We are continuing to see an increase in the use of electric bikes (e-bikes) among our students, and we want to emphasize the importance of understanding e-bike classifications and their impact on student safety. This is particularly important for parents to understand prior to making any family purchases.

E-bikes come in three classes:

• Class 1: Pedal-assisted only. The motor provides assistance when the rider is pedaling and will not accelerate any faster than 20 mph. Typically allowed wherever regular bicycles are permitted. 
• Class 2: Pedal or throttle-assisted. When using the throttle, a rider can be propelled forward by the motor without pedaling, up to 20 mph.
• Class 3: Pedal-assist only, up to 28 mph, restrictions on where they can be ridden. Rider must be a minimum age of 16 years. Helmets are required for all ages.

Each class differs in speed and functionality, and not all are appropriate for young riders. Understanding these differences helps ensure our students are riding safely and legally. Helmets are required for all riders under 18, and safe riding practices, such as staying alert, following traffic laws, and avoiding distractions, are essential.

We encourage families to review the Hermosa Beach Municipal Codes regarding e-bikes and have ongoing safety discussions with their children. Together, we can promote safe, responsible riding habits in our community.

Hermosa Beach Municipal Codes:

• E-bikes may only enter the Strand walkway, Pier Plaza, or beach if the motor- or electric-propelled power is not in use.
• When riding on the Strand, speeds for all wheeled devices may not exceed speeds greater than 8 miles per hour.
• Prohibits users of any wheeled vehicle or device, propelled by human or motorized power, including bicycles, skateboards, roller skates, and electric personal assistive mobility devices to ride on or over any sidewalk or part of a sidewalk in commercial zones.

On June 4, 2024, the City of Hermosa Beach adopted an Urgency Ordinance that includes the following requirements and restrictions for e-bikes and any other electric or motorized conveyance (i.e., motor-driven cycle, pocket bike, or electric motorcycle), and fines for violating these rules range from $250 to $1,000:

• No person shall ride or operate an electric bicycle or any other electric or motorized conveyance in an unsafe manner that constitutes a danger to themselves or others.
• All e-bike operators and passengers under the age of 18 must wear a properly fastened helmet.
• No electric bicycle or any other electric or motorized conveyance shall be allowed on the Greenbelt (the landscaped trail that runs parallel between Ardmore Avenue and Valley Drive in Hermosa Beach).
• Operating a bicycle, electric bicycle, or any motorized/electric conveyance under the influence of alcohol or drugs is strictly prohibited (by the California Vehicle Code and the Urgency Ordinance).
• Transporting a passenger on an electric bicycle or any motorized/electric conveyance is prohibited unless the passenger uses a separate seat that is attached to the conveyance.
• Juveniles under the age of 18, who are cited for violating this Ordinance, may have their electric bicycle impounded, to be released to a responsible adult upon payment of a fee.

Thank you for your partnership in keeping our students safe. For more information, visit bchd.org/ebike.

Warm regards,

Dr. Susan Wildes

Superintendent of Schools, Hermosa Beach City School District

Attendance matters at Hermosa View, so let's finish strong! With just four weeks left in the school year, every day is important, especially for our youngest learners.These final weeks are filled with hands-on learning, special classroom activities, and joyful end-of-year celebrations. Regular attendance helps our TK, Kindergarten, and 1st grade students stay connected, build confidence, and end the year on a high note.

If your child must be absent, please remember to notify the Hermosa View office right away. Thank you for partnering with us to help your child finish the year strong!

Kind regards,

Sandy Skora, Hermosa View Interim Principal

CAASPP State testing is nearly complete, and I couldn’t be prouder of the focus, effort, and perseverance our Vista students have demonstrated. Their hard work truly is a reflection of the growth they’ve made this year. I want to extend a heartfelt thank you to our families for your support in helping students arrive on time, well-rested, fed, and ready to do their best. This made a big difference. We appreciate your partnership every step of the way! Well done!

As we head into the final stretch of the school year, we have a flurry of exciting events ahead, including our last flag ceremony, lively assemblies, Field Day, the Spring Sing Concert, and, of course, Vista Open House! Open House will be held on Wednesday, May 28, from 5:30–6:30 PM. This is a minimum day with early dismissal, so please plan accordingly. We hope all families can join us for this special evening. It’s a wonderful opportunity for students to proudly share their learning and accomplishments from the year.

Lastly, let’s finish the year strong. Please continue to support your child by being at school on time every day. Each day brings valuable learning, special activities, and important connections with peers and staff. Let’s make every day count!

Warmly,

Hillary Overbeck, Hermosa Vista Principal

We have been experiencing ongoing (daily) and significant vandalism in the middle school boys’ bathroom. Soap dispensers were broken or the bags were punctured, urine was found on walls and all over the floors, food was placed in toilets, and trash was dumped throughout the space. This behavior is both disrespectful and hazardous. 

Please take a moment to speak with your child about respecting school property - I can’t imagine any of you condone anything like this at home. If you have any information regarding the destruction of this campus space, you may reach me directly at jbledsoe@hbcsd.org or anonymously through Sprigeo.

Despite this incident, we have many exciting things to celebrate:

Congratulations to our Honor Roll students!

We will host the Honor Roll Breakfast on Tuesday, June 3, at 7:30 AM for students who earned a 3.5 GPA or higher in both Trimester 1 and 2. Qualifying students received an email invite earlier this week. Please note that this is a student-only event, but parent volunteers are welcome.

State Testing Update

CAASPP testing is nearly complete! Next week, 5th and 8th graders will take the CAST science assessment, and we’ll finish any make-up testing. Please help your students do their best by ensuring they arrive on time and ready to learn each day.

Upcoming Events

• May 19th - BMX Air Show Anti-Bullying Assembly, generously sponsored by HBPD
• May 20th at 5:30 PM - Spring Band Concert (join us for a fun night of music and celebration!)
• Advanced Math Placement Test (Grades 7/8) - Students not currently enrolled in advanced math who are interested in being considered for placement in an advanced math course for the 2025–2026 school year may opt in to take the placement test on Tuesday, May 21, from 2:00–3:00 PM.

Thank you for your continued support as we work together to maintain a safe and respectful school environment for the remaining few weeks and beyond.

Warmly, 

Jessica Bledsoe, Hermosa Valley Principal

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

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

5/1-31: May is Asian American & Pacific Islander Heritage Month, Jewish American Heritage Month, Mental Health Awareness Month, and Bike Safety Month

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

5/5-30: Vista & Valley: CAASPP, CAST, & CAA Testing

5/20-22 (3:00-4:00 PM): Valley Athletics: California Redwoods Free After School Lacrosse Clinics on the Valley Field (See the HBCSD Disclaimer mentioned above)

5/19-21: View: Kindergarten Walking Field Trip to the HB Museum

5/9 (9:00-9:40 AM): Valley Anti-Bullying Assembly: GO BIG BMX AIR SHOW on the Valley Blacktop

5/19 (During Lunch): Sand & Surf Soccer Club at Vista

5/20-22 (3:00-4:00 PM): Valley Athletics: Incoming 6th-8th Grade Cheer Tryout Mandatory Clinics in the Valley Gym

5/20 (During Lunch): Sand & Surf Soccer Club at View

5/20 (5:30-6:30 PM): Valley: Spring Band Concert in the Valley MPR

5/21 (2:00-3:00 PM): Valley: Incoming 7th-8th Grade Advanced Math Placement Test (Opt-In) in Room 28

5/23 (During Lunch): Sand & Surf Soccer Club at Valley

5/22 (6:30-9:00 PM): HBEF: Hearts of Hermosa Flash Parties - Hermosa Hills Ladies Bunco Night; Buy Tickets

5/23 (9:00-9:40 AM): Vista: Japanese Cultural Assembly - A Musical Journey with Hiroko Masuda

5/23 (4:00-7:00 PM): Valley Athletics: HVS Track & Field Meet - South Bay Middle School Championships at RUHS (Hosted by Athletic.net)

5/24-26: HB Chamber: Fiesta Hermosa

5/24-25 (9:30 AM-5:30 PM) & 5/26 (10:00-4:00 PM): HVPTO: Hermosa Valley Parking Lot Fundraiser

5/26: Memorial Day - No School