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Burbank schools remember teacher Arati Varma; board and community promise support
Summary
The board heard tributes to Bret Hart Elementary teacher Arati (Arthi) Varma and approved counseling and support for the school community. Family, colleagues and the principal recalled Varma’s classroom practices and the district said it would provide counseling and other resources.
The Burbank Unified School District Board took time during its meeting to honor the life and service of Bret Hart Elementary School teacher Arati (Arthi) Varma and to announce supports for her students, colleagues and family.
Tributes and district response: Principal Lucy Bowers described Varma as a dedicated educator who supported arts and math programming and built trusting relationships over more than two decades of service. Family members and parents recounted specific examples of Varma’s classroom practices and the emotional support she provided to students. Dr. Knappick read a message from Superintendent Dr. Oscar Macias expressing condolences and outlining district support including counseling and partnerships with Family Service Agency and other local providers.
Board and community follow‑up: Trustees and staff acknowledged the profound effect on the Bret Hart community. School administrators confirmed that counseling resources and site supports had been deployed and that the district will continue to offer additional assistance during the grieving process.
Representative quotes "Arati was a dedicated Burbank educator for more than 20 years, a proud and loving mother and a truly beautiful human being." — Lucy Bowers, principal of Bret Hart Elementary. "The care she provided us was so deeply felt, and it will stay with us for the rest of our lives." — Sam Benson, parent.
What’s next: The district has arranged on‑site counseling and other supports; board members urged continued community contributions of time and resources and pledged to follow up on any outstanding needs for the Bret Hart community.
