Parents urge school district to address teacher absenteeism and substitute shortages

The Beverly Hills Unified School District (BHUSD) held a Regular Board of Education Meeting on April 15, 2025, addressing critical issues surrounding teacher absenteeism and the impact on student education. The meeting featured several speakers, including parents and educators, who expressed concerns about the frequency of teacher absences and the reliance on substitutes.

The first speaker, a concerned parent, highlighted the detrimental effects of teacher absenteeism on students' learning continuity. She emphasized that while professional development for teachers is essential, it should not come at the expense of classroom instruction. The parent called for a reevaluation of how training is scheduled, suggesting that it should occur outside of instructional hours to minimize disruption.

Following her, another parent echoed these sentiments, sharing firsthand experiences of classroom disruptions caused by the lack of available substitutes. She noted that when teachers are pulled from their classes for training, it creates significant challenges for both students and remaining teachers, who must manage larger groups of students.

Catherine Warren, president of the Beverly Hills Education Association (BHEA), addressed the board regarding the urgent need for a new contract that includes reasonable salary increases and improved benefits for educators. She pointed out that many teachers are facing financial difficulties due to rising housing costs, which has led to longer commutes and increased stress. Warren stressed the importance of a timely agreement to foster a positive working environment and maintain trust between the district and its educators.

Warren also celebrated recent achievements of the district's secondary schools, attributing their success to the dedication of the teaching staff. She urged the board to prioritize negotiations that would support educators and, by extension, the students they serve.

The meeting concluded with a call for collaboration between the district and the BHEA to address these pressing issues. The board acknowledged the concerns raised and committed to exploring solutions that would enhance the educational experience for students while supporting the teachers who play a vital role in their success.