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Schools

New High School to Open Next Month

South Region High School #9 still has open enrollment for any student from South Gate, Bell, Maywood, or Cudahy.

In a time of overcrowded classrooms, and budget cuts, the Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) will be opening the new state of the art, South Region High School #9  in South Gate. The high-school a unique teaching program that administrators hope will intrigue both parents and students, while also alleviating the issue of overcrowding.

The $214 million high-school, is set to open on 14th of August, will feature 53 classrooms, a 1,431 maximum student capacity, contemporary architecture and the latest that technology has to offer.

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More importantly, it will have a different teaching approach. The campus will be home to three separate, but intermingling high schools that will house small class sizes.

“Studies have shown that small personalized learning environments are superior to the traditional model,” said Interim Principal Terri Arnold. “We want to create a family like structure where faculty members know each student by name.”

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Each high school will have a different focus that is tailored for individual students.

 The first being Science-Technology-Engineering-Art-Math, or (STEAM), led by Principal Carla Barrera-Ortiz. The second will bring an already existing program at International Studies High School, along with Principal Dr. Guillermina Jauregui. The third will be the Visual and Performing Arts School (VAPA) overseen by new coming Principal Allison Miller.

The three schools are hoping that their curriculum will prepare students at the global level.

“We want our students to be competitive not only at the national level but also globally,” said Barrera-Ortiz. “The other principals and I have a deep passion.”

For nowthe  new site is known only as South Region High School #9. It will be the responsibility of the inaugural class, which will be comprsied of 9th through 11th grade students, to both name and choose a mascot for their school.

This new school has taken over a decade to make, and not without some controversy.

According to Ed Morelan, site Assessment Program Administrator for LAUSD, the site tested positive for contaminated soil, which in turn led to the temporary halting of construction.

However, after the necessary clean up, the California Environmental Protection Agency (Cal/EPA) stated that the soil was safe, and that the school could begin construction, over two years ago.

As of now enrollment is still open, and students that are interested should enquire as soon as possible.

  • Contact Information: Phone Number, (323) 357-7500 Address: 5225 Tweedy Blvd. South Gate CA, 90280
  • Acceptable students must live in: South Gate, Maywood, Bell, and Cudahy.
  • No Uniforms, but dress code.
  • No application process or audition.
  • Please call for additional information

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