Scripps Ranch's "Kids First Committee" has begun an initiative to separate and segregate the six schools located in 92131 away from San Diego Unified School District (SDUSD).  The four elementary schools, one middle school, and one high school represent approximately 6,593 students, or 5% of the entire SDUSD student population.  Demographically, those who attend Scripps Ranch schools are less ethnically diverse and more economically advantaged.  Students are less likely to be English learners and none are foster youth.

The committee has stated that the impetus to pursue separation is that "....often the needs of Scripps Ranch Schools and students are ignored."  As SDUSD parents and stakeholders, we assert that the needs of students, instructional and support staff, and families are best met when engaged in an education model which benefits from a wide variety of perspectives informed by race, gender, class, sexual orientation, religious practices, and family structures.  The movement to segregate Scripps Ranch schools is antithetical to this philosophy.

This committee began to gather steam in the midst of the pandemic and among the "Reopen SDUSD" and "Reopen California" initiatives.  These groups' forward facing objective was stated to be a return to in-person instruction for students amid a global pandemic which has killed over 700,000 Americans.  After minimal research, it appears that these groups first and foremost seek to undermine public education, labor unions, and the democratic process to lead school boards and districts.  Akin to the response to Brown v. Board of Education, attempts like "Kids First" reinforce resource hoarding, ethnic and economic homogeneity, and racial protectionism to undermine the aims of a quality public education regardless of zip code.

The needs of students and schools in Scripps Ranch are best met by continuing to be a part of SDUSD.  A current San Diego Unified principal has a motto which guides her service to students: "Come as you are.  We will meet you there."  The best way for Scripps Ranch students to be "met there" is by continuing to be a part of the diverse, engaged, and distinctive learning community of SDUSD. 

If stakeholders believe that the needs of their students and schools are not being met, we encourage them to participate in one of the many opportunities to have a seat at the decision making table - site council participation, classroom involvement, PTA/PTO attendance, cluster leadership engagement, district employment, and/or a run for a seat on the School Board.  Segregating students and depriving them of a robust education is not the answer.