top of page
CDE.png

CALIFORNIA SCHOOLS TO WATCH

STWLogo-2020small.png
California Schools to Watch is a statewide program implemented by the California League
of Middle Schools, California Department of Education, California Middle Grades Alliance, National Forum, and the California Schools to Watch model schools.
Los Alisos STEM Magnet Middle School

Redesignated: 2023

Designated 2020

Norwalk-La Mirada Unified School District

Los Angeles County

Tania Magana, Principal

14800 Jersey Avenue, Norwalk, CA 90650

(562) 210-3495

School Characteristics

Community: urban. Enrollment: 1,188. Grade Levels: 6-8. School Schedule: Six-period day; 6th-grade cored classes with same students plus elective; 7th- and 8th-grade classes departmentalized by subject with elective.

School Demographics

Free/reduced lunch: 86%. Students with disabilities: 12%. English learners: 12%

Replicable Practices

  • The school offers an extensive STEM magnet experience for students with problem-based learning; courses such as Project Lead The Way, USC robotics, video production; and clubs that include Code Club, Femineers, and RoboLobos.

  • A strong visual and performing arts program features courses and extracurricular activities such as choir, band, orchestra, and cheer that bolster 21st-century skills development through STEAM experiences.

  • A thriving, ongoing culture of continual professional growth sees bimonthly professional development and common planning time, shared learning outcomes, walk-throughs, classroom coaching, and transparent conversations in order to raise students’ critical thinking and depth of knowledge.

  • Driven by rigor, relevance, and student engagement SMART goals, all educators engage in research, data monitoring, and evaluation to adjust courses and instructional strategies to meet students’ needs.

  • Los Alisos is a highly qualified AVID school, and teachers implement AVID WICOR strategies (writing, inquiry, collaboration, organization, and reading) throughout their classes.

  • Social-emotional assistance is a priority, with counselors, interns, and a full-time therapist working closely with administration, teachers, and parents to provide targeted supports.

bottom of page