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Wildfires devastate Palisades Charter High School
The recent wildfires in California have left a significant mark on the Palisades Charter High School (PCHS) community. Located in Los Angeles, the school has been a beacon of education for approximately 3,000 students from over 100 zip codes.
Unfortunately, much of its campus has been severely damaged, prompting an urgent appeal for community support. Student body president Charlie Speiser expressed the collective sentiment of students and staff, stating, “We’re really just trying to get our community back together, and all our Pali Dolphins under one roof again.” The destruction of the wooden bungalows and athletic fields has made it imperative for the school to find a new temporary location.
Community support and resilience
In the face of adversity, the PCHS community has shown remarkable resilience. Speiser noted that many students and staff members have lost their homes and belongings due to the wildfires. Despite this, the spirit of camaraderie remains strong.
“Everyone is texting every day, we’re all running errands for each other, really doing everything we can to help each other out. It’s really amazing to see the selflessness of everybody,” he said. This sense of unity is crucial as the school seeks to rebuild and recover from the devastation.
Finding a new home for learning
Dr. Pamela Magee, Executive Director and Principal of PCHS, emphasized the importance of finding a temporary campus to ensure that students can continue their education in a supportive environment. The school is open to any space that can accommodate their needs, from warehouses to abandoned office buildings.
“By coming together, we can ensure that our students can stay in their learning environment, with their friends and mentors, at a time when they need it most,” Magee stated. The school administration has reached out to local businesses, organizations, and individuals for assistance in locating a safe and accessible space.
How to help
The PCHS community is calling on everyone to lend a hand in their recovery efforts. Those who can assist in finding a temporary space or provide support are encouraged to contact the school at [email protected]. Additionally, donations to aid the recovery effort can be made through their official channels. As the Pacific Palisades Fire and Eaton Fire continue to pose threats, the need for community involvement has never been more critical. Together, the PCHS community can demonstrate their strength and resilience in overcoming this challenge.
