Project Description
Karen Ward, Fellow
Manchester Avenue Elementary
Los Angeles, CA
Karen Ward is a proud product of the Los Angeles Unified School District where she returned to serve after earning a Bachelor of Arts in History from UCLA. It was during her time in college that she discovered her passion for teaching while tutoring students at the local Boys and Girls Club. She began her career as a 5th grade teacher and went on to earn a Master of Arts in Educational Administration from California State University, Dominguez Hills. Karen has over 30 years of experience and has served in various educational roles, including teacher, Instructional Coordinator, Assistant Principal and Principal. She was recently appointed principal at Manchester Avenue Elementary School. Prior to this appointment, Karen served as the founding principal of Dr. Owen L. Knox Elementary School, then accepted a principalship at Danny J. Bakewell, Sr. Primary Center where she developed a passion for early literacy. Karen considers herself a lifelong learner and prides herself on sitting “shoulder to shoulder” with her teachers as they learn together. She enjoys spending time with her husband and their three adult children.
Elizabeth Medina, Ally
Assistant Principal
Manchester Avenue Elementary
Los Angeles, CA
Elizabeth Magallanes Medina currently serves as the Assistant Principal at Manchester Avenue Elementary School in Los Angeles, California. For the past 23 years, she has been a dedicated educator for the Los Angeles Unified School District. She began her work in education as a teacher assistant, and has served as a 3rd and 4th grade teacher, English Learner Designee, Title 1 Coordinator and most recently Assistant Principal. She earned her undergraduate degree, teaching credential and Master’s in Education from California State University, Dominguez Hills. She strongly believes that when students are provided with the right tools and their assets are valued and appreciated, students can achieve their fullest potential. She also believes that it is important to create a safe learning environment where students are encouraged to express themselves freely while embracing the differences of others. Her goal is to make sure students, regardless of the obstacles they face, receive a high quality education provided by educators who demonstrate dedication, perseverance and hard work.