Los Angeles Center for Enriched Studies (LACES)
The Los Angeles Center for Enriched Studies (LACES) is a public magnet school located in the heart of Los Angeles, California, offering a robust academic environment aimed at enriching the intellectual and social development of its students. Known for its commitment to excellence, LACES serves a diverse student population and provides an array of educational opportunities that cater to the needs of high-achieving students.
Overview and Mission
The mission of LACES is to provide a rigorous and comprehensive education while fostering an environment of inclusion and diversity. The school seeks to empower students to think critically, act responsibly, and lead with integrity. Through its academic offerings, extracurricular activities, and support systems, LACES strives to cultivate lifelong learners who are prepared for success in higher education and beyond.
Founded in 1977, LACES was established as a response to the growing demand for specialized educational programs within the Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD). The school’s primary aim was to offer a challenging curriculum to students who demonstrate academic excellence and show potential for further development. Today, it is one of LAUSD’s most renowned magnet schools, attracting students from across the city.
Academic Programs and Curriculum
LACES provides a challenging academic program designed to meet the needs of high-performing students. The curriculum is comprehensive, blending core subjects with advanced courses that allow students to engage in critical thinking, inquiry-based learning, and problem-solving. Students are encouraged to take ownership of their learning through projects, presentations, and collaborative activities.
Advanced Placement (AP) Courses:
One of the hallmarks of the LACES experience is the school’s robust Advanced Placement (AP) program. These college-level courses provide students the opportunity to gain college credit while still in high school. The AP curriculum at LACES covers a wide range of subjects, including mathematics, science, history, and English. Some of the most popular AP courses offered include AP Calculus, AP Biology, AP Chemistry, AP U.S. History, and AP English Literature.
Honors Courses:
In addition to AP courses, LACES offers a variety of honors classes, which challenge students to delve deeper into subjects and engage with more complex materials. These courses are designed to push students to think critically, analyze information, and apply their knowledge to real-world situations. Honors classes are available in subjects like mathematics, English, and foreign languages, and they prepare students for the rigors of AP coursework.
International Baccalaureate (IB) Program:
LACES is one of the few schools in Los Angeles to offer the International Baccalaureate (IB) program, a globally recognized educational framework that encourages academic and personal growth. The IB program at LACES allows students to engage with an international curriculum that emphasizes inquiry-based learning, intercultural understanding, and global awareness. The program includes a range of subjects, from the sciences to the arts, and prepares students for success at the university level and beyond.
STEM Focus:
Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) education is another cornerstone of the academic program at LACES. The school provides students with opportunities to explore and excel in STEM fields through specialized courses, such as computer science, robotics, and engineering. LACES students have access to state-of-the-art laboratories and resources that allow them to conduct experiments, engage in hands-on learning, and develop the skills needed for careers in technology and engineering.
Diversity and Inclusion
One of the defining features of LACES is its commitment to diversity and inclusion. The school serves a student body that is reflective of Los Angeles’ multicultural makeup, with students from various ethnic, socioeconomic, and cultural backgrounds. LACES embraces this diversity, fostering an environment in which all students feel valued, respected, and supported.
Diversity at LACES is not just about ethnicity and culture but also includes diversity in terms of thought and experience. The school actively encourages students to engage with different perspectives, whether through classroom discussions, collaborative projects, or extracurricular activities. This emphasis on diversity helps prepare students to navigate a complex, interconnected world and develop the interpersonal and leadership skills necessary for success in the global community.
Support for Students with Disabilities:
LACES is also committed to providing support for students with disabilities. The school offers a range of services to ensure that students with special needs have access to a high-quality education. This includes individualized education plans (IEPs), accommodations for students with learning disabilities, and resources for students with physical or sensory impairments.
Extracurricular Activities
LACES is home to a wide array of extracurricular activities that allow students to pursue their passions, develop new skills, and contribute to the community. Whether students are interested in the arts, athletics, or leadership, there is a wealth of opportunities available for them to explore.
Arts and Music Programs:
The school’s arts programs are an essential part of its curriculum, offering students the chance to explore their creative potential. LACES offers a range of visual and performing arts courses, including drawing, painting, photography, theater, and dance. The school also has a robust music program, with opportunities to participate in band, choir, and orchestra. These programs allow students to develop their artistic talents and express themselves in new and innovative ways.
Athletics:
LACES also has a strong athletic program, with various sports teams that compete at the local and regional levels. Students can participate in team sports like basketball, volleyball, soccer, and track and field, as well as individual sports like tennis and swimming. The school emphasizes teamwork, discipline, and physical fitness, and students are encouraged to balance their academic and athletic pursuits.
Clubs and Organizations:
In addition to sports and the arts, LACES offers numerous clubs and organizations that allow students to explore their interests and contribute to the school community. Popular clubs at LACES include debate, robotics, the school newspaper, and a variety of community service organizations. These extracurricular activities provide students with opportunities to develop leadership skills, make new friends, and engage in activities that align with their personal interests and passions.
College and Career Readiness
LACES places a strong emphasis on preparing students for success in higher education and their future careers. The school provides a wide range of resources to help students navigate the college application process, secure scholarships, and explore career pathways.
College Counseling:
The school’s college counseling program is designed to guide students through every step of the college application process. Counselors help students identify colleges and universities that align with their academic interests and goals, assist with application essays and personal statements, and provide advice on standardized testing and financial aid. LACES students have gone on to attend prestigious universities, including Ivy League schools and top-tier institutions across the country.
Career Exploration:
In addition to college preparation, LACES also offers career exploration programs that expose students to various professions and industries. These programs include internships, job shadowing opportunities, and guest speaker events, where professionals from various fields share their experiences and offer advice to students. LACES is committed to ensuring that students are well-equipped to pursue their chosen career paths, whether through higher education or direct entry into the workforce.
School Community and Parent Involvement
The sense of community at LACES is one of its defining characteristics. The school fosters a supportive and collaborative environment, where students, teachers, and parents work together to create a positive and productive learning atmosphere.
Parental Involvement:
LACES encourages parents to become actively involved in their children’s education. The school has a variety of programs and events that allow parents to engage with teachers, staff, and other parents. These include parent-teacher conferences, workshops on college preparation, and opportunities for parents to volunteer in the classroom or at school events.
School Spirit:
The school’s spirit and sense of pride are evident in the way students interact with one another and with their teachers. LACES students are known for their enthusiasm and commitment to both academic and extracurricular excellence. The school hosts a variety of events throughout the year, such as spirit days, talent shows, and cultural festivals, which help to foster a sense of unity and school pride.
Conclusion
The Los Angeles Center for Enriched Studies (LACES) is a school that provides an exceptional educational experience for students who are motivated, curious, and eager to excel. With its challenging academic programs, diverse student body, and strong commitment to student success, LACES prepares students for success in higher education and beyond. Through a combination of rigorous coursework, extracurricular activities, and a supportive school community, LACES helps students develop the skills, knowledge, and confidence they need to thrive in an increasingly complex and interconnected world.