LOS ANGELES – In a celebration of public art, cultural pride, and creative expression, the Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) Board of Education unanimously passed Resolution Res-058-25/26, Honoring Robert Vargas: Advancing Arts Education, Cultural Identity, and Community Expression for the Next Generation, highlighting acclaimed Los Angeles muralist Robert Vargas and officially proclaiming May 12 as Robert Vargas Day across the District.
“Robert Vargas reminds our students that art is more than expression,” said Board Vice President Dr. Rocío Rivas. “When they see murals and public art that reflect their stories and neighborhoods, they feel seen, valued, and connected.”
“When students see their histories, cultures, and communities reflected in public spaces, it affirms their identity and expands what they believe is possible,” said Acting Superintendent Andrés E. Chait. “This resolution reinforces our commitment to arts education as a powerful tool for expression, connection, and belonging for every student we serve.”
Born and raised in Boyle Heights, Vargas is internationally recognized for his large-scale freehand murals that reflect the resilience, history, and diversity of Los Angeles communities. His work has transformed public spaces across neighborhoods including Boyle Heights, Downtown Los Angeles, and Little Tokyo while elevating the stories of Black, Latino, Indigenous, Asian, and immigrant communities.
The resolution highlights Vargas’ longstanding contributions to art, culture, and community storytelling throughout Los Angeles and direct engagement with LA Unified Schools, including murals and artistic collaborations at Mendez High School, Soto Street Elementary School, and Roosevelt High School. At Mendez High School, the school library will be named the Robert Vargas Library and Media Center in recognition of his contributions to youth inspiration and cultural expression.
“While some members of the community may not be entirely familiar with Robert Vargas’s name, they are definitely familiar with his work,” said Board President Scott M. Schmerelson. “Drive through Downtown LA, through Pershing Square, Little Tokyo, and other communities - these murals bring the area to life. It is an inspiration for all of the Los Angeles community and shows what can be accomplished when you are passionate about the arts.”
“Robert Vargas’ work uplifts the stories, culture, and pride of our Los Angeles communities. We are proud to recognize his impact through the inspiration he brings to students through the arts,” said Board Member Sherlett Hendy Newbill.
“Robert Vargas’ work reflects the creativity, culture, and diversity that make Los Angeles so vibrant, and this resolution recognizes the important role public art and arts education play in inspiring our school communities. By encouraging student art projects and partnerships with local artists, we can help students see their own identities and experiences reflected in their schools while reaffirming our commitment to expanding access to arts education,” said Board Member Nick Melvoin.
“Art is a powerful form of expression that inspires creativity and joy in students. Today, we honor Robert Vargas for uplifting our communities through the transformative power of the arts. As a former Los Angeles Unified School District student, his impact continues to inspire and empower young people across our District,” said Board Member Karla Griego.
“Art inspires and unites us, and is an essential part of public education, at our schools, and in our society. We are proud to recognize Robert Vargas and his contributions to our schools and to the broader community, inspiring our students to tap into their artistry and unleash their dreams,” said Board Member Kelly Gonez.
“When our students return to uplift the communities that shaped them, like muralist Robert Vargas has, we see the lasting impact that arts education can have for generations to come. By honoring his legacy through this resolution, we are reaffirming our commitment to culturally-responsive arts as a force for community and social change,” said Board Member Tanya Ortiz Franklin.
Key provisions of the resolution direct the Superintendent to encourage schools to incorporate lessons on muralism, public art, and culturally relevant artistic expression into classroom learning. The resolution also encourages student art projects, partnerships with local artists and community organizations, and opportunities for students to engage in creative expression that reflects their identities and lived experiences.
Additionally, May 12 will serve as a Districtwide celebration of the arts, encouraging schools to deepen arts learning and expose students to careers in the arts and creative industries through activities and programming across campuses.
This action builds on LA Unified’s broader commitment to educational equity, arts access, and culturally responsive education, ensuring students across the District have opportunities to explore creativity, civic expression, and community storytelling through the arts.