June 1, 2025

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Superintendent's Weekly Message

California funds public schools primarily through the Local Control Funding Formula (LCFF). LCFF provides a base amount for every student and adds supplemental funds for students with higher needs, specifically English learners, low-income students, and foster youth. These students are counted in what’s called the "unduplicated pupil count."


Districts with higher unduplicated counts receive significantly more funding to support their students. On the other hand, districts like Hermosa Beach, with low unduplicated counts, receive substantially less per student than many neighboring districts, even though the cost of delivering quality education remains high. Federal contributions help, but they're limited and even more unpredictable than ever. As we plan for the future, this financial instability makes local support more important than ever.


This funding gap is why community support and local fundraising through organizations like HBEF are absolutely critical. It helps ensure that all students, regardless of funding formulas, have access to the programs and opportunities they need to thrive. Your generosity this year has brought HBEF close to its $1.5 million fundraising milestone, which directly supports programs that might otherwise go unfunded.


We’re incredibly grateful, but we’re not there yet. Help HBEF cross the finish line by Friday, June 13! Every additional dollar ensures our students continue to benefit from exceptional, whole-child education.


Hitting the $1.5M goal will fund exciting enhancements, including:


  • Expanded Guidance Counselors at both Hermosa View and Vista
  • Expanded Library Support at all campuses
  • A dedicated Technology & Innovation Teacher to lead 21st-century learning initiatives, including teacher professional development and classroom support
  • Launching the Invention Convention for TK–8 students
  • Full funding for Elementary PE


These are not extras. They are essential investments in our children's future.


Your gift, no matter the size, brings us one step closer to these transformational programs.


Thank you for your continued support. Visit HBEF.ORG today to make your gift.


With gratitude,

Dr. Susan Wildes

Superintendent of Schools, Hermosa Beach City School District

Calling All Middle School Coders! Enter the 2025 Congressional App Challenge


Hermosa Valley Middle School students are invited to participate in the 2025 Congressional App Challenge, the official computer science competition of the U.S. House of Representatives. Since 2013, over 70,000 students from all 50 states and five U.S. territories have taken part in this prestigious national competition.


From May 1 through October 30, Congressman Ted Lieu will host the challenge for middle and high school students in California’s 36th District. Open to all skill levels, the challenge encourages students to get creative and build an original app. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced coder, this is a great opportunity to develop your skills, solve real-world problems, and earn national recognition. 


To learn more about rules, eligibility, and prizes, visit the Congressional App Challenge website. Also, check out the informational flyer.

Hermosa View School Interim Principal News

I’m delighted to be back and help wrap up the last two weeks of school! A big thank you to Sylvia Gluck, Executive Director of Administrative Services, for filling in during my absence. We have several events this week, along with an important reminder I’d like to share with you.


We’re looking forward to welcoming families of students currently enrolled in TK for the 2025-2026 school year to our Incoming TK Parent Information Night on Monday, June 2, from 5:00-6:00 PM in the View MPR. This parent/guardian only evening will include a short presentation about our TK program, daily schedule, and what to expect in the fall, followed by a Q&A session.


We’ll be hosting HVPTO’s Hermosa View Field Day on Tuesday, June 3, from 8:40-11:50 AM on the playground and field! Please make sure your child wears sunscreen and a hat for sun protection. Water, fruit, and cookies (with gluten/nut-free options) will be provided. There are still some volunteer sign-ups available.


On Friday, June 6, students in Preschool through 1st Grade will enjoy Bubblemania Assemblies in the View MP! This 45-minute indoor show led by a professional Bubbologist combines science and fun with giant bubbles, rainbow films, and engaging demonstrations. Each grade level will attend the assembly as follows: 8:45 AM - 1st Grade, 9:45 AM - Preschool, 10:45 AM - TK, and 11:45 AM - Kinder.


Lastly, a quick reminder that our View Library is now closed for the school year, and all checked-out books are due by Friday, June 6. Thank you for helping your child return their books on time.


It’s such a privilege to see your students each day. Even in these final weeks of school, regular attendance remains important. We appreciate your continued support in helping your child finish the year strong by coming to school every day.


Warmly,

Sandy Skora, Interim Hermosa View Principal

Grades of Green HB’s Gently Used Pencil Case Supplies Upcycle Drive - June 9-13


Grades of Green HB is hosting the Gently Used Pencil Case Supplies Upcycle Drive from June 9-13, during the last week of school! Collection bins will be available at Hermosa View, Vista, and Valley to gather gently used pencils, pens, markers, crayons, colored pencils, glue sticks, and erasers. Usable supplies will be cleaned and redistributed to our school classrooms, libraries, enrichment programs, and Hermosa Beach educational centers. Items that can’t be reused will be responsibly recycled. It’s a simple and meaningful way to reduce waste while supporting our Hermosa Schools and community.


To learn more or get involved with Grades of Green HB, contact Co-Chairs Jessie Kernan and Julia Lau at gradesofgreenhb@gmail.com.

Hermosa Vista School Principal News

Thank you for joining us this past week for our final Flag Ceremony, Open House, and Spring Sing Concert! It was heartwarming to see so many families on campus. Your presence and support truly highlight what makes our Hermosa Beach community so special. 


We’re excited to keep the momentum going with several upcoming events to celebrate movement, fun, and the start of summer.


Our “Safe Moves City” Bike Rodeos are happening this week, with 4th grade on Monday, June 2, and 3rd grade on Tuesday, June 3. This fun, interactive, educational event is designed to help students build safe biking habits and skills. We encourage you to check out these bike safety tips and continue reinforcing these important safety practices when riding around the community.


Vista Field Day is coming up on Wednesday, June 4! This event is always a year-end favorite for students, and we’d love your help to make it a success. If you’re available, please consider signing up to volunteer. Special thanks to HVPTO for coordinating this event every year and to all the volunteers who help bring it to life.


Let’s end the year on a high note and enjoy these final weeks together!


Warmly,

Hillary Overbeck, Hermosa Vista Principal

Check the Vista Lost & Found - Your Items Might Be Waiting!


Parents and guardians, is your student missing a sweater, jacket, or sweatshirt? Our Vista Lost & Found is overflowing again with unclaimed items! To help reunite belongings with their owners, the Vista Student Council has put together this quick video showcasing what’s been left behind. Take a moment to watch and see if anything looks familiar.


Be sure to check the Vista Lost & Found in person, too! Any remaining items will be donated soon!

Hermosa Valley School Principal News

Thank you to all our families for making this month so special! We had a fantastic turnout at Open House and the Young at Art show. Our campus was truly buzzing with creativity and community. Our Spirit Games Beach Day was a huge hit, with students and staff enjoying sunshine, games, and time together as a school. We also wrapped up a successful Middle School Career Day, where students explored exciting futures and heard from inspiring professionals. A big shout-out to Ms. Ryley for organizing the incredible event from start to finish! 


Looking ahead, we’re excited for the annual Staff vs. 8th Grade Softball Game on Friday, June 6. It is always a fun and spirited tradition! We’re also gearing up for the always entertaining 5th Grade Lip Sync performance, which is sure to bring big smiles and memorable moments.


As we approach the end of the year, please remember to return all library books by Friday, June 6, and to gather your school-issued Chromebook and charger for a return during the last week of school. And a quick reminder: Attendance Matters! Every day counts, especially as we wrap up important learning and celebrate the close of a great school year. Thank you for your continued support!


Warmly, 

Jessica Bledsoe, Hermosa Valley Principal

8th Grade Photo Slideshow - Submit Photos by June 7!


The HVPTO is continuing the tradition of creating an 8th Grade Photo Slideshow to be shown during the 8th Grade Promotion Dance. 8th grade families are invited to submit photos between March 24-June 7. Details are available on the 8th Grade Website. To upload photos, please use the secured Google folder link included in the weekly emails from Katie Mosier, 8th Grade Level Coordinator. The final deadline to submit photos is Saturday, June 7. Late submissions will not be accepted.


Questions? Email Veronica Gathercole


#poweredbyHVPTO

8th Grade Promotion Fundraiser


Attention 8th Grade Families! HVPTO is once again partnering with The Commencement Group for an 8th Grade Promotion Fundraiser. Celebrate your student's big day with preordered bouquets, orchid leis, kukui necklaces, teddy bears, and, new this year, custom class t-shirts to commemorate the HVS Class of 2025. Preorder ahead of time for easy pick-up at the promotion ceremony.

 

Preorders will be accepted from Sunday, May 4, through Monday, June 9. HVPTO will receive 25% of all preorder sales and 15% of day-of-sales. Preorder today!

 

#poweredbyHVPTO

Apply Now for Congressman Lieu's Youth Advisory Council


Congressman Ted Lieu is seeking students to apply for the 36th Congressional District's Youth Advisory Council. Applications are now open through Friday, July 11, 2025.


The Youth Advisory Council (YAC) offers a unique opportunity for students entering 9th through 12th grade who live or attend school in California's 36th District. As a council member, you will get to meet with a diverse group of peers, discuss issues of importance, consider ways of getting involved locally, recommend bills for Congressman Lieu to co-sponsor, and brainstorm bill ideas of your own. Additionally, the YAC will work directly with Congressman Lieu's staff to collaborate on key issues impacting young people in California's 36th district.


For more information and details on how to apply, please see the flyer and visit Congressman Lieu's YAC webpage.

The Week Ahead

3/24-6/7: HVPTO: 8th Grade Photo Slideshow - Submit Photos


4/27-6/30: HVPTO: 1st Day School Supplies Fundraiser


5/4-6/9: HVPTO: 8th Grade Promotion Fundraiser


5/27-6/9: HBEF: Spring Annual Giving Campaign


6/2: Vista: 4th Grade "Safe Moves City" Bike Rodeo


6/2 (9:15-10:13 AM): Vista & Valley: 3rd/8th Grade Book Celebration in the Valley Bowl (Cookies & Lemonade provided by HVPTO)


6/2 (9:30-10:00 AM): Valley: 5th to 6th Grade Transition Tours


6/2 (During Lunch): Sand & Surf Soccer Club at Vista


6/2 (5:00-6:00 PM): View: Incoming TK Parent Information Night in the View MPR (For TK Families Currerntly Enrolled for 2025-2026)


6/3 (7:30-8:15 AM): HVPTO: Middle School Honor Roll Breakfast T1 & T2


6/3: Valley: 5th Grade Career Day


6/3 (8:40-11:50 AM): HVPTO: View Field Day (Preschool-1st Grade)


6/3: Vista: 3rd Grade "Safe Moves City" Bike Rodeo


6/3 (7:30-9:00 PM): HVPTO/HBEF: Joint General Meeting in the Valley MPR


6/4-6: Valley: 8th Grade Promotion Speech Tryouts


6/4: Valley: Middle School Service Points Log Due


6/4 (8:20-11:45 AM): HVPTO: Vista Field Day (2nd-4th Grade)


6/4 (8:22-8:53 AM): Valley: Flag Ceremony - 5th-8th Grade in the Valley Bowl


6/4 (5:00-8:00 PM): HBCSD: Regular School Board Meeting


6/5: Vista: 4th Grade Cabrillo Marine Aquarium Field Trip


6/5: Valley: 5th Grade Knott's Berry Farm Trip


6/6: HVS: Return HVS Library Books


6/6: HVS: Last Day of TK-5th Grade Specials - IDEA Lab, PE, & SPARKS Lab


6/6: Vista: 3rd Grade California Science Center Field Trip


6/6: View & HB Preschool Assemblies: Bubblemania in the View MPR (8:45 AM - 1st Grade, 9:45 AM - Preschool, 10:45 AM - TK, and 11:45 AM - Kinder)


6/6 (10:52-11:48 AM): Valley: 8th Grade Students vs. Staff Softball Game on the Valley Field


6/6 (During Lunch): Sand & Surf Soccer Club at Valley


6/6 (12:45-2:00 PM): Valley: 5th Grade Lip-Sync in the Valley MPR


6/6 (1:30-2:30 PM): Vista: 4th Grade Engineering Expo (Students Only Event)

STAR Education Program (TK-5)

Stay Connected with Community Flyers!


Visit our Community Flyers webpage to explore opportunities and events from our Community & Education Partners, the City of Hermosa Beach, Mira Costa High School, and Redondo Union High School have to offer our school community. If you would like to submit a flyer for consideration, please fill out this form.

QUICK LINKS

Hermosa Schools Office Staff

Wendy Coe

Hermosa View School

wcoe@hbcsd.org

(424) 333-9950 x4000

Kerri Aleman

Hermosa Vista School

kaleman@hbcsd.org

(424) 333-9960 x3000

Jasmin Martinez

Hermosa Valley School

jmartinez@hbcsd.org

(424) 333-9970 x2000

EXPLORE

HVS Office Procedures

HBCSD Parent Handbook

Volunteer Opportunities

Visit Our HBCSD Website

Wave Watch District Newsletter Archive


HBEF/HVPTO

Hermosa Beach Education Foundation

Hermosa View, Vista, Valley PTO



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