Kenneth “Wayne” Scott

Kenneth Wayne Scott (July 9, 1921 – December 3, 2017 ) was born to James and Jessie Scott in Buffalo, Missouri on July 9, 1921. Wayne moved from the family farm in Missouri in 1934 with his parents and three brothers, Ivan, Winston and Claude to Seal Beach, California. In 1942, Wayne married Evelyn Roach. Wayne served in the Army as a Lieutenant in World War II and was sent to Japan as part of the occupation and rehabilitation of post war Japan. Upon his return, Wayne attended several local colleges and earned his teaching credential from USC where he ultimately was awarded a Master’s Degree in Education. This began a long and proud affiliation with USC as a booster, ardent fan of Trojan Football, and a season ticket holder since 1964. As Wayne settled into civilian life, he taught in LAUSD schools and had three children, Melinda, Teri and James. Within a very short time, Wayne was promoted to Principal and served in this capacity at Taper, Leapwood, Caroldale, and San Gabriel Ave Elementary Schools for over 30 years until he retired. The school auditorium at Taper Ave. Elementary (San Pedro) is named in his honor. In 1963, Wayne married Rae Lagerdahl with daughter Susan being born in 1966. Wayne was Grampa to nine grandchildren, and Great Grampa to 10 great grandchildren.

Everyone who knew Wayne will give testimony to his ethical compass, a sense of conviction for doing the right thing, and his generosity. Wayne was fiercely independent, adverse to excess, and prudent in his personal discipline consistent with his generation borne from the depths of the Great Depression. Wayne shied from praise while eloquently giving praise to others.

The College of Education (CED) expresses gratitude to all scholarship donors who continue to enhance the quality of education students experience at CSULB.