Los Angeles High School
Los Angeles High School: A Tradition of Excellence and Diversity
Los Angeles High School (LAHS), the oldest public high school in Southern California, stands as a monument to the enduring spirit of education in one of America’s most dynamic cities. Established in 1873, LAHS has served generations of students from every corner of the city and every walk of life. Its rich history, commitment to academic achievement, and role in shaping future leaders have made it one of the most respected institutions within the Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD).
From humble beginnings to a thriving modern campus, LAHS remains a beacon of opportunity for students seeking a transformative educational experience. This article provides an in-depth look at Los Angeles High School, exploring its storied history, innovative academic programs, vibrant student life, community involvement, and its vision for the future.
1. Historical Overview
At the time, Los Angeles had a population of just 5,000 people. The first classes were held in a rented space above a saloon. Despite these modest origins, LAHS quickly gained a reputation for providing a rigorous education that rivaled private institutions.
In 1917, the school moved to its current location on Olympic Boulevard, nestled between Koreatown and Hancock Park. The striking red-brick campus, featuring the Romanesque Revival architectural style, remains an iconic presence in the community. Its clock tower has become a symbol of both tradition and progress.
2. The Campus and Facilities
Today’s LAHS campus spans multiple buildings and includes state-of-the-art facilities designed to support academic and extracurricular success. These include:
-
Science and Technology Labs: Equipped with modern tools and resources for chemistry, biology, and computer science.
-
Library and Media Center: A central hub for student research, study, and digital learning.
-
Athletic Complex: Includes a football field, track, basketball courts, and a gymnasium for physical education and school sports.
The school’s facilities are continuously being upgraded to support evolving teaching practices and ensure accessibility for all students.
3. Academic Excellence: Los Angeles High School
Los Angeles High School prides itself on academic rigor and innovation. Its curriculum is designed to prepare students for both higher education and the workforce.
Core Curriculum
Students complete coursework in key academic areas:
-
English Language Arts
-
Mathematics (including Algebra, Geometry, Pre-Calculus, and AP Calculus)
-
Sciences (Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Environmental Science)
-
History and Social Sciences
-
World Languages (Spanish, French, Korean, and others)
Advanced Placement (AP) Program
LAHS offers over a dozen AP classes, allowing students to earn college credits while still in high school. These include:
-
AP English Literature and Language
-
AP U.S. and World History
-
AP Calculus AB and BC
-
AP Biology
-
AP Computer Science
-
AP Psychology
Magnet and Specialized Programs: Los Angeles High School
Los Angeles High School is home to three distinguished magnet programs:
-
Math/Science/Technology Magnet: Provides a STEM-focused curriculum to prepare students for careers in engineering, healthcare, and research.
-
Medical and Health Careers Magnet: Offers hands-on learning in anatomy, medical terminology, and internships with local healthcare providers.
-
Global Studies and World Languages Magnet: Emphasizes global citizenship, international relations, and fluency in multiple languages.
4. College and Career Preparation
Beyond academic content, LAHS focuses on preparing students for life after high school.
College Center
The College Center offers comprehensive resources for college-bound students:
-
SAT/ACT prep workshops
-
University application guidance
-
Financial aid and FAFSA support
-
On-campus visits from university representatives
-
Field trips to local colleges and universities
Graduates have gone on to attend prestigious schools such as UCLA, UC Berkeley, Stanford, USC, and Ivy League universities.
Career Technical Education (CTE): Los Angeles High School
For students interested in vocational paths, LAHS offers CTE programs in areas like:
-
Digital media production
-
Business and finance
-
Information technology
-
Health sciences
-
Culinary arts
These programs include certifications and real-world experience through internships and partnerships with local businesses.
5. A Vibrant Student Life
Los Angeles High School is known for its diverse and vibrant student life. The school offers numerous clubs, organizations, and extracurricular opportunities for students to explore their interests, develop leadership skills, and build community.
Clubs and Student Organizations
LAHS hosts a variety of student-led groups, including:
-
Student Council
-
National Honor Society
-
Key Club (community service)
-
Black Student Union
-
Latino Student Union
-
LGBTQ+ Alliance
-
Robotics Club
-
Environmental Action Group
-
Academic Decathlon
These clubs play a crucial role in creating a sense of belonging and promoting civic engagement.
Performing and Visual Arts
The school’s visual and performing arts programs are among the strongest in the district. Students participate in:
-
Theater productions
-
Choir and band performances
-
Dance teams
-
Art exhibitions
Events such as talent shows, cultural festivals, and art walks bring together students, parents, and the wider community to celebrate creativity.
Athletics
LAHS has a long and proud tradition in athletics. The school is a member of the CIF Los Angeles City Section and offers sports like:
-
Football
-
Basketball
-
Soccer
-
Volleyball
-
Track and field
-
Tennis
-
Baseball and softball
The school mascot is the Roman, and students take pride in representing their school in blue and white colors during games and competitions.
6. Student Support Services
Recognizing that student well-being is crucial to academic success, LAHS provides robust support services.
Counseling and Mental Health
Certified counselors work closely with students to address:
-
Academic planning
-
Social and emotional challenges
-
College and career guidance
-
Family and peer relationships
In addition, school psychologists and social workers are available to support students through counseling, crisis intervention, and mental health awareness programs.
Support for English Learners and Special Education
LAHS serves a diverse population that includes many English language learners (ELLs) and students with disabilities. Specialized programs provide:
-
English development courses
-
Tutoring and academic support
-
Individualized Education Plans (IEPs)
-
Classroom aides and resource specialists
The school emphasizes inclusion and works to ensure that all students have the tools they need to succeed.
7. Community and Alumni Engagement
Los Angeles High School benefits from strong partnerships with parents, local businesses, nonprofits, and universities.
Parent Involvement
Parent participation is encouraged through:
-
Parent-teacher organizations
-
School Site Council
-
Workshops and seminars on student achievement and well-being
-
Volunteer opportunities
Community Partnerships
LAHS has forged valuable relationships with organizations like:
-
UCLA and USC (mentoring and dual enrollment)
-
LACMA and The Getty (arts programs)
-
Cedars-Sinai Medical Center (health education and internships)
Alumni Network
The Los Angeles High School Alumni Association remains highly active, funding scholarships, supporting campus improvements, and mentoring current students. Notable alumni include:
-
Ray Bradbury – Celebrated author of Fahrenheit 451
-
Michael Ovitz – Co-founder of Creative Artists Agency
-
Leonard Slatkin – Grammy-winning conductor
-
Patricia Morison – Broadway legend
These alumni serve as powerful role models for current students.
8. Cultural Diversity and Inclusion
Located in one of the most multicultural cities in the world, LAHS is a reflection of Los Angeles itself. Students hail from over 40 countries and speak more than 20 different languages. The school actively celebrates this diversity through:
-
Heritage months (Black History, Hispanic Heritage, Asian Pacific Islander)
-
International Culture Night
-
Multilingual assemblies
-
Anti-racism workshops and inclusion initiatives
By fostering mutual respect and global awareness, LAHS prepares students to succeed in an increasingly interconnected world.
9. Looking Toward the Future
As education continues to evolve, Los Angeles High School remains committed to innovation and excellence. Future goals include:
-
Expanding dual-enrollment programs with local colleges
-
Increasing student access to laptops and Wi-Fi
-
Launching new career pathways in green technology and AI
-
Renovating aging facilities for energy efficiency and accessibility
-
Enhancing teacher training in equity-based practices
The administration, faculty, and community are united in their mission to provide a safe, challenging, and inspiring environment for every student.
Conclusion
Los Angeles High School stands as a historic and enduring symbol of educational excellence in Southern California. Its legacy spans centuries, and its impact reaches across the globe through the achievements of its students and alumni.
From its pioneering past to its progressive present, LAHS continues to honor its motto: "Always a Roman"—a reminder that every student who passes through its halls carries forward the values of knowledge, resilience, and community. For families seeking a school that values tradition, diversity, and academic rigor, Los Angeles High School offers a truly exceptional experience.
In case, if you need help with Homestay and Guardianship for students in order to study in Los Angeles High School or other schools in the US, please fill in application below or contact us directly.