LOS ANGELES — Los Angeles Unified earned multiple top recognitions for excellence in magnet education at Magnet Schools of America’s national awards ceremony Friday, capturing both the organization’s highest and second-highest honors.
Washington Irving Middle School Math, Music and Engineering Magnet received the most prestigious honor for magnet schools nationwide: the Dr. Ronald P. Simpson School of Excellence Award, while Hollywood High School New Media Magnet earned the Dr. Donald Waldrip Schools of Excellence Award, the second-highest national distinction.
Two Los Angeles Unified educators were also recognized with top regional individual honors from Magnet Schools of America Region II. Anne Maschler of Cesar E Chavez Learning Academy– Arts/Theatre/Entertainment Magnet was named Principal of the Year, and Cheryl Murakoshi Gallo of Elysian Heights Elementary Arts Magnet was named Teacher of the Year.
George Ellery Hale Charter Academy 8th grade student Naomi Talens took first place in Magnet Schools of America’s National poster contest.
“These national recognitions speak to the strength and consistency of our magnet programs across Los Angeles Unified,” Acting Superintendent Andrés E. Chait said. “From innovative instruction to real-world pathways in fields like engineering, media and the humanities, our schools are creating meaningful opportunities for students in every corner of the District. We are proud to see that work recognized at the highest level.”
“I am so proud to know that Hale Charter Academy won first place in the Magnet Schools of America’s national poster contest,” Board President Scott M. Schmerelson said. “LAUSD, and particularly Board District 3, is home to nationally recognized and award-winning magnet schools that showcase the talents and achievements of our students and staff. Congratulations Hale Charter Academy for this amazing achievement and thank you for always making LAUSD a great place to learn and express creativity.”
"Congratulations to Hollywood High's New Media Academy for earning the prestigious Donald R. Waldrip Magnet School of Merit Award of Excellence—cementing its place as one of the top magnet programs nationwide,” Board Member Nick Melvoin said. “I am proud to represent the Hollywood High school community and support the success of this innovative program in the entertainment capital of the world."
“Congratulations to the faculty, staff, and students at Irving Middle School Math Music Engineering Magnet on their prestigious achievement,” Board Member Karla Griego said. “We also celebrate Cheryl Murakoshi Gallo of Elysian Heights Elementary Arts Magnet for being named Teacher of the Year. LAUSD Board District 5 is proud to honor their continued academic excellence.”
“Congratulations to Principal Maschler on her well-deserved recognition as Principal of Year!" Board Member Kelly Gonez said. "I have seen Principal Maschler’s leadership at CCLA ArTES firsthand, and I know her to be a dedicated, supportive leader who collaborates with staff and families to ensure her students are prepared for graduation and beyond.”
“Magnet programs are a powerful example of what’s possible when we center student voice, innovation and opportunity,” LA Unified’s Deputy Superintendent of Instruction Dr. Karla Estrada said. “These national honors reflect the dedication of our educators on instructional quality and the curiosity and talent of our students. At Los Angeles Unified, we are proud to offer learning environments that not only challenge students academically but also empower them to explore their passions and see themselves in their future careers.”
“This reflects the extraordinary work happening every day across Region West, but in particular at Washington Irving and Hollywood High,” Region West Superintendent Dr. Denise Collier said. “These school communities are creating dynamic, engaging environments where students are challenged, supported and inspired. I’m incredibly proud of our educators, staff and families who make this level of excellence possible.”
These latest honors build on a strong track record for Los Angeles Unified magnet programs. Cleveland High School Humanities Magnet received the top national award last year, and North Hollywood High School Zoo Magnet earned the same distinction in 2022–23 — marking three top national magnet awards for the District in the past four years.
This continued momentum extends beyond magnet programs and reflects broader academic progress across Los Angeles Unified. In recent months, the District has reported significant gains in Advanced Placement participation and performance. In March, 83 schools across the District were recognized through multiple programs administered by the California Department of Education, highlighting strong academic outcomes and innovative student support programs.