School principals and administrators bused and walked through each of the district's three service areas on Monday. The tours included stops at local schools, cultural sites, and areas of concern.
Community experts also engaged school officials in discussions on the history, strengths, and challenges of each region.
"I think the walk is all about reconnecting and understanding the communities where our students come from. And also the historical parts of Oakland, like West Oakland in particular, where some of our children and families have been marginalized," said Sankofa Academy Principal Monique Brinson.
The three regional zones toured serve families from pre-kindergarten through the eighth grade. Academic and social services are coordinated within each region.