In a recent setback for Unbound Stockton Community School, the Stockton Board of Education declined to approve their proposal for a new charter school emphasizing community-based learning. This marks the second time the charter school proposal has been rejected by the board.
Phillip Hon, executive director of Unbound Stockton and a Stockton native, expressed the school's unique vision: to redefine the prevalent narrative that suggests students should "get your education and leave." Instead, Hon envisions a school where students are deeply invested in their local community, embracing the resources and opportunities it offers.
The proposed curriculum would weave real-life community interactions into foundational academic lessons. This includes weekly sessions with city and community leaders. The school aims to cater to grades 4 through 8, focusing on encouraging students to see themselves as future leaders and contributors within Stockton.
Despite addressing concerns from their first proposal, which was denied last year due to perceived shortcomings in legal standards of the Education Code, the school's recent pitch was again turned down. These concerns encompassed staffing, location, and potential funding implications on existing schools if students chose to transfer. The board also highlighted worries about students from districts other than Stockton potentially outnumbering local enrollees.
Highlighting the school's inclusivity goal, Hon stated, "We intend to be what is called diverse by design." This would mean attracting students from neighboring areas like Lincoln, Lodi, and Manteca, in addition to Stockton.
Board officials did acknowledge the presence of other charter schools with similar pedagogical approaches. However, Hon counters this by emphasizing Unbound Stockton's unique offering. “Our biggest thing is to provide a different option,” Hon remarked, stressing the existing demand for such a community-centric institution.
Board Trustee Ray Zulueta remains skeptical, noting that the issues previously raised about Unbound Stockton's proposal persist. Confirming the board's stance, Zulueta stated, “Our staff recommended a denial in the past and is currently recommending the same.”
Despite these setbacks, Unbound Stockton remains resilient, vowing to continue their efforts to establish their vision for a community-based charter school in the area.
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