Rosemead High School English teacher Stacy Lim returned from maternity leave last year to find relief in an unexpected place — a small, quiet pod tucked inside the staff lounge. The newly installed Mamava Lactation Pod gave her privacy and peace of mind as she navigated new motherhood while teaching, a benefit now expanding across the El Monte Union High School District.
A Safe Space for Working Parents
The District installed its first Mamava Pods at Rosemead High, followed by El Monte High and the Adult Transition Center. These modern lactation pods provide nursing parents with secure, sanitary, and private spaces to pump or breastfeed during the school day.
“The pressure to pump every few hours or risk reduced milk production or physical pain caused me so much anxiety,” said Lim, who has taught in El Monte Union for eight years. “Knowing that the pod was available helped ensure I could provide for my son, which was one less thing to worry about.”
Each pod is equipped with seating, shelves, coat hooks, lighting, and power outlets, plus a fan and white noise system for comfort and privacy. Access is managed through the Mamava app, allowing parents to check availability and unlock the pod without needing a key.
Districtwide Support and Expansion Plans
El Monte Union leaders said the initiative reflects the District’s ongoing effort to support staff and families. Superintendent Dr. Edward Zuniga emphasized the District’s commitment to creating inclusive environments that meet community needs.
“El Monte Union prides itself on responding to community needs and anticipating ways we can enhance the learning and working environment for every individual across the District,” Zuniga said. “This initiative ensures that we continue to provide accommodations and multiple layers of support for everyone.”
The Board of Education approved the purchase of additional pods during its October 2024 meeting. Working with OMNIA Partners Cooperative Services, a national organization that facilitates group purchasing for schools, the District plans to install pods at South El Monte and Mountain View high schools.
A Growing Culture of Inclusion
Mamava Pods are compliant with all workplace and public lactation laws, and their compact, wheelchair-accessible design allows them to fit into shared spaces.
“I like that the fan system automatically turns on when it’s in use to provide an additional layer of privacy,” Lim added. “I love that there’s a mirror so I can double check my attire before exiting too.”
Board President Florencio Briones said the expansion represents more than a facilities upgrade — it’s a commitment to community care.
“By providing these spaces, the Board and District reaffirm our commitment to supporting all El Monte Union individuals and families, and creating a more inclusive and caring environment,” Briones said.
More information on Mamava Pods and their workplace applications is available at www.mamava.com.
VMA Communications contributed to this article.
