The Beverly Hills Unified School District (BHUSD) held its Regular Board of Education Meeting on November 12, 2024, focusing on various topics, including the upcoming theater production of "The Diary of Anne Frank" and community initiatives.

The meeting commenced with a presentation from Maisie Van Salcoma, a representative of the Beverly Hills High School stage production class. She highlighted the significance of their current production, emphasizing its relevance in today's context. Van Salcoma showcased the set design model, explaining how the layout reflects the characters' feelings of entrapment during World War II. She noted that the design choices aim to evoke a sense of urgency and pressure, mirroring the family's dire circumstances.

Following her presentation, board members expressed their enthusiasm for the theater arts program. They praised the dedication of the students and faculty involved in the production. Board member Remi shared her excitement about the upcoming show, noting the positive feedback from previous performances. Another member acknowledged the importance of the play's themes, particularly in light of current global events, and encouraged community attendance.

The meeting also included a public comment segment, where Scott Redston, representing the Vahog Septien Charitable Foundation, shared the foundation's mission to support students at Beverly Hills High School. He recounted the foundation's origins following a tragic incident involving a student and highlighted its ongoing efforts to provide scholarships and resources to enhance students' educational experiences.

The board concluded the meeting by reiterating their support for the theater department and the foundation's initiatives, encouraging community involvement in both the play and the foundation's activities. The production of "The Diary of Anne Frank" is set to open on November 14 and will run for two weekends, with a matinee performance scheduled for November 16.