We don't just teach kids. We build them.
true education learning academy
The Foundation We Built
75+ youth served
and Growing
K-12 Registered School
Recognized by the California Department of Education
established in 2018
and rooted in Los Angeles
More Than a Classroom
Advancing Access and Equity Through Culturally Responsive Learning
TELA is a registered K-12 school in Los Angeles, recognized by the California Department of Education under LAUSD. We opened August 14, 2018 with one focus: building BIPOC youth from the inside out.
Identity is not an afterthought here. It is the foundation.
What We Build:
Empowerment — students who function as a community, not just classmates
Communication — learning to talk through real situations with honesty and respect
Boldness — getting comfortable using your voice
Development — growing into community life with intention
Emotional Intelligence — learning to identify, channel, and manage emotions so you lead with wisdom instead of impulse
t.E.L.A Summer camp
Every summer we show up for Los Angeles youth.
This is what that looks like to .This is what that looks like.
program director
Where are you from and what pulled you toward working with young people?
What did you see happening in Los Angeles that made TELA necessary?
What is your educational or professional background?
What does a student look like when they first arrive versus after they have been in the program?
What do you want donors and partners to know about why you do this work?
Fund What Is Working
TELA is credentialed, established, and already producing results through academic support, mentorship, and culturally responsive programming that builds critical thinking, cultural pride, and community responsibility. What we need is the resources to reach more youth. Your investment funds:
Program delivery — curriculum, materials, and tools students need to grow
Staffing — qualified, culturally competent educators and mentors
Expansion — more Los Angeles youth deserve access to what TELA offers