Parents demand space for newcomer program at MEC; educators press the board to settle contract amid affordability strains

Parents from Mission Educational Center told the board they are asking the district to preserve dedicated space for MEC students and staff and to avoid co‑locating multiple programs in the same classrooms.

"We are here today to advocate on behalf of our children who attend Mission Educational Center, MEC," said Antoinette, a parent speaker, describing students who have experienced gang violence and traumatic upheaval and who, parents said, need private counseling spaces, libraries and consistent instructional settings.

Cristina Silva, a parent, said teachers and students lack adequate rooms for individualized testing and that instruction sometimes occurs in hallways and emergency exits, which she said impedes learning and confidentiality. Multiple parents said newcomer students benefit from MEC’s specialized supports and asked the district to find alternate classroom space instead of reducing MEC facilities.

Teachers and paraprofessionals echoed concerns about retention and compensation. Third‑grade teacher Claudia Torado said she supported investment in teachers and urged the board to finish negotiations: "We are fearful of a strike...we believe that we deserve a raise." Christine Ng, a special‑education paraprofessional, said monthly rent exceeds one paycheck and warned that without higher wages or full‑time positions the district will lose paraprofessional stability that students need.

Aaron Hall, a tenth‑year teacher, said housing pressures mean many colleagues no longer live in San Francisco and urged a speedy resolution of contract talks so teachers can remain in city classrooms. Robert Smith, a paraprofessional with 16 years at Washington High School, said offers from the district feel "insulting" and that staff may have to take stronger action to secure a living wage.

Susan Solomon of United Educators of San Francisco (UESF) told the board the union wants to partner with the district but that uncertainty over compensation undermines that partnership. She noted a $60,000 donation from the National Education Association to teacher efforts cited in the agenda packet.

The board did not take action on these requests during public comment but several trustees thanked speakers and said staff would follow up in writing where appropriate.

Next steps: trustees and staff indicated they would provide follow‑up information to speakers and discuss relevant resource allocation and contract items in upcoming meetings.