South Whittier Elementary School District

South Whittier School District held its monthly board meeting on Tuesday, November 18th, in-person in the district board room and through Google Meet.

 

The board and attendees heard one recognition and three presentations: Operation School Bell - The Assistance League of Whittier, Lake Marie Student & Academic Achievement Report, SWSD Academic Achievement Report, and Local Indicators Update - Priority 1 Context.

 

Operation School Bell - The Assistance League of Whittier

 

Director of Community Schools, Karina Hartl, recognized members of the Assistance League of Whittier for their continued support of students through Operation School Bell.

 

The Assistance League of Whittier recently hosted its Operation School Bell event at Walmart in Santa Fe Springs, where they served 85 South Whittier families by providing vouchers to purchase new school clothing.

 

Ms. Hartl noted that the organization’s ongoing support has a meaningful impact on students, helping them feel confident as they walk into school.

 

Lake Marie Student & Academic Achievement Report

 

Lake Marie Principal, Linda Eazor, presented an overview of the school’s academic achievement. She began by recognizing students who have reclassified, celebrating eight students for this outstanding accomplishment.

Ms. Eazor then highlighted how Lake Marie has integrated the District’s vision and mission into daily instruction and school culture. This includes a range of student programs as well as educational and supportive opportunities for parents.

The presentation also reviewed Lake Marie’s CAASPP and California Dashboard results, comparing scores from 2023–2024 to 2024–2025. The school demonstrated significant growth, with ELA scores increasing by more than 20% and Math scores rising by 12%. Ms. Eazor attributed these gains to the school’s collaborative approach—developing actionable plans, supporting students through data-driven practices, and tracking progress through regular data chats.

Additionally, Lake Marie has focused on strengthening its foundation by implementing effective instructional practices, fostering strong partnerships with families, increasing parent involvement, encouraging more student discourse, and building a supportive community both in the classroom and school-wide.

 

SWSD Academic Achievement Report

 

Director of Assessment, Accountability, and Parent Engagement, Dr. Reanna Mendoza, presented an overview of South Whittier’s Academic Achievement Report in alignment with the newly released California Dashboard results.

The California Dashboard, available online to the public, provides detailed information on key performance indicators to help identify district strengths, areas of need, and opportunities for improvement. Dr. Mendoza reviewed the district’s overall results and shared how South Whittier compares with surrounding districts. She also presented data on student subgroup performance, which allows the district to pinpoint which groups may need additional support and to develop targeted strategies to address any learning gaps.

 

Local Indicators Update - Priority 1 Context

 

Associate Superintendent of Educational Services, Dr. Rebecca Rodriguez, gave the final presentation regarding the Local Indicators Priority 1 Context.

 

Dr. Rodriguez reported that all local indicators that were evaluated were met according to standards. Priority 1 is basic services which includes assigned teachers, students with access to materials, and the perception of safety in regards to facilities.

 

South Whittier School District will hold its next board meeting on Tuesday, December 9th, 2025.