District outlines ISA–John O’Connell merger plan; capacity and transitions discussed

San Francisco — District staff provided an update on the planned merger of International Studies Academy (ISA) into John O’Connell High School at the March 8 board meeting, describing program alignment, community engagement and next steps for budget and scheduling.

Program details: Staff said both schools share a project‑based learning philosophy and that the consolidation is intended to blend strengths from ISA and O’Connell into a single, stronger academic program. The district has worked on a master schedule, instructional leadership team plans, student recruitment and staff retention supports.

Capacity and students: Assistant Superintendent Bill Sanderson and other staff reported O’Connell’s facility capacity at about 850 students and said current O’Connell enrollment is approximately 300. The district reported that roughly 80 ISA students plan to transition to O’Connell next year, leaving room for growth.

Community input and next steps: Staff discussed family engagement, student visits and cultural activities (pep rally, joint events) to ease the transition. Board members asked about facility capacity, student leadership representation and timelines for the master schedule and budget finalization; staff said the Committee of the Whole in April will present a more detailed academic plan and that budget work will continue through August.

Why it matters: The merger affects high‑school pathways, staffing and community ties in the Southeast/Southside area; board members emphasized ensuring both school communities have representation and voice in leadership and student government during the transition.