Hermosa cuts six teachers, including sole physical education teacher
by Donald Morrison At least six full time Hermosa Beach School District employees, including the district’s only physical education teacher, will receive layoff notices, under a budget unanimously approved by the school board at its Wednesday, Feb. 25 meeting. “I really believe that all programs are valuable and all staff are valuable,” said Superintendent Jason Johnson. “By no means we’re these decisions made easily.” Decreased enrollment, overstaffing and a significant decline in revenue over the past three years were identified by Johnson as reasons for layoffs. Since the pandemic began, 160 students have left the district. Kindergarten and second grade saw the biggest drop in enrollment, losing 35 and 37 students, respectively. Johnson had presented a three-year budget projection at the Feb 10 Board meeting that showed the district having a $585,000 deficit. Three transitional kindergarten through fifth grade teachers are among those receiving lay off notices. The dedicated physical education teacher position will be eliminated, though PE will continue to be taught. “Elementary school teachers have a multiple subject credential,” Johnson said. “That means they’re qualified to…
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