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Resilience in Action: Students, Families, and Leaders Gather for Equity

Resilience in Action: Students, Families, and Leaders Gather for Equity


How we grow and adapt in the face of obstacles–and the tools needed to thrive–were just some of the topics at hand for families, students, and community members who recently came together for the third annual Redwood City Education Foundation (RCEF) Equity Summit.

This year’s theme, “Building Resilience in Our Students,” energized more than 115 participants including students from several schools, community organizations, and elected officials. 

Students ages 5-15 and their families took part in workshops, counselor-led discussions, and other activities while examining the power of resilience and providing ideas for imagining one’s own future in spite of adversity.

Students enjoyed an interactive presentation, “Bouncing Back & Growing Strong,” led by Garfield Community School principal Sara Shackel. RCSD Mental Health Liaisons guided students through mindfulness activities to add to their toolbelt when faced with a challenge, and a Kaiser nurse offered students even more strategies through breathing techniques

Students participate in an activity at the 2025 RCEF Equity Summit

Students participate in an activity at the 2025 RCEF Equity Summit


A platform for community dialogue, the Equity Summit seeks to bring together students and those who want to empower them to flourish through support. From families and teachers to community leaders and healthcare professionals, the Summit provides an opportunity for attendees to take steps toward bettering educational outcomes for all students. 

Redwood City School District (RCSD) is a proud participant in the Summit as it aligns with the District’s values such as equity, engagement, and partnerships. 

RCSD is committed to serving and emphasizing student strengths and the gifts of all learners. Engaging all students in joyful, rigorous, and enriching instruction provides maximum opportunities for finding individual successes in education and beyond. Partnerships between school, home, and community organizations and resources continue to build momentum for student success.

Founded in 1983, RCEF has raised funds for counseling, supplies, STEAM tools, music programs, and much more in its more than forty years of community-based assistance for all Redwood City students. RCEF aims to affect change through financial support, advocacy, and community engagement, with a focus on the most vulnerable and underserved students.

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