Debate Over LAUSD Grad Standards Postponed

Protesters swarmed a Los Angeles School Board meeting Tuesday, calling for a new approach to college prep classes.

They claim that not all students are getting what they need to make the grade in college.

It was 10 years ago that the LAUSD made national news with a commitment to prepare every student for college.

Tuesday's vote was to be a restatement of that commitment, but it was pulled from the agenda.

"We think it's shameful that the board delayed the motion today," said Elmer Roldan, of the United Way.

At issue is the so-called "A-through-G" curriculum.

Established in 2005 and rolled out over 12 years, it requires all high school students go through a series of core classes — four years of English and three years of math, including geometry and algebra — in order to make each student eligible for admission to the University of California and the California State University.

But the rigorous academic standards have come under fire as has the "c" average for graduation to be implemented in 2017.

Under the provision, nearly three quarters of students would fail to graduate.

"We have to deal with a crisis, because we've got a crisis," said Richard Vladovic, the LAUSD board president.

Supporters of the curriculum wanted the board to recommit to the more rigorous graduation standards and dedicate more money for counselors and summer school to help low-income and minority students who need help.

At the last minute the board of education pulled the item, some fearing because a majority wanted to wait until after next month's school board election where the teachers union, the United Teachers Los Angeles is heavily involved.

The UTLA is not supporting the "A-through-G" curriculum.

"Justice delayed is justice denied and it bothers me," Monica Garcia, an LAUSD board member.

The graduation standards will be taken up again next month. The new board will be sworn in in July.

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