ECE UCLA Professor Lara Dolecek Steps Up to Teach Displaced Students After LA Fires

In the wake of last month’s devastating Los Angeles fires, which left many families displaced and local schools in ruins, members of the UCLA community stepped in to provide much-needed support. Among them was Professor Lara Dolecek of the Electrical and Computer Engineering (ECE) Department, who took on a volunteer role to assist affected students by offering free math classes.

For nearly a month, Prof. Dolecek dedicated her time to teaching daily math lessons to a group of 5th-grade students whose school buildings had been destroyed in the fires. Most of these students had previously attended Cavalry School in the Palisades, one of the educational institutions severely impacted by the disaster. With their academic routine disrupted and uncertainty looming over their education, Prof. Dolecek’s initiative provided both stability and learning opportunities during an otherwise difficult period.

Her math classes covered a wide range of topics, including grade-level concepts such as fractions, engaging math puzzles, and interactive online math games designed to keep students motivated and engaged. Parents of the affected children expressed deep appreciation for her enthusiasm and dedication, noting that her efforts went beyond academics—she offered a sense of normalcy and encouragement to young learners coping with the aftermath of the fires.

Prof. Dolecek’s class “has been a source of structure and normalcy for our daughter and for us as her parents.  We greatly appreciate generosity in her time and wisdom with these kids,” said one parent.
“ Lara was a true blessing!” added another parent.

With the students’ school now reopened in a new location, Prof. Dolecek has concluded her temporary teaching volunteering role, but her contributions will be remembered by the families she supported. Her selfless commitment highlights the power of education as a force for healing and continuity, even in the face of adversity.