LAUSD board unanimously adopts resolution condemning reported abuse tied to Cesar Chavez, pledges review of names and materials
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Summary
The Los Angeles Unified School District board voted unanimously to approve a resolution condemning recent reports of abuse linked to Cesar Chavez, committing the district to support survivors, review school names and murals, and expand training and reporting pathways. The resolution passed after public comment and a brief discussion among board members.
The Los Angeles Unified School District board unanimously approved an amended resolution on March 31 condemning reported sexual abuse tied to Cesar Chavez and pledging a survivor-centered response across the district.
The measure, introduced by board member Ms. Gomez, says the district stands "with survivors" and will review instructional programs, the school calendar, and names and murals that honor individuals whose conduct may conflict with district values. During debate, Ms. Gomez said the resolution was intended to "stand on the side of truth" and to demand accountability and trauma-informed supports for students and staff.
Dr. Rivas, a co-sponsor, urged the board to go beyond words by ensuring clear, confidential reporting pathways at every school site and expanding education on consent, boundaries and grooming behaviors for students and staff. Several other members asked to be added as co-sponsors and voiced support for renaming district properties that bear Cesar Chavez's likeness.
Superintendent Chait told the board the district has already offered adult-focused training on grooming awareness for years and has begun offering student-focused instruction more recently; he thanked the board for swift action and said staff will continue to scale training and supports.
Public comment preceding the vote included parents and community members raising broader concerns about safety, curriculum and equity; one commenter alleged a conflict of interest involving district leadership and union relationships (that allegation was raised during public comment and not resolved on the record).
The board first voted to waive Rule 72 to take up the matter on an expedited basis and then voted on the amended resolution; both procedural and substantive motions were approved on recorded voice votes totaling seven ayes. The resolution directs staff to begin work on implementation steps, including alignment of curricula and supports, and to return with proposals for community engagement and operational plans.
The board moved from the item into the scheduled retreat work on the district's strategic plan.
Next steps: staff will draft implementation details and bring them back to the board as the district develops its updated strategic plan and operational plans.
