Resilient Learning Environments: The Collaborative Vision for Oakland’s Schools

ABSTRACT

After a decade of stable enrollment, the Oakland Unified School District, serving 37,000 students, has shifted its focus from crisis management to long-term, strategic improvements that benefit the local community. With MKThink’s guidance, the District developed a visionary Facilities Master Plan centered on enhancing Learning Outcomes, Community Strength, and Resilient Environments. Prioritizing critical needs and efficiencies in Building Systems, Seismic Safety, Educational Adequacy, and Fire Safety, the District identified a $3.4 billion project list across its 108 campuses. The resulting vision, process, and improvement framework showed strong community support, as demonstrated by the 78% voter approval of Measure Y, a $735 million construction bond to fund the first phase of the Master Plan. Through this collaboration, Oakland Unified is set to create safer, more resilient, and equitable learning environments for all its students.