Sophie Bearman

New data from San Francisco public schools suggest remote learning resulted in significant learning loss and had an unequal impact along socioeconomic and racial lines.

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New data from San Francisco public schools suggest remote learning resulted in significant learning loss and had an unequal impact along socioeconomic and racial lines.

In a <a href="https://go.boarddocs.com/ca/sfusd/Board.nsf/files/C75V6U7F43BA/$file/BoE%20Mtg_SFUSD%20PK-12_Data_Summary_Slides_2020_21_Outcome_Metrics.pdf">report</a> published this week, San Francisco Unified School District (SFUSD) tracked enrollment, attendance and academic performance during the 2020-21 school year. San Francisco public schools were broadly closed last year due to the COVID-19 pandemic, reopening on a limited and rolling basis starting in April 2021. Public schools reopened full-time for all students <a href="https://sfstandard.com/excitement-some-jitters-as-students-return-to-san-francisco-classrooms/">last month</a>.&nbsp;

In a <a href="https://go.boarddocs.com/ca/sfusd/Board.nsf/files/C75V6U7F43BA/$file/BoE%20Mtg_SFUSD%20PK-12_Data_Summary_Slides_2020_21_Outcome_Metrics.pdf">report</a> published this week, San Francisco Unified School District (SFUSD) tracked enrollment, attendance and academic performance during the 2020-21 school year. San Francisco public schools were broadly closed last year due to the COVID-19 pandemic, reopening on a limited and rolling basis starting in April 2021. Public schools reopened full-time for all students <a href="https://sfstandard.com/excitement-some-jitters-as-students-return-to-san-francisco-classrooms/">last month</a>.&nbsp;

Overall enrollment for the district, which serves about 52,000 students, dropped by more than 1,000 students compared to the year prior. SFUSD reported that these drops were most pronounced at transition grades, or grades like 6th or 9th when students often transition to a new school. Kindergarten, for example, saw 238 fewer students, or a loss of 5.6%, compared to the overall enrollment drop of 2%.

Overall enrollment for the district, which serves about 52,000 students, dropped by more than 1,000 students compared to the year prior. SFUSD reported that these drops were most pronounced at transition grades, or grades like 6th or 9th when students often transition to a new school. Kindergarten, for example, saw 238 fewer students, or a loss of 5.6%, compared to the overall enrollment drop of 2%.

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/20210816-DSC_4717.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-10666"/><figcaption>Students work on an assignment on the first day back to school at Everett Middle School on Aug. 16, 2021. | Photo by Sophie Bearman</figcaption></figure>

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<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/20210816-DSC_4717.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-10666"/><figcaption>Students work on an assignment on the first day back to school at Everett Middle School on Aug. 16, 2021. | Photo by Sophie Bearman</figcaption></figure>

SFUSD also lost students as the school year progressed; students transferring out of the district outnumbered those transferring in by an additional 659 students. 

SFUSD also lost students as the school year progressed; students transferring out of the district outnumbered those transferring in by an additional 659 students.

Overall daily attendance was consistent with prior years. But chronic absenteeism, a label applied to students with an attendance rate of 90% or less, rose significantly for certain student groups. African American and Pacific Islander students saw chronic absenteeism rise to 45% and 47%, respectively, up from 38% and 34% the year prior.&nbsp;

Overall daily attendance was consistent with prior years. But chronic absenteeism, a label applied to students with an attendance rate of 90% or less, rose significantly for certain student groups. African American and Pacific Islander students saw chronic absenteeism rise to 45% and 47%, respectively, up from 38% and 34% the year prior.&nbsp;

The report also measured academic performance, showing students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds, as well as many minority students, slipping furthest behind in reading and math.

The report also measured academic performance, showing students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds, as well as many minority students, slipping furthest behind in reading and math.

In math, every student group saw a drop in proficiency from the year prior, though some drops were more pronounced. Thirty-eight percent of African American students were marked “Proficient or above” in 2020-21, down from 46% one year earlier. Pacific Islander students with “Proficient of above” math marks dropped to 47% from 60%. District-wide proficiency was at 67%, down from 74%.

In math, every student group saw a drop in proficiency from the year prior, though some drops were more pronounced. Thirty-eight percent of African American students were marked “Proficient or above” in 2020-21, down from 46% one year earlier. Pacific Islander students with “Proficient of above” math marks dropped to 47% from 60%. District-wide proficiency was at 67%, down from 74%.

Reading proficiency rates for grades 3-10 increased to 62% from 55% the year prior. But SFUSD says assessment participation decreased for African American, American Indian, Latinx, Pacific Islander, English Learner and Special Education students, possibly skewing the results.

Reading proficiency rates for grades 3-10 increased to 62% from 55% the year prior. But SFUSD says assessment participation decreased for African American, American Indian, Latinx, Pacific Islander, English Learner and Special Education students, possibly skewing the results.

Broadly, San Francisco’s school district is in the bottom 5% for literacy in California, according to the <a href="https://www.careads.org/full-list">California Reading Report Card</a>.

Broadly, San Francisco’s school district is in the bottom 5% for literacy in California, according to the <a href="https://www.careads.org/full-list">California Reading Report Card</a>.

SFUSD said that many students fell off the map amid the pandemic. The district counted more than 5,000 “unheard voices,” or students whose families were not reached in any of three Family Wellness Checks conducted throughout the year. Those unheard voices disproportionately skewed African American and Pacific Islander.

SFUSD said that many students fell off the map amid the pandemic. The district counted more than 5,000 “unheard voices,” or students whose families were not reached in any of three Family Wellness Checks conducted throughout the year. Those unheard voices disproportionately skewed African American and Pacific Islander.

“SFUSD is dedicated to continuous improvement for school sites and the district as a whole,” said Laura Dudnick, SFUSD public relations manager, when asked for comment on the report.

“SFUSD is dedicated to continuous improvement for school sites and the district as a whole,” said Laura Dudnick, SFUSD public relations manager, when asked for comment on the report.

“Now that we are fully back to in-person learning we are able to serve students better and employ multiple evidence-based strategies to accelerate learning,” Dudnick said.&nbsp;

“Now that we are fully back to in-person learning we are able to serve students better and employ multiple evidence-based strategies to accelerate learning,” Dudnick said.&nbsp;

The district&#8217;s findings are broadly consistent with nationwide trends, which show remote learning impacting young and disadvantaged students most severely and remote learners <a href="https://www.nwea.org/content/uploads/2021/07/Learning-during-COVID-19-Reading-and-math-achievement-in-the-2020-2021-school-year.research-brief.pdf">falling further behind in math than in reading</a>.&nbsp;

The district's findings are broadly consistent with nationwide trends, which show remote learning impacting young and disadvantaged students most severely and remote learners <a href="https://www.nwea.org/content/uploads/2021/07/Learning-during-COVID-19-Reading-and-math-achievement-in-the-2020-2021-school-year.research-brief.pdf">falling further behind in math than in reading</a>.&nbsp;

The district&#8217;s findings are broadly consistent with nationwide trends, which show remote learning impacting young and disadvantaged students most severely and remote learners <a href="https://www.nwea.org/content/uploads/2021/07/Learning-during-COVID-19-Reading-and-math-achievement-in-the-2020-2021-school-year.research-brief.pdf">falling further behind in math than in reading</a>.&nbsp;

“This [new data] raises a lot of questions, as it should for anyone who cares about the district,” said Meredith Dodson, founder of the parent advocacy group S.F. Parent Coalition. Dodson plans to ask the district to review an academic health dashboard at every board meeting.

“This [new data] raises a lot of questions, as it should for anyone who cares about the district,” said Meredith Dodson, founder of the parent advocacy group S.F. Parent Coalition. Dodson plans to ask the district to review an academic health dashboard at every board meeting.

New data show SF public school students slipped further behind amid pandemic

Jill K. Robinson

San Franciscans don’t often get a chance to enjoy the full service of a hotel in the city. But given the hot, smokey weather, there’s no better time to book an arctically chilled luxury retreat, replete with brand new sheets, city views and rooftop bars from which you can try and spy the window of your cluttered work-from-home desk.&nbsp;

San Franciscans don’t often get a chance to enjoy the full service of a hotel in the city. But given the hot, smokey weather, there’s no better time to book an arctically chilled luxury retreat, replete with brand new sheets, city views and rooftop bars from which you can try and spy the window of your cluttered work-from-home desk.&nbsp;

And now that friends and family are visiting again, it helps to know whether you’ll want to recommend the same local hotel every time, or to switch it up and try something new—especially given that the San Francisco hotel scene changed dramatically during the pandemic.&nbsp;

And now that friends and family are visiting again, it helps to know whether you’ll want to recommend the same local hotel every time, or to switch it up and try something new—especially given that the San Francisco hotel scene changed dramatically during the pandemic.&nbsp;

Here are the 11 SF hotels that should be on locals’ radar—new properties built from the ground-up as well as recent renovations—and who they’re best to book for (yourself, aside, of course).&nbsp;&nbsp;

Here are the 11 SF hotels that should be on locals’ radar—new properties built from the ground-up as well as recent renovations—and who they’re best to book for (yourself, aside, of course).&nbsp;&nbsp;

New San Francisco Hotels

<h2 class="wp-block-heading has-text-align-center" id="h-new-san-francisco-hotels">New San Francisco Hotels</h2>

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<h2 class="wp-block-heading has-text-align-center" id="h-new-san-francisco-hotels">New San Francisco Hotels</h2>

<a href="https://www.1hotels.com/san-francisco">1 Hotel San Francisco&nbsp;</a>

<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-1-hotel-san-francisco-nbsp"><a href="https://www.1hotels.com/san-francisco">1 Hotel San Francisco&nbsp;</a></h2>

8 Mission St., Embarcadero

Best Guests:&nbsp; Locals in need of a spa day, Ferry Plaza Farmers Market pilgrims, first-time business travelers and family and friends not 100% ready for today’s urban SF&nbsp;

Best Guests:&nbsp; Locals in need of a spa day, Ferry Plaza Farmers Market pilgrims, first-time business travelers and family and friends not 100% ready for today’s urban SF&nbsp;

The new Embarcadero destination is the second California location for 1 Hotels, the luxury lifestyle brand inspired by nature. The 200-guest room, eco-friendly property near the Ferry Building pays homage to the Bay Area environment with an earth-tone palette, native greenery, reclaimed woods and layered textures. Hand-loomed rugs and carpets are created from natural plant fibers and recyclable wool.&nbsp;

The new Embarcadero destination is the second California location for 1 Hotels, the luxury lifestyle brand inspired by nature. The 200-guest room, eco-friendly property near the Ferry Building pays homage to the Bay Area environment with an earth-tone palette, native greenery, reclaimed woods and layered textures. Hand-loomed rugs and carpets are created from natural plant fibers and recyclable wool.&nbsp;

1 Hotel San Francisco | Courtesy Aubrie Pick for 1 Hotels 

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large is-resized"><img height="1978" width="2500" src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/1-Hotel-SF_FerryBuildingView_Aubrie-Pick-2500x1978.jpg" alt="Book yourself or your friends into one of these new urban retreats, offering luxurious quarters and new gathering spots around the city." class="wp-image-74220" style="width:625px;height:495px"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">1 Hotel San Francisco | Courtesy Aubrie Pick for 1 Hotels </figcaption></figure>

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large is-resized"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/1-Hotel-SF_FerryBuildingView_Aubrie-Pick-2500x1978.jpg" alt="Book yourself or your friends into one of these new urban retreats, offering luxurious quarters and new gathering spots around the city." class="wp-image-74220" style="width:625px;height:495px"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">1 Hotel San Francisco | Courtesy Aubrie Pick for 1 Hotels </figcaption></figure>

Duck into the full-service Bamford wellness spa for massage treatments, body services, and facials with natural and organic ingredients—or head to the Field House gym, open 24/7 with state-of-the-art weight training and cardio equipment, as well as Peloton bikes. The indoor-outdoor café and lounge, Terrene, features fresh ingredients grown locally, even on the rooftop garden, which also has beehives for on-site honey production. Add a brunch visit to the restaurant on your Ferry Building shopping days, and choose between delicious smoothies, sweet potato waffles, healthy bowls, salads and flatbreads.&nbsp;

Duck into the full-service Bamford wellness spa for massage treatments, body services, and facials with natural and organic ingredients—or head to the Field House gym, open 24/7 with state-of-the-art weight training and cardio equipment, as well as Peloton bikes. The indoor-outdoor café and lounge, Terrene, features fresh ingredients grown locally, even on the rooftop garden, which also has beehives for on-site honey production. Add a brunch visit to the restaurant on your Ferry Building shopping days, and choose between delicious smoothies, sweet potato waffles, healthy bowls, salads and flatbreads.&nbsp;

Best Guests: Real and aspiring social media influencers, cool friends visiting from NYC/Portland/Seattle/LA, and concert/theatre-goers seeking best-of-SF food, drink and shelter

Best Guests: Real and aspiring social media influencers, cool friends visiting from NYC/Portland/Seattle/LA, and concert/theatre-goers seeking best-of-SF food, drink and shelter

The hippest new property in the city rises from—where else?—the corner of Mason and Turk in the heart of the Tenderloin. Opening on Sept. 30, the LINE SF is the latest property from a proprietor that aims to serve urban communities in big cities, such as Koreatown in L.A. and Adams Morgan in D.C.&nbsp; The guest rooms are sleek and the hotel’s striking exterior will certainly liven up the struggling Mid-Market zone.&nbsp;

The hippest new property in the city rises from—where else?—the corner of Mason and Turk in the heart of the Tenderloin. Opening on Sept. 30, the LINE SF is the latest property from a proprietor that aims to serve urban communities in big cities, such as Koreatown in L.A. and Adams Morgan in D.C.&nbsp; The guest rooms are sleek and the hotel’s striking exterior will certainly liven up the struggling Mid-Market zone.&nbsp;

The exterior of new LINE San Francisco hotel | Chase Daniel for LINE Hotels 

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large is-resized"><img height="1877" width="2500" src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/LINE-hotel-SF-chase-daniel-2500x1877.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-74211" style="width:625px;height:469px"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The exterior of new LINE San Francisco hotel | Chase Daniel for LINE Hotels </figcaption></figure>

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large is-resized"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/LINE-hotel-SF-chase-daniel-2500x1877.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-74211" style="width:625px;height:469px"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The exterior of new LINE San Francisco hotel | Chase Daniel for LINE Hotels </figcaption></figure>

But the most exciting part of the LINE is what’s on tap for its drinks and food. SF-pedigreed chefs and mixologists are heading up the menus at Tenderheart, an all-day ground-floor eatery; Rise Over Run, a view-tastic rooftop restaurant and bar; and Dark Bar, a unique lobby bar to delight those who love hotel lobby bars. L.A.-based Altered Coffee will also open its first SF outpost in the hotel. Locals long in search of Tenderloin options for pre-and post-theater or concert happenings will beat a path to the LINE.

But the most exciting part of the LINE is what’s on tap for its drinks and food. SF-pedigreed chefs and mixologists are heading up the menus at Tenderheart, an all-day ground-floor eatery; Rise Over Run, a view-tastic rooftop restaurant and bar; and Dark Bar, a unique lobby bar to delight those who love hotel lobby bars. L.A.-based Altered Coffee will also open its first SF outpost in the hotel. Locals long in search of Tenderloin options for pre-and post-theater or concert happenings will beat a path to the LINE.

<a href="https://www.lumahotels.com/san-francisco">LUMA Hotel San Francisco&nbsp;</a>

<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-luma-hotel-san-francisco-nbsp"><a href="https://www.lumahotels.com/san-francisco">LUMA Hotel San Francisco&nbsp;</a></h2>

100 Channel St., Mission Bay

Best Guests: &nbsp;Warriors/Giants fans, Chase Center event-goers, frequent visitors ready to explore a new part of town and scientist/biotech business travelers

Best Guests: &nbsp;Warriors/Giants fans, Chase Center event-goers, frequent visitors ready to explore a new part of town and scientist/biotech business travelers

LUMA is the first hotel in the city’s Mission Bay neighborhood. The 299 contemporary-style guest rooms maximize vantage points of the city skyline and bay, and the color-neutral tones include pops of teal to emphasize the meeting of water and land here.&nbsp;

LUMA is the first hotel in the city’s Mission Bay neighborhood. The 299 contemporary-style guest rooms maximize vantage points of the city skyline and bay, and the color-neutral tones include pops of teal to emphasize the meeting of water and land here.&nbsp;

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large is-resized"><img height="1667" width="2500" src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/LUMA-Hotel-SF_Guest-Room-1-2500x1667.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-74228" style="width:625px;height:417px"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Guestroom at the LUMA Hotel San Francisco | Courtesy photo</figcaption></figure>

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large is-resized"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/LUMA-Hotel-SF_Guest-Room-1-2500x1667.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-74228" style="width:625px;height:417px"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Guestroom at the LUMA Hotel San Francisco | Courtesy photo</figcaption></figure>

The 1,500-square-foot fitness center has premium cardio equipment as well as hand and free weights. Grab a Sightglass coffee paired with Craftsman and Wolves pastries at Twyne, or snag a snack from the front-desk Bodega. Set to open this fall is LUMA’s 5,500-square-foot fully enclosed rooftop bar and lounge with 180-degree views of the city. Expand your San Francisco art awareness by visiting the property’s ground floor, which features large-scale art installations such as a Jim Campbell piece with 4,000 wires that end in single LED light bulbs, and an 18-foot-tall Adia Millet abstract painting of the indigenous birds known to Mission Bay.&nbsp;

The 1,500-square-foot fitness center has premium cardio equipment as well as hand and free weights. Grab a Sightglass coffee paired with Craftsman and Wolves pastries at Twyne, or snag a snack from the front-desk Bodega. Set to open this fall is LUMA’s 5,500-square-foot fully enclosed rooftop bar and lounge with 180-degree views of the city. Expand your San Francisco art awareness by visiting the property’s ground floor, which features large-scale art installations such as a Jim Campbell piece with 4,000 wires that end in single LED light bulbs, and an 18-foot-tall Adia Millet abstract painting of the indigenous birds known to Mission Bay.&nbsp;

2 More New SF Hotels Worth a Look&nbsp;

<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-2-more-new-sf-hotels-worth-a-look-nbsp">2 More New SF Hotels Worth a Look&nbsp;</h2>

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<li><a href="https://www.citizenm.com/">citizenM Union Square</a>, opened in November 2021</li>



<li><a href="https://thehotelcastro.com/">The Hotel Castro</a>, opened in January 2022</li>
</ul>

<a href="https://www.citizenm.com/">citizenM Union Square</a>, opened in November 2021

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<li><a href="https://www.citizenm.com/">citizenM Union Square</a>, opened in November 2021</li>

<a href="https://thehotelcastro.com/">The Hotel Castro</a>, opened in January 2022

<li><a href="https://thehotelcastro.com/">The Hotel Castro</a>, opened in January 2022</li>

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<ul><li><a href="https://www.citizenm.com/">citizenM Union Square</a>, opened in November 2021</li><li><a href="https://thehotelcastro.com/">The Hotel Castro</a>, opened in January 2022</li></ul>

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Newly Renovated San Francisco Hotels

<h2 class="wp-block-heading has-text-align-center" id="h-newly-renovated-san-francisco-hotels">Newly Renovated San Francisco Hotels</h2>

<a href="https://beacongrand.com/">Beacon Grand&nbsp;</a>

<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-beacon-grand-nbsp"><a href="https://beacongrand.com/">Beacon Grand&nbsp;</a></h2>

450 Powell St., Union Square

Best Guests: First-time tourists wanting the classics, old-school SF visitors who loved The Sir Francis Drake and thirsty locals needing a new stop in Union Square

Best Guests: First-time tourists wanting the classics, old-school SF visitors who loved The Sir Francis Drake and thirsty locals needing a new stop in Union Square

Formerly known as The Sir Francis Drake, the Beacon Grand has changed its identity and redesigned its public spaces and 418 guestrooms. The primary goal of the renovation was to celebrate the craftsmanship and grandeur of the Renaissance Revival building while also recognizing the public spaces and architectural details hidden over time.&nbsp;

Formerly known as The Sir Francis Drake, the Beacon Grand has changed its identity and redesigned its public spaces and 418 guestrooms. The primary goal of the renovation was to celebrate the craftsmanship and grandeur of the Renaissance Revival building while also recognizing the public spaces and architectural details hidden over time.&nbsp;

Beacon Lounge in the Beacon Grand Hotel | Courtesy photo

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large is-resized"><img height="1667" width="2500" src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/Beacon-Lounge-2-2500x1667.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-74199" style="width:625px;height:417px"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Beacon Lounge in the Beacon Grand Hotel | Courtesy photo</figcaption></figure>

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large is-resized"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/Beacon-Lounge-2-2500x1667.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-74199" style="width:625px;height:417px"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Beacon Lounge in the Beacon Grand Hotel | Courtesy photo</figcaption></figure>

In the heart of the Union Square hotel, the Beacon Lounge serves three meals a day, transitioning from daytime café to evening bar with modern interpretations of classic San Francisco dishes and custom-blended cocktails. Tucked away from the Beacon Lounge is The Library, with a collection of rare whiskeys and select productions and vintages of bourbon, single malts and ryes. Crowning it all is the historic Starlite Room, which will reopen for dancing with fresh changes in 2023.&nbsp;

In the heart of the Union Square hotel, the Beacon Lounge serves three meals a day, transitioning from daytime café to evening bar with modern interpretations of classic San Francisco dishes and custom-blended cocktails. Tucked away from the Beacon Lounge is The Library, with a collection of rare whiskeys and select productions and vintages of bourbon, single malts and ryes. Crowning it all is the historic Starlite Room, which will reopen for dancing with fresh changes in 2023.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.fourseasons.com/embarcadero/">The Four Seasons Hotel San Francisco at Embarcadero&nbsp;</a>

<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-four-seasons-hotel-san-francisco-at-embarcadero-nbsp"><a href="https://www.fourseasons.com/embarcadero/">The Four Seasons Hotel San Francisco at Embarcadero&nbsp;</a></h2>

222 Sansome St., Financial District

222 Sansome St., Financial District

Best Guests: Business travelers in suits, parents wanting a recognizable brand, and staycationers looking for weekend specials

Best Guests: Business travelers in suits, parents wanting a recognizable brand, and staycationers looking for weekend specials

The Four Seasons in the Financial District recently renovated its 155 guestrooms, lobby and fitness center, as well as two private Terrace Suites, and The Overlook—a special-event terrace on the 40th floor. Guest rooms have a contemporary design with natural wood floors, modern furnishings, spa-like bathrooms with deep soaking tubs and views of important San Francisco landmarks. The two premium Terrace Suites feature an expansive 2,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor living space with panoramic views of the city and bay.&nbsp;

The Four Seasons in the Financial District recently renovated its 155 guestrooms, lobby and fitness center, as well as two private Terrace Suites, and The Overlook—a special-event terrace on the 40th floor. Guest rooms have a contemporary design with natural wood floors, modern furnishings, spa-like bathrooms with deep soaking tubs and views of important San Francisco landmarks. The two premium Terrace Suites feature an expansive 2,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor living space with panoramic views of the city and bay.&nbsp;

The Overlook at Four Seasons in San Francisco.  

<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/Four-Seasons-Hotel-San-Francisco-at-Embarcadero-The-Overlook-on-the-40th-Floor-1.png" alt="" class="wp-image-74214"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The Overlook at Four Seasons | Courtesy photo</figcaption></figure>

While the all-day dining menu at The Lounge &amp; Bar includes elevated bar bites and hearty entrees, a brand-new signature restaurant will be added to expand dining and drinking options. When you’re visiting friends or family staying here, walk through the Sky Bridges on floors 40 and 48 to give them the lay of the land through floor-to-ceiling windows.&nbsp;

While the all-day dining menu at The Lounge &amp; Bar includes elevated bar bites and hearty entrees, a brand-new signature restaurant will be added to expand dining and drinking options. When you’re visiting friends or family staying here, walk through the Sky Bridges on floors 40 and 48 to give them the lay of the land through floor-to-ceiling windows.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/sfoxr-the-st-regis-san-francisco/overview/">The St. Regis San Francisco&nbsp;</a>

<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-st-regis-san-francisco-nbsp"><a href="https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/sfoxr-the-st-regis-san-francisco/overview/">The St. Regis San Francisco&nbsp;</a></h2>

Best Guests: Museum lovers, Moscone conventioners, Union Square &amp; SF Centre shoppers and tech business travelers

Best Guests: Museum lovers, Moscone conventioners, Union Square &amp; SF Centre shoppers and tech business travelers

The St. Regis has completed an update of its 260 guest rooms, meeting spaces, lobby and bar. Guest room luster has been added through a color palette of silver, copper and iron, and California panoramas by Ansel Adams are visible through layered smoked desk glass. The reimagined St. Regis Bar and restaurant Astra let in an abundance of natural light and city street scenes with floor-to-ceiling windows.

The St. Regis has completed an update of its 260 guest rooms, meeting spaces, lobby and bar. Guest room luster has been added through a color palette of silver, copper and iron, and California panoramas by Ansel Adams are visible through layered smoked desk glass. The reimagined St. Regis Bar and restaurant Astra let in an abundance of natural light and city street scenes with floor-to-ceiling windows.

The dining room at the St. Regis | Courtesy photo

<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/St-regis_SFOXR_dining1_69791.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-74217"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The dining room at the St. Regis | Courtesy photo</figcaption></figure>

This hotel in SoMa’s Yerba Buena cultural corridor is a draw for arts and culture enthusiasts with the Museum of the African Diaspora (MoAD) located within the building’s ground floor, and SFMOMA, Yerba Buena Center for the Arts, the Contemporary Jewish Museum, and more nearby. Even if you don’t have family or friends staying here, drop by the bar after a museum visit, and enjoy a cocktail beneath the sweeping brass trellis as you watch the city go by.&nbsp;

This hotel in SoMa’s Yerba Buena cultural corridor is a draw for arts and culture enthusiasts with the Museum of the African Diaspora (MoAD) located within the building’s ground floor, and SFMOMA, Yerba Buena Center for the Arts, the Contemporary Jewish Museum, and more nearby. Even if you don’t have family or friends staying here, drop by the bar after a museum visit, and enjoy a cocktail beneath the sweeping brass trellis as you watch the city go by.&nbsp;

3 More Recently Renovated SF Hotels Worth a Look&nbsp;

<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-3-more-recently-renovated-sf-hotels-worth-a-look-nbsp">3 More Recently Renovated SF Hotels Worth a Look&nbsp;</h2>

<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li><a href="https://www.hotelcaza.com/">Hotel Caza</a> (formerly the Holiday Inn Fisherman’s Wharf), re-opened in April 2021</li>



<li><a href="https://www.sonesta.com/royal-sonesta/ca/san-francisco/clift-royal-sonesta-hotel/">The Clift Royal Sonesta</a> in Union Square, re-opened in May 2021</li>



<li><a href="https://www.hyatt.com/en-US/hotel/california/hyatt-regency-san-francisco-downtown-soma/sford">Hyatt Regency San Francisco Downtown SoMa</a> (formerly the Park Central), re-opened in February 2022</li>
</ul>

<a href="https://www.hotelcaza.com/">Hotel Caza</a> (formerly the Holiday Inn Fisherman’s Wharf), re-opened in April 2021

<li><a href="https://www.hotelcaza.com/">Hotel Caza</a> (formerly the Holiday Inn Fisherman’s Wharf), re-opened in April 2021</li>

<a href="https://www.sonesta.com/royal-sonesta/ca/san-francisco/clift-royal-sonesta-hotel/">The Clift Royal Sonesta</a> in Union Square, re-opened in May 2021

<li><a href="https://www.sonesta.com/royal-sonesta/ca/san-francisco/clift-royal-sonesta-hotel/">The Clift Royal Sonesta</a> in Union Square, re-opened in May 2021</li>

<a href="https://www.hyatt.com/en-US/hotel/california/hyatt-regency-san-francisco-downtown-soma/sford">Hyatt Regency San Francisco Downtown SoMa</a> (formerly the Park Central), re-opened in February 2022

<li><a href="https://www.hyatt.com/en-US/hotel/california/hyatt-regency-san-francisco-downtown-soma/sford">Hyatt Regency San Francisco Downtown SoMa</a> (formerly the Park Central), re-opened in February 2022</li>

<ul><li><a href="https://www.hotelcaza.com/">Hotel Caza</a> (formerly the Holiday Inn Fisherman’s Wharf), re-opened in April 2021</li><li><a href="https://www.sonesta.com/royal-sonesta/ca/san-francisco/clift-royal-sonesta-hotel/">The Clift Royal Sonesta</a> in Union Square, re-opened in May 2021</li><li><a href="https://www.hyatt.com/en-US/hotel/california/hyatt-regency-san-francisco-downtown-soma/sford">Hyatt Regency San Francisco Downtown SoMa</a> (formerly the Park Central), re-opened in February 2022</li></ul>

Staycation, anyone? Escape to one of these 11 new and remodeled SF hotels

Ida Mojadad

San Francisco Unified School District announced Friday it will no longer require masks in secondary schools starting March 12, <a href="https://sfstandard.com/education/mixed-reactions-to-keeping-mask-mandate-in-sf-schools/">reversing course on its previous policy</a> to align with new state health guidelines.

San Francisco Unified School District announced Friday it will no longer require masks in secondary schools starting March 12, <a href="https://sfstandard.com/education/mixed-reactions-to-keeping-mask-mandate-in-sf-schools/">reversing course on its previous policy</a> to align with new state health guidelines.

On Monday, Gov. Gavin Newsom announced the mask mandate for schools would end after March 12, but masks indoors would still be “strongly recommended.” In response, SFUSD officials said no masking protocols were expected to change before the end of the school year.

On Monday, Gov. Gavin Newsom announced the mask mandate for schools would end after March 12, but masks indoors would still be “strongly recommended.” In response, SFUSD officials said no masking protocols were expected to change before the end of the school year.

Staff and students at middle schools and high schools will no longer be required to wear masks starting  March 12, and that will expand to all schools on April 2. The change is part of an agreement with the school district’s unions. 

Staff and students at middle schools and high schools will no longer be required to wear masks starting  March 12, and that will expand to all schools on April 2. The change is part of an agreement with the school district’s unions.

“We are committed to following public health guidance and our health officials have stated that masks in schools are no longer required but still recommended,” SFUSD Superintendent Dr. Vincent Matthews said. “We recognize changes in masking and contact tracing practices will be a transition for our community. Throughout this pandemic, we have had to constantly change but I trust we are moving in the right direction when we follow the science.”

“We are committed to following public health guidance and our health officials have stated that masks in schools are no longer required but still recommended,” SFUSD Superintendent Dr. Vincent Matthews said. “We recognize changes in masking and contact tracing practices will be a transition for our community. Throughout this pandemic, we have had to constantly change but I trust we are moving in the right direction when we follow the science.”

The district’s initial decision to retain the mandate may have been the result of a miscommunication, said United Educators of San Francisco spokesperson Amanda Hart. SFUSD must meet with labor groups before making any changes to the district’s health and safety agreement—in place until the end of the school year. District officials were not able to do so until after the original announcement. Upon meeting, the concerned parties agreed to have masking be a personal choice while retaining protocols like testing, access to masks and ventilation.

The district’s initial decision to retain the mandate may have been the result of a miscommunication, said United Educators of San Francisco spokesperson Amanda Hart. SFUSD must meet with labor groups before making any changes to the district’s health and safety agreement—in place until the end of the school year. District officials were not able to do so until after the original announcement. Upon meeting, the concerned parties agreed to have masking be a personal choice while retaining protocols like testing, access to masks and ventilation.

Unlike winter break, students will be sent home with tests and must test negative to return.&nbsp;

Unlike winter break, students will be sent home with tests and must test negative to return.&nbsp;

Vaccination rates are lower at the district’s elementary schools, Hart noted, adding that keeping the mandate in place a bit longer for pre-K to 5th grade will give families through the end of spring break to get their children vaccinated. More than 90% of 12- to 17-year-olds and more than 69% of 5- to 11-year-olds—the youngest group that can get vaccinated in San Francisco—are fully vaccinated.

Vaccination rates are lower at the district’s elementary schools, Hart noted, adding that keeping the mandate in place a bit longer for pre-K to 5th grade will give families through the end of spring break to get their children vaccinated. More than 90% of 12- to 17-year-olds and more than 69% of 5- to 11-year-olds—the youngest group that can get vaccinated in San Francisco—are fully vaccinated.

“We are still recommending that people wear their masks,” Hart said. “Now people have a choice based on these new timelines. There’s enough mixed feelings about this issue that were going to have to find a balance here. We’re trying to be respectful of people’s personal choice at this point.”

“We are still recommending that people wear their masks,” Hart said. “Now people have a choice based on these new timelines. There’s enough mixed feelings about this issue that were going to have to find a balance here. We’re trying to be respectful of people’s personal choice at this point.”

Indoor mask mandates at schools have been a point of contention between health officials and advocates for lifting masking mandates. Opponents of the mandates have argued that face coverings are damaging to childrens’ ability to socialize and acquire language skills.&nbsp;

Indoor mask mandates at schools have been a point of contention between health officials and advocates for lifting masking mandates. Opponents of the mandates have argued that face coverings are damaging to childrens’ ability to socialize and acquire language skills.&nbsp;

Experts said most evidence doesn’t suggest masking harms kids and has some benefits, <a href="https://www.nationalgeographic.com/science/article/do-masks-really-harm-kids-heres-what-the-science-says">according to National Geographic</a>. Medical opinion is mixed on how soon to remove masks from the school setting.

Experts said most evidence doesn’t suggest masking harms kids and has some benefits, <a href="https://www.nationalgeographic.com/science/article/do-masks-really-harm-kids-heres-what-the-science-says">according to National Geographic</a>. Medical opinion is mixed on how soon to remove masks from the school setting.

The announcement that the mask mandate would be lifted after all, came as a relief to some and a disappointment to others. Dr. Jeanne Noble, director of Covid response with UCSF’s Emergency Department, and one of the<a href="https://sfstandard.com/public-health-safety/ucsf-doctors-say-its-time-to-end-mindless-covid-rules-in-open-letter-to-gov-newsom/"> authors of a contentious letter</a> calling for an end to mask mandates in schools, celebrated the news. She criticized the decision to delay lifting the mandate at elementary schools, calling the attention to that group’s lower vaccination rates “misguided.”&nbsp;

The announcement that the mask mandate would be lifted after all, came as a relief to some and a disappointment to others. Dr. Jeanne Noble, director of Covid response with UCSF’s Emergency Department, and one of the<a href="https://sfstandard.com/public-health-safety/ucsf-doctors-say-its-time-to-end-mindless-covid-rules-in-open-letter-to-gov-newsom/"> authors of a contentious letter</a> calling for an end to mask mandates in schools, celebrated the news. She criticized the decision to delay lifting the mandate at elementary schools, calling the attention to that group’s lower vaccination rates “misguided.”&nbsp;

“I am very encouraged that they have gone ahead and aligned himself with [California Department of Public Health] and the [San Francisco] public health department,” Dr. Noble said. “Masks have been a really polarizing issue from the very beginning. What we really need to do is move forward with the idea that COVID is endemic and demote its status to other respiratory illnesses like influenza.”

“I am very encouraged that they have gone ahead and aligned himself with [California Department of Public Health] and the [San Francisco] public health department,” Dr. Noble said. “Masks have been a really polarizing issue from the very beginning. What we really need to do is move forward with the idea that COVID is endemic and demote its status to other respiratory illnesses like influenza.”

Some teachers sought a long-term strategy that would trigger a mask mandate if another variant comes long. Vriana Kempster, SFUSD educator, <a href="https://sfstandard.com/education/san-francisco-school-district-reverses-course-on-mask-rules-for-students-staff/">previously told the Standard</a> that her family has altered their lifestyle around her four-year-old with cystic fibrosis, who is not yet eligible to be vaccinated, from higher impacts of contracting coronavirus.

Some teachers sought a long-term strategy that would trigger a mask mandate if another variant comes long. Vriana Kempster, SFUSD educator, <a href="https://sfstandard.com/education/san-francisco-school-district-reverses-course-on-mask-rules-for-students-staff/">previously told the Standard</a> that her family has altered their lifestyle around her four-year-old with cystic fibrosis, who is not yet eligible to be vaccinated, from higher impacts of contracting coronavirus.

“If the district decides to drop the mask mandate, I don’t know what’s going to happen,” on Tuesday. “I can’t just walk out of the room if I don’t feel safe. It would be upsetting if a new variant came up and we weren’t prepared for that.”&nbsp;

“If the district decides to drop the mask mandate, I don’t know what’s going to happen,” on Tuesday. “I can’t just walk out of the room if I don’t feel safe. It would be upsetting if a new variant came up and we weren’t prepared for that.”&nbsp;

The Board of Education will vote on the addendum to the health and safety agreement on Tuesday.

The Board of Education will vote on the addendum to the health and safety agreement on Tuesday.

San Francisco school district reverses course on mask rules for students, staff

Manuela Tobias at CalMatters

Two weeks after&nbsp;<a href="https://calmatters.org/newsletters/whatmatters/2022/11/california-homelessness-newsom-mayors/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">withholding $1 billion in homelessness funding</a>&nbsp;over lackluster local plans, Gov. Gavin Newsom announced Friday that most cities and counties would get the funds as early as next week anyway—as long as in the next round, they commit to more aggressive plans to reduce street homelessness.

Two weeks after&nbsp;<a href="https://calmatters.org/newsletters/whatmatters/2022/11/california-homelessness-newsom-mayors/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">withholding $1 billion in homelessness funding</a>&nbsp;over lackluster local plans, Gov. Gavin Newsom announced Friday that most cities and counties would get the funds as early as next week anyway—as long as in the next round, they commit to more aggressive plans to reduce street homelessness.

But it’s been a whiplash-inducing couple of weeks, triggered by a funding process that frustrated both the governor and the locals. Newsom dissed local applicants for seeming too complacent about a&nbsp;<a href="https://calmatters.org/explainers/californias-homelessness-crisis-explained/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dire California problem</a>, while the applicants retorted that the Newsom administration sent conflicting signals—and that in any case, state lawmakers had inadvertently given them a financial motive to lowball their goals.

But it’s been a whiplash-inducing couple of weeks, triggered by a funding process that frustrated both the governor and the locals. Newsom dissed local applicants for seeming too complacent about a&nbsp;<a href="https://calmatters.org/explainers/californias-homelessness-crisis-explained/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dire California problem</a>, while the applicants retorted that the Newsom administration sent conflicting signals—and that in any case, state lawmakers had inadvertently given them a financial motive to lowball their goals.

More than 100 local mayors and county officials gathered virtually and in-person in a sleek downtown Sacramento government building Friday afternoon to broadly discuss how to better tackle the state’s most pernicious crisis.

More than 100 local mayors and county officials gathered virtually and in-person in a sleek downtown Sacramento government building Friday afternoon to broadly discuss how to better tackle the state’s most pernicious crisis.

“It was nice to hear their progress, and it was nice to hear their recognition that we have to get to another level,” Newsom told reporters following the over two hour-long private meeting.

“It was nice to hear their progress, and it was nice to hear their recognition that we have to get to another level,” Newsom told reporters following the over two hour-long private meeting.

It was a quick reversal some local leaders and advocates saw as a political stunt: The episode gave everyone a chance to air their grievances, but landed on no specific targets, while briefly risking the continuity of services for people experiencing homelessness.

It was a quick reversal some local leaders and advocates saw as a political stunt: The episode gave everyone a chance to air their grievances, but landed on no specific targets, while briefly risking the continuity of services for people experiencing homelessness.

“If you asked me what emerged from the meeting, I don’t know. I did not hear any specific policy changes,” said Sam Liccardo, mayor of San Jose. But, he added, “Nobody’s going to criticize the state or the governor at a time when it’s critical to get resources to bring people out of the cold. Lives depend on this.”

“If you asked me what emerged from the meeting, I don’t know. I did not hear any specific policy changes,” said Sam Liccardo, mayor of San Jose. But, he added, “Nobody’s going to criticize the state or the governor at a time when it’s critical to get resources to bring people out of the cold. Lives depend on this.”

Other local leaders said they welcomed the prodding.

Other local leaders said they welcomed the prodding.

“Sometimes, you have to provoke,” said Darrel Steinberg, mayor of Sacramento. “And then gather around a table like we did today, and actually talk about what it’s going to take to provide a further jolt to this problem.”

“Sometimes, you have to provoke,” said Darrel Steinberg, mayor of Sacramento. “And then gather around a table like we did today, and actually talk about what it’s going to take to provide a further jolt to this problem.”

The governor sent shockwaves through the state two weeks ago, just days before Election Day, when he&nbsp;<a href="https://www.latimes.com/california/story/2022-11-03/column-newsom-rejects-every-local-homeless-plan-in-state-demanding-more-ambition" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">summarily rejected every local homeless action plan</a>. On the line: nearly $1 billion in homelessness funding. The plans, altogether, promised to reduce visible street homelessness by 2% between 2020 and 2024—or 2,000 fewer people statewide—which Newsom had called “simply unacceptable.”

The governor sent shockwaves through the state two weeks ago, just days before Election Day, when he&nbsp;<a href="https://www.latimes.com/california/story/2022-11-03/column-newsom-rejects-every-local-homeless-plan-in-state-demanding-more-ambition" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">summarily rejected every local homeless action plan</a>. On the line: nearly $1 billion in homelessness funding. The plans, altogether, promised to reduce visible street homelessness by 2% between 2020 and 2024—or 2,000 fewer people statewide—which Newsom had called “simply unacceptable.”

New data show SF public school students slipped further behind amid pandemic

Staycation, anyone? Escape to one of these 11 new and remodeled SF hotels

San Francisco school district reverses course on mask rules for students, staff

Why Newsom relented, released $1B despite lackluster local homeless plans

The Q&A: Presidio Trust CEO reveals her dream project and favorite spot (and it’s not Tunnel Tops)

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New data show SF public school students slipped further behind amid pandemic

Staycation, anyone? Escape to one of these 11 new and remodeled SF hotels

San Francisco school district reverses course on mask rules for students, staff

Why Newsom relented, released $1B despite lackluster local homeless plans

The Q&A: Presidio Trust CEO reveals her dream project and favorite spot (and it’s not Tunnel Tops)