Los Angeles Unified School District

Board of Education meeting, Los Angeles, 1935

Mothers and children picketing against mandatory school busing, 1977

School principal Julia M. Tyler with diverse group of students during school integration, 1980

Alex Padilla and Austin Beutner, 2021

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Bob Coutts holding sign with cartoon reading "This pocket is empty! LA Board of Education" at rally in Los Angeles, 1987

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Little Tokyo UTLA Strike Day 2

Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) is the largest public school system in California and the second-largest in the United States, surpassed only by the New York City Department of Education. Established in 1853, LAUSD serves the city of Los Angeles, as well as several surrounding communities, providing education from Kindergarten through 12th grade. It encompasses over 1,000 schools, including elementary, middle, and high schools, as well as adult education centers. The district's headquarters are located in downtown Los Angeles.

History

The history of LAUSD dates back to the early days of Los Angeles. The district was officially established in 1853, with the opening of its first school. Over the years, LAUSD expanded rapidly in response to the growing population of Los Angeles and its surrounding areas. The 20th century saw significant growth and challenges, including desegregation efforts in the 1960s and 1970s, and the implementation of bilingual education programs.

Administration

LAUSD is governed by a Board of Education that consists of seven elected members. The board sets policy for the district and appoints a superintendent, who oversees the day-to-day operations. The district is divided into several local districts, each managed by a local superintendent, to better address the specific needs of the community it serves.

Academics

LAUSD offers a wide range of academic programs, including traditional academic subjects, magnet programs, and special education services. The district has made efforts to improve academic performance, with initiatives aimed at reducing class sizes, improving teacher quality, and increasing access to technology in the classroom.

Challenges

LAUSD faces numerous challenges, including budget constraints, overcrowding, and achievement gaps among different groups of students. The district has also been involved in various controversies over the years, including issues related to teacher misconduct and the management of its budget.

Facilities

The district's facilities include traditional schools, as well as specialized campuses for magnet programs and charter schools. LAUSD has also invested in modernizing its facilities, with numerous construction and renovation projects aimed at improving the learning environment for students.

Impact

LAUSD plays a crucial role in the education of millions of children in Los Angeles and its surrounding communities. The district's efforts to improve education have had a significant impact on students' academic achievement and future prospects. Despite its challenges, LAUSD continues to strive towards providing a high-quality education for all its students.