Los Angeles Center for Enriched Studies

What if a school could be more than just bricks and mortar? What if it was a launchpad for dreams? The Los Angeles Center for Enriched Studies, or LACES, as it’s affectionately known, stands as a testament to this very idea. Right here, on the grounds of what was once Louis Pasteur Middle School, LACES has blossomed into a beacon of academic excellence. Established in September 1977, LACES holds the distinction of being the very first magnet school in the Los Angeles Unified School District. Born from a desire to address racial segregation and its impact on education, LACES began as the Center for Enriched Studies. It started its journey at the Wilshire Boulevard Temple, later moving to Hamilton High School, then to a repurposed Catholic school campus at Pico and Arlington. Finally, LACES found its permanent home here in 1987. The Los Angeles Center for Enriched Studies was designed to be a place where learning wasn’t just tolerated, but celebrated. The school emphasizes a college preparatory curriculum, encouraging students to challenge themselves with numerous Advanced Placement courses. In fact, AP World History is a requirement for all 10th graders at LACES. The Los Angeles Center for Enriched Studies has consistently achieved impressive API index ratings within the LAUSD. It’s a testament to the dedication of the faculty and the inspiring leadership of principals like Kimberly Lesure. LACES offers a diverse range of AP courses, from Studio Art and Computer Science to a variety of languages including Spanish, French, Japanese, and Korean. Beyond core academics, students can explore electives like cooking, ceramics, photography, film, and music. LACES is also a hub of extracurricular activity, boasting over 75 student-led clubs. The school even hosts an annual Halloween carnival, complete with a haunted house in the auditorium. The Los Angeles Center for Enriched Studies isn’t just a school. It’s a vibrant community. Even Hollywood has taken notice. In 2010, LACES was featured on the NBC reality show “School Pride,” receiving some much-needed renovations. The Los Angeles Center for Enriched Studies has educated notable figures, including Leonardo DiCaprio, who spent several years here before transferring. Other alumni include Christopher Cabaldon, Quinn Cummings, Marques Houston, and Shane West, adding to the rich tapestry of LACES’ history. So, as you stand before the Los Angeles Center for Enriched Studies, remember, it’s more than just a school. It’s a place where potential is nurtured, where dreams are ignited, and where the pursuit of excellence is a daily endeavor.