PRESS RELEASE
For Immediate Release - June 17, 2025
Contact:
Grace Medrano, (213) 503-0883, [email protected]
LA Unified Reaffirms Commitment to Community Schools Initiative
Board Passes Resolution to Ensure Sustainable Funding and Infrastructure for Holistic Student Support
Los Angeles, CA – In a decision to strengthen the Community Schools Initiative (CSI), the Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) Board of Education unanimously passed Resolution 080-24/25, Ensuring a Sustainable, and Collaborative Community Schools Initiative, solidifying the District’s long-term commitment to the Community Schools Initiative (CSI) by affirming funding structures, strengthening infrastructure, and safeguarding collaborative governance.
“By sustaining and strengthening the community schools initiative, we are not just investing in education; we are investing in the power of community to transform outcomes and uplift our most underserved students,” said author Board Vice President Dr. Rocío Rivas.
The resolution ensures the continuation and expansion of LA Unified’s nationally recognized CSI model, which centers on whole-child, whole-community support. Through collaborative leadership and integrated student services, the initiative addresses academic performance, social-emotional development, and community engagement—particularly in schools serving historically underserved populations.
“This resolution affirms that Community Schools are here to stay and marks the next phase of deepening meaningful teaching, learning, and assessment. With early data showing real impact for students, families, and educators, we are committed to building the infrastructure needed to sustain and grow this work,” said co-author Board Member Karla Griego.
“Our Community Schools Initiative, a true model of collaborative governance, has been one of the most transformational developments in modern schooling. However, without a proper funding structure, it will simply be a great idea without the energy that can truly unleash its potential. We cannot let this happen,” said Board President Scott M. Schmerelson.
“I strongly support community schools as they provide students and their families with comprehensive support and services, addressing academic needs as well as other needs that impact students success, such as health services, social and emotional supports, youth and community development, and community engagement,” said Board Member Sherlett Hendy Newbill.
“I am proud to support the community schools approach, which prioritizes serving the whole child by providing wrap-around services and resources to students and families. As we invest in innovative school models, it is important that we understand what is working best for students and how we can continue to improve outcomes,” said Board Member Nick Melvoin.
“I was proud to bring a resolution three years ago to invest in and expand our Community School model, and I’m glad to see that work continue. Our Community Schools have provided essential supports to uplift our students and families, and it is critical that these supports continue in future years,” said Board Member Kelly Gonez.
“By providing holistic support for our students and families while maintaining rigorous accountability, we're creating the conditions where every child can truly thrive. In Community Schools, leadership is shared, partners are necessary, and additional resources are crucial,” said Board Member Tanya Ortiz Franklin.
By codifying support for sustainable funding and infrastructure for the Community Schools Initiative, LA Unified strengthens its commitment to equity, student wellness, and academic excellence, aligned with its 2022–26 Strategic Plan priorities of joy, wellness, engagement, and collaboration.