School plans
The city school board is scheduled to discuss the budget for the upcoming academic year at 3:30 p.m. Saturday, June 26, with another meeting to follow at 7 p.m. Wednesday, June 30, at which the board is expected to approve detailed staffing and budgetary plans for the year.
The meetings will be held in the Hermosa Beach City Council Chambers, 1315 Valley Drive.
As state budget cuts continue, the school board has placed three fulltime teachers and five part-timers on a layoff list. They will lose their jobs in the fall unless the district finds more money, soon.
In recent years, fundraising efforts by parents and other community members have made up about 10 percent of the operating budget of the kindergarten-through-eighth grade school district, partially offsetting cuts in state revenue. This year’s fundraising total will be known by the June 30 meeting date.
Fundraising efforts have been hampered by the downturned economy.
“There is fear that the fundraising goal, for a second year, was not met,” said board President Lisa Claypoole. “At the same time we are incredibly overjoyed with all the people who have made large contributions.”
Good taste
The Kiwanis Club of Hermosa Beach hosts its fifth annual Taste At The Beach Food and Wine Extravaganza 4 to 8 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 22 at the Hermosa Beach Community Center, on the corner of Pacific Coast Highway and Pier Avenue. This year the event will benefit Hermosa school library programs.
The event once again will feature fine wine and gourmet dishes from top area restaurants, caterers and wine vendors, a live jazz band and a silent auction.
“With the state budget crisis in such dire straits, school funding has been decimated, we are so grateful to the Kiwanis Club for helping to maintain these much needed and well deserved programs,” said school board member Cathy McCurdy.
“What could be better than great food and wine in a beautiful relaxed summer setting,” said event coordinator Paul Amarilas. “Last year we sold out so better get your tickets early,” he advised.
Tickets are $60 and can be purchased at tasteofthebeach.com or by calling310-318-0119. Master and Visa cards are accepted. ER
