Black Student Achievement Plan

Greetings,

Happy New Year! We hope this message finds you well and that you and your loved ones are safe after the recent wildfires. We know that many in our community have been impacted, and our thoughts are with those who have lost homes, loved ones, or are facing ongoing challenges.

We want to remind you that our school community is here to support you during this difficult time. Please don't hesitate to reach out to your school's BSAP coordinator or any member of our team if you need assistance or resources. We are committed to ensuring the well-being of all our students and families.

Looking Ahead

As we move forward into the new year, we are excited to continue our work in supporting the academic success and well-being of our Black students. We have several exciting events and initiatives planned for the coming months, including:

• Black History Month Celebrations: February is Black History Month, and we will be honoring the incredible contributions of African Americans throughout history with a variety of engaging activities and events. Stay tuned for more details!
• Parent Workshops: We will be offering a series of workshops for parents on topics such as college and career readiness, social-emotional learning, and advocating for your child's education.
• Mentorship Opportunities: We are expanding our mentorship program to connect more students with positive role models and support their academic and personal growth.

We Are Here for You

We are dedicated to fostering a strong and supportive BSAP community where all students feel valued, respected, and empowered to achieve their full potential. We believe that by working together, we can create a brighter future for our children.

If you have any questions or need any assistance, please don't hesitate to contact us.

In the meantime, please take care of yourselves and each other.

Warmly,

Travis D. Brandy, Ed.D.

Senior Director

1.What does Black History Month mean to you?

It’s about celebrating the Black people who have helped their communities.

2. Which African American figure has had the biggest influence on you and why?

The African American figure who has had the biggest influence on me is Aretha Franklin.

Aretha was a singer who sang songs about freedom and respect.

3. Why do you believe it’s important for schools to commemorate Black History Month?

It’s important to celebrate all the Black heroes who fought against slavery and racism.

4. What are your college and career plans?

I want to be an oncologist and a singer. I want to study in Italy.

1.What does Black History Month mean to you?

It’s about respect for Black people. I’m grateful for this celebration.

2. Which African American figure has had the biggest influence on you and why?

The African American figure who has had the biggest influence is Martin Luther King Jr. because he
was an important leader in the civil rights movements.

3. Why do you believe it’s important for schools to commemorate Black History Month?

It’s important to teach students about our history.

4. What are your college and career plans?

I want to become a professional soccer play. I’m currently attending an academy outside of school

1.What does Black History Month mean to you?

To me Black History Month means that we should thank the Black people that made the world a more
fair place for all people.

2. Which African American figure has had the biggest influence on you and why?

Martin Luther King Jr. because he fought against unjust laws and became a civil rights leader.

3. Why do you believe it’s important for schools to commemorate Black History Month?

It’s important for students to learn about the bravery, leadership and talent of Black people.

4. What are your college and career plans?

I want to attend the University of San Diego and become an engineer.

1.What does Black History Month mean to you?

To me, it means honoring the Black leaders who dedicated their lives to fighting for our rights.

2. Which African American figure has had the biggest influence on you and why?

The African American figure who has had the greatest influence on me is Martin Luther King Jr., whose
important "I Have a Dream" speech inspires me.

3. Why do you believe it’s important for schools to commemorate Black History Month?

To teach about respecting our civil right leaders for fighting for our rights.

4. What are your college and career plans?

I want to attend UCLA and become a professional basketball player in the NBA.

Julissa Mejia, a former LAUSD student, is now thriving at UCLA. She attended the Girls Academic Leadership Academy (GALA) when it first opened, joining a group of students who transitioned from elementary school under the guidance of Ms. Rose, a dedicated counselor. Reflecting on her experience at GALA, Julissa described a highly supportive environment where students and staff encouraged each other. Rather than simply holding students’ hands, the school provided guidance every step of the way, especially through rigorous AP coursework and the college application process.

During her time at GALA, Julissa built strong relationships with the staff, particularly with the PSA (Pupil Services and Attendance) Coordinator, who played a crucial role in supporting Black students. She admired the coordinator's ability to navigate hardship and be a consistent source of advice and encouragement. Although she did not have the opportunity to participate in BSAP college tours, she heard glowing reviews from friends who described the experience as inspiring and instrumental in helping them discover their college aspirations and sense of community.

Julissa’s passion for English made it her favorite subject in high school, and she credits Ms. Rose and Ms. Agamegwa as her most inspirational mentors. Ms. Rose had been a guiding force in her life since second grade, always ensuring she stayed on the right path. Julissa was particularly inspired by Ms. Rose’s confidence, knowledge, and drive to advance in leadership at GALA, which served as a model for her own ambitions.

Choosing UCLA was an easy decision for Julissa, as she was drawn to its strong sense of community. Despite the university’s large size, she found comfort in knowing that students could always find their own smaller communities within it. Coming from GALA, she knew she needed that kind of belonging, and UCLA provided it.

For current high school students, Julissa emphasizes the importance of finding a trusted administrator or adult at school. She advises students to lean on that person, take full advantage of available resources, and seize every opportunity, because they never know where it might lead them.

GALA’s head counselor, Rose Agamegwa, fondly recalled teaching Julissa when she was just seven years old. "I thought, ‘Who is this perfection in this little body?’ She is a quintessential example of how the marriage of family and school can help create an amazing human!"

Julissa Mejia’s journey is a testament to the power of community and mentorship in shaping the success of young scholars. Her story serves as an inspiration to students navigating their own academic and personal growth. The BSAP team looks forward to following her continued achievements at UCLA and beyond.

The BSAP team at 118th Street Elementary organized and facilitated a parent breakfast to thank the parents who have made attendance a priority in their children's education. The Breakfast included a fun Attendance Bingo that allowed parents to meet other parents and enjoy great conversations and a fun activity!

Forty-Second Street Elementary celebrated "Christmas in January" with the help of West Angeles Church who collaborated with our BSAP PSA Counselor, Ms. Woods to provide toys, books, and other incentives to promote school attendance. The students were pleasantly surprised and eager to celebrate this special event.

The BSAP Team at 107th St ES hosted a BSAP Float-N-Paint that was well supported by the school community. Parents, staff and students enjoyed root beer floats as they painted. The art session was expertly facilitated by Dr. Branch of the LAUSD Arts Education Branch. Everyone loved it and excitedly looks forward to the next BSAP opportunity to come together as a community to learn, laugh, and bond.

Woodcrest Elementary School hosted an engaging and informative parent workshop aimed at keeping families informed about the importance of student attendance. To make the learning process fun, they introduced "Attendance Bingo," a creative game where parents could learn valuable tips and strategies for encouraging regular attendance while playing to win exciting prizes. The workshop not only highlighted the connection between consistent attendance and academic success but also fostered a sense of community among parents, all while making the experience enjoyable and interactive.

As part of our commitment to being equity-driven, community-engaged, and socially conscious, our students came together for a meaningful activity. Our Crescent Heights Buddies spent time writing encouraging cards for those impacted by the recent Los Angeles wildfires and for the brave firefighters working tirelessly to protect our communities. This experience highlighted the importance of empathy, unity, and caring for others in challenging times. Together, we are fostering a culture of kindness and resilience.

One Hundred Thirty-Fifth Street School hosts an annual BSAP Kwanzaa Family Celebration. We revisit the 16 BSAP Success Indicators, review our Black Scholars' data, and celebrate their academic achievement.

In addition, our team teaches our families about Kwanzaa, we always include a hands-on activity, and end the evening breaking bread together. Go Dragons!

Ninety-Second Street Elementary STEAM Academy kicked off the week with a bang after Martin Luther King Jr. Day, celebrating six lucky Dynamic Dolphins who were the winners of the BSAP Student Attendance Drawing! These students were rewarded for their dedication to showing up by being entered into a special drawing for attending school the day after a holiday. It was an exciting start to the week with all BSAP students getting the chance to win just by being present and engaged!

Every week, Ms. Bailey meets with her BSAP Bunch students to check their attendance and celebrate them with a small prize. Students were selected to participate based on their below 95% attendance rate last school year. Fall 2024 included 75 participating students out of the 200 BSAP students at 107th Street ES. If a student attends all 5 days the previous week, they earn a prize that may be a small snack, fidget, or other kind of toy. When students are absent, this is an excellent opportunity for the BSAP PSA Counselor to check-in and problem solve.

In the first semester of 2024-2025, Chronic Absenteeism was reduced in the BSAP Bunch group by 20%! This shows that elementary school students are highly motivated by praise, positive peer interactions, and a predictable routine.

During the Black Student Achievement Student Survey, Sy'ann H., a 5th-grade student approached Ms. Harris, Community Representative with an idea. The young scholar expressed a desire to have a designated day and time to meet in the Parent Center, where students could freely discuss various topics and create a safe space for scholars. Ms. Harris saw the potential in the idea and shared it with the principal, who was equally supportive.

To bring the idea to life, a team was formed, including members from the BSAP Team. The BSAP PSA Counselor, the School-Based PSA Counselor, and the CCEIS Counselor provide social and emotional wellness support at the school. After discussing the plan, the team agreed it would be a valuable opportunity for students. They decided to organize two separate groups—one for boys and one for girls. Mr. Roberts, CCEIS Counselor will lead the boys' group, while the PSA counselor Ms. Potts will lead the girls' group during recess. Ms. Harris will also be present to offer support.

The Helping Hands Award was created to encourage students for their positive behavior at school. It also provides an opportunity for students to bring home an award certificate to show their parents or caregivers, sparking a conversation about how their day went at school. The goal is for the good behavior to continue, with students having something to look forward to each day when coming to school.

Sometimes, a friendly competition arises among student peers, such as “Who’s going to get the good paper today?” as the students refer to it. It also helps build rapport with the students.

Western Avenue Tech/Eng/Comm/Hum Magnet created a month full of excitement and engagement to encourage student attendance. Every day a student was present they were entered into a raffle, with prizes growing bigger each day to motivate consistent participation. The month featured a series of fun activities, including a winter performance, a Black Student Union (BSU) slime event, and a winter dance.

BSU student leaders played an essential role in planning and executing these events. They designed event flyers, brainstormed activities, and organized materials and snacks. Elementary BSU student leaders took charge of the slime event, helping fellow students make the perfect slime. Meanwhile, Middle School BSU student leaders organized the winter dance, serving as MCs, making cotton candy, and running the spin-the-wheel table for prizes.

Tom Bradley Global Awareness Magnet, an exemplar of leadership, cultural appreciation, and community engagement, has achieved remarkable milestones through its innovative Global Awareness theme. By embedding culturally responsive teaching and project-based learning, the school fosters academic excellence and global citizenship. Recent accomplishments include significant proficiency gains on the California Assessment of Student Performance and Progress (CAASPP), commendations for accurately identifying and supporting gifted students of color, and recognition for innovative instructional practices.

Principal Dr. Tosha Bunn-Bell shares, “This national award celebrates the hard work, dedication, and collaboration of our students, staff, and families. It’s an honor to showcase the transformative impact of our school community on a national stage.”

Presentation of Distinction Award:

Dr. Bunn-Bell will be recognized and receive a National Merit School of Distinction Award on behalf of the school during an awards ceremony held at Magnet Schools of America’s National Conference April 7-10, 2025, in Nashville, TN.

To receive a national merit award, members of Magnet Schools of America must submit a detailed application that is scored by a panel of educators. These schools are judged and scored on their demonstrated ability to raise student academic achievement, promote racial and socioeconomic diversity, provide integrated curricula and instruction, and create strong family and community partnerships that enhance the school’s magnet theme.

Paseo Del Rey implemented a Robotics enrichment class this year. The class aims to introduce the growing number of GATE students to engineering and programming concepts in both whole group and small group settings. Currently, there are 16 students divided into groups of four, with each group working on a beginner-level robot. Once each group completes their robot, they will move on to more complex devices, while continuing to reinforce the fundamentals of mechanical and electrical engineering concepts, as well as basic computer programming. The goal is to provide ongoing enrichment opportunities for GATE students, promoting high cognitive engagement while allowing them to construct their own understanding.

San Pedro High School held an inspiring meeting for students and parents attending the Historically Black Colleges and Universities and California College Tours. The gathering was a special occasion, where families came together in person to learn about the exciting opportunities that lie ahead. San Pedro High’s cafeteria staff, led by Mr. Armando Chico, went above and beyond, serving delicious refreshments featuring menu items offered at the school, giving families a taste of the community that helps make San Pedro High such a special place.

The event was a standout, providing an opportunity for families to meet the BSAP team and tour chaperones while viewing photos and videos of the talented Student Ambassadors. Though the students had already been selected for the tours, Mrs. Young, the program’s Administrator, reminded everyone of the importance of EXCELLENCE in three key areas: Academics, Attitude, and Attendance.

Mrs. Young has also partnered with the College and Career Center to offer Makeup Workshops for students who were unable to attend earlier sessions and hosting additional parent ZOOM sessions, ensuring that all students would meet the requirements to participate in the upcoming tours. Looking ahead, the BSAP program is set to launch its Community Building Workshops in January, designed to help students from both campuses connect and bond before embarking on their life-changing college tours. None of these events could happen without the support of Coach Kevin Simpson-BSAP Community Parent Representative, Yvonne Kuwaii-BSAP Counselor, Rodney Lusain-African American/Ethnic Studies/Urban Scholars Teacher, Stephen Salgado-School Climate Advocate, Dr.Michelle Horton and Stephen Tedesco-Black Student Union Sponsors.

Culminating the semester, San Pedro High students attended the HBCU Summit held at the Carson Event Center—an event that far exceeded their expectations. This was the first time the school attended the summit, and it proved to be an unforgettable experience. The event provided a platform for students to network, explore opportunities for higher education, and embrace the spirit of Black Excellence.

A major highlight of the event was the recognition of two San Pedro High (SPHS) students who earned scholarships. David Ibiriekwe, a junior, received a full-ride scholarship, while Jayden Malikin, also a junior, secured a $10,000 scholarship to Miles College in Alabama. Faris Ibrahim, a senior, earned a $26,000 scholarship to Whittier College. Each achievement was announced to the SPHS community, representing just the beginning of what promises to be a bright academic future for these talented students.

The summit was also an opportunity to reflect on the importance of college access and representation. Students left the event feeling inspired and connected to a larger community of peers with similar dreams of college success. They thanked Ms. Dai-Shalon Jordan and Ms. Nicole Ford, who helped organize the event, for their dedication to promoting Black Excellence and expanding academic opportunities for all students.

Region North hosted a Black College Caravan at Grant High School. The event served as a fantastic opportunity for students to engage with Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), explore their higher education options, and receive on-site admissions and scholarships. Our inaugural expo welcomed eight schools and attracted an impressive turnout of 175 students eager to connect with representatives from 18 HBCUs. The impact of this event was significant, with 85 students receiving college acceptances and an extraordinary $1,183,584 awarded in scholarships to support their academic journeys.

**School Reported Highlights**

• Taft HS had 23 students in attendance. Malachi R. was accepted to six HBCUs and received $90,000 in scholarships, with his largest single offer being $40,000. Samaya S. was awarded a $12,000 scholarship, while Chris B. received a $10,000 scholarship.

• North Hollywood HS had eight students in attendance, with Shemar H-J. being awarded a scholarship. A total of three students were accepted at an HBCU.

• Sylmar HS had 17 students in attendance. Jamal M-M. and Surena S. received multiple scholarships, while Lauren Carrol and Gisselle Lopez also earned scholarships.

We are grateful to all participating schools, students, counselors, and HBCU representatives who made this event a success. Your dedication to expanding college access and opportunities continues to make a difference in the lives of countless students.

Windsor Hills Elementary Math/Science Aerospace Magnet recently hosted a fun and festive event to reward student attendance. To celebrate their commitment to coming to school and participating, students dressed up as their favorite winter characters. The event featured a lively photo booth with props for students to showcase their creative costumes, music to set the mood, and themed coloring packets—an activity our students absolutely love. It was a joyful occasion that brought our school community together and added an extra touch of excitement to end the first semester!

Baldwin Hills Elementary Pilot & Gifted Magnet School had their Annual Winter Program. It was filled with music, dance, songs, costumes and all those good feelings deserving of the end of the year celebration. Old classics were played and we all sung to new tunes, as well. Families and friends applauded, cried and hugged. More than anything, Baldwin babies were perfect and radiant. These babies let everyone know, with smiles and laughter, that endorphins are good for the soul as we usher in the new year!

Wright Middle School proudly hosted its inaugural Black Brilliance Awards, a night dedicated to celebrating the remarkable achievements of Black students. The event was filled with energy and pride as Wright Scholars were honored for their exceptional accomplishments in academics, leadership, and embodying the core values of R.E.A.L.—Respect, Empathy, Ambition, and Leadership. These students shone brightly as shining examples of excellence, inspiring their peers and the entire school community with their dedication and passion.

Joy and Celebration filled the auditorium at Crescent Heights Social Justice and STEAM Magnet when the school celebrated their BLACK BRILLIANCE AWARDS. The celebration started with a video montage of memories, student poetry, and biographic reporting of Black Achievement. In the almost overflow auditorium, parents and students cheered on the great successes of their peers and students. Tears of Joy, from everyone who attended, could be seen around the room as students received diverse awards such as academic achievement, citizenship, athletic accomplishment, artistic expression, community-building and more. We were so proud of all the brilliance that our students demonstrated up until that point of the school year. Since that day, those achievers have walked prouder as they continue to step into the greater expression of themselves.

San Pedro High School Students in the Social Justice Learning Institute Urban Scholars Program presented their research on colleges and universities. These young men researched a variety of public and private universities considering different regions of the country and factors such as cost, proximity to home, academic offerings and the difference between acceptance rates vs. graduation rates.