Honoring Our Friend and Teacher Diana Rodriguez

On December 20, 2020, the Belvedere Elementary School community lost one of its most beloved teachers, colleague, and friend from complications due to Covid-19. 

Diana Rodriguez was a gifted, talented, and well-respected LAUSD educator at Belvedere Elementary. For over 30 years, Diana dedicated her life to teaching and improving the lives of students in East Los Angeles. She served as a mentor for many teachers at Belvedere and was a resource for families in the community. With her infectious laugh, gentle demeanor, and magnetic smile, Diana was not only loved by her students, but she was also adored by colleagues and staff. Always generous with her time and money, she never said no when someone needed help or support.  

Diana was more than a teacher. She was a dreamer. She envisioned the best for her students and then made it happen. She inspired us to follow in her steps: Be humble and kind, appreciate the innocence in this world, and strive to nurture everyone you touch with love and understanding. 

Diana leaves behind her loving husband Jim, who is recovering from Covid-19, and three children. 

Diana’s friends at Belvedere Elementary are devastated by her loss. In her honor, we would like to help complete her wish of creating a “Secret Garden” in her backyard. Her vision was to design and construct a backyard oasis to welcome family and friends. A serene place for reading, resting, and sharing stories. By completing her project, we hope it will provide a space for her family to visit and bring them comfort.  

Because of Diana's love of literature and reading, we would like to honor her memory at school by creating a special literacy space for students and families. Ms. Rodriguez's Reading Garden will have a reading bench and Little Library. Students and families will be able to come and choose a book to take home and/or find a quiet place to sit and read.

Any extra funds after the projects are completed, will be given to Jim and the children to support them through this difficult time.  All funds will be sent to Diana's sister Margarita Majeau. 

Sincerely,
Friends of Diana Rodriguez