Letters: A champion of arts education in L.A.
Re “Strong-minded member of L.A. school board,” Obituary, Dec. 6
L.A. Board of Education member Marguerite Poindexter LaMotte was a tireless advocate for arts education. She didn’t just talk about it, she did everything she could to make things happen.
Several years ago, as the dance specialist for the L.A. Unified School District, I found myself in desperate need of a facility to host the Dance Theater of Harlem. Someone suggested I contact LaMotte, who was then the principal of Washington Preparatory High School.
When I explained the situation, she said, “You need my auditorium to host the Dance Theater of Harlem?” She then told me to give her the details and that she would make it happen. The company performed for more than 1,000 kids and taught several master classes, and LaMotte was a gracious and accommodating hostess.
LaMotte was someone who always said “yes” when it came to providing inspiring arts education. I will be forever grateful to her.
Leah Bass-Baylis
North Hills
The writer is the principal of the Carlos Santana Arts Academy.
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