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About our School

Our Mission

 

At Sankofa United Elementary School all students engage in a rigorous academic program, enriched with music and art. We meet students where they are and position them to excel. Through the development of social-emotional skills, students learn to be in positive, respectful relationships that celebrate our similarities and our differences. We are creating a learning environment that is welcoming and reflective of all students’ and families’ abilities, cultures, and identities.

 

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Our Vision

 

The vision of Sankofa United Elementary School is to nurture well-rounded people who are advocates for themselves and their learning. The Sankofa United community reflects the diversity of Oakland. Our students understand they are connected to and feel responsible for their community, and they know they are part of something bigger than themselves.

School Leadership

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Dr. Charquita Arnold

Principal

Hi Sankofa United. My name is Dr. Charquita Arnold and I am happy to serve as principal this year. I received my doctorate degree in Educational Leadership and Management in 2022. I am a member of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. and a proud graduate of a historically black college/university (HBCU). My heart is deeply rooted in equity work and the pursuit of justice for ALL our students. I chose Sankofa because I saw the beauty and depth of our community. I saw the future the first day I walked into the school. I saw a real opportunity to collaborate, unite, and partner for the betterment of our children. I latched on to the idea that this village can help each child thrive. Included above is a photo from my wedding in August 2020. I chose this picture to communicate the power of family and where my source of strength comes from. I am happy to partner with the families of Sankofa students and work together to achieve great things. Looking forward to an amazing year.

About our PTA

Meeting the needs of all our students

The Sankofa United PTA was officially founded in 2020, after the merger of Sankofa Academy and Kaiser Elementary. Our mission is to meet the needs of all students at the school. In this extraordinary year, we have focused on building community and supporting the students most affected by the pandemic and distance learning.

PTA Leadership

Melanie Cherise

Secretary

Phil Minnick

Treasurer

Barry "BJ" Victor

President

Victoria Gambrell

Vice President

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PTA Committees

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Community Building

We create opportunities for Sankofa United families to build an inclusive and respectful community together while having fun and building trust. ​

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Campus Beautification

As a proud North Oakland neighbor, we're committed to caring for our school's campus. This group collaborates to create opportunities for families to care for, improve and enjoy our campus.

Image by Scott Gummerson
Meeting Minutes

Our meetings are open to all members of the Sankofa United community! We encourage all families to join the PTA and have an active voice in everything we do to support the school. The minutes (notes) from all our meetings can be found here.

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© 2025 by Sankofa United PTA.

Contact the School

581 61st St,

Oakland, CA 94609

(510) 879-0194

www.ousd.org/sankofaunited

Get in Touch with the PTA

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