Our Focus Areas
Spark invests philanthropic dollars into three priority focus areas to catalyze lasting, systemic improvements for students in San Francisco’s public education system.
Focus Area
Advancing Excellence in Teaching and Learning
Students and teachers are at the heart of our work. We pilot new ventures, propel promising ideas, and scale proven practices across the district, all in the name of excellence in teaching and learning.

Focus Area
Uplifting Equity
Equitable access to an excellent education is a fundamental civil right. It is our collective responsibility to ensure that each and every child receives the quality instruction and equitable support required to thrive in the 21st century.

Focus Area
Serving the Whole Child
By addressing the comprehensive needs of children, schools help foster stronger communities. When children feel connected and supported, they are more likely to contribute positively to their communities, both in school and later in life.

Our Strategic Initiatives
Our Multi-Year Commitments to the Highest Priorities for Students
The majority of Spark funds are channeled to our three Focus Areas by investing in multi-year Strategic Initiatives that are aligned with SFUSD’s highest priority student outcome initiatives.
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.
Learn more about our current Strategic Initiatives below.

Advancing Excellence in Teaching and Learning
Uplifting Equity
Serving the Whole Child
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