Hayward Unified

The Hayward Unified School District in California serves 28 schools, including 19 elementary schools, 5 middle schools, and 4 high schools. The district faces a mix of academic performance, with some standout schools like Southgate Elementary and Stonebrae Elementary consistently outperforming the district and state averages, while other schools struggle with low proficiency rates and high dropout/absenteeism.

The data reveals significant performance gaps between the highest and lowest-performing schools. For example, in 11th grade English Language Arts, Southgate Elementary has 56% proficiency compared to just 25% at Tennyson High. Equity and access also appear to be challenges, with high rates of free/reduced lunch and chronic absenteeism at many schools, suggesting socioeconomic factors that can impact student learning.

However, the success of schools like Mt. Eden High, Hayward High, and the aforementioned elementary schools demonstrates that high performance is possible within the Hayward Unified district. Understanding the practices and strategies at these schools could inform improvements at the lower-performing campuses and help ensure more equitable outcomes for all students.