February 23, 2025

Superintendent's Weekly Message

Looking for a way to develop your child’s listening skills?


Podcasts are a fantastic resource for children, offering both entertainment and educational value while fostering important developmental skills. Unlike videos, podcasts encourage active listening and spark imagination by allowing children to visualize stories in their minds. They also help improve language and vocabulary skills by exposing kids to rich storytelling, diverse vocabulary, and proper pronunciation.


Many educational podcasts explore topics like history, science, and problem-solving, making learning engaging and enjoyable. Plus, they provide a great alternative to screen time, allowing children to be entertained while reducing their reliance on digital devices. By requiring focused listening, podcasts help strengthen attention spans and concentration.


Podcasts are perfect for on-the-go learning, whether in the car, during quiet time, or while participating in activities like drawing or building. They can even serve as a wonderful bonding experience for families, sparking meaningful discussions and shared interests. At least once a week, my daughters and I enjoy the Good Night Stories for Rebel Girls Podcast!


I encourage families and educators to explore podcasts as a valuable tool for learning and growth. If you're interested in finding a great podcast for your student(s), two of my favorite resources offer excellent selections across all grade levels and interests:


Wired Magazine


Common Sense Media


Happy listening!



Warm regards,

Dr. Susan Wildes

Superintendent of Schools,

Hermosa Beach City School District

HBCSD Calendar for the 2025-2026 School Year


The HBCSD Board of Education officially approved the adoption of the HBCSD Calendar for the 2025-2026 school year at the February 20, 2025, board meeting. We encourage all families and staff to review the important dates and holiday breaks to help with planning. 


Key Dates:


  • First Day of School: August 20, 2025
  • Thanksgiving Break: November 24-28, 2025
  • Winter Break: December 22, 2025-January 2, 2026
  • Presidents’ Week: February 9-16, 2026
  • Spring Break: April 6-10, 2026
  • Last Day of School: June 12, 2026

CAC Parent Workshop: Understanding Dyslexia


Join the CAC Parent Workshop on Understanding Dyslexia: Insights & Strategies to Support Your Child on Wednesday, February 26, from 10:00-11:30 AM via Zoom for an engaging and informative workshop designed to help parents better understand dyslexia and how it impacts children. This session will provide a comprehensive overview of dyslexia, how it manifests, and the challenges it can present in reading and learning.


Through interactive discussions and a powerful simulation, parents and guardians will gain first-hand insight into the experiences of children with dyslexia. You will also learn practical strategies to support your child at home, foster confidence, and partner effectively with educators to meet their needs. This workshop is ideal for families looking to deepen their understanding of dyslexia and discover ways to help their children thrive.

Important Update: Open House Dates Rescheduled


Due to a scheduling conflict and overlap with CAASPP testing, we have adjusted all HVS Open House dates as follows:


Hermosa View School Open House

Tuesday, May 6 (5:30-6:30 PM)


Hermosa Vista School Open House

Wednesday, May 28 (5:30-6:30 PM)


Hermosa Valley School Open House

Thursday, May 29 (5:30-6:30 PM)


These changes have been reflected in the HBCSD 2024-2025 School Year Calendar. Please mark your calendars accordingly.

Beware of Scammers - Emails, Texts, and Calls


Unfortunately, due to the recent fires and many being displaced, there has been an increase in phishing and scam attempts through email, text messages, and phone calls. Please remain cautious and never share personal or confidential information with unknown senders. If a message or email seems suspicious or wasn’t meant for you, trust your instincts—it could be a scam. Stay vigilant and look out for anything that seems “phishy.” This is just a friendly reminder to help keep our Hermosa families safe. Stay aware and stay protected!

Hermosa Schools Tours for Prospective Families Sign-Up - Tell a Friend!

Neptunian Woman's Club Art Contest - Submit Your Artwork by March 7!


Only two short weeks remain to showcase your creativity and compete for cash prizes in the 45th Annual Neptunian Woman’s Club Art Contest! Open to all K-12 students who attend a Manhattan Beach school, are residents of Manhattan Beach, or attend Hermosa Valley School, this is your student's chance to make their artistic mark.


Don't miss out—review the contest rules, complete the online submission form, and drop off your artwork in your school’s main office.


Professional artists will judge all entries, and winners will be celebrated at the Award Ceremony and Art Show on March 23 at 1 PM at the Neptunian Woman’s Club Clubhouse.



The deadline is fast approaching—submit your masterpiece by March 7! For questions, contact Heather de Roos.

Hermosa View School Interim Principal News

Dear Hermosa View Families,


It’s great to be back on campus after the President’s Break! Your children returned to school well-rested and ready to learn.


This week, our students are completing their i-Ready and ESGI assessments. These assessments provide valuable insights into your child’s academic progress, helping our staff identify areas of strength and opportunities for additional support in math and reading. If you ever have concerns about your child’s progress, you are always welcome to request a parent conference at any time.


If you’re interested in volunteering at View, please attend my Coffee with the Interim View Principal on Monday, February 24, at 9:00 AM in the View Library. More details are provided below. I hope to see you there!


We have some exciting events coming up in the next few weeks! Mark your calendars for Family Fun Night - Neon Night Silent Disco Party on Thursday, March 6, from 4:30-7:30 PM at Hermosa Valley. This fun-filled event is open to all HVS families, and tickets are available for purchase through the HVPTO Webstore. From March 3-7, we’ll also be celebrating Read Across America Week, featuring special guest readers and a Scholastic Book Fair at View in the View Library. It will be a wonderful week of nurturing students' love of reading!


Wishing you all a fantastic week ahead!


Kind regards,

Sandy Skora, Hermosa View Interim Principal

Coffee with the Interim View Principal on Monday, February 24!


Parents and guardians are invited to the Coffee with the Interim View Principal on Monday, February 24, from 9:00 -10:00 AM in the View Library. This is a great opportunity to meet Sandy Skora, Interim View Principal, and our HVPTO Presidents to discuss ways to volunteer on campus and get involved. There will also be time for an open Q&A session. We hope you can join us for this informative and engaging conversation.

Hermosa Vista School Principal News

I’d like to take a moment to highlight an incredible charitable project led by our Vista Student Council. To support families affected by the recent wildfires, our Student Council is hosting a Loose Change Fundraiser, which runs from now until March 7. This is the perfect time to check between the couch cushions and empty that overflowing coin dish full of quarters you’ve been meaning to roll! Bring your U.S. bills and coins (no pennies, please) to the Vista School Office to drop into the Loose Change jar.  All proceeds will go to SupplyBank.org to provide essential supplies to communities in California impacted by disasters. Thank you for your generosity and support. Every donation makes a difference!  



Warmly,

Hillary Overbeck, Hermosa Vista Principal

Author Adam Gidwitz Visits Our 4th Graders on March 6th!


We're thrilled to welcome Newbery Award-winning, bestselling children's book author Adam Gidwitz to Hermosa Vista for Read Across America Week! On Thursday, March 6, all 4th Grade classes will enjoy a special assembly with Gidwitz from 10:55-11:40 AM in the Vista Library. Gidwitz is best known for A Tale Dark and Grimm (which has been adapted to a Netflix animated series!), Max in the House of Spies, the Newbery Honored novel The Inquisitor's Tale, and many other amazing books. This is an incredible opportunity for our students to hear from a celebrated author!

 

In anticipation of Adam Gidwitz's visit, you can purchase a signed copy of his new book, Max in the Land of Lies: A Tale of World War II, and previous books at {pages} a bookstore to be delivered to Hermosa Vista on the day of his visit. When checking out, please check the box "pickup at the store" so you will not charged for shipping. Additionally, please include your child's name, school, and classroom in the order comment so they can ensure your book is delivered. Orders must be received for school delivery by March 1, 2025.


Any questions, email Jessica Jacobs, HVPTO Read Across America Chair.


Read Across America at HVS is #poweredbyHVPTO.

Hermosa Valley School Principal News

Get ready! Valley Spirit Games are this Wednesday, and everyone gets to join in on the fun! Students will be competing in the following events: Obstacle Course + Inflatable, Volleyball, Basketball, Brain Games, Super Mash Brothers, Puzzles, and Gaga Pit. Don't forget to wear your team colors and show your school spirit! Students will learn more about the events in their 5th-grade and homeroom classes on Monday, February 24. 


Also, for our 8th-grade families, the High School Decision Google Form will be available starting tomorrow. Please take a moment to indicate where your child will be attending high school next year so we can share that information with our local high school teams.

Looking forward to an exciting week!


Warmly,

Jessica Bledsoe, Hermosa Valley Principal

Mark Your Calendar: Last Middle School Dance of the Year


The Middle School Student Council invites our 6th, 7th, & 8th graders to a Middle School Dance on Friday, March 21, from 5:30-7:30 PM, in the Hermosa Valley Gym. The event will include an In-N-Out Food Truck and a DJ. Additionally, the event will be supervised by Middle School (7th/8th Grade) Student Council Advisor Ms. Gonzalez, Valley Principal Bledsoe, Assistant Principal Montoya, and some middle school teachers. More information will be shared in March about the dance theme, permission form, and dance fees.

3rd Annual Hermosa Valley Empty Bowls this Thursday!


Join us for the 3rd Annual Hermosa Valley Empty Bowls on Thursday, February 27, from 5:30-7:00 PM in the Hermosa Valley MPR. A simple meal of soup and bread will be served in handmade ceramic bowls created by the HVS Art 8 class. The Hermosa Valley Band will provide entertainment while you enjoy your meal provided by local businesses. The suggested donation is $20 per person and includes one handmade ceramic bowl (while supplies last) to serve as a reminder that you made a difference by supporting the fight against hunger in our community. All proceeds will go to the Los Angeles Regional Food Bank. Donations can be pre-paid, or you can pay by check or cash at the door. We can't wait to see you there!

The Weeks Ahead

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


1/26-3/4 (At Noon): HVPTO: Family Fun Night - Neon Night Silent Disco Party on the Hermosa Valley School Blacktop - Tickets on Sale (Buy Tickets Today!)


2/1-3/1: Black History Month


2/18-4/30: Valley: Physical Fitness Testing - 5th Grade


2/18-3/7: Vista: Hermosa Vista Student Council "Loose Change" Fundraiser


2/24-28: Valley: 8th Grade High School Decision Google Form


2/24 (9:00-10:00 AM): View: Coffee with the Interim View Principal in the View Library


2/25 (During Lunch): Valley: HVS Athletics Spring Sports Talk with Coach Vasquez in Room 33 near the Valley Gym


2/25 (12:10-12:30 PM): Valley: MCHS Choirs Performance in the Valley Bowl


2/26: Valley Spirit Games


2/27 (5:30-7:00 PM): Valley: 3rd Annual Hermosa Valley Empty Bowls in the Valley MPR


2/28-3/29: Ramadan


2/28: Valley: PBIS Spirit Day Friday


3/1-31: March is National Women's History Month


3/1-31: March is National Disabilities Awareness Month


3/1: HVS SciOly: Science Olympiad Los Angeles Regional Tournament at Rio Hondo College


3/1 (9:30 AM-1:00 PM): Hermosa Baseball Opening Day - National Anthem Performed by Our Hermosa Valley Middle School Band


3/3-7: HVPTO: Read Across America at HVS

View the Full HBCSD Upcoming Events Calendar

Check Out Our Community Flyers!


We encourage you to visit our Community Flyers web page to see what our Education & Community Partners, Mira Costa High School, and Redondo Union High School, have to offer our school community. If you'd like to include a flyer, simply use 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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