After devastating wildfires, LA schools scramble to find new spaces for students
Gabriela felt a mix of fear and excitement. She was thrilled to see her best friend and share friendship bracelets. She’s one of many students whose education has been disrupted by the wildfires that destroyed several schools and left many in evacuation zones.
Around 400 students from Palisades Charter Elementary School are now attending Brentwood Science Magnet, about five miles away. The district’s superintendent mentioned that rebuilding could take over two years. Other schools in evacuation zones are also relocating students.
Parents are doing their best to support their kids. Layla Glassman, who lost her home, is focused on making her children feel safe. She said, “We have a roof over our heads. We have them back in school. So, you know, I am happy.” But she also acknowledged the grief they’re all feeling.
Some schools are taking a break from regular classes to focus on healing and community. They’re organizing activities to keep kids engaged while they search for new spaces. The Pasadena Unified School District has kept its schools closed, offering optional online activities for its students.
In Pasadena, between 1,200 and 2,000 students are displaced, but the number could be as high as 10,000. The district hopes to reopen some schools soon. Schools that didn’t burn still face damage from debris and smoke, making cleaning necessary.
Many educators are concerned about the long-term effects of these disruptions on students’ learning and mental health. Research shows that kids who go through natural disasters can face increased risks of illness and anxiety, which can impact their education.
Palisades Charter High School, with 3,000 students, is also looking for temporary classrooms. While most of its buildings are intact, about 40% were damaged. The principal is exploring options to keep students together until it’s safe to return.
Students like Axel Forrest, who lost his home, are trying to adapt. He’s planning to connect with friends for online classes, but he feels lost. “I feel so out of it, every day,” he said, reflecting on the uncertainty of his situation.
At Oak Knoll Montessori, teachers are organizing meetups for their students at local parks and museums. The fire destroyed their school, but the chickens in their coop survived, providing a small glimmer of hope. The head of the school is working hard to find a new location and hopes to reopen soon.
The focus remains on helping students cope with the changes and find some normalcy in the midst of chaos. It’s a tough journey, but the community is coming together to support one another.
