Board approves memorandum of understanding with SFPD despite objections; trustees push for ongoing oversight

The San Francisco Unified School District board voted to approve a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the San Francisco Police Department after public comment and a board discussion on oversight, reporting and training.

Background and debate: Commissioners and public advocates—including Coleman Advocates and Public Counsel—urged stronger language and monitoring in the MOU to reduce arrests, citations and disproportionate outcomes in school policing. Board members said they were disappointed the police chief declined to sign several board-proposed amendments but emphasized their intent that the MOU remain a "living document" subject to review.

Reporting and oversight: Staff noted the MOU includes a reporting schedule (reports to be provided in November, March and June) and requires a captain-level contact to coordinate with the deputy chief's office. Commissioners insisted on clear mechanisms to compare police records with district data and on periodic public reporting. Some trustees asked the Police Department officers assigned to schools to be exposed to restorative-practices training so they understand school discipline approaches.

Vote and reaction: The board approved the MOU in a roll-call vote; several trustees said they supported passage to maintain a formal partnership but would continue pushing for implementation of stronger oversight provisions. Commissioner Mofas and others said they will monitor compliance and requested more regular reporting.

Next steps: The MOU was adopted; trustees instructed staff to hold the SFPD to the reporting schedule and to return to the board with updates. Several trustees and community groups signaled intention to keep pressure on police and district staff to operationalize the MOU's reporting and training commitments.