and creativity, growing more meaningful partnerships with community-based organizations, city agencies, philanthropy, and families to provide students with meaningful arts experiences.

“We strive to ensure that each and every SFUSD student receives a quality arts and creativity education that is rigorous, sustained, sequential, interdisciplinary, and culturally relevant,” said Superintendent Dr. Vincent Matthews. "We are committed to breaking down existing barriers and creating new pathways for students of all backgrounds to participate in relevant and inspiring arts and creativity and reap their many benefits.”

Full implementation of this resolution will occur when funding is stabilized. Read the resolution and plan, and view the presentation from the Board of Education Regular Meeting on January 24, 2022.

About the SFUSD Arts Department

The SFUSD Arts Department is an educational program within SFUSD’s Division of Curriculum & Instruction supporting five Arts disciplines: dance, media arts, music, theater, and visual art. 

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