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SANKOFA Program

The image displays the text %22SANKOFA%22 in large, bold letters, with a smiling person in the background. The background appears to be blurred, drawing the focus to the text and the person's expression.

Did you know that SBCUSD offers a unique, award-winning magnet program that is culturally responsive and starts in kindergarten? That’s right the SANKOFA program, short for Students Accumulating New Knowledge, Optimizing Future Accomplishments, is now enrolling students at Hunt Elementary.

SANKOFA is designed to nurture African-American students and help them achieve at the highest levels. Students who participate in SANKOFA have their own counselor and a dedicated AVID class. That’s because SANKOFA is all about helping students learn and thrive academically from elementary school all the way through high school.

Started in 2005, the word SANKOFA translates as “going back to your past for knowledge and wisdom,” and comes from the Akan people of Ghana, West Africa. Dr. Wil Greer, Director of the District’s Department of Equity & Targeted Student Achievement, said SANKOFA teachers hold students to high expectations while also emphasizing their wellness and celebrating their accomplishments. 

A young African American boy is intently focused on writing in a notebook while sitting at a desk in a classroom setting.
A young girl with braided hair is sitting at a table in a colorful classroom environment, smiling and resting her chin on her hands.
A young African American girl with braided hair wearing a black t-shirt stands in front of a colorful classroom setting, appearing engaged and focused.
A group of young children, wearing matching black t-shirts with the word %22Pancho%22 printed on them, are seated together with an adult man standing behind them, all smiling and posing for the camera in an outdoor setting with a building and trees in the background.
A young child wearing a black t-shirt with a graphic design is smiling and posing in a playground setting with various colorful play equipment in the background.
A smiling woman wearing a Jankoski t-shirt stands in a colorful classroom setting with desks, chairs, and educational materials visible in the background.
A young boy in a black t-shirt is sitting at a desk, focused on writing in a notebook, while other students are visible in the background of the classroom.
A young student, wearing a black t-shirt and with braided hair, is intently focused on their work at a desk in a classroom setting.
Two individuals, a young person and an adult, are engaged in a conversation at a table in what appears to be an educational or community setting, with various framed artworks and other decorations visible in the background.
Two young girls are holding books and standing in front of a bookshelf filled with various books and other items.
Two young students, a boy and a girl, are sitting on the floor of a colorful and vibrant classroom, engaged in an activity or lesson.
A young boy wearing a black t-shirt with the text %22Sankofa%22 stands in a classroom setting surrounded by various educational materials and supplies.
A young person with curly hair is using a microscope in a classroom setting, surrounded by other students.
Two individuals, a man and a woman, are engaged in a friendly interaction, fist-bumping each other in what appears to be a classroom or educational setting, with various educational materials and displays visible in the background.
A smiling woman with dreadlocks stands in a colorful and well-equipped classroom.
A group of young children, wearing matching black t-shirts with a logo, are standing together on a grassy field with trees in the background.
A group of young girls, dressed in black shirts, are posing together on a wooden platform in an outdoor setting with trees and buildings visible in the background.
A young girl with braided hair stands in a colorful playground, surrounded by vibrant slides and climbing structures.
A young girl with a friendly expression sits at a desk in a classroom setting, surrounded by colorful educational materials and posters on the walls.
A young African American child wearing a black t-shirt with the text %22Mankofa%22 is sitting at a desk in what appears to be a classroom setting, with other students visible in the background.
A young student with curly hair raises their hand in a classroom setting, surrounded by educational materials and displays on the walls.
A smiling woman wearing a black shirt stands in a classroom setting with various educational materials and student desks visible in the background.

“Our SANKOFA teachers are very committed to infusing the richness of African-American culture into their daily lessons,” Greer said. “Teachers and counselors respond directly to the unique needs of their students and help every scholar succeed. Through positive and personal connections with teachers, students develop a true sense of belonging.” 

SANKOFA students are taught by specially trained teachers who deliver the same grade-level instruction while focusing on character development through daily affirmations and other activities that promote high character and integrity. SANKOFA teachers help students understand and appreciate African-American culture and history through literature and diverse projects. 

Space is limited, so secure your SANKOFA spot today by calling the Department of Equity & Targeted Student Achievement at 909-473-2098, or by clicking the link below.

Sign up for SANKOFA Now