LAEP Internship Strengthened My Interest in Education Reform

By DYANNE CANO
LAEP Learning Exchange

Becoming involved in an organization that works to improve student achievement in schools has given me the opportunity to explore my viewpoints on issues dealing with education today.

My summer internship at the Los Angeles Educational Partnership furthered my interest in education reform. Without working solely for one department, I had the rare opportunity to understand how all LAEP programs function to improve education in the LAUSD by writing articles on these programs. Speaking with directors and program assistants from different departments informed me of the successes they have as well as some of the obstacles they face. I truly believe that not one book or class could give me the valuable knowledge I gained from talking with those involved with LAEP.

Other important resources I learned an abundant amount from were countless education articles in the Los Angeles Times, New York Times, Education Week, Washington Post, etc. I read these articles to help compile articles for board meetings, to add stories to the "Daily News" section of the Learning Exchange and for other research projects. These stories expanded my awareness of school funding, teacher credentials, high-stakes testing, presidential candidates' plans for education, and other numerous issues the affect the classroom. My exposure to education news has tremendously helped me understand the changing face of education.

Jean Horwatt, LAEP's Communications director, taught me about education issues along with public relations. The articles and reports she presented to me greatly shaped my knowledge for research-based material regarding education. The projects she assigned helped me understand how LAEP continues to seek more press coverage of programs and events to strengthen its visibility of LAEP and its work. Thus, I became more aware of how public relations works within a non-profit organization such as LAEP.

Aside from learning about education issues, my internship gave me the chance to take part in the world of the internet. My internet and webpage making skills have expanded greatly since my first day at LAEP. With the help of Communications manager Mike Martinez and the Tech Support department, I learned how to put together a Learning Exchange page. I never expected to feel very technologically knowledgeable but as a result of my hands-on experience with the LAEP website, I feel very comfortable with the internet and creating webpages.

I have met a very dedicated staff at LAEP. Since my first day, I have always felt welcomed into the LAEP community. Interaction between people is an important part in the workplace and the office never lacked friendliness. There are staff members who I will always remember for their generosity and warmth and I thank them for making my internship a memorable one.

I will return to a third year at college and to my position at the Joint Educational Project (JEP). I will continue my part in education by working with college students who mentor inner-city students. I will share what I have learned this summer with the college students I will work with as well as further my community involvement with education.

My interests in education have evolved into being fully passionate about my responsibility and commitment to education. Working for LAEP has taught me about the importance of supporting all children in obtaining a proper and worthy education.

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