FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 16, 2025
CONTACT
Silvia K. Martinez, 213-241-8333
[email protected]
LOS ANGELES (Sept. 16, 2025) – The Board of Education unanimously approved a resolution today, sponsored by Board Member Scott M. Schmerelson and co-sponsored by Board Vice President Dr. Rocio Rivas, and Board Members Kelly Gonez, Sherlett Hendy-Newbill, and Jerry Yang, to commemorate September 2025 as Child Welfare and Attendance Month in Los Angeles Unified.
The resolution also calls for the Superintendent and his staff to present on LAUSD’s declining enrollment no later than November 2025 to properly address the deep-rooted issue of why students drop out or are chronically absent.
”Los Angeles Unified’s enrollment decline has taken a significant toll on how we bring programming to our students and the way our staff helps with operations,” said Board President Scott Schmerelson. “Through this resolution, we hope that we can help re-engage our students who are chronically absent and help bring them back into the classroom. We are also making plans to assist those affected by the negative impacts of the federal administration’s actions. Our schools will be safe havens for our communities and will continue to be through the help of our PSA Counselors and other staff.
“Every child deserves to feel safe, supported, and connected at school,” Superintendent Alberto M. Carvalho said. “Child Welfare and Attendance Month is a reminder of our shared responsibility to remove barriers, strengthen family partnerships, and ensure that students not only come to school – but thrive when they’re there. At Los Angeles Unified, attendance is more than a number; it’s the foundation of opportunity, equity, and lifelong success.”
"PSA Counselors are vital to keeping students safe, supported, and connected. Child Welfare and Attendance Month honors their tireless work to re-engage families and uplift our most vulnerable students," said Board Vice President Dr. Rocío Rivas.
“Now, more than ever, in light of the current climate it is vital that the District take the necessary steps to ensure our students have access to supports such as Pupil Services and Attendance Counselors to help them overcome challenges that lead to chronic absenteeism, truancy, and dropouts,” said Board Member Sherlett Hendy-Newbill.
“I’m proud of all our school district has done to protect all families during this time of trauma and fear, and I’m especially heartened that we are pushing still farther to find new ways to build on that effort," said Board Member Kelly Gonez. "Thanks to our Pupil Service and Attendance Counselors, we’ll be able to augment resources available to families and to support students’ continued attendance in school.”
“Now more than ever, our families are confronting unprecedented challenges and environmental obstacles that have significantly affected student enrollment and attendance,” said Board Member Karla Griego. “It is imperative that we support and elevate the essential work of our Pupil Services and Attendance Counselors, who play a vital role in addressing the complex and diverse needs of our students and their families. Through this resolution, I look forward to the District’s development and implementation of a comprehensive intervention plan to address the issue of declining enrollment, with particular attention to the needs of our immigrant community.”
“Pupil Services and Attendance Counselors play a critical role in keeping students connected to school and supported in their learning,” said Board Member Nick Melvoin. “As we mark Child Welfare and Attendance Month, we must continue to invest in the programs and pathways that work — so more families see Los Angeles Unified as their first choice for a world-class public education.”
"This Child Welfare and Attendance Month, and throughout the year, we are deeply grateful for our Pupil Services and Attendance Counselors,” said Board Member Tanya Ortiz-Franklin. “Your dedication to helping students get to school and access the resources they need to thrive is truly inspiring. Now more than ever, it is essential as a district to uplift and strengthen our support for all our scholars—especially our immigrant students and families—so they feel safe, protected, and empowered to receive the education they deserve."
“When students are supported by caring and present educators, a strong sense of belonging is fostered within our school communities that improves attendance and academic outcomes,” said Student Board Member Jerry Yang. “Especially in the status quo, this month serves as an important reminder that every student should have a safe and supportive space on campus filled with caring adults.”