I’d like to introduce you to one of Unconditional Education’s (UE’s) newer partnerships, Envision Academy of Arts and Technology, nestled in Downtown Oakland. Envision Academy is one of the three schools under the Envision Schools network supporting young people since 2003. They proudly claim that they are unapologetically pro-Black in a world that often dismisses our young Black youth. They provide opportunities like campus tours at higher education campuses, connecting students to college resources, and supporting students to participate in hands-on projects in smaller classroom settings. As you walk around the campus, you will find yourself captivated by the beautiful architecture of the building and posters created by youth. This building was designed by Julia Morgan and built in 1915. This building was Julia’s first of the 17 Young Woman’s Christian Association (YWCA) buildings and served as a home for young women from rural areas seeking employment in urban centers. Due to this history, the building holds historical landmark status. Envision Education bought the building in August 2024 and plans to provide affordable housing for educators in the near future. It is fitting that a building designed by one of the first women architects now provides an educational environment for bay area youth, especially Black youth, to feel represented in its curriculum. 

Envision is currently home to middle and high school students. Next year, they will expand and embrace another charter school with additional students which will split the campus into two separate locations for the middle and high school students. This change will bring about additional opportunities for growth and strengthening their roots in Oakland.

We currently have two wonderful Seneca clinicians, Emi Bell and Jay Conui, who collaborate with a Wellness Coach hired by Envision Education to provide mental health services. Jay and Emi are creating a welcoming environment at the Wellness Center for students and building community with staff. Emi even started a Visual Arts Club to provide students with a place to use their creativity through drawing, painting and collaging. Jay’s office has representation of community leaders who have shaped our social justice world. This visual representation invites young people’s curiosity to learn more about them. Although our clinicians primarily provide therapy through Educational Related Mental Health Services (ERMHS), they have tapped into the wider student community to provide services for non-ERMHS clients. It’s a campus with many possibilities and we continue to work at strengthening the partnership. 

Let’s go Panthers!!!