The Ivory Tower

Kevin's day job is in Gifted and Talented Education but he does so much more. He's past president for the Organization of Management Administrators, current Vice-President for the Associated Administrators of Los Angeles, and more! Take a listen at the important role Kevin plays in the life of students and educators.

Meet Dr. Raissa White, administrator for the Los Angeles Unified School District. Dr. White is a specialist in the Arts Branch of the LAUSD organizing and providing support to 50 theater arts teachers serving students in 500 schools.

MaryJane Lira-London

Hello Everyone,

I am one of your AALA Executive Board members and was elected to represent School Support Administrators in 2019. I have also served on AALA’s Political Action Steering committee in the past. As the newly elected OMA Secretary for 2020-2021, I hope to further advocate and educate our members on current District policies.

Currently, I have the privilege of working as a District Coordinator with Student Integration Services (SIS). For those who may not know, SIS oversees the Magnet and PWT programs. I feel incredibly fortunate to work in one of the most diverse school districts in the nation and contribute to the advancement and opportunities available to all of our students. I believe in our District so much, that both of my own children attended and graduated from LAUSD schools. When parents and school leadership work together we can see miracles. I started my career in education as a Special Education Aid in Santa Monica Unified, and became employed by LAUSD in 1993 as a math and art teacher at Dana Middle School. Along the way I have been a college counselor, school coordinator, school administrator and now serve as a District administrator.

On a personal note, I have two beautiful grown children who are following their dreams in the musical theatre and professional soccer world. Yes, they both completed college, but life is too short not to follow your dreams. You only have one life to live so give it your best shot! This morning my daughter made me breakfast and left a note with it on my computer. The note read, “Put on your positive pants and conquer the DAY.” This is pretty much how I approach every day.

My husband and I live in East Los Angeles and love to garden! In my free time, you will most likely catch me working on AALA, OMA or Toastmasters. But my favorite pastimes are gardening, walking my dog, and making art. You just might catch me with a zucchini, my pit-mix puppy and a collage on Instagram (LOL).

Thank you for allowing me to introduce myself and being friends with so many of you. And, if we aren’t friends yet, I hope that we can be in the near future!