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Los Angeles Unified School District Board of Education |
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Scott M. Schmerelson |
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News Release
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CONTACT |
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE September 12, 2023 |
Los Angeles Unified Supports Relief Efforts For Maui
Los Angeles (September 12, 2023) - The Los Angeles Unified Board of Education approved a resolution sponsored by Board Vice President Scott M. Schmerelson, and co-sponsored by all the Board Members, uniting together to express sympathy but resilience in support of Maui, especially the historic town of Lahaina.
Adopting this resolution signals the District’s commitment to supporting a neighboring state while demonstrating support to our American-Asian Pacific Islander (AAPI) community, of which millions call Los Angeles their home.
The resolution also calls on the Superintendent to seek a Consolidated Charity Partner as it seeks ways to help the community of Maui through various means.
“We in California know how devastating wildfires can be to communities,” Board Vice President Scott M. Schmerelson said. “That being said, Californians are also known for their support in adversity by seeking to help areas going through hardship. That is why, in the spirit of community, I present this resolution, sending support to the devastated families of Maui, especially the town of Lahaina.”
“Our hearts and prayers are with the people of Maui during their time of need, as well as the students and staff at Los Angeles Unified who have been impacted by this devastating tragedy,” Superintendent Alberto M. Carvalho said. “We encourage support for Maui’s recovery and will organize efforts to assist wherever possible.”
“Our hearts go out to all those who have suffered loss and hardship in the wake of the devastating wildfires in Maui,” Board President Jackie Goldberg said. “As a district, we recognize our unique connection to the Hawaiian Islands and the moral imperative to assist those in need. We are committed to leveraging our resources and expertise to aid in the recovery and rebuilding efforts.”
“Wildfires and other natural disasters are increasingly more commonplace and catastrophic due to our climate crisis,” Board Member Dr. George J. McKenna III said. “Our District family has pulled together in times of crisis to support communities in need and we stand with the students and families in Maui during this critical time.”
“The tragic wildfires on Maui are one more heartbreaking reminder that we are living through climate crisis,” Board Member Dr. Rocío Rivas said. “I’m grateful that the District can use its reach to rally allies and encourage more support for a just recovery.”
“Our hearts break for the victims of the tragic fire in Maui, yet another grim reminder of the consequences of not addressing climate change,” Board Member Nick Melvoin said. “LA Unified stands in support of the families and will do what we can to help them rebuild and recover, as we know they will.”
“Our hearts are with the people of Maui who have experienced such devastation and loss in the recent fire,” Board Member Kelly Gonez said. “I’m proud L.A. Unified is doing its part to help the island recover and rebuild.”
“Through this resolution, we stand in unity with the families of Maui who are facing loss and hardship due to the tragic wildfires,” Board Member Tanya Ortiz Franklin said. “In difficult times like this we encourage our community to take action by contributing if able and supporting the recovery of the people and the rebuilding of the infrastructure where possible. I extend my gratitude to all the first responders and to everyone helping with the long-term efforts.”
“During times of struggle, it is necessary to work together to support those in need, regardless of location,” Student Board Member Karen Ramirez said. “I am extremely proud to know that our District is ready to assist the families of Maui with the resources we have available.”
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