Babatu Hansen

Second largest in the nation, the Los Angeles Unified School District enrolls more than 520,000 students. The District covers an area totaling 710 square miles, which includes most of the city of Los Angeles, along with all or portions of 25 cities and unincorporated areas of Los Angeles County. The mission of LAUSD is reflected in continued double-digit growth on the state Academic Performance Index (API); the upward trend in the graduation rate, progress in the pass rate on the California High School Exit Exam (CAHSEE) and other academic indicators. LA schools boast more winners of the United States Academic Decathlon championships-12-than any other District in this country. Add to those impressive victories, outstanding individual student and team achievements in: science, mathematics, social studies, language arts, foreign and dual languages, business and entrepreneurial skills, the visual and performing arts, and athletics. Nationally recognized by the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine for serving healthy, low fat and vegetarian school lunches. LAUSD's standards also call for: whole grains, low sodium, locally grown fruits and vegetables and no trans fat; flavored milk or carbonated beverages. Today, the District counts more than 115 new schools and campuses, thanks to the nation's largest public works project, funded by bond measures, a testament to broad voter support.