Kyle Stokes

Statewide, the new graduation rate represents an increase of more than 3 percentage points over the prior year, and follows a string of small declines during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Rivas' win capped a triumphant election season for allies of L.A.'s powerful teachers union, who now hold a solid majority on the board.

In politically divided communities, principals report that schools themselves are becoming partisan battlegrounds.

Victories for Rocío Rivas and Kelly Gonez strengthen United Teachers Los Angeles' political position at a crucial moment for the union.

"I am ready to bring my very best to all of our constituents," Rivas said. "You can count on me to serve our district with unwavering dedication.”

The District 6 incumbent believes she’s fended off a much-tougher-than-expected challenge from opponent Marvin Rodríguez — but he hasn’t conceded yet.

Twenty years in, Cardona called California's funding program for after-school offerings — which Arnold Schwarzenegger championed when he was governor — a national model.

Supt. Alberto Carvalho said some tutors are unprepared or haven’t shown up — and board members noted that may not entirely be the fault of the vendors.

Rocío Rivas and Kelly Gonez both say they've won their very tight races.

California voters set aside roughly $1 billion per year for arts programs in public schools.