Dear HVS Families,

Our hearts are with the communities, families, and individuals affected by the wildfires currently ravaging Los Angeles County. We extend our deepest sympathies to those who have been displaced from their homes, endured significant losses, and are navigating these challenging times.

We are profoundly grateful to the Los Angeles County firefighters, first responders, and other municipal firefighters who are risking their lives to protect homes, loved ones, and natural habitats. Your courage and tireless dedication are deeply appreciated.

At HBCSD, the safety of our students and staff remains our top priority. This week, we will continue closely monitoring the Air Quality Index (AQI) and local smoke advisories. Schools will remain open, and we will use real-time information to determine the need to restrict outdoor activities. Classroom doors and windows will remain closed, and our HVAC systems will provide filtered air. If your child has specific health concerns, please reach out to their teacher or school office. We will keep you informed of any updates through our regular communication channels as environmental conditions evolve.

To support families in navigating these events, the Los Angeles County Office of Education has gathered community resources to help discuss the current challenges with children. Additionally, in partnership with Manhattan Beach Unified and Redondo Beach Unified, HBCSD is coordinating efforts to encourage donations to SupplyBank.org and the American Red Cross. These organizations, alongside State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond and the California Department of Education, have joined forces with the nonprofit SupplyBank.org to gather and distribute donations and emergency resources to school communities most affected by the wildfires.

The City of Hermosa Beach has also compiled a list on how your family can help wildfire victims. You can learn more here. 

Enrollment Support for Families Impacted by Fire

HBCSD is committed to supporting displaced families with school enrollment. If you know a family impacted by the Los Angeles Wildfires who needs assistance enrolling in Hermosa Schools, please contact Paulette Recinos at (424) 333-9975 x2119. You can also direct families to our website at HBCSD.org, or they can email me directly at swildes@hbcsd.org with any further questions. 

Each student/family faces unique circumstances, and our staff is committed to working with them on a case-by-case basis to support their specific needs. We understand that families may not have access to documentation loss in the L.A. Wildfires, and we are here to help them get their student(s) enrolled quickly and easily. 

Thank you for your partnership in keeping our students and staff safe. Your continued support during this difficult time is greatly appreciated.

Kind regards,

Dr. Susan Wildes

Superintendent of Schools, Hermosa Beach City School District

Our thoughts are with everyone impacted by the ongoing Los Angeles Wildfires. During this difficult time, we are deeply grateful for the incredible bravery and unwavering commitment of the first responders who selflessly protect our communities and bring hope to those in need.

At Hermosa Schools, we are proud to support sustainability and student success through our "Share Cart" program. This initiative allows students to place unopened and uneaten items from their school-provided meals (not food from home) on a cart for others to take if needed, helping reduce food waste and ensuring all students have access to the nourishment they need to thrive. Parents, we encourage you to talk with your child about the Share Cart and clarify your family’s expectations. Please discuss whether you want your child to participate by taking items and whether there are any restrictions you'd like them to follow. Open communication helps this program run smoothly and effectively for everyone. Thank you for supporting our efforts to eliminate waste and promote well-being!



Warmly,

Hillary Overbeck, Hermosa View & Vista Principal

As we navigate these challenging times, the fires around us have served as a powerful reminder of what truly matters: the connections we share and the strength of community. Through the good times and the tough times, our relationships stand as a monument to shared support, resilience, and care.

What makes our community special is the way we come together, uplifting one another and finding hope in our shared purpose.

In these moments, I encourage you to take time to care for yourselves and your families. Whether it’s finding a quiet moment to rest, connecting with loved ones, or simply pausing to reflect, prioritizing your well-being is just as important as supporting those around you.

A Few Valley School Reminders:

• Please encourage your students to bring their IDs to school every day, especially for the hot lunch line. Need a new one? Click this link to order. 
• Kindly use this link to report an absence. 

Thank you for your continued support and for making our school a place where everyone feels valued and cared for.

Warmly,

Jessica Bledsoe, Hermosa Valley Principal

1/1-31: January is National Poverty in America Awareness Month

1/6-3/14: Valley Yearbook: 8th Grade Dedication Pages & Baby Pictures

1/6-17: HBCSD: Student Intent to Return for 2025-2026 School Year Survey via PowerSchool

1/13-14: Vista: 4th Grade Walking Field Trip to the Hermosa Beach Museum (Tongva Experience)

1/13 (9 AM): HBCSD: New Student Enrollment Opens for the 2025-2026 School Year at HBCSD.ORG

1/14: HBEF: Mom's Night Out: STUDIO 90254 at Saint Rocke in HB - Tickets on Sale at 10:00 AM

1/14 (3:15-5:15 PM): Valley Winter Sports: HVS Boys & Girls Basketball & Soccer vs. CHADWICK (Home Game)

1/15-17: Valley: 8th Grade AstroCamp (Outdoor Science Education)

1/15 (5-9 PM): HVPTO YUMraiser: Chipotle in Hermosa Beach

1/17 (9 AM-12 PM): Vista: Cultural Day in the Vista MPR

1/17: HBCSD: 6th-8th Grade Progress Reports Emailed Home

1/20: Martin Luther King Jr. Day - No School