On behalf of the Lawndale High School faculty and staff, I welcome you to the 2010-2011 school year. It is clear that our school, as well as our district, is in the midst of unprecedented change. Some embrace change as an opportunity to partake in new experiences, tackle new challenges, and build new relationships. Others view change with understandable uncertainty, and question where the new paths laid before us will lead. Yet, no matter the changes that have occurred or those that lie ahead, one constant remains at Lawndale High School: the commitment of the Cardinal administrative team, faculty, and staff to the quality and rigorous education of each and every student on our campus.

This year, the growth of academies and special programs on our campus serves as a testament to our commitment to uphold the district vision of providing students with both academic and career-technical skills so that students have the choice to enter and be successful in a four-year university and/or obtain an industry job from a variety of career pathways. The Academy of Media Arts, AVID, the Biomedical Careers Academy, and the Marine Science Academy are unique pathways that provide students with choice, focus, and a smaller learning community with which to identify and build lasting relationships.

As the school year progresses, exciting projects to improve our classrooms and build new facilities will continue to change the footprint of our campus. Throughout the phases of construction, it is our priority to ensure that instruction goes on without disruption, and that all students continue to achieve academic progress in a safe and engaging learning environment.

It is often said that change is the only true constant in life. I urge you all to trust in the changes occurring in Centinela Valley and at Lawndale High School, and ask you to become active, involved participants in the Cardinal family. Whether through sports, clubs, academy advisory committees, PTSA, or student government, there is an avenue for every student and every parent to have a voice in the vision and progress of our school.

Kelly Santos

Interim Principal