The work of the Safe and Supportive Schools program at Equality California Institute is guided and informed by our Safe and Supportive Schools Advisory Committee, a group of representatives from districts, teachers’ unions, and community organizations that provides feedback and assistance in our work. We acknowledge all the members of the Advisory Committee: Ariana Rodriguez, Erica Hasenbeck, Gabby Doyle, Kena Hazelwood, Dr. Jon Paul, Justin Tindall, Kim Westheimer, Maureen Muir, Rebeca Cerna, Rebby Kern, Rick Oculto, Stephanie Camacho-Van Dyke, Suzanne Wallace, Tifany Eden
Dr. Vinnie Pompei, and others. We are grateful for your time, support, expertise, and dedication to students.
We would like to thank our pro-bono partners, Latham & Watkins, LLP, especially Amy Quartarolo, Micah Long, T (Teddy) Finneran, Tim Plummer, Brandon Scheirman, and Diana Casas for their guidance and support throughout the last year. Their support on research, editing, technical support, and many other areas has been essential.
We are also deeply grateful for the testimonials contributed by the district staff. These testimonials, along with the qualitative data we collected expand our understanding of the survey results and the broader landscape of how unified school districts are creating safe and supportive environments in a variety of circumstances.
Graphic design: Ash Anderson
Suggested citation: Arendse E., Atilano V., Lawlor A. (2026) Safe & Supportive Schools Report Card. Los Angeles, CA: Equality California Institute.