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August 22.2025
3 Minutes Read

Enrollment Boost in LAUSD: A Testament to Community Trust and Engagement

Real estate banner featuring contact details for LAUSD enrollment increase.

Los Alamitos' Enrollment Increases: A Community Story

The start of the 2025-26 school year in Los Alamitos Unified School District (LAUSD) has brought both surprise and hope. Despite earlier projections of declining enrollment, the district reported a positive twist with an actual increase of 142 students, totaling 8,702 enrolled students this year. Families in the district are demonstrating a renewed confidence in their local schools, as enrollment in Universal Transitional Kindergarten and kindergarten classes surpasses expectations.

A Fresh Start for Students and Educators

With classrooms buzzing with activity, the energy of returning students and staff has reignited the spirit of community in Los Alamitos. The schools kicked off their year with the traditional Welcome Back Staff Meeting on August 12, rallying teachers and staff around the theme, “For Good.” This year’s chosen theme is a reminder of the positive impact educators have on their students’ lives and the collective responsibility they share in nurturing young minds.

Understanding why Enrollment is Surging

So, what's behind the shift in student enrollment? Experts argue that a combination of factors plays a crucial role. Families are increasingly recognizing the advantages of starting their children’s education in trusted environments. The district’s commitment to providing robust educational programs, with a focus on early childhood education, has instilled a sense of security and hope among parents. This growing trust has likely contributed to the surge in kindergarten and transitional kindergarten enrollments.

Engaging with the Community: Strengthening Bonds

Beyond the figures, this enrollment boom serves as a testimony to the bonds forged within the local community. Schools are stepping up with initiatives designed to engage families more intimately. For instance, communication boards are being introduced at all elementary schools to facilitate interaction. This initiative symbolizes more than just a logistical improvement; it reflects a broader commitment to keeping families involved in their children’s educational journeys.

The Role of Parents and the Community

Parents have played an indispensable role in this enrollment surge. Their engagement in local school activities has fostered a stronger community spirit, making schools not just places of learning but also community hubs. Many families are volunteering at schools, sharing their skills, and creating support networks that further enrich the educational experience. Through such engagement, LAUSD strengthens its connection not only with its students but with the broader community fabric.

Looking Ahead: What the Future Holds for LAUSD

As the school year progresses, the district is focused on sustaining this encouraging trend. It’s essential to ensure that the quality of education keeps pace with enrollment growth. LAUSD is prioritizing strategies that enhance academic offerings while maintaining small class sizes, enabling personalized instruction that meets each student’s unique needs.

Encouragement for Local Families

This optimism surrounding enrollment suggests that families in Los Alamitos are ready for a new chapter. More than just numbers, the enrollment increase signifies hope and trust in the education system, showcasing how community values and engagement can culminate in positive outcomes for future generations.

As we witness this transformation, local residents are invited to stay involved, support local educational initiatives, and nurture this thriving spirit of collaboration. Join school events, volunteer, and engage with educators and fellow parents—your contributions matter.

With schools being central to shaping the future of Los Alamitos, be part of this growing educational movement. Start by attending upcoming local educational meetings or family events to see first-hand how you can positively impact school communities.

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11.21.2025

Experience the Triumph of 'Harbour Chronicles' This Thanksgiving!

Update Local Film Shines Bright: 'Harbour Chronicles' Triumphs The heartwarming documentary, Harbour Chronicles: Shaping a Legacy, has been making waves beyond the shores of Seal Beach, capturing not only the hearts of its viewers but also prestigious accolades at the Newport Beach Film Festival. Directed by local hero Chris Sardelis, this film has emerged as a shining tribute to the life of Rich Harbour, a pioneer in the surfboard industry and a passionate filmmaker who chronicled the essence of surfing culture through his lens. A Special Homecoming Screening Fans of the film and local residents are in for a treat as Harbour Chronicles returns to the Bay Theatre on Saturday, November 29, for a special showing. This event marks a spectacular homecoming, as the Bay Theatre was the first venue to showcase the film after its renovation. Theatre manager Ben Ahle expressed excitement about the timing, calling it a perfect Thanksgiving celebration for the community. Success at the Newport Beach Film Festival At the Newport Beach Film Festival, Harbour Chronicles garnered the coveted Audience Choice Award and also won the Best Action Sports Feature award. This recognition underscores the film's powerful storytelling and connection with the audience. Sardelis highlighted the significance of these awards, stating, "Winning the audience choice award has been a dream come true. It’s a testament to Rich's legacy and the surfing community that embraced him." A Glimpse Into Surfing History The film shares an intimate portrayal of Rich Harbour's determination and artistry in starting his surfboard business, Harbour Surfboards, located just a stone’s throw away from the Bay Theatre. With a blend of nostalgic footage shot by Harbour himself in the '60s and '70s, the film immerses viewers in the golden age of surfing, capturing not just the sport but the vibrant culture surrounding it. What to Expect from the Special Showing The screening on November 29 promises to be more than just a film showing. Starting at 6:00 p.m., attendees will enjoy special features including a previously unreleased 16-minute short film showcasing additional footage from Rich's extensive archive. Plus, there will be a unique auction featuring the first surfboard ever shaped by Rich Harbour and a handcrafted skateboard. These events not only enhance the viewing experience but also honor Rich's legacy in an interactive format. Celebrating Community and Connection Community engagement is at the forefront of this event. Return attendees will relive memories of when Seal Beach was a premier surfing destination, while newcomers will gain insights into the rich history of the sport through a local lens. Emphasizing the importance of community, Sardelis remarked, "This film connects us to our roots, celebrating not only Rich's story but the stories of everyone who rode those early waves with him." Getting Involved and Supporting Local Culture Tickets for the special showing can be purchased through the Bay Theatre's website, while auction items can be accessed at Harbour Surfboards. This event is a rare chance to support local arts and honor a community legend at the same time. As the documentary continues to resonate, Sardelis is hopeful that it inspires future generations to explore their passions and pursue their dreams. Conclusion: More Than Just a Film Harbour Chronicles is much more than a documentary; it is a celebration of life, community, and the enduring spirit of surfing. As it makes its special return, it invites everyone from seasoned surfers to curious newcomers to engage with the heritage that defines Seal Beach. Don’t miss this unique opportunity—mark your calendars for November 29 and take part in a cinematic journey that honors the heart and soul of surfing culture.

11.14.2025

Seal Beach's Heartfelt Veterans Day Observation: A Tribute to Our Heroes

Update Honoring Our Heroes: Veterans Day in Seal Beach 2025 Seal Beach embraced its community spirit this November 11, 2025, as locals gathered in Eisenhower Park to honor the brave men and women who have served our nation. The annual Veterans Day ceremony, showcasing heartfelt tributes and performances, was a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made by veterans. The atmosphere was charged with respect and gratitude, as residents filled the park, many standing shoulder to shoulder to witness the ceremony. Beautiful Music Filling the Air The event opened with the stirring notes of the National Anthem performed by local country singers, Franklin Wall. Their rendition of “God Bless America” and “American the Beautiful” filled the air with pride, while their original song “A Life You Thought You Had,” co-written with veteran Steven McClintock, resonated deeply with the audience. The music complemented the event's solemnity, setting an emotional tone as the crowd reflected on the courage and commitment of veterans. A Moment for Reflection and Prayer Father Christos Kanakis, the chaplain of the Seal Beach Police Department, offered engaging prayers to open and close the ceremony. His words invited attendees to pause and reflect on the freedom and safety they enjoy due to the sacrifices made by veterans. This spiritual component added depth to the ceremony, reminding all present of the shared values that bind the community. Voices of Valor: Veterans Share Their Stories The speakers of the day added a personal touch, sharing unique experiences and insights that drew the crowd closer in understanding. John Osborn, a veteran of the U.S. Army National Guard and member of the Seal Beach Lions Club, spoke about his journey and the importance of camaraderie among service members. Scott Quinlan, representing blind veterans, delivered a moving address that highlighted the challenges faced by veterans after service. Quinlan emphasized the need for community awareness and support, resonating with the theme of collective responsibility—as OC Supervisor Janet Nguyen aptly pointed out during her remarks. She underscored that veterans often hesitate to ask for help, motivating the community to step up and offer their backing. Embracing the Future Daren DeLeon of Honor Flight provided a look toward what is offered to veterans, sharing how the organization facilitates trips for veterans to visit memorials in Washington, D.C. His connection to the community was cemented through a personal story, sharing that his son is graduating from West Point and looking forward to serving just as other veterans have. Daren's request for strength from fellow veterans for his son encapsulated the day’s theme of unity and support. The Community Spirit Shines Bright The gathering not only celebrated the sacrifices of veterans but also fostered a sense of community as attendees exchanged stories and connections. The warm camaraderie presented a vivid picture of how local pride can thrive in remembrance and respect for the past. This event emphasized the ongoing importance of recognizing our veterans, not just on Veterans Day but throughout the year. Join Us in Continuing the Tradition As Seal Beach moves forward, the legacy of camaraderie and honor experienced in Eisenhower Park will undoubtedly continue to grow. The community’s support for veterans can take many forms, including volunteering for organizations that provide services, participating in local parades, or simply being there to listen when a veteran wishes to share their story. In an effort to keep these heartwarming narratives alive, residents are encouraged to participate in community discussions and events that spotlight veteran affairs. The stories shared are not just tales of the past; they are the threads that weave the fabric of our community. Stay engaged, show your support, and let our veterans know every day that they are truly appreciated. As Seal Beach observes Veterans Day, we are reminded of the courage, resilience, and spirit of service that defines our heroes. Let's continue to honor them, not just today, but every day.

11.07.2025

Discover the Joy of Community at Seal Beach Pumpkin Palooza Halloween Bash

Update A Local Tradition Comes to Life: The Seal Beach Pumpkin Palooza The annual Seal Beach Pumpkin Palooza Halloween Bash, coordinated by the ever-charismatic duo of Jim Quinlan and Rhonda Berry, once again brought together the community for a joyous day of creativity and connection on October 30, 2025. This year marked the fifth anniversary of this beloved neighborhood event, drawing in over 200 enthusiastic participants eager to showcase their pumpkin carving skills. From Neighbors to Friends: The Heart of the Celebration The Pumpkin Palooza, held at the intersection of 13th Street and Central Avenue, has evolved into much more than just a pumpkin carving event. "It continues to be a magical assembly where neighbors meet neighbors,” shared Quinlan. The intimate nature of the gathering fosters connections that go beyond the joy of Halloween. Children await the announcement of the event, and as they carve pumpkins side by side with adults, friendships blossom, transforming a typical neighborhood into a community. A Community Effort: Making It Happen Preparation for this festivity involved meticulous planning weeks in advance. Invitations hand-delivered to homes set the tone for participation within the community. The hands-on approach of the organizers ensured that every detail was attended to. The local support from businesses such as Devynn’s Garden, who generously donated pumpkins, accentuates the importance of community togetherness. Local volunteers, including familiar faces like Terri Quinlan and Roland Mollan, contributed their time and effort to ensure the event was a resounding success. Inspiring the Next Generation: A Learning Experience This year's gathering also featured a special visit from the Growing Tree Child Development Center. The presence of young children brought an added layer of joy to the day. As they learned about Halloween event preparations and participated in the carving festivities, these early lessons in community spirit served as an inspiring reminder for all volunteers involved. "Positive inspiration from little children is always the highlight for volunteers," Berry remarked, underlining the role of the event in nurturing future generations of community members. Environmental Awareness: A Green Perspective One aspect of the event that raises awareness is the fate of the beautifully carved pumpkins. Once they have served their festive purpose on Halloween, they inevitably become waste due to their short shelf life. While participants enjoy the fruit of their labor, discussions surrounding environmental impact and how to minimize waste began to surface. This year, organizers are considering how to repurpose pumpkins beyond Halloween, exploring ideas like composting or donating to local farms. By raising such awareness, the Pumpkin Palooza is not just about fun but also about fostering environmental responsibility. More than Just Carving: The Spirit of Seal Beach Beyond the pumpkins and the carving, the essence of the Pumpkin Palooza lies in its embodiment of the local spirit. As residents turned out in droves, the event showcased Seal Beach not just as a coastal town but as a close-knit community where neighbors come together to celebrate, enjoy fellowship, and create memories. Each year, the sight of glowing pumpkins lining the neighborhood streets sends a heartwarming message of unity and joy, illuminating the faces of both young and old alike. As the sun sets on Halloween night, families return to see their creations lit up as beacons of creativity and camaraderie. “It’s wonderful to see all the neighbors coming together, pick out a pumpkin to carve and work on their unique designs,” said Berry, capturing the essence of the event succinctly. The love, laughter, and leadership displayed at the Pumpkin Palooza make this not just an event, but an irreplaceable part of the Seal Beach culture. Conclusion: Join the Fun Next Year! As we reflect on the heartwarming experiences of the Pumpkin Palooza, let’s remember the importance of community in building strong relationships and creating lasting memories. If you’re a Seal Beach resident, make sure to mark your calendar for next year’s event. Whether you’re a seasoned pumpkin carver or a curious newcomer, there’s always room for more joy and creativity. Let’s continue this beautiful tradition and further enrich our neighborhood with shared stories, friendships, and, of course, pumpkins!

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