In this difficult time, LACOE remains committed to improving the lives of students and our educational community through service, leadership and advocacy. Here, we share best practices, tips and success stories from the county’s 80 districts as we innovate and adapt together to ensure continuity of learning and safety of students, staff and families. |
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Lessons from the field: Lawndale Elementary School District |
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Join LACOE Superintendent Debra Duardo on a visit to Billy Mitchell Elementary in Lawndale ESD, where students are engaged in hands-on learning and encouraged to embrace their creativity in a safe and nurturing environment.
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Re-imagining outdoor space for in-person learning |
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The pandemic has challenged educators to reimagine and be creative with outdoor space to support the safe return to in-person instruction. To help schools and facilities professionals create equitable everyday outdoor learning experiences on their campuses, LACOE has published design guidelines through the generous support of HMC Architects and engineering and construction experts.
The guide includes easy-to-use tools that can be customized for schools and districts. It covers everything from seating, sun shading, space definition and landscaping to funding and professional development.
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Teens stay informed about COVID-19 vaccine |
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With 12- to 17-year-olds now eligible to receive the COVID-19 vaccine, providing important and accurate information to teens is critical. The COVID-19 Vaccine Teen Forum features LA County Department of Public Health Director Dr. Barbara Ferrer, who answers questions from LA County teens, ranging from vaccine safety to how they can talk to their parents about getting the vaccine.
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June is Immigrant Heritage Month |
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June is Immigrant Heritage Month, an opportunity for Americans to explore their own heritage and to celebrate immigrants and diversity. The "I am an immigrant" campaign celebrates immigrants through digital activations and social content.
In a resolution declaring Immigrant Heritage Month, the LA County Board of Education encourages communities to acknowledge the difficult journey of immigrants and support efforts to protect their human rights and fundamental freedoms. Through its Immigrant Relations Program, Multilingual Academic Support Unit, Student Support Services, Migrant Education and other programs, LACOE ensures immigrant and refugee students are provided safe and welcoming learning environments, as well as resources to be healthy, safe and engaged in school.
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National Vaccine Month of Action launched |
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The We Can Do This Campaign has been launched to mobilize volunteers across the nation to empower their communities to get vaccinated. For the Month of Action, the goal is to create momentum at the grassroots-level and reach people who have not received or may be waiting to get the vaccine. All month long, there are events and actions you can take, including phone banks, text banks and in-person events.
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Students discover the joy of being a mentor |
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Students at the Ron Hockwalt Academies (RHA) in Walnut Valley USD have been building connections with the HARTT Center's SELPA Adult Transition Program class. The center serves 18- to 22-year-old students with disabilities who are receiving a high school certificate of completion along with important life skills as they transition into adulthood.
"During a time when so many were confused and lives were stretched, the students from RHA and HARTT found joy in encouraging and supporting each other," said Leadership teacher Marla Rickard
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LACHSA students lead the way in Women in Jazz |
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Kaela Seltzer and Ruby Laks, students at the LACOE-run LA County High School for the Arts, have been selected to be a part of the Monterey Jazz Festival's 2021 Next Generation Women in Jazz Combo, an all-star group of talented young women from around the United States.
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A Trusted Space: Social emotional learning and
trauma-informed education series
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A two-part series beginning on June 23 will feature experts in trauma-informed education who will address the grief, trauma and anxiety that have surfaced for many students and teachers this past year. Experts will discuss how to help mitigate this impact as students return to the classroom.
Participants will have access to the documentary "A Trusted Space" and curriculum materials.
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Join LACOE Deputy Supt. Arturo Valdez, Surrey SD Supt. Jordan Tinney (Surrey BC, Canada) and Hemet USD Supt. Christi Barrett in a roundtable on the impact of COVID-19 on learning and how school communities are rising to the challenge and planning for the new school year.
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IPoly HS Class of 2021 celebrates achievements
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The 124 members of IPoly HS Class of 2021, along with their families, friends and school staff, celebrated their achievements during an in-person graduation ceremony on May 24. Principal Ginger Merritt-Paul praised the graduates for showing resilience and compassion during a difficult time. "This will be a story that you can share forever, about your resilience, your perseverance and your strength," said LA County Board of Education President Dr. Monte Perez.
Chief Education Officer Maricela Ramirez cited the achievements of the Class of 2021, including a 100% graduation rate and 12,534 hours of combined community service.
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LACOE Service Awards
Employees with long years of service honored
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The LA County Board of Education and LACOE paid tribute to employees for years of service, ranging from 10 to 45 years, as well as retirees at the Annual Service Awards on June 8.
"Although we can see a glimmer of light at the end of the tunnel, I’m counting on each of you to continue being flexible and adapting to our new reality in order to serve the students, families, districts and communities of Los Angeles County.," said LACOE Supt. Debra Duardo during the virtual awards ceremony. "Your strength and perseverance serve as a model that will inspire others to aim higher."
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Resources for Families & Schools |
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Don’t forget, LACOE is regularly updating several pages of resources:
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