As a member of the Rossmoor/Los Alamitos community for over 40 years, I was filled with pride mixed with hope as I read Mayor Mark Chirco’s request “to commit ourselves to calling out all forms of discrimination against any race, any gender or any group of people”. When an elected public servant takes the oath of office, that individual swears to uphold The Constitution of the UNITED States of America. For me, “United” refers not only to our 50 states, but more personally charges us to come together as a community and to “promote the general welfare” of every individual.
While it is not my right to speak for the whole Board, in my role as a member of the Los Alamitos USD Board of Education, I believe it is my responsibility to honor and ensure that every student and staff member not only feels safe from discrimination and hate, but also feels recognized and respected for who they are. Recently, the Board voted to support the creation of an Ethnic Studies class as an elective for 11th and 12th graders. Our administration and staff have opted to develop our own curriculum which will soon be presented to the Board and community. At that point, the materials will be available for preview for 30 days.
Our community has always been viewed as a great place to raise a family. However, we are learning that this has not been a truth for all who live here. Our families of color have faced personal attacks and expressions of hate in our community and on our campuses. I stand united with Mayor Chirco in making sure “there is no room for hate or further racial attacks against anyone”. I also stand beside every administrator, teacher, staff member, and individual who works to promote equity, diversity, and inclusion. The story of America is not perfect, but it is by understanding our imperfections and seeking to do better that we move in the direction of a “more perfect union”.
Most sincerely,
Marlys Davidson
School Board President
Los Alamitos Unified School District
