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Board honors longtime kindergarten teacher Lori Koch and occupational therapist Christine Soria
Summary
The Hermosa Beach City School District board recognized Lori Koch’s 36 years of kindergarten teaching and noted occupational therapist Christine Soria’s contributions; colleagues recalled classroom culture, partnership, and long-term impact on students and staff.
The Hermosa Beach City School District board opened its meeting by recognizing two longtime staff members for their service. Superintendent Dr. Wilds introduced a tribute to kindergarten teacher Lori Koch and occupational therapist Christine Soria, noting their “unwavering dedication” and the ways they shaped students’ early experiences.
Colleagues who worked alongside Koch described her classroom as a “safe haven” where children learned letters and numbers alongside kindness and curiosity. One colleague said, “Miss Koch is the kind of teacher you hope your child has, for their 1st years of school, and I learned so much from her.” The board presented district and community recognition and invited Koch’s longtime partner teacher to offer memories and cheers from the community.
The board also acknowledged Christine Soria’s work supporting students behind the scenes. Dr. Wilds said Soria had “worked magic in quieter, deeply meaningful ways,” helping students build independence and access classrooms more fully. Board members and guests invited the retiring staff and their families to the front for photographs and a ceremonial wave to the community.
The recognition segment concluded with board members thanking both educators and noting the value of sustained relationships between teachers, families and district programs.
