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SFUSD equity-audit advisory committee advances after heated public comment over outreach and translations
Summary
The board previewed appointments to an equity-audit advisory committee, set to be formally approved at a special meeting, amid community concerns that application materials were misposted, not translated and that outreach to affected communities (including Lowell alumni and BSU students) was insufficient. University of Kentucky staff outlined a 4–6 month audit process and pledged student protections.
Board leadership presented an update on the Equity Audit Advisory Committee on Sept. 14 and said they will formally present candidate names for a Thursday special meeting vote.
Attorney Christine Linenbach, representing Lowell alumni and friends, told the board the publicly posted application notice misstated the deadline and asked the board to continue the item and provide six weeks for the public to apply. "You never posted the June 11 deadline…You did not properly post the application," she said, alleging a Brown Act violation.
Deputy Superintendent Anikia Ford Mortel acknowledged an error in the website posting and said staff extended the application deadline in practice and conducted targeted outreach and informational sessions. Board leadership said more than 30 valid applications were received and that 20 candidates were selected by board leadership while six seats were reserved for Black Student Union representation.
Dr. Gregory Vincent of the University of Kentucky, which SFUSD engaged to perform the audit with NAACP partnership, described the audit as an independent, evidence-based process involving policy review, surveys and focus groups and estimated a 4–6 month timeline. "The most important element of this...is to have a strong...equity action committee," Vincent said, and he pledged to protect participating students.
Why it matters: The equity audit was commissioned to address long-standing concerns about racial equity and exclusionary practices at sites such as Lowell High School. Public commenters—including alumni, parents and advocacy groups—pressed the board for clearer timelines, stronger translation and broader outreach to limited-English-speaking communities.
Board process and next steps: President Lopez and Vice President Molina said the item tonight was informational; the appointments would be brought to the board at a special meeting for a formal vote. Staff said deputy superintendent Ford Mortel will be the convener and will notify applicants of outcomes once decisions are finalized.
Reported facts and sources in this article are drawn from public comment and staff and expert testimony during the Sept. 14, 2021 SFUSD Board of Education meeting.
