Congresswoman Waters' Statement on the Passing of Marguerite LaMotte

Congresswoman Maxine Waters (CA-43) issued the following statement on the passing of Los Angeles Unified School District Board Member, Marguerite Poindexter LaMotte.

"I was deeply saddened to learn of the loss of my dear friend Marguerite LaMotte. Marguerite worked in every aspect of the Los Angeles Unified School District serving as a teacher, principal, administrator and member of the school board. She was a zealous educator and advocate for children who fought especially hard for students in underserved communities. She helped to turn troubled schools around and her great leadership will be truly missed.

"High student performance was Marguerite's consistent goal and she did everything within her power to maximize scholastic achievement and the student's overall learning experience. She was engaged in the community as she served on a local school advisory board and volunteered at A Place Called Home. She was also a trailblazer, being the first African-American woman to serve as a visiting professor at Louisiana State University in the undergraduate school of education."

"Her commitment to education and public service was sincere and well-known to all who had the wonderful opportunity to meet her. Not only was Marguerite an educator, but she enjoyed being in the presence of her friends. We both loved to dance and would often do so together.

"She has truly left her mark on all who knew her and I know her presence will be missed. She was a wonderful light and through her tenacity, knowledge, and intellect she served her community. My thoughts and prayers are with her children, grandchildren, and extended family during this difficult time."

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