Dear Partners,

We’re excited to introduce Systems Change Spotlight, an evolution of the L.A. Compact Connection newsletter that reflects the expansion of our work rooted in the L.A. Compact. What began as a bold commitment to address LAUSD’s dropout crisis and strengthen pathways between K-12 schools and careers has evolved to grow into a powerful catalyst for collective action towards systems change.

Guided by five goals supporting school readiness, high school graduation, postsecondary attainment, career success, and social and emotional well-being, the L.A. Compact has advanced numerous initiatives over the years inclusive of K-12 educator training; financial aid and dual enrollment; free two-year college; remedial education reform; reverse and traditional transfer; digital equity; career readiness for transition-age foster youth; student-centered community schools; and more. Today, UNITE-LA is doubling down on our commitment to systems change that focuses on shifting the underlying conditions that hold inequitable outcomes in place for young people in the L.A. region.

Each quarter, our Systems Change Spotlight newsletter will elevate the impact of initiatives we are proud to collectively advance, including:

• L.A. Region K-16 Collaborative is accelerating equitable degree attainment in high-growth sectors like health care, computer science and engineering.
  
  
• Horizons 32K is a collaborative, regional strategic plan developed by a multi-sector coalition dedicated to reducing young adult disconnection from school and work.
  
  
• LAUSD Community Schools Initiative supports student success through a whole child approach—integrating academics with health, social services and community engagement, through building on the school community’s unique strengths and needs.
  
  
• LA DEAL (Los Angeles Digital Equity Action League) is a community-driven consortium working to close broadband gaps and advance digital inclusion and equity across Los Angeles, serving as a model for communities statewide and beyond.
  
  
• Southern California Apprenticeship Network connects diverse stakeholders to develop inclusive apprenticeship programs, bridging gaps in the system and expanding access to trained talent.
  
  

As we move forward, UNITE-LA remains committed to advocating for equitable, regional solutions to education and workforce challenges. Thank you for your continued partnership to improve our collective understanding of the complex drivers of inequities in education and economic mobility outcomes. We look forward to generating and implementing collaborative solutions alongside our system partners now and into the future.

In partnership,

Carrie Lemmon, Senior Vice President Systems Change Strategy