Sankofa United Elementary

Sankofa Academy, located in the Longfellow neighborhood of North Oakland, is a public elementary school serving students from transitional kindergarten through fifth grade. As part of the Oakland Unified School District, the school is deeply committed to the "Sankofa" philosophy—an African concept meaning "it is not taboo to fetch at risk of being left behind what is at risk of being left behind," often symbolized by a bird looking backward while moving forward. This ethos reflects the school’s dedication to integrating cultural identity, community history, and academic rigor to foster a sense of pride and belonging among its diverse student population.

Beyond its focus on cultural identity, Sankofa Academy emphasizes a holistic approach to education that addresses the social-emotional and academic needs of its students. The school works closely with families and local community partners to provide a supportive environment that encourages critical thinking and resilience. By centering the curriculum on the experiences and contributions of people of African descent while maintaining alignment with California state standards, Sankofa aims to empower its students to become confident, engaged, and successful lifelong learners within the broader Oakland community.