BSAI Symposium Celebrates the Start of the New School Year

The Long Beach Unified School District’s Black Student Achievement Initiative (BSAI) welcomed students, families, staff, and community to its 5th Annual BSAI Symposium & Welcome Back to School Celebration on Saturday, August 22, for a day centered on learning, connection, culture, and preparation for the new school year.

Held at the Center of Black Student Excellence, the annual event was rooted in the spirit of Sankofa, connecting families to build relationships and learn about resources, services, programs, and organizations that support students and families. The celebration featured Superintendent David Zaid as a special guest speaker, along with parent and student breakout sessions that provided families with information and tools for a successful school year.

Attendees also enjoyed a variety of activities throughout the day, including music and entertainment, line dancing, African drumming, a backpack giveaway, poetry, and youth engagement activities. Students in grades K–5 participated in the Kid Zone.

The symposium reflected BSAI’s commitment to bringing together education, culture, and community, helping students begin the 2026–2027 school year feeling prepared for what lies ahead.

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