The Stanford-SFUSD partnership helps to build a body of evidence to inform decisions in hopes of improving policy, practices and outcomes for students. When I see administrators reference the research as evidence to justify a decision that will positively impact students, that’s a win.

At Civic Center Secondary, at the root of all we do are the concepts of peace, justice, equity, struggle, and liberation. We say to our students, “I am not successful until you are successful” and that is a pledge from the adults to the students. And the students test that, to see if you’ll give up on them. But when you don’t give up on them, they understand that and then trust has been established. That’s what we do.

I began my SFUSD career as an elementary school secretary and those daily tasks exposed me to the true meaning of diversity, fearlessness and social justice. My role in assisting the Superintendent is truly my dream job. I experience how ideas that guide SFUSD students and their education are created and brought to life. Dr. Matthews gives me daily doses of inspiration and sparks my motivation with his deep commitment, dedication and a smile for all students and staff of SFUSD. It is a challenge that I am humbled by and rewarded for in so many ways.

I was close to the previous Board of Education student delegates from Lowell, and they inspired me to “go for it.” As a Student Delegate, I will try and be a role model by being honest and a friend to other students. The Student Advisory Council is an amazing program for its inclusivity and mission to be a platform for student voice and engagement.

Equity is at the center of everything I do, ensuring every child has equal access to instruction in the classroom. I am always building my knowledge and seeking ways I can improve as an educator and building my capacity so I can show my best self when teaching and interacting with my students and colleagues. I teach my students the power of yet. That we are all still learning, and that it may take someone a little longer to learn something but as long as we’re getting better, as long as we’re improving, that's what really matters.