Programs

Priority Schools

If you want to make a difference in a school that really needs your help, volunteer your time at a Priority School. 100% of Priority School teachers reported that their students showed improved confidence and self-esteem, increased motivation to learn, and greater school citizenship as a direct result of having our volunteers in their classroom.

Priority Schools are the 30 schools in our district that face the greatest challenges to student achievement. Priority Schools are full of hardworking teachers and students that strive to do well in school and in life but face a host of obstacles in and outside the classroom, including low-income backgrounds, multilingual needs, and large class sizes. Because these schools face the most challenges, they also have the greatest need for volunteers. 50% of our volunteers choose to serve at a Priority School and the number is growing. Apply today to volunteer.

Meet a few of our priority schools:

Bret Harte Elementary School

Tucked away in the southeast corner of the city near the shores of the bay, Bret Harte Elementary School offers a culturally rich learning environment that focuses on high academic and social expectations for all students, celebration of diversity, and effective instruction and classroom management. School data shows 4th grade students struggle the most in meeting academic standards, requiring further support during the school year.

Volunteer needs include: student support for reading, writing, and math – three priority academic areas.
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Cleveland Elementary School

Cleveland Elementary School offers a kindergarten through fifth grade program. It aims to increase academic achievement, ensure academic equity, and provide a safe and secure learning environment for all students. School data show that African American and Latino students perform on average 68% lower in English than other groups.

Volunteer needs include: helping students with math, reading and writing, after school homework help, library help, and playground activities.
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Everett Middle School

Founded in 1928, Everett Middle School is located in the heart of the Mission District. The teachers work in teams to develop a motivating, activity-based instructional program. Latino and English language learners make up 60% of the school population and only 20% of students are proficient in math and English.

Volunteer needs include: English and Math tutors for English language learners, help during the afterschool program and individual teacher assistance.
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John Muir Elementary School

John Muir Children's Elementary is a friendly, child-centered learning environment with a creative curriculum emphasizing reading, writing, critical thinking and technology. John Muir offers both English language development and Spanish bilingual classes. Staff and faculty get to know each child well, making sure all children are encouraged to achieve academically and socially.

As a professional development school and anchor for the San Francisco State University's Muir Alternative Teaching Program, John Muir brings teacher training into the classroom, providing teacher training candidates with both relevant experience and specially designed courses adapted for the urban classroom.

Volunteer needs include: tutors in academic and support classes (one to one or in small groups), library assistance, career speakers, parent and technology volunteers.
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Marshall Elementary School

Marshall Elementary School is a small community school dedicated to providing a rigorous core curriculum while maintaining a positive learning environment. Our academic focus is on English and Spanish language development, as well as science and literacy. Volunteers placed at this school will help increase English language learners' academic achievement.

Volunteer needs include: bilingual volunteers in academic and support classes, the library and afterschool program, and parent volunteers.
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Thurgood Marshall Academic High School

Founded in 1994, Thurgood Marshall Academic High School is a four-year college preparatory high school. It aims to increase academic achievement, ensure academic equity, and prepare every student to be college ready. School data show that African American and Latino students perform on average 70% lower in math and 40% lower in English than other groups.

Volunteer needs include: tutors in academic and support classes, career center and afterschool program, career speakers, and parent and technology volunteers.
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