I absolutely love the holiday season! It’s the time of year when we give thanks to our supporters and celebrate those who are on the ground making it happen – parents, students, teachers, principals, administrators, classified staff, counselors, community partners and the LA’s Promise team. I can’t help but be proud when I hear how much our collective work is improving student engagement and achievement as evidenced by much of this year’s success. Together, we continue to witness growth at our three schools.

John Muir Middle School’s Academic Performance Index (API) soared 31 points in its first year as an LA’s Promise School. Manual Arts High School increased a significant 21 points, resulting in a 60 point 3–year API jump for the high school since joining the LA’s Promise network. West Adams Prep received a 6–year accreditation by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges, an unprecedented accomplishment for a South Los Angeles School.

This season also brings much hustle and bustle in the Manual Arts and West Adams Prep College and Career Centers, as seniors work on and complete their college applications. From personal statement assistance, to college fairs, to fee waivers, to SAT prep, to letters of recommendation, to comprehensive college application workshops—our teams are focused on ensuring that more and more students graduate prepared to succeed in college and beyond.

Last June, 40% of graduating seniors at both West Adams Prep and Manual Arts High Schools were accepted to four-year colleges and universities across the country. We aim to see growth in that percentage at the culmination of this academic year.

As we look to the new year, LA’s Promise and the leadership of our schools remain resolved on the most important issue for the broader Los Angeles community: ensuring outstanding education in every classroom, for every student. With increased academic rigor and additional supports at our schools we will continue to focus on student proficiency and effective intervention strategies.

Last year when I joined LA’s Promise, I vowed to lead a team effort, not play "Lone Ranger." I am counting on each and every one of you to help more students graduate college and career ready. Please consider investing in our promise during this season of giving, as we continue to produce high-achieving and healthy students at John Muir, Manual Arts and West Adams Prep.

Thank you to our supporters and partners in this good work.

My best to you and yours,

Veronica Melvin
President & Chief Executive Officer