Students and community speakers urge board to keep and expand ethnic studies, support 'Voices' curriculum

Dozens of students packed public comment to urge the Board of Education to preserve and expand ethnic studies and approve the 'Voices' high‑school curriculum.

"As a student who got to explore herself through ethnic studies, I implore you all to consider the impact of this class and think about students' futures," one student told the board, summarizing a common theme among youth speakers who described ethnic studies as central to identity and academic confidence. Students representing organizations including the Arab Resource and Organizing Center and the Chinese Progressive Association urged the district to keep ethnic studies a two‑semester graduation requirement and to adopt the 'Voices' materials more widely.

Parents and youth organizers said ethnic studies strengthens belonging and academic outcomes. Rhianna Bautiste of the African American Parent Advisory Council told commissioners the curriculum was vetted and “well received by the SFUSD community,” and asked the board to adopt the statewide requirement and stop letting politics drive the decision.

Several student speakers described how ethnic studies helped them address bullying, build empathy, and raise grades. "Ethnic studies isn't something extra. It's a staple in education," Salma, a senior at Ruth Asawa School of the Arts, said during public comment.

Board members thanked students and asked staff to ensure families have opt‑out or alternative options where appropriate. The record of public comment and student testimony was among the factors the board weighed during later discussion of a formal adoption agenda item.