Evergreen School District
From strong roots grow bright futures
August 9, 2023
Honorable Councilmembers
Neighborhood Services and Education Committee
City of San José
California
To the NSE Chair and Members,
I am writing to express my enthusiastic support for the SJ Lears grant program, which has played a transformative role in supporting expanded learning opportunities for students TK-3 in our city. As a community member deeply invested in the educational well-being of our youth, I firmly believe that the continuation of funding for this vital program is crucial for the holistic development and future success of our students.
With support from the SJ Learns grant, Evergreen Elementary School District was able to provide a six-week Summer Learning Program for 33 of the most at-risk rising 1st through 3rd grade students identified as performing grade level in literacy. 90% of students served maintained or improved literacy skills per the iReady final assessment.
The SJ Learns grant program has had a significant and positive impact on our school districts including Alum Rock, Campbell, Luther Burbank, Rocketship, Evergreen, Mount Pleasant and several more, providing essential resources and support that have enhanced the educational experiences of our young learners. I would like to highlight a few key reasons why the city of San Jose should continue funding this invaluable program:
Academic Achievement: The SJ Learns grant program has demonstrated a direct correlation between increased access to expanded learning opportunities and improved academic achievement among students. By providing funding for Expanded Learning programs, the program has effectively extended learning beyond the school day. Students participating in SJ Learns have shown remarkable progress in literacy, numeracy, and social-emotional development, setting a strong foundation for their future academic endeavors.
2. Social Emotional Learning: SJ Learns promotes a well-rounded approach to education by prioritizing funding programs that offer a wide range of activities like art, sports, STEM, and character-building initiatives. Through these experiences, students develop critical thinking skills, creativity, teamwork, and resilience - qualities that are essential for their future success.
3. Equity and Inclusion: One of the program's strengths lies in its commitment to promoting equity and inclusion among our students. SJ Learns ensures that children from all socioeconomic backgrounds have equal access to high-quality expanded learning opportunities. By partnering with schools and community-based organizations, the program reaches District Office Superintendent: Dr. Antoine Hawkins
Board of Trustees:
Patti Andrade
Jeremy Barousse
Mary Hien Pollett
www.eesd.org Jim Zito
Dr. Stan Rose
Evergreen School District
From strong roots grow bright futures
underserved neighborhoods, narrowing the opportunity gap and fostering a sense of belonging and empowerment among students and their families.
4. Community Engagement: The SJ Learns grant program has strengthened community engagement by creating partnerships between schools, parents, community organizations, and local businesses through the Expanded Learning ommunity of Practice (ExL CoP). Through these collaborative efforts, the program has fostered a sense of share esponsibility for our students' success. ExL CoP members have actively participated in resource sharing and pee teaching, providing invaluable support to the students and participants in the program.
The impact of the SJ Learns grant program extends far beyond individual students and schools. Early intervention plays a crucial role in fostering the comprehensive development of our community, as students who reach grade-level proficiency in English Language Arts and math by 3 grade are more likely to successfully graduate from high school. By investing in our young learners, we invest in the future of San Jose.
Evergreen Elementary School District tracked and measured student growth in literacy utilizing a research-based local assessment tool (Ready), comparing student baseline assessment results in the spring prior to the program to their post program assessment results in the fall after the program. Students in the program met and exceeded academic expectations with 90% of students served maintaining or improving literacy skills. In addition to providing high-quality academic and enrichment activities, the program provided free healthy meals, daily physical exercise, social and emotional learning, supervision and support from caring adult role- models, and a safe space for youth to make friends and feel they belong.
In conclusion, I urge the Neighborhood Services and Education Committee to continue funding the SJ Learns grant program. Its track record of success, commitment to equity, and community engagement make it an invaluable asset for our city. By providing expanded learning opportunities for our students in transitional kindergarten through third grade, we can ensure that they are well- prepared for the challenges and opportunities as they grow.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Respectfully yours,
Tonya Trim
Director, Educational Services
District Oilice Superintendent: Dr. Antoine Hawkins
Board of Trustees:
Patti Andrade
Jeremy Barousse
Mary Hien Pollett
www.eesd.org Jim Zito
Dr. Stan Rose