Challenges and Successes at Pacoima Middle School Amid LAUSD Changes

Pacoima Middle School prepared for the new school year with careful arrangements. Teacher Raquel Chacon distributed Algebra 1 workbooks for her seventh-grade students. Justin Cole organized school uniforms for unhoused students. In the library, Florian Ospina ensured all chess pieces were accounted for. Meanwhile, Scott Mandel prepared for a fundraising challenge of raising $60,000 for a student trip to Washington, D.C.

As part of Los Angeles Unified School District’s (LAUSD) reopening, 1,300 schools welcomed educators and students. The district highlighted classrooms, student programs, and educational goals. Despite displaying stability, the district faces significant financial challenges. It anticipates budget cuts that could result in over 6,000 job losses, addressing a projected deficit of $3.6 billion. Enrollment is decreasing faster than in other California districts, even as academic performance improves. Families are concerned about federal immigration enforcement, as LAUSD conflicts with the Trump administration.

In Boyle Heights, families sent children to schools near the Lineage warehouse fire site. These communities dealt with challenges from toxic smoke, ash, and pests. District officials assured parents of the schools’ safety, with sanitization efforts and high-grade air filters installed. This school year also follows leadership changes. Superintendent Alberto Carvalho left after an FBI raid on his home and office amid an investigation. Though not charged, the school board placed him on leave. Andrés E. Chait replaced him as superintendent, providing continuity. With 390,000 students, LAUSD remains a focus. Other systems in LA County also started or will soon begin their school year.

School traditions continue, with teachers decorating bulletin boards and cafeteria staff preparing renowned meals. New menu items include vegan muffins, Butter Chicken, cheesesteak, and scratch-made chicken posole. Pacoima Middle School, representing the district’s challenges and successes, saw enrollment drop from 1,500 to 700 in a decade. The decline impacted by factors like federal immigration enforcement.

Principal Simer Garcha fosters competition with charter and magnet schools. Pacoima offers advanced academic programs, rising test scores, and facilities like a robotics lab. Teacher Raquel Chacon helps students excel in math beyond standard curricula, encouraging accelerated learning in a high-poverty student body. Her efforts increased advanced math participation from 30 to 75 students. She also leads an e-sports program, integrating computer science and problem-solving.

The school supports about 30 homeless students with a boutique providing clothing and uniforms. Florian Ospina promotes library use and reading, offering popular books and chess to engage students. Scott Mandel leads the Pacoima Singers, raising funds for their Washington, D.C., trip amid rising travel costs. His rule is collective participation by fundraising to cover costs, maintaining access for all students.

Despite budget concerns, major district programs continue. Officials must plan for job reductions, affecting staff across the district. In Boyle Heights, the district addressed safety concerns by installing advanced air filters after the warehouse fire. Some parents remain worried about outdoor air quality and indoor safety. Suggestions include soil testing and considering temporary student relocation. These decisions rest with Superintendent Chait, who chose Pacoima Middle School to promote the importance of attendance.

Aayden Vasquez, starting at Pacoima Middle School, expressed excitement about sports, clubs, and friendships. His mother, Mary Rodriguez, is pleased with his education, noting his gifted designation. She celebrates him as a fourth-generation Pacoima Panther.