Thank you for taking time to read this week's newsletter. Heading into the Christmas and holiday season, the activity in our community has not let up one bit.
For those of you who don't already know, there is an exciting project by Long Beach Unified School District, called the North Long Beach Initiative, that is kicking off in the weeks to come. The focus of this initiative is the $150 million modernization of Jordan High School. In 2008, Long Beach voters passed Measure K, which is where the bulk of the $150 million of funding for the initiative will come from. The Ninth District council office is working with LBUSD, and other community partners, to ensure that community input is fully integrated into every aspect of this project as we work collectively to develop an action plan that addresses the academic and social needs of students in North Long Beach, particularly the Jordan High School area.
The North Long Beach Initiative will use existing aspects of President Obama's "The Promise Neighborhoods Program," an education-centered approach with the concept that ending poverty for children living in traditionally under-served communities can "level the playing field."
The public launch of the North Long Beach Initiative will be on
January 13, 10 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. at
Jordan High School inside the Media Center. This event will provide all the details you need to know and how you can get involved in building a better Ninth District.
Secondly, months ago, I co-sponsored a resolution in support of Congressional passage of the Federal DREAM Act, along with Councilmembers O'Donnell and Garcia. This bill would extend legal residency and the opportunity to become a citizen to youth who are undocumented and complete college or serve in the United States military. I am pleased to know that it is scheduled for a vote in Congress this weekend.
In support of this measure, I, along with Councilmembers Garcia and O'Donnell, in collaboration with several community leaders and organizations, will host a press conference and day of action in support of the Federal DREAM ACT, tomorrow, Saturday, December 18, at Centro CHA offices, 727 Pine Av in Long Beach. The day of action will include group phone banking to Senators and on-line organizing after the press conference. The Dream Act is important to our community and the greater Social Justice Movement. Now is the time to end this disenfranchisement and make these students whole. I encourage you to participate.
Again, thanks for taking the time to read your weekly district newsletter.
