Teachers, parents press PVP USD board to address rising class sizes and support staff pay

On March 25 several teachers and parents used public‑comment time at the Palos Verdes Peninsula Unified board meeting to press the district to act on class size and compensation concerns.

Christina Lloyd, a first‑grade teacher and district alum, said class sizes have grown from about 20:1 to 24:1 and in some cases to 28:1 or higher and that one fourth‑grade class in her school reached 34:1. "Larger class sizes mean less opportunities for individualized attention," Lloyd said, urging the board to consider smaller classes in planning for the 2026–27 school year.

Leila Kidd, a second‑grade teacher, argued the district must "align our budget with our pride," warning that falling behind neighboring districts on pay will cause teacher churn and erode the mentoring that supports student outcomes. Ashley Gagorian, a parent, described aides being eliminated and urged the board to keep support positions in place so teachers are not expected to perform technical‑support duties in addition to instruction.

PVFA union leader Samantha Weiss also addressed the board during reports, highlighting benefits and insurance pressures facing staff and arguing the district should use reserves and bond proceeds judiciously to preserve personnel. "We take care of our kids day in, day out," Weiss said, adding that members have seen substantial healthcare cost increases.

There was no formal board action taken during public comment, but trustees acknowledged the concerns and will consider them as they finalize budget and staffing plans for the coming school year.