Superintendent Dr. Susan Wildes and project architects presented draft plans Monday and invited public input on the modernization of Hermosa Valley School, a project funded by the $28.7 million Measure HV bond.
“Our purpose tonight is to engage the community,” Wildes told parents, administrators, and residents who braved heavy rains to attend the evening meeting.
The superintendent said she and the design team have walked the 8.7-acre campus several times to evaluate its condition and construction history. That review helped clarify the campus’s most pressing needs.
During Monday’s presentation, PMK architect David Kim outlined ten areas of concern. He said new science labs are a priority because the science classrooms are spread out across the campus. “They should be in one space,” Kim said.
Other priorities include improving the visibility of the administration building, which is tucked behind “a wall of fences,” upgrading outdated classroom technology, installing cameras for student safety, and relieving congestion in the parking and drop-off area.
“We want to reduce wait times and get cars off of Valley Drive,” Wildes said.
Energy efficiency is also central to the plan, with solar panels under consideration to reduce utility costs.
“Our electricity bill in September was $13,000,” Wildes said.
Unlike the Vista and View school projects, the Valley School modernization will upgrade existing facilities rather than build new ones. Funding comes from Measure HV, approved by voters in November 2024. The $28.7 million in general obligation bonds will be issued in phases: $8 million secured in August 2025, followed by $10 million in 2027 and $10.7 million in 2029.
What is 'Measure HV' ? (Click to expand)
Passed in November 2024: Measure HV, a $28.7 million school bond for Hermosa Beach City School District, was approved by voters on November 5, 2024, with approximately 60% support—clearing the required 55% voter threshold.
Focuses on Hermosa Valley School: The bond primarily targets improvements at Valley School, with $6.8 million allocated for classroom modernization including two new science labs next to the gym, $6.2 million for athletic facilities including a new field and track, $4.7 million for HVAC and solar panels, and $6 million for campus safety upgrades.
No tax rate increase: The measure adds $13.15 per $100,000 in assessed property value, but the overall tax rate remains at the current $34.95 per $100,000 by phasing in Measure HV as two previous bonds (Measures J and S) are phased out.
Long repayment timeline: The bond will be repaid over approximately 30 years, with the final payment projected for 2053 (or around 2050 by some estimates)—just four years beyond when the previous 2016 bond is scheduled to be paid off.
Built-in accountability: State law requires strict oversight including an independent Citizens' Oversight Committee with community representatives, annual performance audits of bond spending, and all funds staying under local control exclusively for Hermosa schools.
Construction is expected to begin in summer 2026, with the team prioritizing improvements that directly affect students and instruction.
The draft plan is organized into three major phases.
Phase one focuses on student-centered improvements such as new classrooms and technology upgrades.
Phase two targets accessibility and visibility, including reimagining the administrative building and entry plaza. Architect Saina Shayanjoo described the potential for a “really green and lush entry to this beautiful campus.” This phase also includes improving traffic flow and adding an EV charging station.
The final phase would update playground equipment and the sports field, install solar panels, and create an outdoor seating area.
The team said priorities and plans could be modified and welcomed community input.
Audience members were invited to complete a QR-code survey during the two-hour meeting, answering questions such as whether the project is well-phased and how well it aligns with community priorities.
Wildes said they’ll next seek input from teachers and staff. The district will also provide quarterly updates which will be mailed to residents.
I’m Elka Worner, a community volunteer, City Commissioner, journalist, and Hermosa Beach local. I was raised here, and I’ve had the joy of raising my daughter in this amazing town.
