As the Oakland Unified School District (OUSD) approaches the winter holiday break, Superintendent Dr. Denise Saddler addressed the community with a message reflecting on both achievements and ongoing challenges within the district.
Dr. Saddler acknowledged that this is a difficult period for OUSD, referencing budget decisions and recent tragedies in Oakland. She expressed gratitude to staff, students, families, and partners for their commitment to the district. “I want to take this opportunity to thank you for being a part of the OUSD community, and for honoring me with the opportunity to lead the District,” she said.
Highlighting student accomplishments from the fall semester, Dr. Saddler noted several events: The Oakland High Jazz Band performed at a Warriors game at Chase Center; musical groups from Edna Brewer Middle, Elmhurst United Middle, Castlemont High, and Oakland Tech High played a benefit concert at Yoshi’s for Elevate Oakland; McClymonds High Football Team competed in their seventh state championship game since 2016; and students in the Young Adult Program sold handmade items at a local makers market.
Several schools reported initiatives aimed at improving school culture and attendance. Harriet Tubman and Highland CDCs organized spirit days to encourage joyful learning among young students. Hillcrest Elementary achieved a 6% increase in attendance compared to last year due to positive culture efforts and targeted interventions.
Urban Promise Academy focused on restorative practices by employing two full-time Restorative Justice facilitators who support social-emotional learning needs and peer programming. The school also partners with Wellness Together for on-site mental health support and Hawthorne Health Center for outdoor educational trips.
Fremont High School hosted monthly events such as markets promoting student businesses, family engagement celebrations like Friendsgiving, and showcases featuring student music performances. The Oakland Adult & Career Education Department reported that over five years, 171 students earned diplomas or equivalents, 104 passed citizenship exams, and more than 1,000 enrolled in career preparation programs.
Community partnerships contributed new resources across campuses. Martin Luther King Jr. Elementary received a new playground funded by Eat. Learn. Play Foundation and KABOOM!, while Urban Promise Academy opened a SmartLab through support from the Campos Foundation featuring technology tools such as robotics kits and drones. REACH Academy’s library was refurbished thanks to Golden State Valkyries and Ross Stores.
The message also shared news of Joseph Lynch’s passing—a longtime teacher at Horace Mann—recognizing his impact over 26 years with OUSD across multiple schools. A Celebration of Life is scheduled for December 26 at Mount Carmel Missionary Baptist Church in Oakland.
Recognizing holiday stressors faced by families—including loss of loved ones or financial concerns—Dr. Saddler encouraged use of Care Solace services provided by OUSD: “The district continues to partner with Care Solace, a mental health care coordination service… This is a free, fully confidential service for you and your family.”
Child Development Centers will be open December 22-23 before closing for break; classes resume January 6 after a professional development day on January 5 reserved for staff only.
“I wish you a restful and relaxing winter break, filled with love and joy,” Dr. Saddler concluded her message.
