We are deeply saddened and outraged by the racist text messages targeting both Black and Latino students in Los Angeles County and across the nation. References to slavery and demeaning stereotypes strike at the very heart of our education community’s values, instilling fear and creating division.  

While the FBI works to investigate the source of these messages, we want our students, staff and families to know that we stand united against hate and will not tolerate acts of racism and bigotry that harm our students and our schools.

Please know that you are not alone. Our community stands with you. If you have been the victim of a hate incident, the following are some steps to take:  

• If you are in immediate danger or a crime is being committed, please call 911.

• Report hate crimes to your local police and contact the FBI at 310-477-6565 or tips.fbi.gov.

• For support, dialing 211 connects you to health, human and social services across Los Angeles County.  

• Access EASE, a counseling service for school district member district employees and their families. Call the 24/7 access line at 800-882-1341 or visit EASE's website.

In Los Angeles County, we have long been committed to fostering safe, inclusive spaces for all students and families. As part of this commitment, we recognize the ongoing need for education, empathy and vigilance to combat hate in every form. In alignment with initiatives like LA vs. Hate, we will continue to promote awareness, distribute resources and support activities that encourage understanding, equity and kindness across our communities.

Together, we can build a future where all students feel safe, valued, and empowered to succeed. Hate has no place here, and we will work tirelessly to ensure that our schools remain spaces of respect and inclusion for everyone.

The Los Angeles County Office of Education has compiled resources that can be found here:

Addressing Hate

LVH_schooltoolkit_with+workgroup.pdf: L.A. vs Hate School Toolkit

TT_Lets_Talk_web.pdf: Let’s Talk: Discussing Race, Racism and Other Difficult Topics with Students – Learning for Justice/Teaching Tolerance

TT-Speak-Up-Guide_0.pdf: Speak up at School – Learning for Justice/Teaching Tolerance

Social Justice: National Association of School Psychologists (NASP) Social Justice Resources for Educators and Caregivers

Social Justice, Equity and Anti-Racism Toolkit: California Association of School Counselors  

ExploreJustice_Introtoolkit.pdf - Google Drive: Explore Justice – 211 Toolkit

How to Help Students Learn to Listen to Each Other’s Stories: Interview-based storytelling projects can build active listening skills that increase empathy and foster relationships.

Facilitating Bridging Discussions: Educators will reflect on and learn tips about how to best engage in “bridging differences” discussions about justice and equity in the classroom.

School Personnel | The National Child Traumatic Stress Network

Ant-Racism Resources: American School Counselor Association

Empowering Young People in the Aftermath of Hate: ADL

Preventing Bias Hate in Schools: A Toolkit  U.S. Department of Justice

Center for Racial Justice

211 Anti-Hate Programs

Resources for Immigrant Students and Families

Immigration Advocates Network: National Immigration Legal Services Directory 

Help for Immigrant Families Post-Election - Guidance for Schools 

Immigration Legal Resource Center 

My Undocumented Life 

Undocubasic Needs Mental Health 

Public Charge in Multiple Languages 

Family Preparedness Plan Spanish 

AB 699: Safe Schools For Immigrant Students 

Know Your Educational Rights 

Know Your Educational Rights - Spanish 

Quick Reference for School Officials