As many of you may have seen in the City of Hermosa Beach’s recent announcement, Police Chief Paul LeBaron has shared that he will be retiring effective Monday, May 5, 2025.

Chief LeBaron has been a dedicated public servant and a steadfast advocate for the safety and well-being of our entire Hermosa Beach community. Over the years, he has played an instrumental role in making both our city and schools safer places to live and learn. From leading crisis response trainings to addressing student e-bike safety, Chief LeBaron has been a highly valued partner and trusted collaborator. His insight, presence, and genuine care for our students and staff will be deeply missed.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to Chief LeBaron for his years of committed service and unwavering support of the Hermosa Beach City School District. He leaves behind a legacy of trust, safety, and a strong community partnership that will continue to shape our work moving forward.

At the same time, we are reassured that Captain Landon Phillips will be stepping into the role of Police Chief. Captain Phillips is already a familiar and respected partner to our district, and we are confident in his leadership. We look forward to continuing our strong relationship and working together to maintain safe schools and a connected community.

Please join us in thanking Chief LeBaron for his extraordinary service and wishing him all the best in his well-earned retirement, and congratulating Captain Phillips on his promotion.

Warm regards,

Dr. Susan Wildes

Superintendent of Schools, Hermosa Beach City School District

We are excited to welcome you to our View Open House this Tuesday, May 6, from 5:30–6:30 PM. This special evening is an opportunity for families to visit classrooms, connect with teachers, and celebrate the incredible growth and learning your child has experienced this year. Gates will open promptly at 5:30 PM, and we look forward to seeing you on campus.

Please note that May 6 is a Hermosa View Minimum Day with early dismissal as follows:

• TK - 12:15 PM
• Kindergarten - 12:20 PM
• 1st Grade - 12:25 PM

We’re also celebrating Staff Appreciation Week from May 5-9, generously hosted by HVPTO. This is a favorite week for our teachers and staff, as the heartfelt support from our community reminds them how appreciated they are. Thank you for recognizing their dedication and the incredible impact they make each day.

Lastly, May is Mental Health Awareness Month. As the pace of the school year picks up, we encourage you to take a moment to pause and connect with your child. Whether it’s sharing a conversation, reading a book, or simply spending time together, those small moments can make a lasting difference. Let’s continue to care for our minds and hearts together.

Kind regards,

Sandy Skora, Hermosa View Interim Principal

Now that we're in May, I'd like to provide some important information as we look ahead to summer and fall.

Summer Learning

In recent years, HBCSD has offered the Summer Propel program—an extended learning opportunity for students based on teacher recommendation. This program was made possible through one-time COVID-19 dollars, which have now been fully utilized. Although Propel will not be offered this summer, the district is preparing to provide at-home learning opportunities to support continued academic growth. Keep an eye out for more details in future communications.

Class Placement

As families think about the upcoming 2025-2026 school year, some families may begin wondering about class placements for the fall. Please note that Hermosa Schools do not accept requests for student placement. Class lists are developed thoughtfully and in accordance with Board Policy, taking into account a variety of factors to ensure balanced, supportive learning environments. We appreciate your trust in this process and thank you for refraining from submitting placement requests.

Thank you for your continued partnership and support. We look forward to a strong finish to the school year.

Warmly,

Hillary Overbeck, Hermosa Vista Principal

Regular school attendance is more than just a routine. It's a foundation for academic success, social and emotional development, and future opportunities. Students who consistently attend school are more likely to stay on track with daily lessons, engage in rich classroom discussions, and build the academic and social skills necessary for success. Regular attendance supports stronger grades, improved test scores, and a greater likelihood of high school graduation. For more information, explore the helpful resources on our HBCSD website.

As we begin CAASPP testing, California’s statewide assessment of student performance and progress, consistent attendance becomes even more critical. These assessments measure how well students are meeting academic standards in English Language Arts, math, and science, offering valuable insights into both student growth and school effectiveness. CAASPP results help shape instruction, support school accountability, and even influence future educational opportunities. 

When students are present, they are better prepared—academically, socially, and emotionally. They feel more connected, more capable, and more confident. Let’s work together to ensure every student is present and ready to show what they know. Remember, it's important students Show Up to Thrive because Every Day Matters!

Warmly,

Jessica Bledsoe, Hermosa Valley Principal

8th Grade Corner

Special Note to 8th Grade Students and Families

As we prepare to celebrate our 8th grade students, here are the most important details to know now about Promotion Activities on Wednesday, June 11. Additional information will be shared as the date approaches.

School Day Details:

• Students arrive at 8:15 AM for:
• Mandatory rehearsal begins around 10:00 AM
• Dismissal for 8th graders: 12:30 PM

Ceremony:

• Tickets: Each student will receive 5 guest tickets (sorry, no extras available)
• Student Arrival: 4:30 PM
• Ceremony Start: 5:00 PM
• Dress Code: Collared shirts and pants or school-appropriate dresses (Note: The ceremony is on grass, so please choose footwear accordingly)
• Entry: Gates open at 4:30 PM for ticket holders

Reception:

• Immediately following the Ceremony on the blacktop, where families and graduates can take pictures, and enjoy cookies and drinks provided by our HVPTO
• Check out the 8th Grade Memory Boards

Dance:

• Time: 7:00-9:00 PM
• Location: Valley Gym
• Theme: Coming soon!
• Enjoy Dancing, games, pizza, treats, and more

We are looking forward to celebrating this momentous occasion with our students, families, and staff. These next six weeks will fly by before we know it! 

Principal Bledsoe

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

5/5-9: HVPTO: Staff Appreciation Week

5/5-9: Mental Health Awareness Week at HVS

5/5: Cinco de Mayo

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

5/5 (3:30-5:00 PM): Valley Spring Sports: HVS Boys Volleyball & Girls Flag Football vs. MIS (AWAY GAME)

5/6 (8-8:45 AM): HB Preschool Open House

5/6: View: Minimum Day (Early Dismissal: TK -12:15 PM, Kinder - 12:20 PM, & 1st Grade - 12:25 PM

5/6 (3:30-5:00 PM): Valley Spring Sports: HVS Boys Volleyball & Girls Flag Football vs. ADAMS (HOME GAME)

5/6 (5:30-6:30 PM): View: Open House

5/7 (During Lunch): Sand & Surf Soccer Club at View

5/7 (6-9 PM): HBCSD: School Board Workshop - Strategic Planning in Valley Conference Room 4

5/8 (3:30-5:00 PM): Valley Spring Sports: HVS Boys Volleyball & Girls Flag Football vs. PARRAS (HOME GAME)

5/8 (6-8 PM): HBEF: Hearts of Hermosa Flash Parties - Picklepalooza; SOLD OUT!

5/8 (7 PM): HBEF: Hearts of Hermosa Flash Parties - Moms' Wine & "Spirits" Night with Jennifer Shaffer; SOLD OUT!

5/9 (After 4 PM): HBCSD: HVS Lost & Found - All unclaimed items at Hermosa View, Vista, & Valley will be donated to charity

5/9 (During Lunch): Sand & Surf Soccer Club at Valley

5/9 (5:30-7:30 PM): HBEF & YAA: Hearts of Hermosa Preview Art Show at the Resin Gallery in HB

5/10 (6-11 PM): HBEF: Hearts of Hermosa (HOH) - Boots on the Beach at Hermosa Vistas; Buy Tickets

5/11: Mother's Day