Our Story
In February 2004, a group of dedicated parents gathered in a backyard in Los Angeles, driven by a shared vision to create an alternative neighborhood school that would reflect the rich diversity of their community. Frustrated by the overcrowded and underperforming local elementary school, they sought to establish a progressive educational environment that emphasized academic rigor and inclusivity.
With the leadership of passionate co-founders, including Harvard alumna Dvora Inwood, Larchmont Charter School was born. The founding team worked tirelessly, collaborating with the Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) to draft a charter petition, secure a school site, and raise over $1 million through community support and volunteerism. Their efforts culminated in the opening of Larchmont Charter in September 2005, welcoming 120 students in grades K-2.
As the school flourished, the dream expanded. In 2008, Larchmont Charter School - West Hollywood opened its doors, furthering the mission of providing a high-quality education to a diverse student body. By 2011, the charter was amended to include a high school, and in 2013, the two campuses merged, creating a unified Larchmont Charter School that now serves over 1,600 students across four campuses.
Larchmont Charter School stands as a beacon of excellence in the charter movement, inspiring similar initiatives throughout Southern California. The commitment to the original vision remains strong, with co-founders actively involved in governance to ensure the mission is upheld.