Roberta Lynn Weintraub

Roberta Weintraub, a nationally-recognized leader in education and philanthropy, passed away peacefully on January 1, 2019. A tireless champion of young people, particularly those in underserved communities, Roberta became known for her outspokenness and willingness to take on important issues, however controversial.Roberta had two passions in life – education and law enforcement. Perhaps best known for her groundbreaking Police Academy Magnet School program that today thrives at 9 schools across the city, she inspired countless young people to pursue careers in public service. In 2007 she started the Police Orientation Preparation Program (POPP), and together these two programs have touched the lives of thousands of students who are now proudly serving in a variety roles across many agencies. These programs have contributed substantially to the overall improvement of relations between the LAPD and the communities it serves.A plaque installed at the LAPD's Ahmanson Recruit Training Center reads as follows: Roberta Weintraub Leader, Educator, VisionaryYou inspire us with your passion for making Los Angeles a better place through innovative programs in Education, Law Enforcement and Community Engagement. You founded the Police Academy Magnet Schools and the Police Orientation Preparation Program. You have given generously of your time, your effort and your indomitable spirit. You lead from the front with passion and with a full heart. All who pass through this classroom door are forever touched by you.January 31, 2017 Los Angeles Police Department.Roberta, a proud third generation Angelino, was raised in a household where fighting for the underdog was a way of life. A product of public schools, she was graduated from UCLA in 1960, after which she worked on the John F. Kennedy campaign and participated in the civil rights movement. Additionally, she holds a Certificate in State and Local Government from Harvard University's Kennedy School of Government. Elected city-wide to the LA Board of Education in 1979, she served 14 years including 4 terms as Board President. Her work on the Board included establishment of the Magnet School Program, Gender Equity for Administrators and an array of programs designed to promote student achievement and student health and safety. After leaving public office, Roberta continued her fight for better educational opportunities for all. She founded the extraordinarily successful High Tech-LA, one of the first major charter schools in the city, with a focus on STEM programs which became a template for similar programs across the country. A life-long passion for fitness led Roberta to co-create Students Run LA, a program that encourages children to embrace physical fitness and make healthy nutritional choices.Roberta received countless awards and proclamations throughout her illustrious career. She was especially proud of her Emmy Award for the innovative television show she hosted, School Beat.Roberta is survived by her husband Ira Krinsky, her son Richard Weintraub, daughter-in-law Liane and grandchildren Ava and Cole. Her stepson Brian Krinsky, his wife Estelle and their daughter Lauren also survive her. In lieu of flowers, the family would prefer contributions to the LA Police Academy Magnet School Foundation – Address contributions to: POPP Director, 5651 West Manchester Avenue, Los Angeles, California 90045. LAPAMS is a 501 (c ) (3) non-profit organization.A Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday, January 6, 2019 at 10:00 AM at The LAPD Academy in Elysian Park located at 1880 North Academy Drive, LA, CA 90012.