Summary of 6/1/23 meeting

Posted on

June 7, 2023

Dear Edwin and Anita Lee Newcomer School Staff and Families,

Thank you to those of you who attended the meeting at Edwin and Anita Lee Newcomer School (EALNS) on Thursday June 1, 2023. We are writing to provide a summary of the meeting.

SFUSD is committed to providing a welcoming, nurturing, and supportive educational environment for our students so that they can achieve stronger learning outcomes. At the meeting on June 1, 2023, we shared information about our proposal to relocate EALNS to co-locate at Jean Parker Elementary so that students are able to benefit from the best educational experience possible. The proposal prioritizes stability and continued access to important services and programs for newcomer students and families. At the same time, EALNS students can immerse themselves in a diverse school environment to strengthen their English language foundational skills. Chinese newcomer families can also foster stronger partnerships with the school over time.

We appreciate the questions and feedback that were raised by staff and families at the meeting. In addition to improved communication and engagement, the community shared that more time was needed for effective coordination to minimize disruption to instruction in the beginning of the school year.

Please be advised that no changes will be made for August 16, 2023. Students and staff should report to 657 Merchant Street on August 16, 2023 to begin the 2023-24 school year.

In the Fall, the project team will share additional information and opportunities for you and other community stakeholders to provide feedback about the impact of proposed changes. Please reach out to Karissa Yee Findley, Director of School Portfolio Planning, at yeefindleyk@sfusd.edu if you have questions in the meantime.

The Edwin and Anita Lee Newcomer School (EALNS) is part of an important legacy in San Francisco. We appreciate your partnership and support for newcomer students so that they can thrive during their transition to a new country.

We look forward to welcoming you back in the Fall, and hope you have a great summer break.

Thank you,
Dawn Kamalanathan
Associate Superintendent of Operations