A program of the National Forum,
run by the California League of Middle Schools
California's 34th Congressional District
Schools to Watch (STW) is active in 22 states nationwide, creating a vibrant community of middle schools committed to achieving and sustaining success. STW recognizes schools that demonstrate a trajectory toward excellence while fostering a culture of innovation, growth, and continuous improvement.
2026 Highlights
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Castelar Street Elementary School
★ 2026 NEWLY DESIGNATED
Amy Luu, Principal
(213) 626-3674
840 Yale St, Los Angeles, CA 90012, USA
Los Angeles Unified School District
SCHOOL SPOTLIGHT
Castelar Street Elementary School coordinates layered academic intervention, accessible counseling and wellness services, and electives, clubs, arts, and athletics to support academic growth and student well-being. Staff use these connected systems to identify needs, provide timely intervention, and create meaningful opportunities. Students gain multiple pathways to build confidence, explore interests, strengthen relationships, and develop a lasting sense of belonging.
✓ A coordinated schoolwide practice provides focused support and meaningful opportunities for students.
✓ Advisory and mentoring provide regular check-ins, goal setting, and relationship-building.
✓ Student leadership and voice shape school activities, decision-making, and community culture.
★ U.S. News recognized the school as one of the nation’s Best Elementary Schools in 2025.
Animo Ellen Ochoa Charter Middle School
★ 2025 NEWLY DESIGNATED
Naima Otero, Principal
(323) 565-3245
4360 Dozier St., Los Angeles, CA 90022
Green Dot Public Schools
SCHOOL SPOTLIGHT
Animo Ellen Ochoa Charter Middle School combines STEM learning, social-emotional learning, and clubs and enrichment to strengthen academic growth, student well-being, and belonging. Staff use these connected systems to identify needs, provide timely intervention, and create meaningful opportunities for students. Through supportive relationships, enrichment, and shared expectations, students build confidence, explore interests, strengthen skills, and develop a lasting sense of belonging.
✓ Targeted literacy instruction uses small groups and progress monitoring to strengthen reading skills.
✓ A coordinated schoolwide practice provides focused support and meaningful opportunities for students.
✓ Athletics and fitness programs strengthen teamwork, wellness, participation, and school connection.
★ Monthly assemblies recognize student growth, Astro Character Traits, and academic achievement.
Luther Burbank Middle School
↻ 2024 REDESIGNATED SCHOOL
Christine Moore, Principal
323-340-4400
6460 North Figueroa St., Los Angeles, CA 92555
Los Angeles Unified School District
SCHOOL SPOTLIGHT
Luther Burbank Middle School combines data-informed instruction, restorative practices, and arts and performance opportunities to strengthen academic growth, student well-being, and belonging. Staff use these connected systems to identify needs, provide timely intervention, and create meaningful opportunities for students. Through supportive relationships, enrichment, and shared expectations, students build confidence, explore interests, strengthen skills, and develop a lasting sense of belonging.
✓ Targeted mathematics support uses tutoring, small groups, and progress monitoring to build proficiency.
✓ PBIS and restorative practices reinforce clear expectations, reflection, accountability, and positive relationships.
✓ Arts and music programs build creativity, teamwork, confidence, and opportunities for performance.
★ Not only does the creation of the magnet benefit the school’s local community, but it also has the potential to open more seats to students outside of the school’s community.