Social Emotional

Social Emotional Learning (SEL)

We recognize the challenges young people face during these middle school years. A core tenant of our advisory curriculum focuses on social-emotional skill development. In addition to this programming, we have several counseling options for students including a full-time counselor who serves all students. Our counselor serves as a trusted confidant and advocate, offering guidance, encouragement, and practical strategies to help students navigate personal challenges, develop coping skills, and thrive both in and out of the classroom. We also partner with community organizations to provide additional support as needed both in school and at home.

Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Justice (DEIJ)

New LA is committed to continually learning and implementing equitable practices across our organization to create opportunity for and liberate all students. Our four year Strategic Equity Plan (English and Spanish) outlines purposeful goals focused on developing equitable practices with staff, students, and caregivers. All school staff participate in monthly diversity, equity, inclusion, and justice (DEIJ) professional development that evolves their understanding and application of equitable systems, practices, and curriculum. This includes anything from restorative practices to assessing and developing curriculum with a focus on centering diversity and social justice in all units. In addition, students engage in DEIJ focused lessons that develop their understanding of their own identity, the value of diversity, and how everyone can stand up against injustice. You can learn more by reading our DEIJ Commitment and exploring the other linked resources below. For more information regarding our commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and justice, you may contact Bianca Hernandez, Director of DEIJ, at bhernandez@newlosangeles.org or connect with your school principal.

One of our goals is to clearly communicate how you can see our commitment to equity in practice

At New LA, we work to keep all students safe at all times. Hate speech is responded to with seriousness and urgency

At New LA, we work to keep all students safe at all times. Hate speech is responded to with seriousness and urgency

Advisory

New LA students participate in a structured Advisory Program in order to develop a deep sense of identity, diversity, justice and action in our community. The role of advisory is to help students thrive in and out of school, succeed academically, plan for the future, and develop their voice and leadership skills. New LA is committed to fostering a safe and inclusive environment for everyone’s identities including cultural, religious, LGBTQ+, and ability. This is accomplished through circles, mindfulness practices, right-brain activities, journaling, reflection, and social justice projects. Topics include culture and identity work, relationship building, mental health awareness, bullying prevention, restorative conversations, college and career readiness, and preparation for student-led conferences. By the end of 8th grade, students feel prepared to take on life’s challenges, and are equipped with the skills necessary to act as agents of change in the world around them.

The advisor serves as the academic and social emotional support for students and point of contact for parents; guides the portfolio process and supports students in academic reflection and progress monitoring, and ensures students have a strong understanding of our mission pillars: Respect for Self and Others, Engagement in the Community and Passion for Learning.