Important update to the Academy for 2026-27

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Dear Academy Families,

This message is to share an important update regarding the Academy. To expand access to this successful program, SFUSD will relocate the program currently offered at the Academy to Wallenberg High School next school year. This transition also allows us to expand access to these valuable opportunities for more students, while also offering a wider range of academic courses, such as additional AP classes and electives, within a small school setting.

This means that beginning in the 2026-27 school year, the successful educational program currently offered at the Academy—featuring dual enrollment with City College of San Francisco (CCSF), internships, work-based learning, and access to the Mission Bay Hub—will move to Wallenberg High School. For families with students in the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (DHH) program, we understand that this program requires specific supports and settings and are exploring programmatic options where moving campuses may not be the best option. We will discuss the opportunity to remain at the McAteer Campus and become Ruth Asawa School of the Arts students in a special DHH family meeting. 

This change is the result of a multi-year effort that began when SFUSD engaged with students, families, educators, and community partners to identify what high school students need to be successful. Students voiced a strong desire for more real-world learning, college preparation, and career-connected experiences. In response, SFUSD piloted this new model at the Academy in the 2024-25 school year, and the results have been overwhelmingly positive—showing strong student engagement and meaningful preparation for college and career. 

Here’s what this means for you for the 2025-26 school year:

  • There is no change to your student’s experience for the current 2025-26 school year.

  • School operations will continue as usual at the Academy through June 2026. 

  • We recommend students remain at the Academy through the 2025-26 school year to continue receiving the full benefit of the program.

  • Open enrollment for spring transfers is currently available to all SFUSD students until November 14th 2025. For more information see: https://www.sfusd.edu/schools/enroll/apply/spring-transfer

Here’s what this means for you for the 2026-27 school year:

  • Students currently enrolled at the Academy will be automatically enrolled at Wallenberg for the 2026-27 school year.

  • Academy students will receive preferred enrollment if you choose to enroll in a different SFUSD high school. Please note that for Lowell and Ruth Asawa School of the Arts (RASOTA) Academy students need to meet each school’s specific enrollment criteria. 

  • We will have a dedicated, English/Spanish-speaking enrollment counselor to support Academy families through a smooth and informed transition.

  • In the coming weeks, the Enrollment Center will send a personalized letter to each Academy family with specific details and a direct enrollment link to make the process as easy and clear as possible.

Transition support for Academy students and families:

  • Academy staff will be meeting with students on Thursday, 10/2, and over the next few weeks to review the plan for the 2026-2027 school year

  • We are planning special tours of Wallenberg High School in the coming months for students and families to get to know the campus, staff, and program offerings.

  • We will provide thoughtful transition support for students, including peer buddy programs, specialized counseling and transcript review, and student gatherings. Staff from both schools will work closely together to ensure a welcoming and connected experience.

  • We will offer optional family meetings with district leadership to answer questions and hear your feedback:

    • (Virtual) Monday, October 6 from 6-7 pm: 9th grade students and families

    • (Virtual) Tuesday, October 7 from 6-7 pm: 10th grade students and families

    • (Virtual) Wednesday, October 8 from 6-7 pm: 11th grade students and families

    • (Virtual) Thursday, October 9 from 6-7 pm: 12th grade students and families

    • (Hybrid-In person and virtual option) Friday, October 10 from 9am-10am: Students and families in the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (DHH) program

While we will not be enrolling any new students into the Academy, please know that we are committed to maintaining the high-quality, inclusive, and supportive experience that students and families value. Transitioning the Academy’s program to Wallenberg allows us to offer more robust course options—such as additional AP classes and electives—while continuing the small school environment and personalized support that students and families have come to expect.

Interim Associate Superintendent of Educational Services Teresa Shipp and Assistant Superintendent of High Schools Davina Goldwasser will be working closely with you throughout this transition to ensure every student continues to thrive. Please feel free to reach out to them with any questions.

 

In community,

Dr. Maria Su

Superintendent of Schools