The summer is over, and while the bickering inspired by the LAUSD’s messy finances continues among teachers, administrators and politicians, many students in the district are occupying classroom desks once again. If they’re lucky, they might even have chairs. If not, it’ll be a fight for a comfy spot leaning against the supply cupboard.

The drop-out rate for the Los Angeles Unified School District declined by 17 percent overall during the 2007-08 academic year. However, more than 12,000 African-American and Latino students failed to graduate, making up the majority of the total number of drop-outs in the district.

OPINION: An overwhelming number of second generation immigrants are trapped under a low glass ceiling. We can either raise the roof, or bring it down on them, and take cover as California falls apart.

Angry parents gather outside John Liechty Middle School (Courtesy of NBC)

Silent Protests at Liechty Middle School

Initial reports suggested that 65 students from Liechty Middle School were denied diplomas after silently protesting against graduation speaker and LAUSD Board President Monica Garcia during the ceremony on Thursday, June 18. On Monday, 50 of those diplomas [...]