For Immediate Release
Contact: Ally Salvaria, Communications Director
Email: Ally.Salvaria@LAUSD.net
Phone: (818) 726-6151
L.A. Unified Board Recognizes Emergency Responders for Heroic Efforts during Recent Wildfires
LOS ANGELES, CA — February 11, 2025. In the wake of the devastating wildfires that swept across Los Angeles last month, the L.A. Unified Board of Education unanimously passed Board Member Nick Melvoin’s resolution to honor the bravery and dedication of emergency responders, school staff, and District employees who played a critical role in protecting and supporting students and families in a time of crisis.
The resolution, co-sponsored by Board Member Kelly Gonez, Board President Scott M. Schmerelson, Board Vice President Dr. Rocío Rivas, and Board Member Sherlett Hendy Newbill, recognizes the heroic efforts of L.A. Unified’s essential workers who assisted in the school evacuations when the fires began and worked around the clock to get students safely back in school, maintain essential services, and provide relief to affected families.
“We are heartbroken by the incredible scope of the damage done to our schools and communities—but we are also inspired by the dedication of our emergency responders and school staff who have gone above and beyond in a time of uncertainty and devastation for so many kids and families,” said Melvoin. “From the urgent evacuations to the ongoing recovery efforts, we want to express our gratitude to everyone who has stepped up to keep our students safe and supported throughout this crisis.”
“In the midst of a devastating natural disaster, I was inspired and heartened to see our LA Unified employees going above and to meet the needs of our students and our families,” said Gonez. “Our staff managed school evacuations, volunteered to staff grab and go food distributions, and cleaned up our hundreds of campuses over the weekend so schools could reopen safely. I am proud to cosponsor this resolution to recognize and celebrate our incredible essential workers and school staff.”
"Our emergency responders are true heroes, demonstrating unwavering bravery and selflessness in the face of devastation,” said Superintendent Alberto M. Carvalho. “Their tireless efforts to protect our lives, communities and schools during the recent wildfires embody the very best of public service. We are grateful for their dedication and proud to honor them with this resolution.”
“Los Angeles is our home and we must not forget the heroic actions of the first responders who battled against the recent wildfires,” said Board President Scott M. Schmerelson. “We are grateful for our firefighters, police officers, nurses, doctors and so many others who responded to this environmental emergency. This includes our courageous incarcerated firefighters, who we hope to see receive opportunities from the skills they have learned. We owe all first responders a great debt of gratitude.”
“This resolution reflects the District’s gratitude and respect for the courage of our first responders,” said Board Vice President Dr. Rocío Rivas. “Our communities are stronger and safer because of your work, and as Los Angeles rebuilds, we do so with your strength and hope in our hearts.”
“It is with great gratitude that we recognize the tireless efforts of our first responders, essential workers and District employees during the recent Southern California wildfires,” said Board Member Sherlett Hendy Newbill. “Through their hard work and dedication, students were able to return to safe and clean campuses and receive needed supports.”
“Thank you Mr. Melvoin and Ms. Gonez for recognizing our employees who worked during the fire closures to help reopen our schools and let’s continue to work together to create more rapid and efficient responses to all types of emergency situations,” said Board Member Karla Griego.
"A HUGE thank you to all our district educators, staff, administrators and partners for all their determination, patience and support given to our students and families during the wildfires," Board Member Tanya Ortiz Franklin said. "To our first responders – thank you for your bravery in keeping our school communities safe. I am truly grateful for your love and resilience. Thank you!"
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For press inquiries, please call Ally Salvaria at 818-726-6151 or email at Ally.Salvaria@LAUSD.net.
