QUALITY EDUCATION FOR ALL: ACT Saves Small High Schools from the Chopping Block

A Genesis student opens the summit by singing the national anthem in front of 450 attendees.

Regina Farinas, a sophomore at the Met High School in Sacramento, thinks small high schools are a crucial part of Sacramento’s education.

“Not everyone does well at a large high school. The Met has provided me with a great opportunity to learn in an environment that fits my needs,” she explains.

On November 14, Sacramento ACT organized a “Small High Schools Summit” that allowed Regina and others to share this message with the SCUSD Board of Education and the Sacramento City Council. Over 450 students, parents, educators and concerned community members attended this action to demonstrate their concern for the future of small high schools.

In 2001, SCUSD passed an effort to transform city high schools into small communities where students could learn in more intimate, personable settings. As part of the reform initiative, the district committed to opening eight new small high schools. Of those, only five are currently in operation—New Technology, the Met, America’s Choice, Genesis, and Health Professions. The Met and America’s Choice have struggled to find a permanent location, moving each year.

Now, as the board of education is primed to make critical decisions regarding funding and facilities, parents, students and educators want to know if the district will continue to support small high schools.

Superintendent Maggie Mejia’s response indicates that the outlook is positive. She went on record in support of the construction of the remaining proposed schools.

ACT’s successful summit garnered support from additional officials, as well. On behalf of the mayor and city council, Councilmember Rob Fong pledged to create a partnership between the city and the district, particularly in the effort to find site properties. Councilmember Robbie Waters announced, “We are ready to commit our fair share of dollars,” promising that a new small high school would be built in his district.