Last night, the presumptive frontrunners for Oakland Mayor – former longtime House Representative Barbara Lee and former Oakland City Councilmember Loren Taylor – met at Chef Michele McQueen’s Town Fare in downtown Oakland to state their case to be Oakland’s next Mayor. Brought to you by Empower Oakland and Black Action Alliance, with recognized support…
The Oakland Education Week in Review 1.20.2025
It’s time for the Oakland Ed Week in Review! We’re back with our roundup of education news from around The Town, the Bay Area, State, and Nation for your weekend reading. This is a Dirk favorite and one of the last blogs he published for Great School Voices. Here’s what’s been going on: Here in…
Lighthouse Public Schools Open Seats: Week of 1/15/25
Great School Voices publishes open seats reports for Oakland public schools. Each week we share Open Charter Seats, and we are now be publishing open seats for Lighthouse Public Schools as well.
Open Charter Seats, Week of January 15, 2025
There is still time to enroll your child in an amazing Oakland school for the current school year. You know where to go – Oakland Enrolls to submit your application.
The Oakland Education Week in Review 1.13.2025
It’s time for the Oakland Ed Week in Review! Happy New Year from Great School Voices Team! As we step into another exciting chapter of our academic journey, we’re energized by the opportunities ahead to amplify voices, share inspiring stories, and tackle the challenges in education together. Here’s to a year of collaboration, equity, and…
Lighthouse Public Schools Open Seats: Week of 1/8/25
Great School Voices publishes open seats reports for Oakland public schools. Each week we share Open Charter Seats, and we are now be publishing open seats for Lighthouse Public Schools as well.
Open Charter Seats, Week of January 8, 2025
The application is now open and accepting students at OaklandEnrolls.org. FYI – The On-Time application for the 2025-26 School Year is now open!
The Oakland Education Week in Review 12.16.2024
It’s time for the Oakland Ed Week in Review! We’re back with our roundup of education news from around The Town, the Bay Area, State, and Nation for your weekend reading. This is a Dirk favorite and one of the last blogs he published for Great School Voices. Here’s what’s been going on: Here in…
Open Charter Seats, Week of December 18, 2024
There is still time to enroll your child in an amazing Oakland school for the current school year. You know where to go – Oakland Enrolls to submit your application.
Lighthouse Public Schools Open Seats: Week of 12/18/24
Great School Voices publishes open seats reports for Oakland public schools. Each week we share Open Charter Seats, and we are now be publishing open seats for Lighthouse Public Schools as well.
All students pay the price when strict bathroom policies have to be implemented
At my school, it’s challenging to gain access to the bathroom. When we use the bathroom is something many of us take for granted in our day-to-day lives. Not high school students. Bathroom restrictions are very common for us.
The Oakland Education Week in Review 12.9.2024
It’s time for the Oakland Ed Week in Review! We’re back with our roundup of education news from around The Town, the Bay Area, State, and Nation for your weekend reading. This is a Dirk favorite and one of the last blogs he published for Great School Voices. Here’s what’s been going on: Here in…
Lighthouse Public Schools Open Seats: Week of 12/11/24
Great School Voices publishes open seats reports for Oakland public schools. Each week we share Open Charter Seats, and we are now be publishing open seats for Lighthouse Public Schools as well.
Open Charter Seats, Week of December 11, 2024
There is still time to enroll your child in an amazing Oakland school for the current school year. You know where to go – Oakland Enrolls to submit your application. The application is now open and accepting students at OaklandEnrolls.org. There are great schools for your child, including schools that won Raise the Bar Awards – AIMS, Aspire Lionel Wilson, and…
Just Give Us The Money: Why schools should pay students for academic excellence
As children of divorced parents, my siblings and I can struggle with motivating ourselves to do well in school. My brother is failing out of his freshman year of high school.I know if we still lived with my dad, he would have the motivation to keep his grades up. When my brother failed his first semester, none of his teachers or his counselor reached out with concern. It is important to note that it is not the school’s fault our family is experiencing unfortunate circumstances. However, the issue is how are schools going to support students through hardships so that we can continue to succeed?
Does having a quality school lunch matter when it comes to students’ academic performance?
As a Hispanic daughter who comes from a low-income family I am grateful for the food that is provided to me. Yet at my school, I would watch as kids threw their food in the trash without eating it. I feel bad about all the food being wasted but at the same time, I understood why no one could eat it.
Open Charter Seats, Week of December 4, 2024
There is still time to enroll your child in an amazing Oakland school for the current school year. You know where to go – Oakland Enrolls to submit your application. The application is now open and accepting students at OaklandEnrolls.org. There are great schools for your child, including schools that won Raise the Bar Awards – AIMS, Aspire Lionel Wilson, and…
The Oakland Education Week in Review 12.2.2024
It’s time for the Oakland Ed Week in Review! We’re back with our roundup of education news from around The Town, the Bay Area, State, and Nation for your weekend reading. This is a Dirk favorite and one of the last blogs he published for Great School Voices. Here’s what’s been going on: Here in…
Open Charter Seats, Week of November 27, 2024
There is still time to enroll your child in an amazing Oakland school for the current school year. You know where to go – Oakland Enrolls to submit your application. The application is now open and accepting students at OaklandEnrolls.org. There are great schools for your child, including schools that won Raise the Bar Awards – AIMS, Aspire Lionel Wilson, and…
The Oakland Education Week in Review 11.25.2024
It’s time for the Oakland Ed Week in Review! We’re back with our roundup of education news from around The Town, the Bay Area, State, and Nation for your weekend reading. This is a Dirk favorite and one of the last blogs he published for Great School Voices. A Thanksgiving Message to the Oakland Education…
Lighthouse Public Schools Open Seats: Week of 11/20/24
Great School Voices publishes open seats reports for Oakland public schools. Each week we share Open Charter Seats, and we are now be publishing open seats for Lighthouse Public Schools as well. Please see below for a list of open seats by grade level (blue represents open seats), and go to
https://lighthouse.schoolmint.com/login to apply.
Open Charter Seats, Week of November 20, 2024
There is still time to enroll your child in an amazing Oakland school for the current school year. You know where to go – Oakland Enrolls to submit your application. The application is now open and accepting students at OaklandEnrolls.org. There are great schools for your child, including schools that won Raise the Bar Awards – AIMS, Aspire Lionel Wilson, and…
Restorative Justice for Oakland Youth (RJOY) Offers Opportunity to Heal
Restorative Justice for Oakland Youth (RJOY) has been at the forefront of implementing these practices in Oakland schools, demonstrating significant success in reducing suspensions and expulsions while increasing student GPAs.
The Oakland Education Week in Review 11.18.2024
It’s time for the Oakland Ed Week in Review! We’re back with our roundup of education news from around The Town, the Bay Area, State, and Nation for your weekend reading. This is a Dirk favorite and one of the last blogs he published for Great School Voices. Here’s what’s been going on: Here in…
Lighthouse Public Schools Open Seats: Week of 11/13/24
Great School Voices publishes open seats reports for Oakland public schools. Each week we share Open Charter Seats, and we are now be publishing open seats for Lighthouse Public Schools as well.
Open Charter Seats, Week of November 13, 2024
There are great schools for your child, including schools that won Raise the Bar Awards – AIMS, Aspire Lionel Wilson, and BayTech among others have open seats for new students for any grade level from TK to 12. Those are just a few of the schools, so do your homework and make the best choice you can.
The Oakland Education Week in Review 11.11.2024
Nov 4, 2024 – Nov 10, 2024 It’s time for the Oakland Ed Week in Review! We’re back with our roundup of education news from around The Town, the Bay Area, state, and nation for your weekend reading. This is a Dirk favorite and one of the last blogs he published for Great School Voices. …
Open Charter Seats, Week of November 6, 2024
There is still time to enroll your child in an amazing Oakland school for the current school year. You know where to go – Oakland Enrolls to submit your application.
Sam Davis Interview with Great School Voices
Great School Voices sits down with Sam Davis ahead of the November 5th election and his planned departure from the seat of OUSD School Board President. Davis, who decided not to run on November 5th, talks to Keonnis Taylor and Great School Voices about reflections on the challenges and solutions faced by the District, offering his suggestions…
The Oakland Education Week in Review
Oct 28, 2024 – Nov 03, 2024 It’s time for the Oakland Ed Week in Review! We’re back with our roundup of education news from around The Town, the Bay Area, state, and nation for your weekend reading. This is a Dirk favorite and one of the last blogs he published for Great School Voices. …
SoBEO Interview with Dwayne Aikens, Jr.
State of Black Education Oakland (SoBEO) interviews Dwayne Aikens, Jr., District 3 school board candidate.
Interview with Dr. Micia Mosely Presented by Great School Voices
In this compelling interview, Dr. Micia Mosely discusses the evolution of the education system, emphasizing its shift towards a business-oriented model that prioritizes profit over equity. She sheds light on the challenges facing Black education in Oakland, where systemic oppression and gentrification have fragmented the community. Dr. Mosely highlights the impact of testing practices and the school-to-prison pipeline, while also recognizing pockets of hope within the educational landscape.
Open Charter Seats, Week of October 30, 2024
There is still time to enroll your child in an amazing Oakland school for the current school year. You know where to go – Oakland Enrolls to submit your application.
SoBEO Interview with Patrice Berry
SoBEO sits down with District 5 school board candidate Patrice Berry for a discussion around the solutions and problems around the state of Black education in Oakland.
The Oakland Ed Week in Review 10/21/2024-10/27/2024
It’s time for the Oakland Ed Week in Review! We’re back with our roundup of education news from around The Town, the Bay Area, state, and nation for your weekend reading. This is a Dirk favorite and one of the last blogs he published for Great School Voices. Here’s what’s been going on: Here in…
Open Charter Seats, Week of October 23, 2024
There is still time to enroll your child in an amazing Oakland school for the current school year. You know where to go – Oakland Enrolls to submit your application. The application is now open and accepting students at OaklandEnrolls.org. There are great schools for your child, including schools that won Raise the Bar Awards – AIMS, Aspire Lionel Wilson, and…
The Oakland Ed Week in Review 10/14/2024-10/20/2024
It’s time for the Oakland Ed Week in Review! We’re back with our roundup of education news from around The Town, the Bay Area, state, and nation for your weekend reading. This is a Dirk favorite and one of the last blogs he published for Great School Voices. Here’s what’s been going on: Here in…
SoBEO Interview with Dr. Clifford Thompson
State of Black Education Oakland (SoBEO), a collective co-founded by our founder Dirk Tillotson, is gathering information from the Oakland public education community about the state of Black education in Oakland through a survey we developed. (We would love to hear from you, please take five minutes to complete it!) With the 2024 election right around the corner,…
The Oakland Ed Week in Review 10/07/2024-10/13/2024
It’s time for the Oakland Ed Week in Review! We’re back with our roundup of education news from around The Town, the Bay Area, state, and nation for your weekend reading. This is a Dirk favorite and one of the last blogs he published for Great School Voices. Here’s what’s been going on: Here in…
Open Charter Seats, Week of October 16, 2024
The 2024-25 school year is underway! There is still time to enroll your child in an amazing Oakland school. You know where to go – Oakland Enrolls to submit your application.
They claim “segregation” but they really want to eliminate school choice
This is a guest post from OUSD School Board Director Jorge Lerma (District 5).
Open Charter Seats, Week of October 9, 2024
There are great schools for your child, including schools that won Raise the Bar Awards – AIMS, Aspire Lionel Wilson, and BayTech among others have open seats for new students for any grade level from TK to 12. Those are just a few of the schools, so do your homework and make the best choice you can.
Why ‘Fin-Lit’ is the New Math
Oakland public school parent Stephisha Ycoy-Walton took it upon herself to launch financial literacy workshops with different Oakland public schools and other Bay Area organizations that work with young people.
Dr. Clifford Thompson: longtime educator running for re-election to Oakland school board
Dr. Clifford (Clif) Thompson first ran for the District 7 school board seat for the Oakland Unified School District in 2020 because he felt the board was not focusing enough on what matters most: student achievement.
Open Charter Seats, Week of October 2, 2024
The 2024-25 school year is underway! There is still time to enroll your child in an amazing Oakland school. You know where to go – Oakland Enrolls to submit your application. The application is now open and accepting students at OaklandEnrolls.org. There are great schools for your child, including schools that won Raise the Bar Awards – AIMS, Aspire Lionel Wilson,…
From The Black Teacher Project: Teacher Truth Perspectives 2024 and What Data Shows about the Black Teacher Experience
Great School Voices joined Black educators and other concerned community members from New York City, Chicago, Atlanta, St. Louis, Delaware, Maryland, Pennsylvania, and, of course, from Northern and Southern California for a virtual forum, as The Black Female Project shined a light on the numbers and their voices.
The Oakland Ed Week in Review 9/21/24-9/27/24
We’re back with our roundup of education news from around The Town, the Bay Area, state, and nation for your weekend reading. This is a Dirk favorite and one of the last blogs he published for Great School Voices.
An Interview with Author and Charter School Founder, Dr. Elaine Ruiz López for her New Book, The Fight for Equity in the Bronx: Changing Lives and Transforming Communities One Scholar At A Time
Compounded over time, great teachers and excellent schools have the exponential power to undo the side effects of policies and politics that either only serve the few or subject the masses to inequities that can set families and communities back generations.
Open Charter Seats, Week of September 25, 2024
There is still time to enroll your child in an amazing Oakland school. You know where to go – Oakland Enrolls to submit your application.
GSV Talks Black Teacher Retention with San Francisco Unified School District
While San Francisco Mayor London Breed was making news by unveiling her plans to support SFUSD schools with a new School Stabilization Team, GSV was engaged in a timely discussion with the District’s Senior Executive Director HR, Swen Ervin, about the State of Black Education in San Francisco. Ervin talks challenges, solutions, and the unique approaches…
The Oakland Ed Week in Review 9/14/24-9/20/24
It’s time for the Oakland Ed Week in Review! We’re back with our roundup of education news from around The Town, the Bay Area, state, and nation for your weekend reading. This is a Dirk favorite and one of the last blogs he published for Great School Voices. Here’s what’s been going on: Here in…
District 3 School Board Candidate Dwayne Aikens Jr.
When Dwayne Aikens Jr. looks at the state of Oakland public schools, he does so as an insider who knows what it’s like to attend school here. When he talks about Oakland students, he speaks from experience of being one himself.
That’s why he’s running for the Oakland school board, District 3 position: to use his experience and community connections to benefit students.
Open Charter Seats, Week of September 18, 2024
There is still time to enroll your child in an amazing Oakland school. You know where to go – Oakland Enrolls to submit your application.
District 5 School Board Candidate Patrice Berry
When Patrice Berry looks back on her childhood, growing up in a segregated Maryland town, she says that “reading saved my life. Education saved my life.” Now Patrice is running for the District 5 Oakland school board position because, from her experience as a student, an educator and now a parent, she knows how transformative education can be for a young person.
The Oakland Ed Week in Review 9/07/24-9/13/24
It’s time for the Oakland Ed Week in Review! We’re back with our roundup of education news from around The Town, the Bay Area, state, and nation for your weekend reading. This is a Dirk favorite and one of the last blogs he published for Great School Voices. Here’s what’s been going on: Here in…
Young voices, the budget and public safety key topics at Oakland election forum
Candidates for Oakland school board and city council in Districts 1, 3, 5 and 7, as well as candidates for the city council at-large seat participated in a forum organized by FIA family and youth leaders.
This Thursday (9/12): Oakland candidate forum from Families in Action
Hear what Oakland school board and city council candidates have to say about important education and civic issues at the only forum this election organized by students and families.
Open Charter Seats, Week of September 11, 2024
There is still time to enroll your child in an amazing Oakland school. You know where to go – Oakland Enrolls to submit your application.
The Oakland Ed Week in Review 08/31/24-09/06/24
It’s time for the Oakland Ed Week in Review! We’re back with our roundup of education news from around The Town, the Bay Area, state, and nation for your weekend reading. This is a Dirk favorite and one of the last blogs he published for Great School Voices. Here’s what’s been going on: Here in…
The Oakland Ed Week in Review 8/25/24-8/30/24
As we start of a new school year, with Labor Day marking a time of transition, let’s embrace the opportunities ahead with optimism and unity. To our educators: Your dedication shapes the future, and your resilience makes a difference in the lives of every student you teach. Parents: Your involvement is vital—your partnership with schools…
JOIN US IN MAKING YOUR VOICE HEARD!
Citywide survey on improving education for Black Students in Oakland is now out! Please click the link here to fill out the survey and snap the QR code above, and be sure to SHARE with others in your Oakland network! State of Black Education Oakland (SoBEO), Great School Voices, and our partners invite YOU –…
Open Charter Seats, Week of August 27, 2024
There are great schools for your child, including schools that won Raise the Bar Awards – AIMS, Aspire Lionel Wilson, and BayTech among others have open seats for new students for any grade level from TK to 12. Those are just a few of the schools, so do your homework and make the best choice you can.
The Oakland Ed Week in Review 8/17/24-8/24/24
It’s time for the Oakland Ed Week in Review! We’re back with our roundup of education news from around The Town, the Bay Area, state, and nation for your weekend reading. This is a Dirk favorite and one of the last blogs he published for Great School Voices. Here’s what’s been going on: Here in…
Benjamin Salop: the 20-year-old former OUSD student running for School Board
Benjamin Salop is running for the District 1 Oakland school board position as a 20-year-old who graduated from Oakland Tech in 2022 because he believes that students and families deserve a seat at the decision-making table.
Open Charter Seats, Week of August 21, 2024
There is still time to enroll your child in an amazing Oakland school. You know where to go – Oakland Enrolls to submit your application.
The Oakland Ed Week in Review 8/10/24-7/16/24
It’s time for the Oakland Ed Week in Review! We’re back with our roundup of education news from around The Town, the Bay Area, state, and nation for your weekend reading. This is a Dirk favorite and one of the last blogs he published for Great School Voices. Here’s what’s been going on: Here in…
Open Charter Seats, Week of August 14, 2024
The 2024-25 school year is here! There is still time to enroll your child in an amazing Oakland school. You know where to go – Oakland Enrolls to submit your application. The application is now open and accepting students at OaklandEnrolls.org. There are great schools for your child, including schools that won Raise the Bar Awards – AIMS, Aspire Lionel Wilson,…
The Oakland Ed Week in Review 8/3/24-8/9/24
It’s time for the Oakland Ed Week in Review! We’re back with our roundup of education news from around The Town, the Bay Area, state, and nation for your weekend reading. This is a Dirk favorite and one of the last blogs he published for Great School Voices. Here’s what’s been going on: Here in…
Youth Vote Now Official: Oakland and Berkeley 16- and 17-year-olds Can Now Head to the Polls in November for School Board Elections.
At long last, the Alameda County Registrar of Voters has finalized and established plans for the youth in Oakland and Berkeley to have their votes counted in school board elections this fall, becoming the first in the nation to do so. To simplify matters, the Registrar will be using California’s existing pre-registration system – the…
An Interview with OUSD Board President Sam Davis on Measure QQ, Who’s Running for the School Board, How Students Can Register to Vote, and More
On Monday of this week, Great School Voices had the opportunity to interview OUSD School Board President Sam Davis about the challenges behind implementing the directives behind Oakland’s Measure QQ and Berkeley’s Measure Y1, giving Youth aged 16 and 17 the right to vote in school board elections. According to ABC News and other official…
Open Charter Seats, Week of August 6, 2024
The 2024-25 school year is almost here!
There is still time to enroll your child in an amazing Oakland school. You know where to go – Oakland Enrolls to submit your application.
The Oakland Ed Week in Review 7/27/24-8/02/24
It’s time for the Oakland Ed Week in Review! We’re back with our roundup of education news from around The Town, the Bay Area, state, and nation for your weekend reading. This is a Dirk favorite and one of the last blogs he published for Great School Voices. Here’s what’s been going on: Here in…
Open Charter Seats, Week of July 31, 2024
The 2024-25 school year is almost here!
There is still time to enroll your child in an amazing Oakland school. You know where to go – Oakland Enrolls to submit your application.
The Oakland Ed Week in Review 7/20/24-7/26/24
It’s time for the Oakland Ed Week in Review! We’re back with our roundup of education news from around The Town, the Bay Area, state, and nation for your weekend reading. This is a Dirk favorite and one of the last blogs he published for Great School Voices. Here’s what’s been going on: Here in…
The Long Road to an Oakland Youth Vote takes Critical Steps toward this Year’s November Ballot
Youth organizers and activists at Oakland’s July 16, 2024, City Council meeting, with OUSD Director Sam Davis and Councilmember Treva Reid. Council members cast preliminary votes to authorize youth aged 16 and older to vote in school board elections. (Photo credit: Families in Action for Education (FIA)). With November just around the corner, Oakland has…
Open Charter Seats, Week of July 24, 2024
The schools on this list are for enrolling in the next school year — 2024-25. The application is now open and accepting students at OaklandEnrolls.org. There is still time to enroll your child in an amazing Oakland school for the 2024-25 school year. You know where to go – Oakland Enrolls to submit your application. There are great schools…
The Oakland Ed Week in Review 7/13/24-7/19/24
It’s time for the Oakland Ed Week in Review! We’re back with our roundup of education news from around The Town, the Bay Area, state, and nation for your weekend reading. This is a Dirk favorite and one of the last blogs he published for Great School Voices. Here’s what’s been going on: Here in…
Open Charter Seats, Week of July 17, 2024
The schools on this list are for enrolling in the next school year — 2024-25. The application is now open and accepting students at OaklandEnrolls.org.
The Oakland Ed Week in Review 7/6/24-7/12/24
It’s time for the Oakland Ed Week in Review! We’re back with our roundup of education news from around The Town, the Bay Area, state, and nation for your weekend reading. This is a Dirk favorite and one of the last blogs he published for Great School Voices. Here’s what’s been going on: Here in…
The Oakland Ed Week in Review 6/29/24-7/5/24
It’s time for the Oakland Ed Week in Review! We’re back with our roundup of education news from around The Town, the Bay Area, state, and nation for your weekend reading. This is a Dirk favorite and one of the last blogs he published for Great School Voices. Here’s what’s been going on: Here in…
Open Charter Seats, Week of July 2, 2024
The schools on this list are for enrolling in the next school year — 2024-25. The application is now open and accepting students at OaklandEnrolls.org.
The Oakland Ed Week in Review 6/22/24-6/28/24
It’s time for the Oakland Ed Week in Review! We’re back with our roundup of education news from around The Town, the Bay Area, state, and nation for your weekend reading. This is a Dirk favorite and one of the last blogs he published for Great School Voices. As the school year draws to a…
Open Charter Seats, Week of June 25, 2024
The schools on this list are for enrolling in the next school year — 2024-25. The application is now open and accepting students at OaklandEnrolls.org.
The Oakland Ed Week in Review 6/15/24-6/21/24
It’s time for the Oakland Ed Week in Review! We’re back with our roundup of education news from around The Town, the Bay Area, state, and nation for your weekend reading. This is a Dirk favorite and one of the last blogs he published for Great School Voices. Here’s what’s been going on: Here in…
Enhancing Classroom Management and School Culture in Oakland Schools
What do Oakland students have to say about how their classes are managed? A look inside the latest Energy Convertors student voice report.
The Oakland Ed Week in Review 6/8/24-6/14/24
It’s time for the Oakland Ed Week in Review! We’re back with our roundup of education news from around The Town, the Bay Area, state, and nation for your weekend reading. This is a Dirk favorite and one of the last blogs he published for Great School Voices. Here’s what’s been going on: Here in…
Open Charter Seats, Week of June 11, 2024
There is still time to enroll your child in an amazing Oakland school for the 2024-25 school year. You know where to go – Oakland Enrolls to submit your application.
Chronic Absenteeism: A Silent Crisis in Oakland’s Education System
Chronic absenteeism is a silent crisis plaguing Oakland schools, and the COVID-19 pandemic has only made it worse. Despite many students believing they have satisfactory attendance, the harsh reality is that far too many are missing critical instructional time. This disconnect has severe consequences for student learning, engagement, and long-term success.
The Oakland Ed Week in Review 6/1/24-6/7/24
It’s time for the Oakland Ed Week in Review! We’re back with our roundup of education news from around The Town, the Bay Area, state, and nation for your weekend reading. This is a Dirk favorite and one of the last blogs he published for Great School Voices. Here’s what’s been going on: Here in…
Addressing the Disconnect: Grades vs. Proficiency in Oakland Schools
Attaining a high grade in a class doesn’t necessarily mean a student is proficient. Energy Convertors student researchers unpack this issue in their 2024 report, which was recently released.
Open Charter Seats, Week of June 4, 2024
The schools on this list are for enrolling in the next school year — 2024-25. The application is now open and accepting students at OaklandEnrolls.org.
The Oakland Ed Week in Review 5/25/24-5/31/24
It’s time for the Oakland Ed Week in Review! We’re back with our roundup of education news from around The Town, the Bay Area, state, and nation for your weekend reading. This is a Dirk favorite and one of the last blogs he published for Great School Voices. Here’s what’s been going on: Here in…
Energy Convertors 2024 Oakland Report: Demanding Proficiency Over Pageantry
Welcome to the 2023-24 Energy Convertors Report on Oakland public schools. We’re excited to share with you the findings from this year’s report. Our student researchers examined learning in the classroom and how students are impacted through two key areas of focus: 1. Learning and Proficiency; 2. Classroom Management and School Culture. Check out our key findings here and download the report.
The Oakland Ed Week in Review 5/18/24-5/24/24
It’s time for the Oakland Ed Week in Review! We’re back with our roundup of education news from around The Town, the Bay Area, state, and nation for your weekend reading. This is a Dirk favorite and one of the last blogs he published for Great School Voices. Here’s what’s been going on: Here in…
See Y’all on May 29th: Agentic & EmpowerED 2024
The purpose of Agentic & EmpowerED Oakland 2024 is to raise awareness about the educational disparities affecting Black and Brown scholars in Oakland, equip parents and students with the knowledge and tools needed to take immediate action, and inspire collective efforts to foster meaningful change within our education system. We then ultimately empower families to…
Open Charter Seats, Week of May 21, 2024
The schools on this list are for enrolling in the next school year — 2024-25. The application is now open and accepting students at OaklandEnrolls.org.
The Oakland Ed Week in Review 5/11/24-5/17/24
It’s time for the Oakland Ed Week in Review! We’re back with our roundup of education news from around The Town, the Bay Area, state, and nation for your weekend reading. This is a Dirk favorite and one of the last blogs he published for Great School Voices. Here’s what’s been going on: Here in…
Open Charter Seats, Week of May 14, 2024
The schools on this list are for enrolling in the next school year — 2024-25. The application is now open and accepting students at OaklandEnrolls.org.
The Oakland Ed Week in Review 5/4/24-5/10/24
It’s time for the Oakland Ed Week in Review! We’re back with our roundup of education news from around The Town, the Bay Area, state, and nation for your weekend reading. This is a Dirk favorite and one of the last blogs he published for Great School Voices. Here’s what’s been going on: Here in…
Open Charter Seats, Week of May 8, 2024
There is still time to enroll your child in an amazing Oakland school. You know where to go – Oakland Enrolls to submit your application. There are great schools for your child for the 2023-24 school year. Schools that won Raise the Bar Awards – including AIMS, Aspire Lionel Wilson, BayTech and Lighthouse Community Charter High among others have open seats for new students for any grade level from TK to 12. Those are just a few of the schools, so do your homework and make the best choice you can.
The Oakland Ed Week in Review 4/27/24-5/3/24
It’s time for the Oakland Ed Week in Review! We’re back with our roundup of education news from around The Town, the Bay Area, state, and nation for your weekend reading. This is a Dirk favorite and one of the last blogs he published for Great School Voices. Here’s what’s been going on: Here in…
Open Charter Seats, Week of April 30, 2024
There is still time to enroll your child in an amazing Oakland school. You know where to go – Oakland Enrolls to submit your application. There are great schools for your child for the 2023-24 school year. Schools that won Raise the Bar Awards – including AIMS, Aspire Lionel Wilson, BayTech and Lighthouse Community Charter High among others have open seats for new students for any grade level from TK to 12. Those are just a few of the schools, so do your homework and make the best choice you can.
The Oakland Ed Week in Review 4/20/24-4/26/24
It’s time for the Oakland Ed Week in Review! We’re back with our roundup of education news from around The Town, the Bay Area, state, and nation for your weekend reading. This is a Dirk favorite and one of the last blogs he published for Great School Voices. Here’s what’s been going on: Here in…
Mark Your Calendar: Agentic & EmpowerED Oakland 2024
Date: Wednesday, May 29, 2024Time: 6:00 PM – 8:00 PMLocation: Kipp Bridge Academy, Multipurpose Room The purpose of Agentic & EmpowerED Oakland 2024 is to raise awareness about the educational disparities affecting Black and Brown scholars in West Oakland, equip parents and students with the knowledge and tools needed to take immediate action, and inspire…
Open Charter Seats, Week of April 23, 2024
The schools on this list are for enrolling in the current school year — 2023-24. The Oakland Public Charter Schools Application for next school year — 2024-25 is also now open and accepting students for next school year. You can apply now at OaklandEnrolls.org. There is still time to enroll your child in an amazing Oakland school. You know where…
The Oakland Ed Week in Review 4/13/24-4/19/24
It’s time for the Oakland Ed Week in Review! We’re back with our roundup of education news from around The Town, the Bay Area, state, and nation for your weekend reading. This is a Dirk favorite and one of the last blogs he published for Great School Voices. Here’s what’s been going on: Here in…
Agency by Design Oakland Presents Centering out Students: Joy, Belonging, and Learning on Wednesday, April 24th!
Agency by Design Oakland, an Oakland based professional development provider run by teachers for teachers, is hosting their big end of year teacher Expo on April 24 from 5-7pm! AbDO focuses on culturally responsive teaching and maker-centered learning to increase student engagement, deepen content knowledge, and foster a greater sense of belonging. All educators are invited to come get…
Open Charter Seats, Week of April 16, 2024
There is still time to enroll your child in an amazing Oakland school. You know where to go – Oakland Enrolls to submit your application. There are great schools for your child for the 2023-24 school year. Schools that won Raise the Bar Awards – including AIMS, Aspire Lionel Wilson, BayTech and Lighthouse Community Charter High among others have open seats for new students for any grade level from TK to 12. Those are just a few of the schools, so do your homework and make the best choice you can.
The Oakland Ed Week in Review 4/6/24-4/12/24
It’s time for the Oakland Ed Week in Review! We’re back with our roundup of education news from around The Town, the Bay Area, state, and nation for your weekend reading. This is a Dirk favorite and one of the last blogs he published for Great School Voices. Here’s what’s been going on: Here in…
Open Charter Seats, Week of April 9, 2024
The schools on this list are for enrolling in the current school year — 2023-24. The Oakland Public Charter Schools Application for next school year — 2024-25 is also now open and accepting students for next school year. You can apply now at OaklandEnrolls.org.
The Oakland Ed Week in Review 3/30/24-4/5/24
It’s time for the Oakland Ed Week in Review! We’re back with our roundup of education news from around The Town, the Bay Area, state, and nation for your weekend reading. This is a Dirk favorite and one of the last blogs he published for Great School Voices. Here’s what’s been going on: Here in…
Open Charter Seats, Week of April 4, 2024
Each week, Great School Voices shares the open charter schools of the week from Oakland Enrolls. The schools on this list are for enrolling in the current school year — 2023-24. The Oakland Public Charter Schools Application for next school year — 2024-25 is also now open and accepting students for next school year. You can apply now at OaklandEnrolls.org. There…
The Oakland Ed Week in Review 3/23/24-3/29/24
It’s time for the Oakland Ed Week in Review! We’re back with our roundup of education news from around The Town, the Bay Area, state, and nation for your weekend reading. This is a Dirk favorite and one of the last blogs he published for Great School Voices. With all of the news that we’re…
How Cox Academy is Raising the Bar with the Help of Parents, and with FIA, how Parents are taking their Message to City Council and OUSD
Before the 2024 Raising the Bar Awards go down in just a few hours at Learning without Limits School in Oakland, we have one more interview to share, and that’s with Cox Academy parent Viveca Ycoy-Walton. Cox Elementary, an Education for Change School, has pledged to Raise the Bar with their families this year, and…
How AIMS College Prep High School is Raising the Bar, from a Student’s Perspective
As part of our coverage on how schools in Oakland that are Raising the Bar, today we are showcasing AIMS College Prep High School, who will be receiving the following accolades and more at tonight’s Raising the Bar Awards: Esperanza Oden, a student there, has quite a bit to say about how her school has…
How East Bay Innovation Academy is Raising the Bar
Great School Voices sat down with school leaders from award-winning schools to discuss what Raising the Bar means to their school community, why their school got involved in FIA, how they communicate with families, and more. This interview is with Miranda Thorman, the executive director of East Bay Innovation Academy (EBIA).
How Aspire Lionel Wilson Prep is Raising the Bar
Great School Voices sat down with school leaders from award-winning schools to discuss what Raising the Bar means to their school community, why their school got involved in FIA, how they communicate with families, and more. This interview is with Tommy Gonzalez, Aspire Lionel Wilson Prep school principal.
Open Charter Seats, Week of March 26, 2024
The schools on this list are for enrolling in the current school year — 2023-24. The Oakland Public Charter Schools Application for next school year — 2024-25 is also now open and accepting students for next school year. You can apply now at OaklandEnrolls.org.
What Does It Mean When Schools Raise the Bar? The Categories
For four years, FIA has celebrated high schools where 80 percent or more of our Black and Brown students successfully completed A-G, making them eligible to apply to four-year colleges. This Thursday, they are also uplifting schools meeting California Dashboard Standards, those making BIG strides in ELA and Math, and unveiling “Raise the Bar” schools…
The State of the [Black Education] Union
![The State of the [Black Education] Union](https://greatschoolvoices.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Screenshot-2024-03-25-at-9.53.58-AM-863x487.png)
Ladies, gentlemen, and fellow citizens, the state of the Black Education Union is not strong. The nameless and faceless “system” is still failing Black students. To be clear, they are failing nearly every major subgroup, but especially Black students, and add on poverty, or a disability, or any other subgroup, and the numbers get worse in regards to literacy and numeracy.
It’s Almost Raising the Bar Week: Join Us on Thursday, March 28th!
One of Dirk’s lasting legacies when he created Great School Voices has been that reliable, true data on schools, especially student-based proficiency data, can tell the tale of whether real progress is happening in schools and the communities in which they reside. When communities and educators use that data to inform their practice, develop policy proposals, and work…
The Oakland Ed Week in Review 3/16/24-3/22/24
It’s time for the Oakland Ed Week in Review! We’re back with an of our roundup of education news from around The Town, the Bay Area, state, and nation for your weekend reading. This is a Dirk favorite and one of the last blogs he published for Great School Voices. Here’s what’s been going on: …
Open Charter Seats, Week of March 20, 2024
The schools on this list are for enrolling in the current school year — 2023-24. The Oakland Public Charter Schools Application for next school year — 2024-25 is also now open and accepting students for next school year. You can apply now at OaklandEnrolls.org.
The Oakland Ed Week in Review 3/9/24-3/15/24
It’s time for the Oakland Ed Week in Review! We’re back with an of our roundup of education news from around The Town, the Bay Area, state, and nation for your weekend reading. This is a Dirk favorite and one of the last blogs he published for Great School Voices. Here’s what’s been going on: …
Open Charter Seats, Week of March 6, 2024
Schools like AIMS, AMPS, BayTech and Lazear among others have open seats for new students for any grade level from TK to 12.
The Oakland Ed Week in Review 3/1/24-3/8/24
It’s time for the Oakland Ed Week in Review! We’re back with an of our roundup of education news from around The Town, the Bay Area, state, and nation for your weekend reading. This is a Dirk favorite and one of the last blogs he published for Great School Voices. [Photo: Seven Shavers takes the…
Rethinking Education: Beyond Grades to Proficiency
I run an organization called Energy Convertors. In that org, we train student fellows and parents to utilize their sense of agency to get the education they deserve. Once we accomplish that, our student fellows define local education issues, conduct scientific research, and then write a report that builds the agency of their whole community…
Open Charter Seats, Week of March 6, 2024
The schools on this list are for enrolling in the current school year — 2023-24. The Oakland Public Charter Schools Application for next school year — 2024-25 is also now open and accepting students for next school year. You can apply now at OaklandEnrolls.org.
The Oakland Ed Week in Review 2/24/24-3/1/24
It’s time for the Oakland Ed Week in Review! We’re back with an of our roundup of education news from around The Town, the Bay Area, state, and nation for your weekend reading. This is a Dirk favorite and one of the last blogs he published for Great School Voices. Here’s what’s been going on: …
ONE LAST WEEKEND Before Your Primary Ballot is Due! Refresh Yourself on ACOE School Board Candidates Here.
With the primary on March 5, you have one last weekend to research your candidates for office, before the general election in November. Special elections and primaries often have the lowest turnouts. Yet, in regions like Oakland and the Bay Area that are heavily represented by one political party, these elections are the most…
Open Charter Seats, Week of February 26, 2024
Each week, Great School Voices shares the open charter schools of the week from Oakland Enrolls. The schools on this list are for enrolling in the current school year — 2023-24. The Oakland Public Charter Schools Application for next school year — 2024-25 is also now open and accepting students for next school year. You can apply now at OaklandEnrolls.org. There…
The Oakland Ed Week in Review 2/16/24-2/23/24
It’s time for the Oakland Ed Week in Review! We’re back with an of our roundup of education news from around The Town, the Bay Area, state, and nation for your weekend reading. This is a Dirk favorite and one of the last blogs he published for Great School Voices. Here’s what’s been going on: …
The Oakland Ed Week in Review 2/9/24-2/16/24
It’s time for the Oakland Ed Week in Review! We’re back with an of our roundup of education news from around The Town, the Bay Area, state, and nation for your weekend reading. This is a Dirk favorite and one of the last blogs he published for Great School Voices. Here’s what’s been going on: …
Open Charter Seats, Week of February 12, 2024
Each week, Great School Voices shares the open charter schools of the week from Oakland Enrolls. The schools on this list are for enrolling in the current school year — 2023-24. The Oakland Public Charter Schools Application for next school year — 2024-25 is also now open and accepting students for next school year. You can apply now at OaklandEnrolls.org. There…
The Oakland Ed Week in Review 2/3/24-2/9/24
It’s time for the Oakland Ed Week in Review! We’re back with an of our roundup of education news from around The Town, the Bay Area, state, and nation for your weekend reading. This is a Dirk favorite and one of the last blogs he published for Great School Voices. Here’s what’s been going on: …
Join us at the ACOE School Board Candidate Forum from FIA, TOMORROW on Facebook at 5pm!
Tomorrow is Families in Action’s ACOE virtual candidate forum streaming live on their Facebook page. Four areas (Areas 2, 3, 5 and 6) across Alameda County are up for grabs, and the decisions of the new board will impact Oakland’s public schools. What is the ACOE? The Alameda County Office of Education’s School Board is…
A Legacy of Literacy: My Journey with The Go Farther Literacy Fund
As I reflect on the recent announcement by The Mind Trust about the $50,000 Go Farther Literacy Fund awards, my heart swells with an indescribable sense of pride. This initiative, now a beacon of hope and support for families in Indianapolis, echoes a journey that began with a deep, personal understanding of the challenges faced…
Open Charter Seats, Week of February 5, 2024
Each week, Great School Voices shares the open charter schools of the week from Oakland Enrolls. The schools on this list are for enrolling in the current school year — 2023-24. The Oakland Public Charter Schools Application for next school year — 2024-25 is also now open and accepting students for next school year. You can apply now at OaklandEnrolls.org.…
The Oakland Ed Week in Review 1/27/24-2/2/24
Here’s what’s been going on this past week:
In Oakland, OUSD warns families about fake kidnapping scams and faces pressure to avoid disparate impacts on Black students in school closure decisions, while introducing a new publication for community updates. In the Bay Area, South Bay nonprofits express concerns over California’s school funding, a study reveals Berkeley students’ faster test score rebound post-pandemic, and a documentary explores building wealth in the Black community through education. In the State of California, the state settles a learning-loss lawsuit, considers expanding arts education pathways, reevaluates job requirements for state positions, and LAUSD student board member Karen Ramirez focuses on promoting student leadership. Across The Nation, Despite U.S. student academic recovery, a report highlights persistent education inequalities, an On Point Radio episode explores chronic absenteeism, NYC schools face potential funding cuts, and Philadelphia’s tax break program raises concerns for public school funding.
Open Charter Seats, Week of January 29, 2024
Each week, Great School Voices shares the open charter schools of the week from Oakland Enrolls. The schools on this list are for enrolling in the current school year — 2023-24. The Oakland Public Charter Schools Application for next school year — 2024-25 is also now open and accepting students for next school year. You can apply now at OaklandEnrolls.org.…
The Oakland Ed Week in Review 1/20/24-1/26/24
It’s time for the Oakland Ed Week in Review! We’re back with an of our roundup of education news from around The Town, the Bay Area, state, and nation for your weekend reading. This is a Dirk favorite and one of the last blogs he published for Great School Voices. Here’s what’s been going on:…
Save the Date: Oakland Enrolls Charter School Choice Fair!
Oakland Enrolls is thrilled to be hosting an in-person Charter School Choice Fair on January 27th from 10am-2pm at Lazear Charter Academy – 824 29th Ave, Oakland, CA 94601. All families and community members are welcome to come to this free event and speak with over 30 amazing Oakland charter schools ranging TK-12 grades. Families…
Open Charter Seats: Week of January 22, 2024
Each week, Great School Voices shares the open charter schools of the week from Oakland Enrolls. The schools on this list are for enrolling in the current school year — 2023-24. The Oakland Public Charter Schools Application for next school year — 2024-25 is also now open and accepting students for next school year. You can apply now at OaklandEnrolls.org.…
The Oakland Ed Weeks in Review 12/26/23-1/19/24
It’s time for the Oakland Ed Weeks in Review! We’re back with an extended edition of our roundup of education news from around The Town, state, and nation. This is a Dirk favorite and one of the last blogs he published for Great School Voices. The news was light on the Oakland front while students…
The Oakland Ed Week in Review 12/22/23-12/29/23
It’s time for the last Oakland Ed Week in Review of the year! We’re back with an extended holiday edition of our roundup of education news from around The Town, state and nation. This is a Dirk favorite and one of the last blogs he published for Great School Voices. With Oakland schools on break,…
The Oakland Ed Weeks in Review 12/9/23-12/25/23
With it being the holiday season, we are going to focus this entire post on the good that is happening in Oakland, the State and the nation.
Here’s what’s been going on: Berkeley High students take a stand; more praise for the Oakland REACH’s Literacy Liberators Fellowship with recommendations on how to support impactful tutoring programs. AI takes center stage everywhere, while we see more efforts statewide to increase funding for schools in for STEAM and mental health services in CA. Simplifying forms can more than double the financial aid access for undocumented students, while Lincoln Elementary is showcased by Ashley McBride on how its served immigrant populations for decades. We see some gains in admissions and student proficiency according to one internationally-administered exam, and if you have savvy kids, be prepared for some holiday gift pitches coming to a boardroom, i.e., kitchen table or living room near you.
Open charter seats: 12/11
The schools on this list are for enrolling in the current school year — 2023-24. The Oakland Public Charter Schools Application for next school year — 2024-25 is also now open and accepting students for next school year. You can apply now at OaklandEnrolls.org.
The Oakland Ed Week in Review 12/2/23-12/8/23
It’s time for the Oakland Ed Week in Review! We’re back with an edition of our weekly roundup of education news from around The Town, state and nation. This is a Dirk favorite and one of the last blogs he published for Great School Voices. Here’s what’s going on this week: there was significant coverage…
Navigating the American School System as an Immigrant Student
I did not grow up speaking English. When I was born, my parents could not afford to raise me so I was sent to live in China, where I learned to speak Mandarin. As a result, when I came back to attend school in America, I did not speak any English. I struggled in elementary school. Most of my peers spoke English. During those early years, I was almost always extremely confused about what was happening and struggled to catch up to what was being taught in class.
South Star Classroom Podcast Episode 121: Examining Black Student Representation in Top Private Colleges
How does the underrepresentation of Black students at selective private colleges and universities impact the overall educational environment and opportunities for these students? What are institutions doing to increase Black student enrollment, and why have they not been more effective in achieving a representative student body? What else needs to be done?
Open charter seats: 12/4
The schools on this list are for enrolling in the current school year — 2023-24. The Oakland Public Charter Schools Application for next school year — 2024-25 is also now open and accepting students for next school year. You can apply now at OaklandEnrolls.org.
The Oakland Ed Week in Review 11/18/23-12/1/23
Here’s what’s going on this week: OUSD’s student homeless population jumped 70%(!) since the start of the pandemic; the war in the middle east continues to be a wedge issue on California college campuses; and a new report finds that charter schools deliver more bang for the buck than district schools (check out the article to read exactly what that means).
How do you choose the right major?
Students who have their major chosen can be more focused. While many students are unsure of their major or field of study after high school, this is not a topic that is often discussed in schools. For myself, I think that without the proper direction of a major chosen and a career to attain, I will feel nervous and perplexed about my future. I need a goal to aim for. I don’t want to be confused when I step into college. I want to devote myself to my major wholeheartedly. If I don’t have a goal to work toward I feel uneasy and confused. I do have some majors I’m considering right now, but I don’t know which one I should focus on and which one will be more fitting.
Unleashing the Potential of Every Student Through Personalized Learning
I have an immense love for education, but I firmly believe that the traditional, one-size-fits-all approach needs to change. This approach can cause disengagement, which I have experienced, and sluggish academic development since the traditional way of receiving an education disregards the unique talents, interests, and learning styles of each student.
South Star Classroom Podcast Episode 120: Is college really worth it?
What’s the point of college? Like, objectively. We all know it’s a marker for socio-economic mobility but we want to go deeper. Why does college exist, and what needs to change in the format of higher education?
Open charter seats: 11/28
The schools on this list are for enrolling in the current school year — 2023-24. The Oakland Public Charter Schools Application for next school year — 2024-25 is also now open and accepting students for next school year. You can apply now at OaklandEnrolls.org.
Oakland students, local businesses pair up for graphic design needs
Latitude High students in East Oakland are gaining valuable real world experience working with local businesses and non-profits on their graphic design needs.
South Star Classroom Podcast Episode 119: Is overtime pay for teachers overdue or overrated?
Is overtime pay for teachers long overdue, considering the countless hours they dedicate outside of the standard 40-hour workweek? Or, is the concept of overtime pay for teachers overrated, considering the intrinsic rewards and passion that often drive their commitment to going above and beyond? Listen in as the group discusses the potential benefits and…
Open charter seats: 11/21
The schools on this list are for enrolling in the current school year — 2023-24. The Oakland Public Charter Schools Application for next school year — 2024-25 is also now open and accepting students for next school year. You can apply now at OaklandEnrolls.org.
The Oakland Ed Week in Review 11/11/23-11/17/23
We have a rich edition for you this week, with lots of news from around The Town, the state and the nation: a scary kidnapping scam and protestors shut down the school board meeting in Oakland; students, educators and officials grapple with the Israel-Palestine conflict on campuses across the state (and country); Biden’s new student loan forgiveness plan survives a Republican challenge. Plus a lot, lot more.
Open charter seats: 11/16
The schools on this list are for enrolling in the current school year — 2023-24. The Oakland Public Charter Schools Application for next school year — 2024-25 is also now open and accepting students for next school year. You can apply now at OaklandEnrolls.org.
South Star Classroom Podcast Episode 118: Breaking The Codes: From School Dress Codes to Bans on Low Rider Cruising Laws.
In this week’s episode, we take a look at how policies and laws are used to police our communities and cultures.
The Oakland Ed Week in Review 11/4/23-11/10/23
From the newswires this week: Jorge Lerma has a sizable lead in the District 5 school board election after more results came in Thursday; OEA passes a resolution demanding freedom for Palestine; California students lost half-a-million instructional days to suspension, with marginalized students the most impacted; and conservative activists were on the losing side of a number of elections nationwide this week.
South Star Classroom Podcast Episode Ep. 117: American Colleges are Changing…
In this episode, we focus on the aftermath of some universities after the end of affirmative action. We also look at a significant increase in American students applying to schools in the UK. Join us.
District 5 school board candidates weigh in on Restorative Justice
Oakland District 5 school board candidates Jorge Lerma and Sasha Ritzie-Hernandez answer a question from Oakland students about school closures.
District 5 school board candidates weigh in on school closures
Oakland District 5 school board candidates Jorge Lerma and Sasha Ritzie-Hernandez answer a question from Oakland students about school closures.
The Oakland Ed Week in Review 10/28/23-11/3/23
Happy Friday to you! Pull up a seat, it’s time to dive into some education news with the Oakland Ed Week in Review! This is a Dirk favorite and one of the last blogs he published for Great School Voices. Here’s what we have going on this week: lots of election coverage as the District…
District 5 school board candidates weigh in on the school to prison pipeline
District 5 school board candidates answer a question from Oakland students about the school to prison pipeline.
District 5 school board candidates weigh in on charter schools
District 5 school board candidates answer a question from Oakland students about charter schools.
District 5 school board candidates weigh in on graduation rates
Oakland District 5 school board candidates Jorge Lerma and Sasha Ritzie-Hernandez answer a question from Oakland students about graduation rates.
Open charter seats: 11/1
There is still time to enroll your child in an amazing Oakland school. You know where to go – Oakland Enrolls to submit your application. There are great schools for your child for the 2023-24 school year. Schools like BayTech, AIMS Elementary School (a California Distinguished School) and Francophone Charter School among others have open seats for new students. Those are just a few of the schools, so do your homework and make the best choice you can.
South Star Classroom Podcast Episode 116: The High School Credit System: Its Origins, use in today’s high schools and college admissions and the question of its continued relevance
On today’s episode, the group talks about the Carnegie Unit System: what it is and how it became the basis for high school credit and graduation in every American high school. Is the current credit system still relevant and the best method for assessing a student learning and preparedness for work and post secondary success? What are some alternatives to the credit system both hypothetical and that currently exist?
District 5 school board candidates weigh in on school safety
Oakland District 5 school board candidates Jorge Lerma and Sasha Ritzie-Hernandez answer a question from Oakland students about school safety.
Sasha Ritzie-Hernandez: Great School Voices interview
There is one election in Oakland this year, for the District 5 school board. With a divided board, the person elected will have the opportunity to cast a deciding vote. With so much at stake, we wanted to hear directly from the candidates so voters and the public can better understand their views and plans for their time in office. Students will be those most affected by the decisions the board makes, so we collected student questions from The Oakland Youth Commission to ask candidates Sasha Ritzie-Hernandez and Jorge Lerma.
The Oakland Ed Week in Review 10/21/23-10/27/23
Here’s what we have going on this week: District 5 school board race grabbing headlines with two weeks to go until ballots are due (check out our coverage, including video interviews with both candidates); across the Bay, a teachers’ strike is averted; school buses with wifi are (seemingly) on the way after FCC approval.
Jorge Lerma: Great School Voices interview
District 5 school board candidate Jorge Lerma sits down with Great School Voices to answer questions from Oakland students on topics including safety, graduation rates, charter schools, the school-to-prison pipeline, school closures and restorative justice.
Open charter seats: 10/26
There is still time to enroll your child in an amazing Oakland school. You know where to go – Oakland Enrolls to submit your application. There are great schools for your child for the 2023-24 school year.
Oakland students host their own candidate forum
As ballots started arriving in District 5 voters’ mailboxes in mid-October, students from the Oakland Youth Commission helped raise awareness of the election and of the two candidates’ views at a candidate forum it hosted at Fremont High School.
South Star Classroom Episode 115: The Politicization of a School Board and a Recall Response, feat. Jeff Pack from One Temecula Valley PAC
Tune in for a lively discussion around these topics and more with the latest episode of the South Star Classroom podcast: Tuesday, October 24 at 3 pm PST.
The Oakland Ed Week in Review 10/14/23-10/20/23
This week: Oakland students hold a forum for District 5 school board candidates; the state testing data is in and the results are flat — improvement is stagnant and the same proficiency gaps are not budging; 9 out of 10 school districts across the country are struggling to hire teachers, which makes you wonder who’s not struggling?; plus more news from around The Town, state, and nation.
Reclaiming math through our liberator model
“When we surveyed our parents in 2021, 81% of them wanted additional math support for their children. Parents know what they want and need, and we should only ask them once.”
South Star Classroom Episode 114: Retention and Remediation
This week, the group discusses retention and remediation and whether or not that model is outdated and ineffective.
Open charter seats: 10/16
There is still time to enroll your child in an amazing Oakland school. You know where to go – Oakland Enrolls to submit your application. There are great schools for your child for the 2023-24 school year. Schools like BayTech, AIMS Elementary School (a California Distinguished School) and Francophone Charter School among others have open seats for new students. Those are just a few of the schools, so do your homework and make the best choice you can.
The Oakland Ed Week in Review 10/7/23-10/13/23
Welcome back to the Oakland Ed Week in Review! This is our weekly roundup of education news articles from Oakland and around the state and nation to help you stay up-to-date with what’s going on. This is a Dirk favorite and one of the last blogs he published for Great School Voices. Here’s what we…
Dirk Tillotson and Rachel Henry-Willis Awards
Last month, Families in Action for Quality Education (FIA) celebrated the legacies of our founder Dirk Tillotson, and legendary family leader and education advocate Rachel Henry-Willis with an awards ceremony on the Lighthouse Community Public School campus.
Open charter seats: 10/10
There is still time to enroll your child in an amazing Oakland school. You know where to go – Oakland Enrolls to submit your application. There are great schools for your child for the 2023-24 school year. Schools like BayTech, AIMS Elementary School (a California Distinguished School) and Francophone Charter School among others have open seats for new students. Those are just a few of the schools, so do your homework and make the best choice you can.
South Star Classroom Episode 113: Is national immigration policy pitting Black and Brown against each other?
A reason we have this podcast is to have these kind of in-depth discussions. This week, the conversation stems from recent news in Chicago about neighbors rallying against the city’s plans to turn a northwest side field house into a migrant shelter.
The Oakland Ed Week in Review 9/30/23-10/6/23
This week: a profile of District 5 school board candidate and longtime educator and education advocate, Jorge Lerma; a union representing 900 SFUSD workers — custodians, food service and clerical workers — goes on strike; more student debt relief coming from the Biden Administration, bringing the total to $127 million in relieved debt since he took office.
My family’s unique start to kindergarten
I also had conflicting emotions on that first walk to school because I knew my son’s school year was going to be pretty unique. And I knew his time with in-person school at RHS was going to be limited.
Student-led school board candidate forum on 10/12 at Fremont High
From the Oakland Youth Commission. Please go here to RSVP. The Oakland Youth Vote coalition are co-hosting a student-led Candidate Forum for the November school board election on Thursday, October 12 from 5 – 7 pm. This event is open to the community and will help voters learn about candidates running in the special election…
Implications of new state universal screening legislation for all
SPECIAL GUEST BLOG FOR EDUCATORS from FULCRUM by Kareem Weaver, Executive Director, Liza Finkelstein Co-founder, and Devika Sood, Director of Program. California’s new K-2 universal screening legislation (that goes by the name Education Omnibus Budget Trailer Bill) is a critical step for its educational system. It is an opportunity to engage in continuous improvement, leverage…
South Star Classroom Episode 112: We Were Promised Jetpacks — The Lack of Education Reform Post COVID
This week, we welcome guests from Big Picture Learning for a discussion about if schools enacted the promise of change after COVID.
Open charter seats: 10/3
There are great schools for your child for the 2023-24 school year. Schools like BayTech, AIMS Elementary School (a California Distinguished School) and Francophone Charter School among others have open seats for new students. Those are just a few of the schools, so do your homework and make the best choice you can.
The Oakland Ed Week in Review 9/23/23-9/29/23
Here’s what’s going on this week: the County Superintendent calls out OUSD over budget mismanagement; The Cox Academy community finally secures $28 million in funding through Prop 51 to make safety upgrades; Diane Feinstein pushed for stricter gun laws to stop school shootings – the legacy of the longtime state Senator who died yesterday is explored; plus more news from around The Town, state, and nation.
TONIGHT: Oakland District 5 School Board Candidate Forum hosted by FIA
OAKLAND, CA – What are the values and priorities of the candidates for Oakland school board in District 5? On Thursday, September 28, 2023, hundreds of Oakland public school parents, youth, educators, and school leaders will host Families in Action’s District 5 School Board Candidate Forum. They will hear directly from the only two candidates in…
South Star Classroom Episode 111: Math Education and National Security!
A discussion of national and international math outcomes — why does math education matter beyond K-12? When students aren’t proficient in math, what are the implications for communities, educators and school systems?
Open charter seats: 9/25
The Oakland Public Charter Schools Application is open and accepting students for the 2023-24 school year. You can apply now at OaklandEnrolls.org.
The Oakland Ed Week in Review 9/16/23-9/22/23
This week: a discussion about campus safety dominates the most recent OUSD school board meeting; do you call it ‘Cal’ or ‘Berkeley’ – and does it really matter?; we also have some thought-provoking features for you this weekend, including one on a South Carolina teacher returning to school after being reprimanded for teaching a book by Ta-Nehisi Coates; plus more news from around The Town, state, and nation.
We need Black Youth Development in Oakland now more than ever
I moved to Oakland when I was about 10 years old. It was a struggle. I lived in multiple homeless shelters and I did not have much hope for what I could be and do. Programs like those featured on the BYD website were a haven for me and tons of other Black kids who grew up in similar circumstances.
Open charter seats: 9/12
The Oakland Public Charter Schools Application is open and accepting students for the 2023-24 school year. You can apply now at OaklandEnrolls.org.
South Star Classroom Episode #110: Hip-Hop 50 & its impact on education for Black & Brown students
What impact has Hip-Hop had on Black and Brown students’ academic achievement and motivation over the past 50 years? How can Hip-Hop be used to engage and connect with students who may feel disconnected or disengaged from traditional educational approaches? Tune in for a lively discussion around these topics and more with the latest episode of the South Star Classroom podcast.
The Oakland Ed Week in Review 9/9/23-9/15/23
In this week’s edition, a look at diversity and inclusion groups in Oakland Unified and their impact in the wake of the bomb threat at Chabot Elementary; one conservative school boards in California rejects a resolution to affirm LGBTQ students’ rights while another bans the Pride flag; and we hear a lot about the ‘science of reading’ – what about the ‘science of math’?; plus more news from around The Town, state, and nation.
Yu Ming community opens new school campus in West Oakland
The Yu Ming community celebrated the opening of a new school building in West Oakland with a ribbon-cutting event.
South Star Classroom Episode #109: Back to School Special
Welcome to a special “Back to School” episode. We discuss what families and caregivers, as well as teachers and school leaders, can do to support students.
Open charter seats: 9/12
The Oakland Public Charter Schools Application is open and accepting students for the 2023-24 school year. You can apply now at OaklandEnrolls.org.
Energy Convertors 2023 Report: End-user Accountability
Great School Voices is breaking down the 2022-23 Energy Convertors report section by section into bite-sized pieces for you to digest. In this blog, we get into End-user Accountability.
The Oakland Ed Week in Review 9/2/23-9/8/23
This week: an on-campus shooting at Skyline High; Steph Curry surprises students at an East Oakland school and announces he’s raising $50 million for Oakland schools; one-third of California students are chronically absent – what are policymakers doing about this?; and another pandemic-related setback: college students are also struggling with basic math; plus more news from around The Town, state, and nation.
Open charter seats: 9/5
The Oakland Public Charter Schools Application is open and accepting students for the 2023-24 school year. You can apply now at OaklandEnrolls.org.
How to join OUSD’s contingent for Oakland Pride next Sunday, September 10
The Oakland Unified School District shared this message with families, educators and community members: Saturday, September 2, 2023 Hello Oakland Unified Community, Oakland Pride is almost here! Just about every year, the District has a contingent in Oakland’s celebration, and this year is expected to be bigger than ever. The District invites all interested students, staff, and families to join the march in Downtown Oakland on…
The Oakland Ed Week in Review 8/26/23-9/1/23
This week, a racist bomb threat is called into Chabot Elementary; Measure QQ could finally be moving ahead, three years after Oakland voters approved lowering the voting age to 16 for school board elections; and there is a big difference with how well parents think their children are performing in reading and math with how they’re actually doing; plus more news from around The Town, state, and nation.
OUSD Superintendent: We Denounce Racist and Threatening Messages Sent to Chabot Elementary School Community
Chabot Elementary in North Oakland was evacuated on Tuesday morning after a racist bomb threat was emailed to the school principal. Last night, OUSD Superintendent Kyla Johnson-Trammel sent this message to the OUSD community.
Open charter seats: 8/29
There is still time to enroll your child in an amazing Oakland school. You know where to go – Oakland Enrolls to submit your application. There are great schools for your child for the 2023-24 school year. Schools like BayTech, AIMS Elementary School (a California Distinguished School) and Francophone Charter School among others have open seats for new students. Those are just a few of the schools, so do your homework and make the best choice you can.
MarQuis Evans on what “accountability” means in Energy Convertors 2023 report
In this video, MarQuis Evans, the Energy Convertors program manager, talks about how we all have a role to play in helping young scholars succeed in their education, and what that shared accountability means. The 2023 Energy Convertors Oakland Report contains the voices of over 400 students and is a call to action to improve A-G outcomes and outreach. Download the report here.
The Oakland Ed Week in Review 8/19/23-8/25/23
In this week’s report, the Oakland District 5 school board special election is back on; a lawsuit that accuses California of failing low-income students during remote learning will head to trial; with student loan forgiveness plans sidelined, the Biden Administration launches a student debt plan; plus more news from around The Town, state, and nation.
Energy Convertors 2023 Report: Systemic Accountability
Energy Convertors 2022-2023 Report is available now to download. Great School Voices is breaking down the report section by section into bite-sized pieces for you to digest. We start with the first section of the report, Systemic Accountability.
A letter to Bitwise Industries leadership before the collapse
At the end of May this year, on Memorial Day, Bitwise Industries, a tech startup that “promised to uplift marginalized communities and change the narratives of underestimated places” furloughed its workers and soon shut down. Among those who lost their jobs were Kennan Scott, the former OUSD Director of Computer Science, a longtime educator and winner of one of the first State of Black Education Oakland (SoBEO) Impact Awards. Kennan’s wife, Karen, also worked for Bitwise Industries Oakland. In this guest piece, Kennan shares a message he sent to the Bitwise team shortly before the layoffs:
Open charter seats: 8/22
There is still time to enroll your child in an amazing Oakland school. You know where to go – Oakland Enrolls to submit your application. There are great schools for your child for the 2023-24 school year. Schools like BayTech, AIMS Elementary School (a California Distinguished School) and Francophone Charter School among others have open seats for new students. Those are just a few of the schools, so do your homework and make the best choice you can.
Get PAID as a math tutor in Oakland with REACH Math Liberator Fellowship
Too many Oakland students are struggling with math! We know that early success in math leads to later success in life. But only 1 out of 10 Black and Brown students are prepared to do math at grade level. We know our kids can excel in math and they don’t have time to wait. The…
The Oakland Ed Week in Review 8/12/23-8/18/23
This week, a major shocker in Oakland: both candidates for the District 5 school board election have been ruled ineligible due to an error by city officials about which boundary to use; state Attorney General Rob Bonta (rightly) comes out against a school district’s transgender policy; and make sure not to miss the uplifting story of a Black student who graduated high school at 12(!) and college at 14(!); plus more news from around The Town, state, and nation.
Take “Talking Transition Oakland” Survey — Message from OUSD and Oakland Mayor Thao
This summer, Mayor Sheng Thao launched Talking Transition Oakland, a citywide engagement effort that centers youth and uplifts underrepresented voices. The initiative brings together City Hall and the community to build a path forward for Oakland. To share your thoughts on the city’s housing, community safety, and economic development, take the citywide survey at www.oaklandca.gov/talkingtransition, and save the dates for Talking Transition’s public events on 9/9, 9/16, and 9/23.
Vote for FIA and The Oakland REACH on SXSW Panel
You can help send great people from two organizations founded in Oakland to SXSW EDU Conference & Festival!
Open charter seats: 8/15
There is still time to enroll your child in an amazing Oakland school. You know where to go – Oakland Enrolls to submit your application. There are great schools for your child for the 2023-24 school year. Schools like BayTech, AIMS Elementary School (a California Distinguished School) and Francophone Charter School among others have open seats for new students. Those are just a few of the schools, so do your homework and make the best choice you can.
Energy Convertors 2022-23 Oakland Report
The 2022-23 Energy Convertors Report on Oakland public schools is available to download. We’re excited to share with you the findings from this year’s report. Student researchers focused on A-G course completion this year, and found significant gaps in Oakland student understanding of these courses a student is required to pass if they are going to gain admission to a UC or CSU school.
The Oakland Ed Week in Review 8/5/23-8/11/23
This week, school in Oakland is back in session; a housing initiative aims to keep Black teachers in Oakland; immigrant parents in San Francisco can vote in the city’s school board elections after a court ruling; and 1 in 4 kids are chronically absent in schools across the country, a huge spike from pre-Covid; plus more news from around The Town, state, and nation.
Open charter seats: 8/10
There are great schools for your child for the 2023-24 school year. Schools like BayTech, AIMS Elementary School (a California Distinguished School) and Francophone Charter School among others have open seats for new students.
The Oakland Ed Week in Review 7/29/23-8/4/23
This week: Are you ready for school to start? Oaklandside breaks down why OUSD starts earlier than nearby districts; a look at the teaching crisis from the perspective of a rural, California district; and a look at how Teach for America is pivoting after it placed its smallest number of teachers in schools in 15 years; plus more news from around The Town, state, and nation.
Oakland charter school enrollment trends
With the 2023-24 school year starting this month, Great School Voices connected with Lisa Gibes de Gac, Executive Director of Oakland Enrolls to ask about trends in applications to Oakland charter schools. (photo courtesy of Oakland Enrolls) At this point in the year, we’re seeing a 12% increase in families applying compared to this time last…
Open charter seats: week of 8/1
Last week before school starts! Find an open seat at a quality school here! Each week, Great School Voices shares the open charter schools of the week from Oakland Enrolls. The Oakland Public Charter Schools Application is open and accepting students for the 2023-24 school year. You can apply now at OaklandEnrolls.org. There is still time to…
The Oakland Ed Week in Review 7/22/23-7/28/23
This week, OUSD is looking to hire 100 new teachers with school starting Aug. 7; interesting profile of OUSD board president Mike Hutchinson; an appellate court heard arguments about non-citizen parents and guardians voting in San Francisco school board elections; and according to a new report, a crisis in teaching quality may be stalling academic recovery; plus more news from around The Town, state, and nation.
Open charter seats: week of 7/25
Each week, Great School Voices shares the open charter schools of the week from Oakland Enrolls. The Oakland Public Charter Schools Application is open and accepting students for the 2023-24 school year. You can apply now at OaklandEnrolls.org. There is still time to enroll your child in an amazing Oakland school. You know where to go –…
The Oakland Ed Week in Review 7/15/23-7/21/23
Happy Friday, Oakland! This is the Oakland Ed Week in Review, our weekly roundup of education news articles from Oakland and around the state and nation to help you stay up-to-date with what’s going on. This is a Dirk favorite and one of the last blogs he published for Great School Voices. We are back…
Open charter seats: week of 7/18
Each week, Great School Voices shares the open charter schools of the week from Oakland Enrolls.
The Oakland Public Charter Schools Application is open and accepting students for the 2023-24 school year. You can apply now at OaklandEnrolls.org.
The Oakland Ed Week in Review 7/1/23-7/15/23
Oakland kids enjoying summer; California finally mandates dyslexia screening for young learners, joining the vast majority of states that already do; and info on Biden’s “Plan B” for student loan forgiveness.
Open charter seats: week of 7/11
Each week, Great School Voices shares the open charter schools of the week from Oakland Enrolls. The Oakland Public Charter Schools Application is open and accepting students for the 2023-24 school year. You can apply now at OaklandEnrolls.org. There is still time to enroll your child in an amazing Oakland school. You know where to go –…
California’s Williams Decision and holding teachers accountable for Black scholars post-integration
There’s clearly a difference between being a teacher who teaches Black scholars vs. an educator who teaches Black scholars to be excellent and are culturally aware of the mission they must accomplish for Black culture to thrive. This article is simply my therapeutic way of getting things off my mind so I can get back to being the solution.
The Oakland Ed Week in Review 6/24/23-6/30/23
This week, literacy advocacy superstar Bri Moore is profiled in The Oaklandside; a look at what the Supreme Court’s ban on affirmative action means for California; some reactions on the Supreme Court decision to axe Biden’s student loan forgiveness plan; and a thought-provoking look at why more women aren’t running America’s largest school districts.
The Oakland Ed Week in Review 6/17/23-6/23/23
This week, Families in Action (FIA) parents and organizers are profiled in The Oaklandside; another good article in the Oaklandside looks at advocacy work Education for Change’s Cox Academy parents are doing to make their school building safe for their kids; the national testing data shows how much the pandemic has cratered progress: the math scores are the same as 1990 and reading scores the same as 2004.
The Oakland Ed Week in Review 6/10/23-6/16/23
This week, not much happening in Oakland, but interesting stuff from around the state: budget approvals and an averted teachers’ strike among the headlines; and a must-read New York Times opinion piece on how K-12 enrollment is declining across the country and what that means for the future of US education.
The Oakland Ed Week in Review 6/3/23-6/9/23
This week, check out a profile of Oakland REACH CEO Lakisha Young; the number of credentialed teachers in California decreased this year; and the first religious charter school opened in Oklahoma.
Open charter seats: week of 6/7
Each week, Great School Voices shares the open charter schools of the week from Oakland Enrolls. The Oakland Public Charter Schools Application is open and accepting students for the 2023-24 school year. You can apply now at OaklandEnrolls.org. There is still time to enroll your child in an amazing Oakland school. You know where to go –…
What makes it a “distinguished school”? Touring AIMS College Prep Elementary School
To better understand why AIMS is one of the top performing schools in Oakland, we went behind the scenes for a school tour. We visited classrooms and spoke with students, educators, and administrators to better understand what’s going on.
The Oakland Ed Week in Review 5/27/23-6/2/23
Happy Summer, Oakland! We’re still bringing you the Oakland Ed Week in Review, our weekly roundup of education news articles from Oakland and around the state and nation to help you stay up-to-date with what’s going on. This is a Dirk favorite and one of the last blogs he published for Great School Voices. This…
Agentic and Empowered 2023
OAKLAND, CA – Black and Brown Oakland public school students face some stark educational disparities – only one in 10 can do math on grade level and only 2 in 10 can read on grade level. What can families do to take immediate action to support their scholars, and what collective efforts can we all…
The Oakland Ed Week in Review: 5/20/23-5/26/23
This week, check out an opinion piece on how a assembly bill will harm California charter schools serving high-needs families; some reflection on and fallout from the OEA strike; and the US Surgeon General says social media puts young people’s mental health at risk.
The Oakland Teacher’s Strike impact on student learning
This is a guest post from Oakland public school student Alejandra Lopez-Herrera of Energy Convertors.
Open charter seats: week of 5/23
There are great schools for your child for the 2023-24 school year. Schools like BayTech, AIMS Elementary School (a California Distinguished School) and Francophone Charter School among others have open seats for new students. Those are just a few of the schools, so do your homework and make the best choice you can.
The Oakland Ed Week in Review: 5/13/23-5/19/23
This week, there’s a look at the deal OEA teachers signed with OUSD after the strike; an alarming investigative piece on how much lead is in the drinking water in California childcare centers; and a list of Presidential Scholars from around the Bay and the country.
Open charter seats: week of 5/16
The Oakland Public Charter Schools Application is open and accepting students for the 2023-24 school year. You can apply now at OaklandEnrolls.org.
The Oakland Ed Week in Review Special Edition: 7 Days of OEA Strike
Today – Friday, May 12 – the Oakland Education Association (OEA) teacher strike reached its seventh day. To help our readers better understand what’s been going on with negotiations, and also get some insight into how students and families are feeling about all of this as well, we’re giving you a day-by-day breakdown in a…
Energy Convertors: Agentic and EmpowerED 2023
Join us for an eye-opening and transformative event, Agentic and EmpowerED Oakland 2023, specifically designed for parents and families in West Oakland. Our mission is to bring awareness to crucial data that may not be readily available or discussed regarding Oakland’s education system, focusing on the challenges faced by our Black and Brown scholars.
Open Charter Seats: Week of 5/9
The Oakland Public Charter Schools Application is open and accepting students for the 2023-24 school year. You can apply now at OaklandEnrolls.org.
The Oakland Ed Week in Review 4/29/23-5/5/23
The news from Oakland this week is all about the OEA strike, with updates from various sources (be sure to check out our roundup of stories we published during the 2019 OEA strike); also, check out news from around the state and the nation.
The last time OEA went on strike
When teachers represented by the Oakland Education Association (OEA) went on strike in 2019, Great School Voices published a series of articles covering different perspectives — most importantly from students — on the strike and what it impacted. As OEA begins another strike today, we wanted to share with you those articles to help us remember and learn from the past.
“On Track To Fail”: Dismal reading scores for Oakland students in data report from FIA
The data from FIA’s Unspoken Pandemic report has us asking what Oakland public schools are matching or exceeding the state benchmark of 47% – but for Black and Brown students?
The Oakland Ed Week in Review 4/22/23-4/28/23
This week, OEA teachers vote to authorize a strike, which the district is calling illegal and trying to prevent; a state assembly bill would up teacher pay 50 percent if it becomes law; and make sure you don’t miss the article on the student who was accepted to 170 colleges (!) and earned more than $9 million in scholarship money (!!); plus more news from around The Town, the state and the nation.
Event tomorrow: FIA A-G Awards
Join FIA family leaders, students, and school representatives at BayTech (8251 Fontaine Street) on April 27 starting at 5 pm for a celebration of the Oakland public high schools where more than 80 percent of the African American and Latino students have their A-G requirements completed and are eligible to apply to UC and CSU schools.
Beyond the Culture Wars: Empowering Thoughtful, Smart Students with Agency
It’s time to look past the culture wars and focus on what truly matters — providing the best possible educational experience for every child in the nation.
The Oakland Ed Week in Review 4/15/23-4/21/23
This week, the possible teachers union strike in Oakland is big news, we have some different perspectives to share with you; we also take a look across the Bay at The City’s enrollment troubles; and SoBEO Award winner Kareem Weaver is featured in The New York Times in a must-read feature on “the revolt taking on the education establishment”; plus more news from around The Town, the state and the nation.
New Podcast: S.O.B.E. RANTS S4-E4
Host Quis Evans welcomes Oakland educator Coron Brinson for a conversation Coron Brinson on The Black Teacher Project, support for Black educators under non-Black leadership, high expectations for Black scholars, and more …
Open Charter Seats: Week of 4/18
There is still time to enroll your child in an amazing Oakland school. You know where to go – Oakland Enrolls to submit your application. Schools like BayTech, AIMS Elementary School (a California Distinguished School) and Francophone Charter School among others have open seats for new students. Those are just a few of the schools, so do your homework and make the best choice you can.
The Oakland Ed Week in Review 4/8/23-4/14/23
This week, there are some cool events happening in Oakland this weekend (champion basketball parade and student creative expo); advocates for Black students pushed for equitable funding at the capitol (our friends from FIA were there); and the proposal for the first religious charter school in the country was denied in Oklahoma; plus more news from around The Town, the state and the nation.
Open Charter Seats: Week of 4/11
Schools like BayTech, AIMS Elementary School (a California Distinguished School) and Francophone Charter School among others have open seats for new students.
The Oakland Ed Week in Review 4/1/23-4/7/23
Happy spring break! While you’re relaxing, or catching up on errands, or chasing the kids around, we have our weekly roundup of education news articles from Oakland and around the state and nation to help you stay up-to-date with what’s going on. It’s The Oakland Ed Week in Review, a Dirk favorite and one of…
UC application rates for all Oakland public schools
What Oakland public schools are sending more of their students to UC schools? We’ve got the data on application + admission rates, check it out.
Open Charter Seats: Week of 4/5
Each week, Great School Voices shares the open charter schools of the week from Oakland Enrolls. The late application period for the Oakland Public Charter Schools Application is now open. You can apply now at OaklandEnrolls.org. There is still time to enroll your child in an amazing Oakland school. You know where to go – Oakland Enrolls to…
The Oakland Ed Week in Review 3/18-324
Here’s what’s going on this week: in Oakland, the board chooses not to follow California law around Prop 39 offers; a dyslexia bill advances in the state senate, with opposition from the teachers union; more fallout (but not much hope for change) from the horrible Nashville school shooting; plus more news from around The Town, the state and the nation.
The Oakland Ed Week in Review 3/18-324
It is time for The Oakland Ed Week in Review! We have another edition of education news articles from Oakland and around the state and nation to help you stay up-to-date with what’s going on. This was a Dirk favorite and one of the last blogs he published for Great School Voices. This week: the…
Who’s Breaking the Tie for Oakland students?!
We can’t have a governance board that is driven by the egos of all the adults in the room. Tie votes, refusing to vote on budget cuts, rescinding school closures without even knowing how much it would cost – this is just ineffective governance. It demonstrates no one is governing on behalf of children, they are only representing the adults in the community– and wasting time and energy on things that have nothing to do with student progress.
Open Charter Seats: Week of 3/21
Schools like BayTech, AIMS Elementary School (a California Distinguished School) and Francophone Charter School among others have open seats for new students.
The Oakland Ed Week in Review 2/25/23-3/17/23
We took a little unplanned two-week break but we’re back now with a beefed up edition of education news articles from Oakland and around the state and nation to help you stay up-to-date with what’s going on. (Oh, yeah, did you catch us on The Daily Show? For real.)
The Daily Show shouts out Great School Voices!
That’s Marlon Wayans talking about a story from the Oakland Ed Week in Review! Goosebumps …
TODAY: Podcast w/ SoBEO Rants Marquis Evans on A-G Problem + Why We Need to Act
Marquis “Quis” Evans joins the FIA Talks Podcast today to talk about “The A-G Problem.”
Open Charter Seats: Week of 3/15
There is still time to enroll your child in an amazing Oakland school. Here are some options.
JOIN US IN PERSON TONIGHT at 6PM: The Unspoken Pandemic: Oakland’s Education Crisis
As we emerge from the worst of the pandemic, the impact on our students has been severe, not least of which is the exacerbation of racial inequities in academic outcomes and college eligibility. That being said, progress is necessary and possible, and it begins with knowing the state of Black education. Join us TONIGHT at…
Black Excellence: The 8 Black Hands Literary Society and Book Club
During Black History Month, we here at Great School Voices are recognizing the SoBEO Black Excellence Awards honorees. The 8 Black Hands Literary Society and Book Club was the National Influencer awardee at the 2022 SoBEO Black Excellence Awards.
Open Charter Seats: Week of 2/28
Each week, Great School Voices shares the open charter schools of the week from Oakland Enrolls. The late application period for the Oakland Public Charter Schools Application is now open. (The deadline for Round 1 was February 3, 2023.) You can apply now at OaklandEnrolls.org. There is still time to enroll your child in an amazing Oakland…
The Oakland Ed Week in Review 2/18/23-2/24/23
Here’s what’s on tap this week: lot of Oakland school board news, with Nick Resnick resigning and the the board looking for ways to pay for academic and staff retention needs; the first gender-neutral bathroom bill for schools in the country is working its way through the California legislature; plus more news from around The Town, the state and the nation.
Open Charter Seats: Week of 2/21
Schools like BayTech, AIMS Elementary School (a California Distinguished School) and Francophone Charter School among others have open seats for new students.
Black Excellence: Cesley Frost
“As an educator, I’ve made every effort to ensure daily moments of success for my students.”
The Oakland Ed Week in Review 2/11/23-2/17/23
Here’s what’s on tap this week: an update on the District 4 School Board seat; Gavin Newsom’s “equity multiplier” plan to raise Black student achievement; alarming statistics that point to a crisis for American girls; plus more news from around The Town, the state and the nation.
Middle Schools and High Schools that Showed Progress with African American, Latinx and ELL Students
What are the highest-performing middle and high schools for Latix, African American and English Language Learner students?
Open Charter School Seats (Week of 2/14)
There is still time to enroll your child in an amazing Oakland school.
Black Excellence: Connie Williams
During Black History Month, we here at Great School Voices are recognizing the SoBEO Black Excellence Awards honorees. These folks and organizations have made an indelible imprint on changing the State of Black Education both in Oakland and nationally. We want to provide you all with opportunities to support their work in any way you…
The Oakland Ed Week in Review 2/4/23-2/10/23
Welcome back to the Oakland Ed Week in Review! Each Friday, we’re gathering key news articles from Oakland and around the state so you stay up-to-date with what’s going on. This was a Dirk favorite and one of the last blogs he published for Great School Voices. This week, there’s a lot going on in…
Who’s attending Oakland’s four Distinguished Schools?
So what does that data from the California School Dashboard say about our award-winning schools in Oakland? It tells us that Black, Latino and low-income students have less of a chance of attending a distinguished school in Oakland than White, more affluent students.
Open Charter School Seats (Week of 2/7)
Each week, Great School Voices shares the open charter schools of the week from Oakland Enrolls. The late application period for the Oakland Public Charter Schools Application is now open. (The deadline for Round 1 was February 3, 2023.) You can apply now at OaklandEnrolls.org. There is still time to enroll your child in an amazing Oakland…
Elementary Schools that Showed Progress with English Language Learner Children
The top Oakland public schools for English Language Learner elementary school students, check out the list.
The Oakland Ed Week in Review 1/28/23-2/3/23
It’s about that time – the Oakland Ed Week in Review! Each Friday, we’re gathering key news articles from Oakland and around the state so you stay up-to-date with what’s going on. This was a Dirk favorite and one of the last blogs he published for Great School Voices. This week, there’s an update on…
Oakland Public Charter School Applications are due TONIGHT!
Applications are due TONIGHT, Friday, February 3, by 11:59 pm.
Elementary Schools that Showed Progress with Latinx Children
Elementary schools that showed the highest performance in ELA and math for Latinx students.
Elementary Schools that Showed Progress with Black Children
Where you send your child to school is one of the most important decisions you can make. The “on time” application window closes on Feb. 3 for charter schools on Oakland Enrolls (that’s tomorrow!) and on Feb. 10 for OUSD schools. We want to highlight some of the schools making progress with Oakland children, and…
Open Charter School Seats (Week of 2/1)
Enroll by this FRIDAY 2/3 — Oakland charter schools with open seats!
The Oakland Ed Week in Review 1/21/23-1/27/23
Welcome back to the Oakland Ed Week in Review! Each Friday, we’re gathering key news articles from Oakland and around the state so you stay up-to-date with what’s going on. This was a Dirk favorite and one of the last blogs he published for Great School Voices. What did we miss? Hit us up in…
Open Charter School Seats (Week of 1/25)
Oakland charter schools with open seats — enroll now!
The Oakland Ed Week in Review 1/15-1/20
We’re bringing this one back! Each week, Dirk used to gather up news that matters to the people of Oakland, give his spin on a topic, and share a collection of links and analyses. Each Friday, we’ll be trying to do more of the same, sharing the key headlines from the last week both from…
More Children Eligible to Apply to Transitional Kindergarten & Exploring Oakland Charter School Options for School Year 2023-24
Don’t forget to submit your application for the 2023-24 school year! The deadline for the Oakland Public Charter Schools Application is February 3, 2023. You can apply now at OaklandEnrolls.org. Below are two important pieces of information regarding charter school enrollment. Eligibility for Transitional Kindergarten Transitional Kindergarten (TK) eligibility has expanded to include all children…
OUSD Enrollment is in full Swing!
OUSD Enrollment is in full swing. Here is everything you need to know about this open period. The OUSD Enrollment period started on December 1st. Learn more at ChooseOUSD.org Enrollment FAQ’s Virtual Showcase Schedules – Elementary, Middle School, High School (Zoom links TBA)
What You Need to Know About applying to Oakland Public Charter Schools: Enrollment Open Now for School Year 2023-24 
The Oakland Public Charter Schools Application for School Year 2023-2024 is now open! You can apply now at OaklandEnrolls.org.
Why isn’t my kid learning about climate change in their high school classroom? What can we do so that more young people understand what’s going on with climate change?
In the U.S., climate change is not a standard part of the public school curriculum in many districts due to a lack of resources, lack of teacher background knowledge, and forces that push against this type of education. By: Iris Crawford, GSV Editor & former Research Assistant at MIT ESI Featuring guest expert Dr. Liz…
ELECTION 2022: OUSD School Board Director District 6 Candidate Kyra Mungia Answers to Students in her Interview with Great School Voices
“Our job is to ensure every student receives the highest quality education they can dream of, that they are set up for whatever they want to do after high school and that it is not because of us that they are limited in those opportunities.” @MsMungia has more to say in our exclusive interview
#oaklandelections #vote #oakland #candidatevoice
ELECTION 2022: OUSD School Board Director District 4 Candidate Nick Resnick Answers to Students in his Interview with Great School Voices
“With 8% of our Black boys learning how to read by 3rd grade, I don’t know why that’s not what we’re all talking about and focused on, b/c I have a 2nd grader and learning how to read opens you up to a world of everything else.” @nickrezz, sits with GSV
#oaklandelections #vote
ELECTION 2022: OUSD School Board Director District 2 Candidate Max Orozco Answers to Students in their Interview with Great School Voices
“My son just graduated high school last year. His education was so low he wasn’t able to pursue the career he wanted that he’s been dreaming of since kindergarten. That’s something we have to change” For @MaxOrozcoforD2 families matter most. More at GSV
@oaklandelections #vote
ELECTION 2022: OUSD School Board Director District 2 Candidate David Kakishiba Answers to Students in his Interview with Great School Voices
“School closures have a material financial negative impact. Not a positive impact, a negative impact. We render the Superintendent/Board unable to focus on improving student performance, and we just waste years as a result.”
More from @DaveKakishiba at GSV
#oaklandelections #vote
ELECTION 2022: Mayoral Candidate Allyssa Victory Villanueva Answers to Students in her Interview with Great School Voices
“Once students get to school, they are in the hands of our teachers. When they leave, they’re walking our city streets.” @Victory4Oakland on how the mayor and OUSD are connected. More with her on education exclusively at GSV
#oaklandelections #vote #oaklandmayor
ELECTION 2022: Mayoral Candidate Sheng Thao Answers to Students in her Interview with Great School Voices
What did .@ShengForOakland call a failure to our kids, public safety, and our next generations that are supposed to carry us forward? Find out in our exclusive interview with Oakland Mayoral candidate Sheng Thao.
#oaklandelections #oakland #voting #mayor
ELECTION 2022: Mayoral Candidate Loren Taylor Answers to Students in his Interview with Great School Voices
“If we keep a school open but don’t bring more resources to support our kids where 75% are below grade level, then we perpetuate the lack of success, disparities and poor educational outcomes.” @lorenmtaylor says more exclusively at GSV.
#oakland #generalelection #voting #Vote
ELECTION 2022: Mayoral Candidate Treva Reid Answers to Students in her Interview with Great School Voices
“I grew up with issues our students face: housing insecurity, multiple schools, needing a village. We’ve got to make sure the trajectory for our students is decided early on.” @reidforoakland in her exclusive GSV interview
#oaklandelections #generalelection #vote #oakland
ELECTION 2022: Mayoral Candidate Tyron Jordan Answers to Students in his Interview with Great School Voices
“[W]hen teenagers… speak before…public officials, I don’t think they’re being heard. I don’t think they’re taken seriously enough. I think that’s a big mistake” @TyronJordan13 has more to say in our exclusive interview.
#oaklandelections #oakland #voting #mayor
ELECTION 2022: Mayoral Candidate Gregory Hodge Answers to Students in his interview with Great School Voices
“We’ve got to figure out what that means to have a system of schools as opposed to just a school system. ”
@hodgeforOakland has more to say in our exclusive interview.
#Oaklandelections #oakland #elections
Our Election Coverage Drops Wednesday: What One Student’s Attempt to Register to Vote Has Become…
When I arrived in the East Bay in early July from New York City to press on with our brother Dirk’s legacy, this month’s mayoral and school board elections were squarely top of mind for many who care about children and their futures. In fact, Oakland’s youth was excited, because thanks to Measure QQ –…
GUEST VOICE: Healing Collective Trauma through SEL
Schools shootings have become all too common place. How can SEL (Social Emotional Learning) help us heal?
SOLD OUT: Join us for the 2022 Black Excellence Awards Tomorrow on YouTube
In a year of devastating loss within our community – our founder Dirk and our peerless advocate Rachel Willis Henry, among others – we are honoring their spirit and endless drive for our Black children with tomorrow’s 2022 Black Excellence Awards. It’s a time where we will hold space for their memory and legacy by…
Tomorrow may be the Biggest Event of the Year. JOIN US at the Oakland Candidate Forum.
One of the central tenets of this blog, and our organization overall, lies within our unwavering conviction that representative authenticity matters. This may sound like a loaded term, but inherent within it are a few critical concepts: Representation isn’t token, and it certainly isn’t transactional. Intentions matter. A seat at the table is not enough. …
Announcing the 4th Annual Black Excellence Awards
Join us on Thursday, October 6th, at the Kapor Center to celebrate the 4th Annual Black Excellence Awards. We will be honoring Oakland’s Black Sheroes and Heroes in Education and celebrating the life and legacy of our beloved Dirk Tillotson. From 5-6 p.m., we will have a happy hour, allowing the community to mingle and network.…
How one NYC-based charter school is redefining special education, student learning & success.
In July, Great School Voices’ Iris Crawford spoke with (NCS) Neighborhood Charter Schools to understand how they redefine success and high achievement for their students. Executive Director Lindsay Malanga and Director of Special Populations Jennifer Manning shared more about NCS’s ASD (Autism Spectrum Disorder) program. Unlike most schools that fit special education programs into the…
SOBE Rants Season 4 Episode 2 is Out Now
The following post is from your host of SOBE Rants, MarQuis Evans, and is intended as an introductory companion piece for the next SOBE Rants podcast . Follow Quis on this journey by subscribing on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, or Spotify!
Throughout historical events on the timeline, people of African descent have worked together with allies in multiple movements to elevate our quality of life in America. When it comes to quality of education, I question if integration contributed towards the solution, or if it was the beginning chapter of new obstacles on our pathway to achieving educational liberation. In times of war, having solid allies on your team can play a contributing factor in receiving the ‘W’ or taking that ‘L’. In our case, it’s looking a little shaky in our battle to educate our scholars blessed with melanin superpowers.
What happens when your allies are not receptive to feedback given? What happens when the voices of Black excellence are not in the rooms where decisions for Black scholars are being made? What are the long term results when Black scholars are passed to the next grade level without demonstrating mastery of reading, while being provided a false sense of privilege and entitlement, with low expectations to succeed?
We vent it out by indulging in a quick S.O.B.E. style rant to crack open the door and welcome in an uncomfortable but needed conversation, then transition into the solution for the State Of Black Education.
We are also excited to present to you SOBE Rants S4E2. SOBE Rants was created by Dr. Charles Cole III and now hosted by Quis Evans! The podcast serves as a safe space to have those accountability conversations, while bridging the gap of understanding and providing clear action steps in our fight to elevate the educational experience for our blessed and melanated scholars, while maneuvering in an education system populated by uncultured and seasoning deficient individuals.
Listen now on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, and Spotify with additional content here at Great School Voices for each episode. Excited to have this conversation with you.
SOBE RANTS: Are Allies in Education Getting in the Way of Black Excellence?
The following post is from your host of SOBE Rants, MarQuis Evans, and is intended as an introductory companion piece for the next SOBE Rants podcast . Follow Quis on this journey by subscribing on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, or Spotify!
On top of there being a shortage of teachers overall, there’s critically a lack of cultured educators who possess the ability to effectively educate our scholars. Due to this, many of our schools that provide service for our scholars blessed with melanin superpowers are populated with educators/administrators who claim to be “allies” to provide quality education for our scholars, but are slick getting in the way of their elevation. Willingness to educate Black scholars, however, is not the only ingredient required to get the job done. For quite some time now, Black educators have been voicing that our “allies” are unintentionally getting in the way, and make decisions that ultimately result in the miseducation of our Black scholars. This leaves us Black educators furious, feeling unheard, and thinking out loud, “What in the pumpkin pie is going on here?” #TakesShotOfDrink
Guest Voice on OUSD: What Will the OUSD Board of Education Cover During Their Back to School Retreat on August 5th?
By Jumoke Hinton, Co-Founder of SoBEO and West Oakland Grown Initiatives As the Oakland Unified School District Board of Education prepares for the new school year, will they take time to reflect on their effectiveness? Will they reflect on the tension present whenever they are working together? The public sees a very disjointed and antagonistic school board…
Student Resources/ Employment Opportunities
Our Second Edition of Youth Opportunities!
Join us LIVE this Juneteenth Holiday with Mrs. Oral Lee Brown!
Join us on this Juneteenth holiday to hear from the Legend, champion and phenomenal woman, Mrs. Oral Lee Brown! We will chop it up on many topics including her connection to Dirk, the ultimate promise, her legacy today, and her future plans for the youth of East Oakland. Come celebrate with us LIVE on Monday, June 20th at 2 p.m. PST/5 p.m. EST, on YouTube, Facebook, or Twitter as we keep the conversation going!
The Legend, Champion and Phenomenal woman, Mrs. Oral Lee Brown
by Coron Brinson Our Connection I am so excited to continue our series of highlighting women in Oakland who are doing the work of educating our youth and shedding light on the impact of school closures on Oakland youth and communities. In this piece, I’m highlighting the fabulous and phenomenal —Mrs. Oral Lee Brown. As…
Our Monthly Round-Up of Education News
SOBEO Rants is out with a new one! S.O.B.E. RANTS S4E1: Before You Curse That Teacher Out About Grades, listen to this First. In this episode, we hear from Michelle Coleman, Assistant Principal, former ELA educator, now Administrator, who’s experienced both the positive and negative interactions with parents of the scholars she holds to a…
SOBE RANTS S4E1: Before You Curse That Teacher Out About Grades, Listen to this Next.
The podcast episode is out now!
A strong S.O.B.E. style rant that for sure shined light on a needed conversation, while providing the solution for the State Of Black Education. Now you can hear what Michelle Coleman, Assistant Principal, has to say. Michelle Coleman is a former ELA educator, now Administrator, who’s experienced both the positive and negative interactions with parents of the scholars she holds to a high academic and cultural standard. Though she’s experienced some challenges and pushback, her methods resulted in her having the highest ELA growth scores in her school’s network. In this episode, we discuss the 5 solutions stated in the previous blog, as well as digging into the grades versus the mastery of the standards and lessons taught.
SOBEO RANTS: Before You Curse That Teacher Out About Grades, Read this First.
The following post is from your host of SOBE Rants, MarQuis Evans, and is intended as an introductory companion piece for the SOBE Rants podcast that releases every other Tuesday beginning May 24. A last word blog will release this Friday. Follow Quis on this journey by subscribing on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, or Spotify!
#ACCESSLIT’S NEXT EPISODE Unlocking Accessibility with #OAKLANDUNDIVIDED is this Friday, May 20 at 12PM PST
Join us again as we start our regularly scheduled live broadcast THIS Friday, May 20th as Kennan invites David Silver and Patrick Messac of the Mayor’s Office and #OaklandUndivided as they unpack new developments in providing access to even more Oakland residents. #OaklandUndivided, a citywide effort to ensure every Oakland public school student has the tools necessary to support digital access in their home has delivered 29,000 computers and 10,000 hotspots, increasing home tech connectivity for students from low-income backgrounds from 12% to 98% pre-pandemic to now.
SAVE THE DATE: The Return of SOBE Rants on Tuesday, May 24th at 2:00 AM PST!
We relaunch SOBE Rants next Tuesday, May 24th, with our brother Marquis Evans at the helm!
A Word from Your Host: the Access Lit Broadcast is live tomorrow at noon PST!
Join us tomorrow at noon PST for Kennan’s first LIVE broadcast on the last mile for digital equity!
Meet Oakland Educator Roberta Parker
Meet Oakland Educator Roberta Parker and learn about her journey and commitment to Black education in Oakland.
SAVE THE DATE: We Return Live for Access Lit: Last Mile for Digital Equity on Friday, May 13th, at Noon!
I hope everyone is ready to head into a wonderful weekend and finds time to relax and rejuvenate. A group of folx who were touched by Dirk’s work and his impact on Oakland convened last Sunday afternoon to celebrate Dirk at his favorite neighborhood “watering hole,” Degrees Plato, located in the Laurel District. Jumoke Hinton-Hodge,…
Our Monthly Wrap Up
GSV’s April Month in Review: Here’s the news you need to know!
Guest Voice on School Closures: What is going on in Oakland?
Jumoke Hinton-Hodge, A SOBEO (State of Black Education Oakland) member speaks on her feelings about the current state of Oakland. I’ve always experienced Oakland as a deeply-rooted land of diversity brimming in both culture and intellect. Currently, it feels like folks have lost Oakland’s vision. Our city’s governing bodies are tearing down carefully-built trust and…
From Absence to Action: Solutions to battle Chronic Absenteeism
In the time that I have been in high school, I have seen how chronic absenteeism has affected me and those around me. Groups of students who don’t go to school or skip class are making things worse for everyone else. We all suffer the negative consequences, like how most of the bathrooms at my school are locked all the time. It’s hard to go around the whole school to find the one bathroom that isn’t locked.
Open Charter Seats, Week of January 22, 2025
There is still time to enroll your child in an amazing Oakland school for the current school year. You know where to go – Oakland Enrolls to submit your application. The application is now open and accepting students at OaklandEnrolls.org. FYI – The On-Time application for the 2025-26 School Year is now open! There are great schools for your child,…
Lighthouse Public Schools Open Seats: Week of 1/22/25
Great School Voices publishes open seats reports for Oakland public schools. Each week we share Open Charter Seats, and we are now be publishing open seats for Lighthouse Public Schools as well.