Communications director reports enrollment growth, social-media gains and new State of Schools report

Eileen Levin, communications director for the Hermosa Beach City School District, updated the board on the district's communications work, reporting increased enrollment outreach success, expanded social-media engagement, safety messaging and new publications.

Key points: Levin said district enrollment grew in the past year and credited coordinated marketing and outreach. She described a 91% increase in Instagram followers (from 1,404 to 2,682) since she started four years ago, and more modest Facebook growth. She highlighted a five-part "Be Safe, Be Smart" series on e-bike and e-scooter safety produced in partnership with Hermosa Cycle and the Hermosa Beach Police Department; Levin said the videos are posted on the district website.

Public information products: Levin described the WaveWatch district newsletter (a consolidated district newsletter replacing separate principal newsletters), an HVS (Hermosa Valley School) staff newsletter, and HBS Spotlights (short videos featuring eight staff members last year). She said the district launched a "State of Our Schools" annual report for 2024–25 and plans a public release by July 1, 2026. A "Waves of Progress" bond-focused newsletter summarizing Measure HV spending and accomplishments is scheduled to be delivered the week of Sept. 22 and then quarterly thereafter.

Planned outreach: Levin said the communications team will continue staff spotlights, introduce a weekly Friday post to highlight new employees, support a three-year strategic plan summary if/when approved, and maintain targeted WaveWatch messaging on curriculum highlights, attendance and campus safety. She said the district manages the main website and multiple Google Sites and is building a library site.

Board reaction and follow-up: Board members praised Levin's work. One member suggested partner nonprofits apply for Google grants to fund social-media advertising (up to $10,000) for recruitment campaigns; Levin noted the district cannot apply directly but partners could. Board members recommended QR codes at events to increase engagement and suggested career-day presentations to show communications as a career path for students. Levin said the district will continue to strengthen social channels and said new staff introductions will start the coming Friday.

Why it matters: Improved communications can support enrollment, community engagement and transparency on the district's bond spending and program priorities.

Ending: Levin invited questions and said she welcomes suggestions; the board broadly praised the presentation.