Posted on 02/15/2024
The District 9 community is invited to attend a special square dedication honoring Bessie Bruington Burke, the first African American teacher and principal in the history of the Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD). The event will take place on Feb. 29 at 10 a.m. at the intersection of 52nd Street and Holmes Avenue.
In 1911, Ms. Burke earned her teaching credential and began her career at Holmes Avenue Elementary School in District 9 as the first Black teacher in the Los Angeles public school systems. Seven years later, her exceptional dedication and talent led to her promotion, making her the first Black principal in Los Angeles in 1918.
After more than two decades of groundbreaking work in education, Ms. Burke took on the role of principal at Nevin Avenue Elementary School in 1938, becoming the first Black principal of a racially integrated school.
The dedication ceremony, which coincides with African American History Month, serves as a tribute to her extraordinary contributions to the education system and lasting impact on the community.