The 2022 Superintendent's 21st Century Award Winners

Jazmine’s passion for creating cultural artwork began in elementary school. As a resident of the Mission District, Jazmine grew up amid the colorful inspiration of houses, grocery stores, schools, and alleys adorned with murals. She continued her artistic expression through childhood with the Mission District's annual Carnaval parade.

Growing up in a small village in Sierra Leone, Zainab didn’t have access to textbooks or academic support, and was told by adults that “girls weren’t allowed to play sports.”

Zainab knew she wanted more opportunities. When she first enrolled in San Francisco International High School as a freshman, Zainab described herself as shy, scared, and nervous. She joined her school’s International Committee and Peace Club and the after school program, Community Youth Center.

At the start of Carlos’ freshman year at Balboa High School, he struggled to speak and understand English beyond an occasional greeting. With support from his English teachers and an after school program for newcomer students, Carlos emerged with a strong grasp of the language and soon discovered his love of math and politics.

When Un leng immigrated to America at the age of 10, she had a difficult time with the language barrier. With the support of her teachers and the books in her school library, Un leng forced herself to step outside of her comfort zone.

At Galileo Academy of Science and Technology, Un leng participated in the JCYC Talent Search program for college preparation and career exploration support. She credits her teachers and counselors with helping her stay on track, and with their encouragement, Un leng challenged herself to take AP classes and community college classes.

Growing up on San Bruno Avenue in the Portola District, Joanne developed a passion for learning about the diverse cultures that presented themselves in San Francisco, but most importantly, her own culture she identified with.

A participant of the decade-long Mandarin Immersion Program in SFUSD, Tashi says his ambitions were nurtured amid the vibrant learning environments of Starr King Elementary School and Aptos Middle School, where his teachers pushed him to reach his full potential.