For 18 years, John Ryan Roth was a dedicated educator and beloved member of the Culver City High School community. His death in December of 2024 left a space in the school district and the community. But a new incarnation of one of his old ideas is bringing his legacy alive on campus.
This year, CCHS is honored to carry his legacy forward through the launch of Friendship Club and its continued focus on inclusion and connection.
As Chairperson for Specialized Academic Instruction, a Special Day Class instructor, and Special Education Advisor for the Best Buddies Club, he supported students with disabilities and their families with care and commitment. His work championed students’ success in the classroom, their connections with peers, and their opportunities beyond high school.
Roth’s commitment to inclusion continues through the Friendship Club, which was supported in part by the use of the remaining funds from the previous Inclusion Club, of which he was the advisor.
The CCHS Friendship Club is a student-driven, teacher-led inclusion program that brings students with and without disabilities together through shared interests and experiences. Through activities, school events, and opportunities to connect, the club creates space for meaningful friendships to develop naturally and strengthens a sense of belonging across the Culver City High School campus.
Roth spent 40 years in education and taught 34 years for CCUSD, first at Farragut Elementary and then at the high school. In addition to his work as an educator, Roth loved photography, outdoors activities and especially collecting historical artifacts, which he would share with students and colleagues.
According to those who worked with him, Roth was an outstanding educator and wonderful colleague.
John was born in San Pedro to Albert and Kathleen Roth on June 22, 1952. He had five siblings, Maggie, Michael, Loretta, Josette, and Albert (Cheryl), and grew up in Redondo Beach, CA. John attended St. James Catholic Elementary School in Redondo Beach and Bishop Montgomery in Torrance (Class of ’70). He continued his education at El Camino College in Torrance, UC Davis, and California State University, Long Beach graduating in 1982 with a B.A. in Liberal Studies (Anthropology) as well as earning multiple teaching credentials, including a credential in Special Education.
The Friendship Club honors Mr. Roth’s legacy by putting inclusion into practice and helping every student feel valued, supported, and connected to the CCHS community.
