Superintendent
Lawndale Elementary School District (LESD) is committed to providing students with a foundation for building brighter futures. Our leaders place students at the center of every decision and our district goals reflect this commitment.
Our primary focus is to increase academic achievement. We continuously improve our instructional programs, and coaches at each school support teachers’ knowledge and skills. We ensure our earliest learners are off to a great start by offering a high-quality Preschool, TK, and Kindergarten programs. We continue challenging our students with a rigorous academic program as they complete their elementary and middle school educations. Our state-of-the-art Library Media Centers and 1:1 computer programs enhance 21st-century learning and prepare students for future success.
Beyond academics, LESD recognizes the importance of social-emotional development. We foster safe and positive school environments where everyone is welcome. Student Support teams at every school nurture our students to thrive socially and emotionally. Our extended day program, Realizing Amazing Potential (RAP), supports extracurricular development and offers STEAM-focused learning that includes coding, “tinkering”, robotics, literature, folklorico, marching band, and arts programming.
Parent engagement enhances student achievement, and our Family University program provides parents with the tools to join us as equal partners in their student’s education. FamilyU families participate in workshops, volunteer activities, and school committees and develop the skills to support learning at home and become successful advocates for their student’s education.
At LESD we strive to ensure access and equity for all, offer quality education, and provide safe, positive, and nurturing learning environments to prepare and propel our students to become tomorrow’s leaders!
Superintendent News
![Superintendent's Newsletter Cover Sheet]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1761697895/lawndalek12caus/b10roim7cikc2k5i2480/SuperintendentNewsletter.png","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1761697895/lawndalek12caus/b10roim7cikc2k5i2480/SuperintendentNewsletter.png","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1761697895/lawndalek12caus/b10roim7cikc2k5i2480/SuperintendentNewsletter.png","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1761697895/lawndalek12caus/b10roim7cikc2k5i2480/SuperintendentNewsletter.png","width":1080}])
January was off to a great start; however, we recognize the continuing need for support and resources for our families.
In this month’s newsletter, you will find a special message from Superintendent Castro, along with highlights from across our schools—including the LEAP 2025 Awards—and opportunities for families to stay engaged.
![SLC students standing and sharing common likes with each other]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1768973878/lawndalek12caus/r5osbnmzdfn12574qtaa/SuperintendentLeadershipCouncilJanuaryMeeting.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1768973878/lawndalek12caus/r5osbnmzdfn12574qtaa/SuperintendentLeadershipCouncilJanuaryMeeting.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1768973878/lawndalek12caus/r5osbnmzdfn12574qtaa/SuperintendentLeadershipCouncilJanuaryMeeting.jpg","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_4/v1768973878/lawndalek12caus/r5osbnmzdfn12574qtaa/SuperintendentLeadershipCouncilJanuaryMeeting.jpg","width":1200},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_5/v1768973878/lawndalek12caus/r5osbnmzdfn12574qtaa/SuperintendentLeadershipCouncilJanuaryMeeting.jpg","width":1600},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_6/v1768973878/lawndalek12caus/r5osbnmzdfn12574qtaa/SuperintendentLeadershipCouncilJanuaryMeeting.jpg","width":2200}])
Last week, the district held a dynamic Superintendent Leadership Council (SLC) meeting, bringing together student leaders from across our schools for a meaningful learning experience focused on empathy and understanding in leadership.
December was a month of fulfillment for our district. Not only were we able to support more than 300 families during the holiday season, but our students were also formally recognized for their achievements. We welcomed a renowned artist who prepared a mural for our community, and hosted several meaningful student-centered community events.
November was a month full of community and connection! Our first Grateful Gathering was a success, our schools celebrated Día de los Muertos and Veterans Day, and our campuses hosted drug prevention workshops in partnership with ADDAP. And get ready—Santa is coming to Lawndale!
Lawndale is keeping the momentum going! Smith Elementary was named a California Blue Ribbon School, Addams, Anderson, Smith, and Twain were all named 2025 Honor Roll Schools by the Educational Results Partnership, and we are proud to celebrate our very own District Social Worker, Dr. Maria Ruelas, who was recognized as the Los Angeles County Office of Education Social Worker of the Year!
![Image of newsletter that is opened]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1727740908/lawndalek12caus/r4yj32sc5g6xw7fwyzr9/SuperintendentNewslettegraphic.png","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1727740908/lawndalek12caus/r4yj32sc5g6xw7fwyzr9/SuperintendentNewslettegraphic.png","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1727740908/lawndalek12caus/r4yj32sc5g6xw7fwyzr9/SuperintendentNewslettegraphic.png","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1727740908/lawndalek12caus/r4yj32sc5g6xw7fwyzr9/SuperintendentNewslettegraphic.png","width":1080}])
Stay informed and connected! Be sure to read Superintendent Castro's monthly newsletter for the latest district updates, school highlights, and important announcements. Don’t miss out on the exciting news and achievements happening across our schools!
Stay informed and connected! Be sure to read Superintendent Castro's monthly newsletter for the latest district updates, school highlights, and important announcements. Don’t miss out on the exciting news and achievements happening across our schools!
Stay informed and connected! Be sure to read Superintendent Castro's monthly newsletter for the latest district updates, school highlights, and important announcements. Don’t miss out on the exciting news and achievements happening across our schools!
![Superintendent Leadership Council Group Photo of students with their certificates]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1745616594/lawndalek12caus/lzqobigxjp8ztrcsvb1v/SuperintendentLeadershipCouncilGroupPhoto.png","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1745616594/lawndalek12caus/lzqobigxjp8ztrcsvb1v/SuperintendentLeadershipCouncilGroupPhoto.png","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1745616594/lawndalek12caus/lzqobigxjp8ztrcsvb1v/SuperintendentLeadershipCouncilGroupPhoto.png","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_4/v1745616594/lawndalek12caus/lzqobigxjp8ztrcsvb1v/SuperintendentLeadershipCouncilGroupPhoto.png","width":1200},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_5/v1745616594/lawndalek12caus/lzqobigxjp8ztrcsvb1v/SuperintendentLeadershipCouncilGroupPhoto.png","width":1600},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_6/v1745616594/lawndalek12caus/lzqobigxjp8ztrcsvb1v/SuperintendentLeadershipCouncilGroupPhoto.png","width":2200}])
The first Superintendent Leadership Council, composed of student leaders from across the district in grades 4 through 8, has concluded for the 2025-2026 school year. These students, selected by their schools as top leaders, participated in the council with the goal of developing their leadership skills while providing our district with valuable insights into the student experience.
Stay informed and connected! Be sure to read Superintendent Castro's monthly newsletter for the latest district updates, school highlights, and important announcements. Don’t miss out on the exciting news and achievements happening across our schools!
Stay informed and connected! Be sure to read Superintendent Castro's monthly newsletter for the latest district updates, school highlights, and important announcements. Don’t miss out on the exciting news and achievements happening across our schools!
Stay informed and connected! Be sure to read Superintendent Castro's monthly newsletter for the latest district updates, school highlights, and important announcements. Don’t miss out on the exciting news and achievements happening across our schools!
Stay informed and connected! Be sure to read Superintendent Castro's monthly newsletter for the latest district updates, school highlights, and important announcements. Don’t miss out on the exciting news and achievements happening across our schools!
Stay informed and connected! Be sure to read Superintendent Castro's monthly newsletter for the latest district updates, school highlights, and important announcements. Don’t miss out on the exciting news and achievements happening across our schools!
Stay informed and connected! Be sure to read Superintendent Castro's monthly newsletter for the latest district updates, school highlights, and important announcements. Don’t miss out on the exciting news and achievements happening across our schools!
![State of the District Presentation Cover with photos of students reading, programming roboto, viewing computer, graduating]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1729290362/lawndalek12caus/snjjutubkrii31zsfgso/2024StateoftheDistrict.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1729290362/lawndalek12caus/snjjutubkrii31zsfgso/2024StateoftheDistrict.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1729290362/lawndalek12caus/snjjutubkrii31zsfgso/2024StateoftheDistrict.jpg","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1729290362/lawndalek12caus/snjjutubkrii31zsfgso/2024StateoftheDistrict.jpg","width":960}])
Join Superintendent Virginia Castro as we review the goals of the district, accomplishments, and future initiatives for continuing to build brighter futures for our students.
![Students jointing down ideas on a chart paper]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1728189879/lawndalek12caus/yuqj8g8nmuqwwfqzik2o/SuperintendentLeadershipCouncilStudentTeamwork.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1728189879/lawndalek12caus/yuqj8g8nmuqwwfqzik2o/SuperintendentLeadershipCouncilStudentTeamwork.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1728189879/lawndalek12caus/yuqj8g8nmuqwwfqzik2o/SuperintendentLeadershipCouncilStudentTeamwork.jpg","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_4/v1728189879/lawndalek12caus/yuqj8g8nmuqwwfqzik2o/SuperintendentLeadershipCouncilStudentTeamwork.jpg","width":1200},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_5/v1728189879/lawndalek12caus/yuqj8g8nmuqwwfqzik2o/SuperintendentLeadershipCouncilStudentTeamwork.jpg","width":1600},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_6/v1728189879/lawndalek12caus/yuqj8g8nmuqwwfqzik2o/SuperintendentLeadershipCouncilStudentTeamwork.jpg","width":2200}])
Superintendent Virginia Castro was honored to welcome 27 of our top students to the Superintendent Leadership Council, a group of fourth through eighth graders.
Stay informed and connected! Be sure to read Superintendent Castro's monthly newsletter for the latest district updates, school highlights, and important announcements. Don’t miss out on the exciting news and achievements happening across our schools!
Dr. Virginia Castro
Superintendent
(310) 973 - 1300
Team
Maria Galindo
Executive Assistant to Superintendent
ext. 50002
Liliana Martinez
District & Community Communications Coordinator
ext. 50010