LAUSD Addresses Challenges in Opening of Schools Speech

Students at LAUSD actively participating in a supportive learning environment.

News Summary

Superintendent Alberto Carvalho of LAUSD highlighted significant challenges during his Opening of Schools speech at the Walt Disney Concert Hall. With over 400,000 students ready to return, he discussed issues such as immigration raids and wildfires while promoting initiatives aimed at fostering resilience within the district. Carvalho reiterated the need for a supportive learning environment and showcased the district’s commitment to academic excellence with record achievements. The speech also touched on new mental health programs and infrastructure upgrades designed to improve student well-being and educational outcomes.

Los Angeles – Superintendent Alberto Carvalho of the Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) addressed pressing challenges facing the school community during his Opening of Schools speech, delivered at the Walt Disney Concert Hall. With over 400,000 students gearing up to return to school, Carvalho highlighted critical issues such as immigration raids and the impact of recent wildfires while promoting initiatives aimed at fostering resilience and unity within the district.

Carvalho’s address was preceded by student performances, including a mariachi rendition of the national anthem, setting a celebratory tone despite the weighty topics discussed. The superintendent expressed that the learning environment has been negatively affected by fear stemming from immigration enforcement operations, which have led many families to avoid school events, including vital moments such as graduation ceremonies.

To counter this fear, Carvalho made it clear that schools within the district will not be defined by the “cruelty” of immigration raids. He reinforced that all students, regardless of their birthplace or legal status, deserve dignity and the opportunity to succeed. The LAUSD has implemented training programs for staff to prepare them for potential situations involving federal agents, exemplified by a recent incident in April where Department of Homeland Security agents were denied entry to two LAUSD schools during “wellness checks.” Carvalho commended school principals who played a crucial role in safeguarding students during that event.

In sharing his personal journey as an undocumented immigrant who arrived in the U.S., Carvalho advocated for a sanctuary for immigrants within the district, emphasizing a collective responsibility to uphold the dignity of all students. Additionally, he honored first responders and LAUSD staff who provided support during the devastating wildfires in January, coordinating evacuations and assisting affected families. The LAUSD Education Foundation has helped raise nearly $8 million to support those impacted by the fires.

The district is also taking proactive measures to address climate change, retrofitting campuses and installing new air quality sensors for real-time monitoring. Carvalho announced a range of new initiatives, including district-wide programs focusing on infrastructure upgrades, the creation of new shade shelters for outdoor learning, and the expansion of dual language programs in Early Education Centers. In response to the mental health challenges faced by students, he promoted the iMatter Mental Health Campaign and the Homebase Healing initiative, along with new micro-credentialing opportunities in Secondary Literacy and LGBTQ+ supportive education.

In a notable achievement, Carvalho reported that LAUSD has reached its highest-ever academic performance in the Smarter Balanced Assessment, with 11th-grade students achieving an average exceeding the literacy standard for the first time. Overall, the district has seen significant gains, with double-digit improvements across all grades and subjects. The Grover Cleveland Charter High School Humanities Magnet was also recognized as the Best Magnet School in the U.S. by Magnet Schools of America, symbolizing the district’s commitment to educational excellence.

In closing, Carvalho reaffirmed his dedication to ensuring excellence for both students and educators within the LAUSD. The challenges ahead are considerable, but with the support of the community and the implementation of new initiatives, the district aims to foster an environment where all students can thrive.