Karen Evens, Kevin Kruska, Co-Lead Teachers

Dear Parents:

The administration, faculty, and staff of U.S. Grant High School are very excited to be part of the Social Justice Academy for the 2010-2011 academic year. Throughout our lives, questions about identity and concerns over fairness and equity affect each of us. For young people, these issues take center stage in their cognitive, moral, and emotional development. The Social Justice Academy (SJA) at U.S. Grant High School will create a rigorous academic environment which encourages its students to view social, economic, and political realities in ways that empower each of them to achieve their highest potential. Founded on principles of social justice, SJA will guide its students to be critically thinking, informed, and empowered agents of positive change in our community while providing a strong academic foundation that will prepare them for futures as active and engaged citizens. Moreover, students will have the opportunity to explore a number of career pathways during their years at SJA, and by graduation they will be prepared to pursue post-high school options in higher education and careers in law, policy, community-based organizations and public health -- or other chosen fields. The curriculum, professional and social culture, and governance of the school will reflect in practice the twin ideals of democracy and community diversity. The vision and purpose of the school will be supported by, actively participated in, and regularly reassessed by students, teachers, administrators, parents, and other community members. If you have any questions or concerns, regarding your child's participation in U.S. Grant High School's Social Justice Academy, please do not hesitate to contact Mrs. Liz Nisotis, Assistant Principal and administrator in charge of our SLC, or Mr. Kevin M. Kruska, Lead Teacher for the Social Justice Academy. They both may be reached at (818) 756-2700. Mr. Kruska also may be reached directly on his cell phone. That number is (818) 269-6060. Administrator, faculty, and staff of U.S. Grant's Social Justice Academy wish you a happy, healthy, and splendid 2010!