In our last two episodes, “California Connected” portrayed the problems at Mount Vernon Middle School– problems highlighted in an audit conducted by California’s Department of Education because student test scores here have failed to reach state-mandated goals for years.
In response to the findings, the Los Angeles Unified School District asked principal Scott Schmerelson if he’d be willing to leave his charge at a suburban middle school to take over the helm of this troubled inner-city campus.
“I came here as a volunteer,” Schmerelson told Mount Vernon parents. “I’m not a miracle worker, but I’m gonna do everything I can, to help your kids by having better teachers and helping them to do better.”
Schmerelson allowed “California Connected” to follow him just weeks after taking the job, as he tried to get a handle on more than 100 teachers and 2,200 students.
Schmerelson has one major hurdle– the staff is upset about having to sign a commitment form in order to stay at the school next year. Teachers would be required to follow specific classroom techniques and abide by a dress code that bans jeans and tennis shoes.
Mt. Vernon’s hurdles also include a lack of resources and support staff. If you would like to help, the school has requested the following:
* volunteers to supervise school grounds
* donations of plants, trees and gardening services
* donation of money and/or equipment for the gymnasium
* donations of computer equipment
* donations for the school library
To contact the school, please email:
mt-vernon-ms@lausd.k12.ca.us or call (323) 733-2157.