Was it writer and activist June Jordan who inspired this school’s name? The June Jordan School for Equity. It stands as a beacon of hope in San Francisco’s Excelsior District. This high school is not just a place of learning. It is a testament to community action and a commitment to social justice.
June Jordan School for Equity began its journey in 2003. Small Schools for Equity was a non-profit. It was founded by teachers parents and students. They all shared a vision. They wanted a new kind of school for San Francisco.
Before opening its doors the founders studied successful schools. They worked with the San Francisco Organizing Project. Together they pushed for a district-wide Small Schools Policy. The San Francisco Unified School District agreed to consider new school proposals. Small Schools for Equity partnered with San Francisco State University. Their proposal was chosen from 30 applicants.
Initially June Jordan School for Equity held classes at San Francisco State University. It was the first high school with a formal partnership with a California State University. A year later the school found its permanent home. It moved to the former Luther Burbank Middle School campus. The students themselves chose the name June Jordan School for Equity.
The school faced challenges early on. In 2005 budget cuts threatened its closure. Parents and the San Francisco Organizing Project rallied. Over 1300 people attended a meeting. Mayor Gavin Newsom pledged to protect June Jordan School for Equity.
June Jordan School for Equity celebrated its first graduating class in 2007. An impressive 73% of graduates were admitted to four-year universities. This was a great achievement. The national average was less than 50%.
The school’s mission focuses on social justice community and independent thinking. It aims to empower working-class youth. It seeks to develop them into agents of positive change. The school stands against oppression. It values respect integrity courage and humility.
June Jordan School for Equity serves about 250 students. They come from San Francisco’s southeast neighborhoods. These neighborhoods face socio-economic challenges. The school addresses mental and physical health needs. It also has a parent organizing committee.
The school’s pedagogy prepares students for college. It also teaches them to be leaders. It helps them understand the forces of marginalization. It encourages them to overcome internalized oppression.
June Jordan School for Equity offers many programs. These include after-school activities language programs and special education. Students can participate in arts enrichment and athletics. The school also provides college counseling.
June Jordan School for Equity’s values spell out R.I.C.H. Respect Integrity Courage and Humility. These values guide the school’s work. They are as important as academic preparation. The school uses a performance assessment system. It is called YPAR. Students present their projects to community stakeholders.
As you stand here remember the story of June Jordan School for Equity. It is a story of community social justice and the power of education. It is a place where young people are prepared to change the world.