Harvey Milk Civil Rights Academy

A TK-5 public elementary in the heart of the Castro

School Site Council

Shared Decision-Making for Student Success

The School Site Council (SSC) is a decision-making body made up of teachers, staff, parents, community members, and the principal. Every public school in California has an SSC, which helps guide how the school’s resources are used to best support students.

At Harvey Milk Civil Rights Academy, the SSC plays a vital role in shaping the School Plan for Student Achievement (SPSA)—a living document that sets our goals for student success and determines how our site budget is allocated. This work is especially important in ensuring that all students, especially those historically underserved, receive the support they need.

What the SSC Does

  • Review and analyze student data
  • Develop the School Plan for Student Achievement (SPSA) and school site budget
  • Monitor the implementation and effectiveness of the SPSA throughout the year
    • Ask: Are we meeting our goals? Do they need adjustment? How can we refocus?
  • Approve and recommend the SPSA to the school board

How to Participate

SSC meetings are open to all families and staff. Everyone is welcome to join the discussion, but only elected SSC members can vote.

The SSC meets virtually once a month on Wednesdays, 6–7pm (dates in school events calendar).

Questions? Email ssc@harveymilkpfc.org

School Site Council Nominations & Elections

The School Site Council is a critical part of our school. Please consider nominating yourself to be part of the Council this year by emailing ssc@harveymilkpfc.org. You can learn more about the role and responsibilities of SSC members in our SSC Member Role Description. Members of the SSC typically serve a 2-year term and are expected to attend the monthly meetings. SSC members also participate in a district-wide half-day summit in the spring.

Why join the SSC?

At our equity-focused school, the SSC is more than just another meeting—it’s where social justice becomes action. Here are some of the ways:

  • “Show me your budget, and I’ll show you your priorities.” The SSC asks: Are we putting our money where our mouth is?
  • Leadership with purpose: Ensure our school’s civil rights mission is reflected in how we allocate funds, design interventions, and support families.
  • Decision-making power: Help direct how we spend state and federal dollars—on tutoring, technology, family engagement, mental health, and more.
  • Equity from the inside out: We hold ourselves accountable for the outcomes of our own students.
  • A seat at the table for every voice: The SSC is strongest when it reflects the diversity of our community.

2024–2025 SSC Board Members

  • *Tarrah Pollaro, Co-Chair and Parent Member
  • *Cecilia Le, Co-Chair and Parent Member
  • *Oona Marti, Parent Member
  • Stefan Jensen, Parent Member
  • Alain Lartigue, Parent Member
  • Sarah Kern, Staff
  • Heather Brown, Staff
  • Jude Orlando, Staff
  • Charles Glover, Principal

Historical Documents