Committed to the learning and development of our staff.

We have a responsibility to our staff as well as our students.

Many LA’s BEST staff members are hired from the communities they serve and receive training to create successful learning environments, support children and develop their own leadership skills.

LA's BEST Director of Evaluation Regino Chavez, Director of BEST Fit Edith Ballesteros, Director of Operations Dee Ann Rivera and Traveling Program Supervisor David Mena.

Quality Staff

We train our staff to help children build self-esteem and guide students to set and achieve goals. Our Staff Development Department provides training on leadership; behavioral management; meeting the social, emotional, intellectual and physical needs of students; and caring for students who may face particular challenges in school or at home. A unique part of our staff development includes teaching staff how to explore their students’ interests and then create programs that reflect those interests and choices.

LA’s BEST staff often grow within the organization — from being in charge of a group of 20 students, to managing a site to supervising multiple sites. And, they often go on to careers in education and social services. LA’s BEST staff go beyond just keeping kids safe after school: they help communities thrive.

“I am committed to working to develop the growth and progress of our staff who in turn become part of the transformation needed to improve the quality of life for our students.” –Maria Cuevas, LA’s BEST Regional Director, East Region

LA's BEST employs 2,000+ staff who have close connections to the communities in which they work.
58% of LA's BEST staff have taken higher education courses in child development, and nearly 25% are former LA's BEST students.

Staff are also encouraged to apply their talents and interests to invent their own activity plans.

Staff-generated activities have included teaching kids American Sign Language, fashion design, and drumming.

LA’s BEST staff are regularly recognized for their transformative leadership and dedication to our core values and mission.