Elgin Nelson
Rep. Kamlager-Dove Visits LAUSD Middle School To Pushes for Black Student Achievement Plan
Rep. Sydney Kamlager-Dove, D-Los Angeles, visited LAUSD’s John Muir Middle School in South L.A. on Monday to observe its Black Student Achievement Plan (BSAP) and advocate for the expansion of similar programs despite impending state and federal budget challenges. LAUSD’s BSAP aims to close the racial academic achievement gap and support the social and emotional wellbeing of Black students, as evidenced by low math and English proficiency rates among Black students compared to their white counterparts. The program, approved by the Board of Education in response to community pressure following George Floyd’s death, is funded partly by reallocating funds from the school police budget and currently receives $120 million annually. However, impending budget deficits at both state and local levels, coupled with the expiration of COVID-era federal funding, pose threats to its continued operation amidst rising costs. “I believe that the work that is happening here should be the norm and not the exception,” said Kamlager-Dove. “How do we continue to partner and build bridges and create a networking infrastructure so that L.A. Unified does not have to do all of this work alone? That is why we are here.”
Paramount Pictures Names Courtney D. Armstrong As New COO
Paramount Pictures recently announced that they have appointed Courtney D. Armstrong as their new Chief Operating Officer. Armstrong, previously the studio’s President of Business Affairs and Administration, will now oversee day-to-day operations across business affairs, legal, and business development for live action, animation, and studio group divisions. Robbins, President & CEO of Paramount Pictures, praised Armstrong’s expertise and leadership, expressing confidence in his ability to steer the studio’s operations. Armstrong, who joined Paramount in 2021 from Warner Bros. Pictures, where he served as Executive Vice President of Worldwide Business Affairs, has extensive industry experience, contributing to projects such as “Wonder Woman” and “The Dark Knight” trilogy. With a background in law and an M.B.A. from Kellogg School of Management, Armstrong holds various leadership positions within Northwestern University and industry organizations.
Lindsay Harding, First Black Woman to Win NBA G-League Coach of the Year, Eyes NBA Head Coaching Role
NBA G-League Stockton Kings coach Lindsey Harding, recognized as the 2023-24 G League Coach of the Year, is being considered for the Charlotte Hornets’ head coaching position. If Harding secures the job, she would make history as the NBA’s first female head coach. She will also make history as the league’s first Black woman to fulfill that role. head coach. Harding’s potential candidacy comes after her impactful first season with the Sacramento Kings’ G League affiliate, leading them to the top seed in the Western Conference.