The Ravenswood City School District has big decisions ahead of it this school year, and Innovate parent leaders are getting up to speed to engage in community meetings throughout this fall. We invite you to learn and engage along with us through this series of articles on key education issues in the community.
What’s going on in Ravenswood School District?
East Palo Alto’s Ravenswood School District went through many changes last school year. In November 2018, the school board changed over, with two new members joining, Stephanie Fitch and Tamara Sobomehim. In early 2019, the former Superintendent was forced to resign. The board chose long-time Ravenswood educator Gina Sudaria to serve as Interim Superintendent. In June, Superintendent Sudaria announced that the district is facing serious budget constraints and will need to close or consolidate several schools.
What’s next?
The school district is convening a steering committee to develop a new vision for Ravenswood, and a strategic plan to help the district achieve that vision over the next several years. They will be meeting and holding community engagement sessions this fall, and are encouraging all residents to share thoughts now through an online survey. We will keep you posted on upcoming opportunities to engage in the planning process.
How can I learn more?
Innovate’s East Palo Alto parent leaders gather regularly for trainings on key issues facing East Palo Alto students and connecting with community leaders. New families are always welcome to come share their stories about what is happening in their schools.
As we look ahead to the strategic planning process this fall, our families are eager to keep learning and to have a voice in this process. We know these changes will not be easy, but we are hopeful that with a strong community engagement process and a commitment to strong educational practices, this process will result in better education for all children.
“I think all students deserve the same high quality education, no matter the school, no matter the city. We are really hopeful that under the new leadership in the district, they will be able to build better relationships with families, elected board members, teachers, and others. It’s crucial that we’re all on the same page so we’re giving students our best.”
– Parent leader Cecilia Barragan, a lifelong EPA resident who attended Ravenswood schools
Want to get involved with our parent group?
Contact organizer Eva Orbuch at [email protected] or 650.562.6200 ext.105.