We are champions of public education.
Spark SF Public Schools is the official public foundation for the San Francisco Unified School District (SFUSD). We bring together philanthropy, business, SFUSD and community leadership to ensure every one of SFUSD’s 50,000 students has access to excellent and equitable education.
Since our founding in 2015, Spark has raised and directed more than $150 million in private support to fuel innovation, strengthen teaching and learning, and build wellness, equitable access and belonging across our school system.
Our mission is to champion great public schools in San Francisco for all children to reach their brightest potential.


How we’re different.
Spark is uniquely positioned as SFUSD’s trusted community partner to mobilize community and philanthropic resources to improve our schools and students outcomes at scale.
As both a member of the Superintendent’s leadership team and an independent nonprofit, Spark combines integration with SFUSD strategic priorities with strong community oversight of its investments and funds.
Spark provides our school district capacity for partnership that connects students to the joy, culture, and opportunities that make San Francisco extraordinary.
Spark’s Super Powers
Catalyst for Systems Change
Spark invests in the district’s highest-priority student outcome initiatives. By channeling philanthropic dollars where SFUSD leadership has mobilized significant focus, infrastructure, and resources, Spark ensures every investment drives student success at scale.
Connected for Impact
With direct access to SFUSD leadership and programs, Spark identifies the most strategic opportunities to invest philanthropic dollars for sustained impact across SF's public education system.
Community Convener
Spark brings leaders, ideas and resources together to rally around SFUSD’s highest priority issues, and to unite the city around the success of our public schools and students.
Committed to Accountability
Governed by an independent Board of Directors, Spark closely monitors how its investments are used, ensuring the highest standards of transparency and accountability. This structure gives donors confidence that community resources are used as intended and solely directed to critical district priorities in our schools. Through Spark, these funds safeguard the district’s most impactful workstreams, even amid financial challenges.

Join our newsletter
Stay updated with our latest news and events
