Asian American Pacific Islander (AAPI) Month

Published in Chinese in Sing Tao Daily on Monday, May 19.  

By Dr. Maria Su:  Link to this section

I am a proud San Franciscan and I am inspired by our diverse city everyday. This diversity is beautifully reflected in our schools as well. During May, which is Asian American & Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month, we proudly honor the rich histories and contributions of our AAPI communities. As someone of Vietnamese and Chinese descent, this month is especially meaningful to me. I take pride in my heritage, my family’s traditions and in uplifting the voices and stories of our AAPI students, staff, and families across our district. 

During this month, SFUSD educators have aligned lesson plans and many schools are holding assemblies celebrating the history and heritage of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders. A few highlights from our schools: 

James Lick Middle School had a Polynesian Club showcase on May 7 after school with dancing and music. 

R.L. Stevenson Elementary had an assembly on May 12 with a heritage fashion show, music, trivia, storytelling, and samples of a Tongan drink and food (Otai and Sapa Sui). They also featured Kendama games, Hmong coloring sheets, origami, and other activities spanning various Asian and Pacific Islander cultures.

Sunnyside Elementary School is having a heritage morning on May 21, with food and “The Islands" fashion show. 

Commodore Sloat Elementary School is having an assembly on May 22 where lumpias and otai will be served.

Schools and students celebrate AAPI Heritage Month in many ways. Several SFUSD students are highlighted for their contributions to the AAPI community– one of SFUSD high school students was among the winners of the 2025 AAPI Youth Change Maker Awards. The AAPI Youth Change Maker Awards honor two students for their distinct and outstanding community service. 

I encourage you to join me at one of the plethora of AAPI Heritage events in San Francisco — anything from workshops to movies to tea tastings. The San Francisco Public Library hosts Weaving Stories, SFPL’s celebration of Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander heritage through music, dance, film, and the written word. There are so many ways to cultivate deeper relationships and mutual awareness this month for students and adults alike. 

I am grateful to our teachers and staff who bring their whole selves to make our schools vibrant, safe, and welcoming learning environments for our students.

Dr. Maria Su is Superintendent of the San Francisco Unified School District.