At a Glance
- LAUSD opened the second semester with stronger academic scores than before the pandemic
- Superintendent Alberto Carvalho said district gains in reading and math outpaced the rest of California
- New “safe zone” policies block federal agents without judicial warrants from entering campuses
- Why it matters: Parents and students gain a guarded passage to class amid heightened immigration sweeps
Los Angeles Unified rang in the second semester of the 2025-26 school year Monday by promising parents that classrooms will stay protected from federal immigration enforcement while celebrating test scores that have climbed above pre-pandemic highs.
Record Gains in Reading and Math
District students posted historic highs on the latest Smarter Balanced State Assessment, surpassing pre-pandemic levels and improving faster than the statewide average, Sophia A. Reynolds reported.
Key improvements highlighted by Superintendent Alberto Carvalho:
- Reading scores up across every grade
- Math proficiency hit new peaks
- Science results rose alongside the core subjects
Gov. Gavin Newsom singled out LAUSD for its progress during last week’s State of the State address.
A School Day Without Fear
Carvalho said the district will “double down” on academic gains only if campuses remain sanctuaries.
“During the first semester, we saw across our community a deep impact on our schools-illegal immigration raids that have created fear in every single neighborhood where we have schools,” he told reporters at 96th Street Elementary in Watts.
The principal’s strategy is already showing results:
- Chronic absenteeism at the campus dropped year-over-year
- Reading and math scores improved despite the school’s priority status
- Attendance incentives and family outreach expanded
Safe-Zone Rules Now in Effect
LAUSD rolled out protective measures when classes began in August after summer enforcement surges:
- Volunteer patrols watch for ICE activity near campuses
- Alternative bus routes available on parent request
- Know-Your-Rights training offered to families
- Meal programs remain open to all community members
Carvalho emphasized one hard rule: no law-enforcement officer may enter a school or take action against a student, parent, or employee without a signed judicial warrant.
“We have not allowed that to happen since last year until now, and we will not allow it to happen,” he said.
Board Promises Help Line
Board President Scott Schmerelson, representing Board District 3 in the San Fernando Valley, backed the superintendent’s stance.
“We know that every student has the right, both morally and constitutionally, to a quality education, and we’ll make sure that happens,” Schmerelson said.
Families can request assistance in multiple areas:
- Mental health counseling
- Tutoring programs
- Immigration legal aid
“Please, contact LAUSD. Reach out to us. We will be happy to work with you and make 2026 a great year for all of us,” Schmerelson added.
Key Takeaways
- LAUSD achievement growth beat state averages in reading and math
- Strict warrant policy keeps federal agents off campuses without court approval
- Expanded services include legal help, counseling, and safe transportation options
- District leaders vow continued resistance to immigration enforcement on school grounds
