Board adopts Haney resolution directing plan to expand A–G courses and an online catalog

The San Francisco Board of Education unanimously approved a substitute resolution on Oct. 8 that directs district staff to develop recommendations and a timeline to expand A–G course offerings available to high school students.

Commissioner Haney read the resolution, which asks the district to analyze resources—including release time, stipends and extended hours—for teachers and principals to develop new A–G approved courses. The resolution also directs staff to create a publicly accessible online course catalog, an online database of syllabi and course materials, to hold annual student focus groups and to include student feedback in implementation. The superintendent is to report back to the board on progress by March 30, 2014.

Committee reports from curriculum and budget committees recommended the resolution with minor revisions; budget committee members cautioned that initial staff costs are unknown and that the March 30 report should provide specific fiscal impacts to inform the budget development process. Commissioners said they expect the report to clarify cost differences between comprehensive and small high schools, identify mechanisms for students to access courses offered elsewhere (including online or community‑based sites), and propose supports for teachers who develop new courses.

Board members praised student involvement in drafting the resolution and emphasized the importance of including student voice and measurable outcomes. Commissioner Haney acknowledged staff contributions from Janet Schultz and Bill Sanderson, who helped prepare the proposal. The board approved the substitute motion by roll call with all present voting yes.