Dr. Jaime Aquino, Deputy Superintendent of Instruction, announced his resignation today from the Los Angeles Unified School District. 

I am very disappointed and saddened to learn that Dr. Jaime Aquino has submitted his resignation. The Board of Education and many community allies have worked hard to recruit the best talent in the nation to lead this District and to serve our students. Dr.  Aquino brought us focus, energy, talent and expertise that will be difficult to replace.

Dr. Aquino is a distinguished national leader. He has provided this district with a laser-like focus on both instruction and achievement of all students. He has led the District’s efforts in transitioning to Common Core State Standards, spearheaded the A-G Graduation Policy to ensure equity and access for high school students and attain credits aligned with UC requirements. And he has led the district’s efforts to improve instructional programs designed to provide access and rigor for English Learners. As a result, this year’s 28-point growth for English Learners was the highest since 2005-06 when API scores first included this subgroup.

We need District leadership that understands the needs of our English Learners, and Dr. Aquino is that person. I am grateful for his contribution to the students and families of LAUSD and I remain hopeful that he will reconsider.

Statements from Community Members

“Despite the resignation of Dr. Aquino, we demand that the district continues to move forward the key initiatives launched under his leadership, which has benefited the most underserve and neediest students in our communities. Dr. Aquino emphasized the importance of focusing on English Learners, instruction and college access– that’s the direction we expect the LAUSD to continue moving forward.”

-Maria Brenes, Executive Director, InnerCity Struggle

“Students can’t afford to lose key advocates such as Dr. Aquino who truly understand the urgency of meeting their needs.   Dr. Aquino has played a lead role in implementing policies that are especially vital to the success of students of color and low-income students. It’s unfortunate to see the school district lose strong talent.”

-Elise Buik, President and CEO of United Way of Greater Los Angeles

“Jaime Aquino is a tireless public servant and advocate for the teachers, students, and parents of LAUSD. His departure is a loss for all of us who care about ensuring strong public education, and we are sorry to see him leave. Just as we work to attract and retain innovative teachers in public education, we must work vigorously to attract and keep courageous and effective leaders at the helm of our public school system.”

-Ama Nyamekye, Executive Director, Educators 4 Excellence Los Angeles

“Dr. Jaime Aquino was a key champion for our students in the District.  As a result of his leadership- parents, students and community members were continuously engaged in key initiatives such as the implementation of A-G college prep, the Common Core and the English Language Learner Master Plan. His departure is an unfortunate loss for the District, its teachers and its parents and students. ABC hopes that the important work that Dr. Aquino has begun will continue to be implemented to ensure the successful preparation of our students for college and career.”

-Angelica M. Solis, Executive Director, Alliance for a Better Community