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    News

    Superintendent Beutner Update: January 11
    Posted 1/12/21

    Superintendent Austin Beutner updated the LAUSD community on Monday, January 11, 2021.

    Austin Beutner

    Video from wistia.net

    Transcript: English • Spanish

    His address covered the current status, LAUSD's position on what's needed from the state, and answers to questions from students at Sun Valley Magnet, a middle and high school.

    Highlights:

    • Regarding last week's events in the U.S. capitol, LAUSD supports freedom of speech and peaceful protest but does not condone violence or hatred. LAUSD is providing instructional resources and social/emotional support for students, to help them process these incidents.
    • LAUSD's relief efforts have provided 95 million meals and 18 million supply items, with help from a number of companies. To donate, text NEED to 76278 or visit LAStudentsMostInNeed.org.
    • COVID-19 levels in Los Angeles are dangerously high and getting worse. As a result, it's not yet safe to consider reopening classrooms.
    • Free COVID tests continue to be available to families, students, and employees with appointments scheduled at achieve.lausd.net/covidtestingappt.
    • Over 300,000 students and staff have had COVID-19 tests as schools.
    • 75% of families who filled out the LAUSD survey report having a family member who lost work due to the virus.
    • The positive test rate across LAUSD's communities range to over 30%, with low-income communities the hardest hit.
    • The California Safe Schools For All plan does not address the impact on low-income communities. Specific state standards, guidelines, and funding are necessary. California's plan favors schools in affluent areas. Instead, low-income communities and students with special needs must be considered.
    • COVID-19 testing and vaccinations should be paid for with public health funds, not with Proposition 98 funds or other education funds.
    • LAUSD should be paid the same as CSV and Walgreens to provide vaccinations.
    • An extended school year should be established. LAUSD is planning expanded tutoring, in-person and academic enrichment classes this summer, and behavioral and mental health support.
    • Students will need to be vaccinated to return to campus. Those who aren't vaccinated can continue remote learning.