Lawndale students tell board how dual-immersion, AVID and robotics prepare them for college and careers

Drew Stewart, principal of Will Rogers Middle School, brought a group of students to the Lawndale Elementary School District board meeting on May 21 to show how classroom programs are shaping students’ academic and future-planning goals.

Students in the district’s dual-immersion program said bilingual instruction expanded their opportunities. "My name is Carson Radovich, and I would like to share how the DI program is preparing me for my future," Carson told the board, saying DI helps him become fluent in English and Spanish and will be a skill he can “proudly put on my resume.” Sarah Contreras said the program improved her language skills and confidence. Kaylee Vasquez said the dual-immersion pathway helped her adjust after moving to the U.S., grow academically and feel included at school.

AVID students described the program’s role in building college awareness and presentation skills. "AVID has helped me grow personally and academically," said a student who identified himself as Landon, describing college visits and tutorials that introduced him to postsecondary planning. Another AVID student, Manny, said the program gave him tools for public speaking and teamwork that he did not have before.

Robotics students Esteban Garcia and Randy Olayo described how competition pushed them to troubleshoot under pressure. Esteban said robotics "taught me that a lot of skills can be learned through coding and having friends along the way to help you"; Randy described how the team adjusted their robot mid-competition and learned persistence even after a loss.

Why it matters: Board members praised the students and linked the presentations to district goals for academic achievement, equity and student belonging. Trustee Adi Morales said having choices like DI and AVID helps students become "true leaders of our future," and several trustees noted the programs’ role in boosting attendance and student engagement.

The presentation also highlighted the district’s community-schools efforts and leadership electives that aim to help younger students feel a sense of belonging. The board thanked the students and staff and took no formal action on the programs at the meeting.