SF Board of Education Votes to Admonish Commissioner

San Francisco (August 2, 2022) - The San Francisco Board of Education unanimously voted to admonish Commissioner Ann Hsu for her recent written statements that undermine and run counter to the Board of Education's belief that the San Francisco Unified School District (SFUSD) is most responsible when students fail, and that all students can succeed regardless of their race, zip code, income level, or any other factor.

Statement from Board of Education President Jenny Lam and Vice President Kevine Bogess on the Board's Special Order of Business to Admonish of Commissioner Ann Hsu:

"The San Francisco Board of Education unanimously voted during the August 2 Special Meeting to formally admonish Commissioner Hsu for her written statements that perpetuate harmful stereotypes. 

"Contrary to her statements, the San Francisco Board of Education believes that the District is responsible for long standing educational gaps and that all students can succeed regardless of their race, zip code, income level, or any other factor. The Board’s work will continue to focus on providing every student with what they need to be successful academically and live empowered lives.  Improving student outcomes remains our priority. 

"Commissioner Hsu’s willingness at Tuesday night’s Board meeting to second the motion and vote in favor of the resolution demonstrates her contrition and her commitment to restoring the community’s trust.  Commissioner Hsu’s actions at the meeting are consistent with an ongoing willingness to listen and learn and expect her to continue repairing the harm done.

"Commissioner Hsu's comments come at a time when the Board is in the process of reforming its behaviors and processes to produce better outcomes for all students. 

"The Board now returns to its focus. Furthermore, the Board’s work moves forward to implement our community engagement and outreach plan to gather input on its initial draft version of the district’s vision, values, goals, and guardrails."

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