The initiative introduces students to the unique styles of architecture that can be found across Los Angeles. (photo by Michael Locke)

Introducing school children to Los Angeles history is the impetus for the “Every School Has a House” initiative, which connects historic residential architecture to nearby public schools. Created by Friends of Residential Treasures: Los Angeles, an award-winning nonprofit dedicated to celebrating the history and influence of residential architecture, the valuable teaching resource is available for free. All 1,054 schools in the L.A. Unified School District are included.

“This new guide aims to bridge the gap between students and the rich architectural history that exists within their local neighborhoods,” FORT: LA founder Russell Brown said. “Working with data from SurveyLA, our team researched and mapped historically significant houses near 1,054 LAUSD schools. Through this free online resource, we hope to help integrate architecture into STEAM (science, technology, engineering, art, and math) curricula. We hope this project fosters a greater sense of civic pride among students and their communities by highlighting that every part of the city offers something interesting to experience, explore and discuss.”

“Every Los Angeles neighborhood has architectural and historic treasures, so ‘Every School Has a House,’ is an ingenious initiative to connect LAUSD students and their families to these hidden gems,” said Ken Bernstein, principal city planner for Los Angeles City Planning’s Office of Historic Resources. “We’re thrilled that FORT: LA is utilizing the discoveries of SurveyLA, our citywide historic resources survey, to engage the emerging generation of Angelenos and to build community around cultural heritage and architecture.”

The searchable, hands-on “Every School” guide lists all LAUSD schools alphabetically. Each entry has a map route, photo of the house, facts explaining its architectural style and historical context, and educational questions that teachers can use to foster classroom conversations. Also included is a user’s guide and resources for additional information.

The houses – ranging in date from 1880 to 1979 – represent the myriad of architectural styles found in Los Angeles: Tudor Revival, Ranch, French Revival, Craftsman, Mid-Century Modern, Spanish Colonial Revival and Tiki, among others. Some houses are by notable architects, such as Paul R. Williams, Rudolph Schindler, Richard Neutra, Eric Owen Moss and Ray Kappe.

“Every School Has a House” hopes to inspire students as well as educators, PTAs, school administrators, parents and other stakeholders, such as civic and neighborhood groups, to engage directly with historic architecture in their neighborhoods.

Additionally, FORT: LA is planning an event that will bring together teachers to discuss how “Every School Has a House” can be integrated into school curricula, ensuring that the project supports existing learning objectives and enhances student engagement.

“Every School Has a House” can be downloaded at fortla.org/special-treasures.