Responsive Education

The Institute for Responsive Education (REd) is composed of four programs, each of which provides grade-specific programming in areas that are integral to the holistic education of our students:

The Responsive Education (REd) department is made up of four different programs (Social Impact, Ethnic Studies, Metacognition, and Health & Wellness) that aim to work towards achieving the mission to cultivate a learning environment where identity is honored, action is purposeful, humanization is centered, relational learning is embraced, and care guides every interaction. Through empathy-driven education, we empower individuals to grow, connect, and create meaningful change in their communities.

REd Days in the UHS Journal

On a recent REd Day, students traveled across San Francisco for activities and service and community organizations.

Through REd programming, students learn to…

reflect on personal values and experiences to foster self-awareness and meaningful advocacy;
critically examine diverse perspectives to deepen understanding and uplift marginalized voices;
cultivate inclusive connections through effective collaborations to address shared challenges;
engage in real-world challenges with a commitment to justice and positive change; and
advocate for ethical action by practicing compassion, accountability, and integrity in personal and community spaces.

The REd Curriculum for the 2025-26 School Year is as follows:

9th Grade

10th grade

11th & 12th grade

All upper-division students will need to take 2 semesters of either Community Leadership or Community Engagement. Community Leadership is fulfilled by appointment to a student leadership position, and will take place at times determined by the relevant program director. Community Engagement is fulfilled by completion of a badged academic course or badged Independent Study course (sponsored by the Director of Community Engagement.)

REd Days offer students and faculty an opportunity to explore a topic in depth as a community; they also serve as a reminder of our "purpose larger than self."