This year, we showed what’s possible when students, families, educators, and communities come together to demand invesments in their communities. After months of organizing, budget conversations, testimonies, and advocacy, LAUSD approved a budget that more closely aligns with how we would like to see our schools.
We didn’t win everything, but we’re celebrating the progress made and the real investments in our most vulnerable communities.
Centering Black Students, Not Just Acknowledging Them
For years, Black families and educators have demanded real investment in the success of Black students. This year, we secured a major victory: LAUSD increased funding for the Black Student Achievement Plan (BSAP) by $50 million, bringing the total investment to $175 million annually.
This win means more culturally responsive programming, more Black counselors and educators, and more resources that affirm that our Black students belong in the classroom.
Dream Centers for Our Immigrant Communities
As ICE continues to terrorize our communities and federal protections disappear, we fought to make LAUSD a sanctuary for immigrant students. For the first time, LAUSD has committed $5 million to expand Student Resource Centers.
These centers offer legal aid, mental health support, college counseling, and a place to feel safe.
Protecting LGBTQ+ Youth with Resources
This year the district invested $2 million in this year’s budget for affirming supports, inclusive curriculum, staff training, and the creation of safe spaces in schools. As protections for Queer people across the country dwindle, it was important to us that we not only stand, but reaffirm our commitment with funds to say that, yes, you belong!
These funds are a direct result of students organizing, speaking out, and refusing to be erased. We showed up to board meetings, shared our stories, and refused to be sidelined.
A Greener Future for Our Kids
We also won $1 million to continue greening our school campuses: planting trees, removing asphalt, and creating outdoor learning spaces. We imagine schools that don’t just serve our kids, but our ecosystems too: with birds, bugs, native plants, and all the living things that call Los Angeles home.
This is about climate justice and public health
How We Got Here and What Comes Next
These victories came from you! You held rallies. You brought students and families to the boardroom and made our demands impossible to ignore.
We know that winning the budget is just step one. Now comes the hard work of implementation, transparency, and making sure these funds reach the schools and students they’re meant for.
Stay connect with us and help us bring to light the needs of our communities!