Fourteen Lynwood Unified schools were awarded the 2020 California PBIS Community Cares recognition for their positive impact on their communities during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Elementary, middle, and secondary schools of the District were recognized for providing support to families and educators during exceptionally challenging times. When schools were forced to close in March due to the pandemic, Lynwood Unified, led by the efforts of its schools, staff, and the Lynwood Partners Educational Foundation, raised more than $100,000 for families in need, served well over 200,000 meals, and distributed more than 5,300 laptops.
Just as importantly, the District created positive experiences by championing the achievements of students and teachers while keeping the focus on educational goals.
“Our schools strategically engaged with our community to serve them, but also to remind them that we share in these challenges together,” Maribel Martinez, Student Services Coordinator, said. “Through social media, virtual recognitions, and campaigns, we tried to lift the spirits of our families and strengthen the bond we have with the community.”
Each of the District’s 20 schools operates its own social media accounts where they provide parents with consistent updates and galvanize with Virtual Spirit Week challenges and other activities. Educators sent motivating messages to students, expressed affection through signs and photos, and held weekly reading sessions. Students who regularly logged on for lessons were recognized with awards from teachers.
Beyond technology, the schools also recognized parent volunteers and student graduates with drive-through events, which saw staff parade through neighborhoods with signs of solidarity and show up to households with balloons, gift cards, and notes.
The District operates a food pantry that serves produce and goods to families, and schools often deliver consumables to homes as well as school supplies.
“We are determined to stand with our community during difficult times just as they stand with us,” LUSD Superintendent Gudiel R. Crosthwaite said.
“I’m proud of the way our schools have banded together, with the help of community partners, to serve as a source of strength in Lynwood.”
PBIS developed the one-year-only “California PBIS Community Cares” acknowledgment for these unprecedented times. Each school will have its name displayed on the California PBIS Coalition webpage.
“We are honored to have so many of our schools recognized for the positive work in the community during these times,” Board President Gary Hardie Jr. said. “We will continue to provide tools, resources, and spread love throughout Lynwood as we overcome all challenges together.”
SCHOOLS RECOGNIZED
Cesar Chavez Middle School; Hosler Middle School; Lincoln Elementary School; Lindbergh Elementary School; Lugo Elementary School; Lynwood High School; Lynwood Middle School; Marco Antonio Firebaugh High School; Mark Twain Elementary School; Roosevelt Elementary School; Thurgood Marshall Elementary School; Washington Elementary School. Will Rogers Elementary School; Wilson Elementary School.