An Old-School Champion of L.A.’s Schools

Remembering LAUSD School Board Member Marguerite LaMotte, a Tough, Powerful Advocate for Students, Educators, and Her Community

Marguerite Poindexter LaMotte reminded me of the teachers I had as a student—and of the teachers I worked with during my 20-plus years in the classroom. She was old school. She was a tough, no-nonsense educator who cared deeply about public education. She cared deeply about her students, too, and was willing to stand up to anyone she believed did not have their best interests at heart.

Marguerite was a lifelong educator who spent years as a classroom teacher, school site administrator, and, finally, as the longest serving current school …

Did I Violate the U.S. Constitution By Teaching Yoga?

I Think I Put Together Healthy Classes For Kids in L.A. Schools. Some Parents Don’t Agree.

Is teaching yoga to kids a form of religious indoctrination? About a month ago, a California judge ruled that yoga could be taught at the Encinitas Union School District without …