Academy of Medical Arts

22328 South Main Street - Carson CA - 90745
Type of autonomy arrangement: Pilot Schools
Basic Profile

Opened In

2012

Grades

9-12

Environment

Urban

Type

District - Pilot
Autonomies

Program

Determine learning program
Set school-level policy
Determine professional development
Determine authorizer assessments
Determine state assessments

Personnel

Select colleagues
Evaluate colleagues
Transfer or terminate colleagues
Determine tenure policy
Select leaders

Administrative

Determine school budget
Set staff pattern
Determine compensation
Determine teacher workday
Set schedule
Teacher Authority Is...
De Jure and De Facto

De jure authority is granted to the school governing board via the pilot agreement, which is in the form of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between LAUSD and UTLA. The MOU gives the board authority to make decisions in some areas. De facto, the governing board transfers this authority to the teachers, who collectively make decisions in areas indicated. In addition to the MOU, teachers collectively write an Elect to Work Agreement (EWA) for their site on an annual basis that outlines the working conditions at the school that are different from those outlined in the collective bargaining agreement between the district and union. For example, they can expand their own work hours, require participation in school events, and expand professional development requirements. This is a means to exercise more autonomy at the school level, at the will of the teachers. Teachers at the site vote on the terms they outline in the EWA, and anyone who does not agree to work under the conditions will enter the district’s hiring pool and default to the working conditions outlined in the existing collective bargaining agreement.

About the Learning Program

The Academy of Medical Arts values interdisciplinary educational experiences, the democratic process, student voice, shared leadership, community partners, and learning that extends beyond the school walls. Teamwork is a hallmark of our culture. Staff members will regularly reflect and share ideas openly through verbal and written communication. Students will actively participate in school leadership, academic exploration, and Health Occupation Students of America. Parents will actively support and monitor student progress and will attend school functions. Community members will provide work-based learning opportunities and foster a relationship with the school to support local community health initiatives.