Reseda Charter High School Breaks Ground on $170 Million Modernization Project / by Shaun Evans

In support of Reseda Charter High School’s ongoing commitment to student success, officials from Los Angeles Unified broke ground on a new $170 million modernization project that will introduce approximately 95,000 square feet of new construction to the campus. The project will also fund crucial infrastructure, accessibility and safety improvements.

“Today, we are marking a new chapter for the Reseda High School community,” Superintendent Alberto M. Carvalho said. “This project embodies our unwavering commitment to our students by creating new spaces for learning, innovation and exploration.” 

Approved by the Los Angeles Unified Board of Education in 2016, this project will construct five new buildings, encompassing 15 new classrooms, a new library, a new multi-purpose performing arts building, a new cafeteria and a new administrative building. The project will also include a new outdoor assembly area and new landscaping, including the addition of 228 trees at the school. 

“Reseda Charter High School provides a world-class education for students, with programs emphasizing arts, media, dual-language studies, science and law enforcement,” Local District Northwest Superintendent Dr. David Baca said. “We are thrilled to offer a revitalized campus that will empower our students to expand and explore their educational opportunities.”

Project funds will also be used to support important safety enhancements, including the seismic enhancements of two existing gymnasiums, crucial accessibility improvements including new elevators at two existing classroom buildings and new life-safety systems. 

“Opened in 1955, Reseda Charter High School is excited to bring new state-of-the-art facilities to the Reseda community,” said Reseda Charter High School Principal Melanie Welsh. “Reflecting our long tradition of community involvement and academic success, these new facilities demonstrate LAUSD’s ongoing commitment to equity and access for all students in the greater Los Angeles area. Students will enjoy the benefits of a new state-of-the art multi-purpose room, college-styled student union areas with a new library, college and career center, flexible meeting spaces as well as new administration and classroom buildings.”

To enhance the school’s existing security protocols, updated perimeter fencing, new entrance gates and security cameras will also be installed throughout campus. The project is anticipated to be completed in the second quarter of 2025. 

“We are proud and grateful to provide these campus upgrades,” Chief Facilities Executive Mark Hovatter said. “Today’s celebration marks the beginning of our comprehensive modernization project. Although construction on this scale can bring inconveniences along the way such as noise and dust, we promise you when we come back to celebrate the project’s completion, everyone will agree that the sacrifices were absolutely worth it.”

Reseda Charter High School boasts several award-winning magnets, including an Arts, Media & Entertainment Magnet, an International Center for Dual-Language, a Police Academy, a Science Magnet and a School for Advanced Studies. Learn more about Reseda Charter High School by visiting their website at ResedaHS.net.