June 8, 2025

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Superintendent's Weekly Message

As we wrap up another incredible school year in Hermosa Beach City School District, I want to express my deep appreciation for our students, staff, and families for welcoming me over the past ten months. Together, we’ve navigated a year filled with growth, learning, and community. 


To our 8th grade students, we are so proud of you! As you take the exciting step into high school, I hope the next four years are full of discovery. Explore your passions, form new friendships, and don’t shy away from new experiences. Whether it’s joining a sport, trying out a new club, or signing up for an elective outside your comfort zone, lean into those moments. That’s where the most meaningful growth happens. And don’t forget to give back. Seek out volunteer opportunities that connect you to your community and help shape the world around you.


To our students in TK through 7th grade, I wish you a joyful and restful summer. Take time to relax, recharge, and read! One of the best ways to keep your skills sharp and prevent the summer slide is by reading every day. Visit the library often, discover new stories, and let your imagination soar.


Later this week, we’ll be sending home a letter to families with details on how students in grades 1–7 can continue using i-Ready lessons throughout the summer to stay engaged and ready for the new school year.



Thank you all for a fantastic year. Wishing you a safe, happy, and inspiring summer.


Best,

Dr. Susan Wildes

Superintendent of Schools, Hermosa Beach City School District

The HVS School Supplies Lists for the 2025-2026 school year are now available on our website under the "Parents/Students" heading for Hermosa View, Hermosa Vista, and Hermosa Valley Schools. Below are direct links to each list:


VIEW (TK-1st Grade)


VISTA (2nd-4th Grade)


VALLEY (5th Grade)


VALLEY MIDDLE (6th-8th Grade) - Coming early August 2025

Please note: All HVS supply lists are suggested voluntary contributions to support your student's classroom. Providing the supplies listed on each list above is entirely optional and not required for participation in any school activities. All necessary supplies for educational activities will be provided by the school at no cost to students.

The Valley Middle School Summer Reading Lists 2025 are now posted on our website under the "Parents/Students" heading. Our Valley Middle School students are recommended to read a total of TWO books over the summer. Click on the list below for a selection of suggested books your child can read:


Incoming 6th Grade

 

Incoming 7th Grade

 

Incoming 8th Grade

Attention incoming 6th, 7th, and 8th grade students and families! The Hermosa Valley Middle School Registration is on Thursday, August 14, 2025, from 9:00 AM-12 PM. Save the date and find your arrival times (Based on last name initial) on the image to the left.


Valley Principal Bledsoe will be emailing incoming Middle School families more information over the summer. However, you can also stay updated by visiting our website.

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.

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 this week from June 9-13! 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 View School Interim Principal News

The final week of school is here! As we wrap up a year full of growth, learning, and connection, there’s so much to celebrate at Hermosa View. Our students have accomplished so much, and it’s been a joy to watch them explore, discover, and build lasting friendships. This week is filled with special traditions and memorable moments that help bring another great year to a joyful close.


Camp Skeeter is coming to 1st Grade! From June 9-13, each 1st grade classroom will transform into a cabin filled with enthusiastic campers. Students will enjoy camp-style activities like singing songs, signing yearbooks, and taking nature walks. Throughout the week, they'll keep the learning going with camp-themed reading, writing, and math, all wrapped in the spirit of adventure and friendship. It's a great way to celebrate the end of the year and make lasting memories together.


Hermosa View Yearbooks will be distributed on Thursday, June 12.  We can’t wait for students to relive the highlights of this amazing school year and celebrate all they’ve achieved. 


On a final note, I want to share that my time as Interim Principal at Hermosa View is also coming to an end. Like your students, my last day will be this Friday, June 13. It has been an absolute pleasure and privilege to support our incredible staff, students, and families during this time. I have truly enjoyed getting to know this wonderful school community.  From classroom visits to school-wide events, I’ve been inspired by the dedication of our teachers, the curiosity of our students, and the unwavering support from our families. Thank you for the warm welcome and for allowing me to be part of your child's educational journey.


Wishing everyone a joyful summer and continued success in the year ahead!


Warmly,

Sandy Skora, Interim Hermosa View Principal

Lazy Acres Envirotokens Program - Vote for HBEF!


HBEF's Community Partner, Lazy Acres, has opened the voting for their popular Envirotokens Program, and HBEF is on the ballot again! If you’ve shopped at Lazy Acres in Hermosa Beach this past year, you’ve seen this program in action. Shoppers receive a token for each reusable bag they bring into the store, and they can deposit those tokens into the box for the organizations they wish to support. This year, HBEF earned more than $1,200 through this program, and they need your help to stay on the list for next year. Vote for HBEF today, and spread the word to all of your friends, family, and neighbors! Voting officially closes on Tuesday, June 17. You can vote up to once a day!

Hermosa Vista School Principal News

As the school year comes to a close, I want to take a moment to share my heartfelt gratitude. It has been an incredible privilege to serve as principal of Hermosa View and Vista for the past three years. I’m deeply honored to have been entrusted with your children during these formative years. Watching them grow, learn, and develop their unique personalities and strengths has been a true joy. I’ve also treasured the connections built with so many of you. Your support, kindness, and collaboration have meant the world to me. These schools are filled with such laughter and learning every single day, and that’s because of the amazing staff, students, and families who make up this community. 


Next year, I’m excited to return to the classroom here in Hermosa. While I’ve loved my time as an administrator, I am looking forward to turning my attention back to teaching again with fresh energy and deep appreciation for all that makes our schools so special. Thank you for being such a vital part of our school community. I wish you and your family a summer full of adventure, reading, rest, and time together.


Warmly,

Hillary Overbeck, Hermosa Vista Principal

Spanish In The Sun: Fun Ways to Practice Spanish this Summer!


As we head into the summer break, I want to share a few fun and easy ways to help your child keep up with their Spanish skills! Just a little practice over the summer can make a big difference and help them feel more confident when we return to school in the fall.


Here are some great (and free!) online resources your child can use over the summer:

  1. Rockalingua - This site offers free Spanish songs, videos, and games that are perfect for younger learners. Be sure to check out the "Free Resources" section—there’s plenty to explore without a subscription.
  2. Calico Spanish for Kids - Calico offers engaging videos and songs that introduce Spanish in a natural, story-based way. Look for the Games & Videos section on their website. 
  3. Duolingo - Duolingo is a popular and effective app that turns language learning into a game. The lessons are short and interactive—perfect for daily practice. 


Additionally, below are some tips to keep Spanish practice enjoyable over the summer:

  • Set a regular time during the week for Spanish (even just twice a week!).
  • Encourage your child to teach you a new Spanish word or phrase they learned.
  • Turn it into a family activity, play a song from Rockalingua, and dance together!
  • Label items around the house with Spanish words for daily exposure.


Thank you for your support, and I hope you all have a fantastic summer!


Warmly,

Lisa Gibson, 3-6 & AB Spanish Teacher

Hermosa Valley School Principal News

As we head into the final stretch of the school year, I want to extend my genuine thanks for your partnership, encouragement, and involvement throughout the year. The upcoming week is filled with excitement and important moments, so here’s everything you need to know.


First, a huge congratulations to our HVS Concert and Jazz Bands for their outstanding performances at the Forum Music Festivals! Both ensembles were presented with Silver Awards, placing them in the top 20% on a National Rating Scale. This is a tremendous achievement! In addition, our Concert Band Trumpet Section was also recognized as the top section of the entire festival, and Holden C. received an Outstanding Musicianship Award for his exceptional jazz saxophone solos. We are incredibly proud of the talent, dedication, and heart these students brought to the stage. Bravo to all and to their amazing band teacher, Dr. Buddy Clements! 


Up first for the week is Middle School Locker Cleanout and the return of HBCDS Chromebooks & Chargers with 8th graders on Tuesday, June 10, and then 6th & 7th graders on Wednesday, June 11. All middle school students must complete and turn in a completed Clearance Form to their homeroom teacher in order to be cleared. 


Next is the Valley Yearbook Distribution, continuing with the tradition of 8th graders getting theirs first on Tuesday, June 10, followed by 5th to 7th graders getting their yearbook on Thursday, June 12. Please read the important notes below.


  • Middle School Students: Yearbooks will not be distributed without a completed clearance form. Students are responsible for getting all required sign-offs and submitting the completed form to their homeroom teacher, who will monitor clearance and handle yearbook distribution. 
  • Fifth Graders: Students must return their instruments before they can receive their yearbooks. Please reach out to the music team with any questions.


Up next is the big day for our 8th graders on Wednesday, June 11! The day begins with a breakfast celebration and the signing of their yearbooks in the Valley MPR. Immediately following, our 8th graders will participate in the Promotion Rehearsal with an early release at 12:30 PM for 8th grade ONLY. Additional details about the 8th Grade Promotion, Reception, and Promotion Dance can be found below under the 8th Grade Corner section.


If you would like to volunteer to support the 8th Grade Promotion festivities, you still can! HVPTO encourages 6th-7th grade parents/guardians to sign up to help so 8th grade families can enjoy the day. Please consider volunteering to help with the Promotion Ceremony/Reception and/or Promotion Dance/Game Night. Your help is so appreciated!


The last day of school is on Friday, June 13. Please note, it’s minimum day and all Valley students will be dismissed at 12:25 PM.


In closing, it has been a fantastic year, and I feel so honored to be a small part of your children’s educational journey. I am thrilled to share that I will be returning for my 5th year as your Valley Principal, and Ms. Montoya will also be returning as our Assistant Valley Principal. I feel lucky to know and work with your awesome kids and this amazing staff. I’m looking forward to making many more memories in this wonderful town.


Have a wonderful summer, and I’ll see you again in the fall!


Warmly, 

Jessica Bledsoe, Hermosa Valley Principal

8th Grade Corner

Celebrating Our 8th Grade Class of 2025


It’s hard to believe how quickly this year has flown by, and now the moment has come to celebrate all that our 8th graders have achieved on their journey through our Hermosa Schools.


Wednesday, June 11, will be a day of joy and celebration for our promoting 8th graders. The morning begins with a special breakfast and yearbook signing in the Valley MPR, followed by a promotion rehearsal on the Valley Field. 8th graders ONLY will be dismissed early at 12:30 PM to rest up and prepare for the evening's festivities.


The 8th Grade Promotion Ceremony begins promptly at 5:00 PM on the Valley Field, with gates opening at 4:15 PM. Following the ceremony, families are invited to a post-promotion reception with cookies and drinks on the Valley Blacktop, generously hosted by our HVPTO. The celebration continues with the 8th Grade Promotion Dance in the Hermosa Valley Gym from 7:00-9:00 PM. This fun evening of dancing and games is a perfect way for our students to celebrate one last time with their classmates.


Key Details:

  • Attire: The dress code is long pants and collared shirts (tie optional) or school-appropriate dresses. Students will be walking on the grass, so please be mindful of shoe choices.
  • Arrival Time: Students should return to campus no later than 4:30 PM to line up with their class and ensure an on-time start.
  • Leis: On their way to the line-up, students who pre-ordered leis may pick them up at the “Commencement Gifts” tent, next to the bike cage. Please arrive early if this applies to you.
  • Event Entry: The Valley Field gate to the right of the Administration Office will open promptly at 4:30 PM for ticket holders. This is the only point of entry for the event.
  • Tickets: Each student will receive five promotion tickets in their promotion bags, which were thoughtfully prepared by our HVPTO volunteers. Seating is first-come, first-served. Reserved seating is designated for dignitaries, speakers, and special guests. Please kindly DO NOT remove “Reserved” signage.
  • Parking: Limited parking will be available in the school parking lot. We encourage families to walk, ride, or get dropped off, if possible.
  • Ceremony Timing: The promotion ceremony will begin promptly at 5:00 PM and will last approximately one hour.
  • No Livestream: Please note that this year's promotion ceremony will NOT be livestreamed.
  • Reception Activities: After the ceremony, enjoy cookies and drinks, check out the 8th Grade Memory Boards, view the 8th Grade Tile Wall, and take family photos.
  • Dance: Students will enjoy dancing, games, pizza, treats, and more. Students will NOT be allowed to leave early.


We are looking forward to celebrating our incredible HVS Class of 2025 and all they’ve accomplished together.


In celebration,

Jessica Bledsoe, Hermosa Valley Principal

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 Weeks Ahead

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


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


5/28-6/17: Lazy Acres Envirotokens Program; Vote for HBEF


5/28-6/13: HBEF: Spring Annual Giving Campaign; Donate Today


6/1-30: HVPTO Play Into Summer FUNraiser: Dave & Buster's Power Cards; Buy Today


6/9-13: Grades of Green: End of Year Used School Supplies Upcycle Drive


6/9-13: View: 1st Grade Camp Skeeter


6/9 (During Lunch): Sand & Surf Soccer Club at Vista


6/10-11: Valley: Middle School Locker Cleanout and Return HBCSD Chromebook + Chargers (6/10 - 8th Grade and 6/11 - 6th-7th Grade)


6/10 (9:00-9:30 AM): Vista: India Cultural Assembly - A Rhythmic Celebration with Saleena Khamamkar and Vinay Sharma


6/10: Valley: 8th Grade Yearbook Distribution Day


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


6/10 (6:00-9:00 PM): HVPTO: Summer Sunset Party at Martha's Hermosa Beach, Buy Tickets


6/11 (8:15 AM-12:30 PM): Valley: 8th Grade Breakfast + Sign Yearbooks in the Valley MPR, followed by Promotion Rehearsal on the Valley Field + Early Release at 12:30 PM for 8th Grade Only


6/11 (During Lunch): Valley: Beach Kids Yoga Classes


6/11 (12:05-1:25 PM): Vista: 4th Grade Sand Structure Showdown


6/11 (5:00-6:45 PM): Valley: 8th Grade Promotion Ceremony on the Valley Field, followed by a Post Promotion Reception on the Valley Blacktop (Cookies & Drinks provided by HVPTO)


6/11 (7:00-9:00 PM): Valley/HVPTO: 8th Grade Promotion Dance in the Hermosa Valley Gym


6/12: HVS: TK-7th Grade Yearbook Distribution Day


6/13: HBCSD: Last Day for Students and Teachers - Minimum Day


6/13: HVS: Last Day of TK-5th Grade Specials - Music & Spanish


6/13 (11:45 AM): View: Ms. Corman & Ms. Koch's Kinder Class - Goldilocks and the Three Bears Play in the View MPR


6/13: HBCSD: End of 3rd Trimester


6/13: HBCSD: Report Cards Emailed home


6/13 (After 4 PM): HBCSD: HVS Lost & Found - All unclaimed items at Hermosa View, Vista, & Valley will be donated to charity


6/14: Flag Day


6/14 (12:30-4:30 PM): HBEF: Hearts of Hermosa Flash Parties - Dads' Father's Day Lawn Bowling Party; SOLD OUT!


6/15: Father's Day


6/19: Juneteenth (HBCSD Closed)


6/25 (5:00-8:00 PM): HBCSD: Special School Board Meeting

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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