Dear Esteemed AALA/Teamsters 2010 Members,

Since early this morning, I have been in constant communication with Labor Relations and board members to understand why LAUSD schools remain open while all other school districts across Los Angeles have made the responsible decision to close their doors. This failure of leadership at LAUSD is unacceptable. Once again, our district has shown a troubling lack of foresight, preparation, and proactive action.

The delay in responding to the fire crisis, with the city of LA literally on fire and under a State of Emergency, has made it clear that we are now living with the consequences of inefficient leadership. The district’s slow and inconsistent response—only closing schools after staff and students had already arrived—has caused unnecessary confusion and disruption, further stressing our members and the families we serve.

It is unconscionable that, despite knowing the dangers posed by toxic and hazardous air quality, the district required employees to report to work and students to attend school. The well-being and safety of our community must be LAUSD’s foremost priority, and the district’s handling of this emergency has fallen short of that responsibility. A more coordinated, timely response could have prevented the chaos we are experiencing now.

In coalition with our labor partners, we are demanding that the Superintendent act swiftly and decisively to close schools for the health and safety of all LAUSD employees and students. We cannot afford to wait until further harm is done. The failure to communicate and plan for such emergencies speaks volumes about the effectiveness of our current leadership.

We will continue to advocate for our members and for the well-being of every individual in the LAUSD community, and we will hold the district accountable for its actions—or lack thereof.

Thank you for your ongoing support and commitment to the safety of our community.

In solidarity and Unwavering Resolve,Maria