John Deasy
Los Angeles Unified School District Supt. John Deasy chats about a book that David Paredes is reading at Figueroa Street Elementary School in South L.A. (Bob Chamberlin / Los Angeles Times)
Deasy talks with Luisa Garcia at Figueroa Street Elementary as the “Food for Thought” program, which provides breakfast in classrooms, is launched. (Bob Chamberlin / Los Angeles Times)
Deasy jokes with Christopher Palma-Cruz, right, and Luisa Garcia at Figueroa Street Elementary. (Bob Chamberlin / Los Angeles Times)
L.A. Unified “has been paralyzed by a culture of fear to do anything independent in leadership, Deasy says. Now, he says, we get things done. (Bob Chamberlin / Los Angeles Times)
Deasy ponders a question in his office at L.A. Unified headquarters. Putting kids first requires professional courage, he says. (Bob Chamberlin / Los Angeles Times)
Deasy shakes hands with senior office technician Bonnie Sugerman on a visit to Liechty Middle School west of downtown. (Bob Chamberlin / Los Angeles Times)