Leading With Vision, Building Brighter Futures
Welcome to the website for Carol Reid Kluthe and Rachel VanLandingham, candidates for Hermosa Beach School Board.
Carol and Rachel
Carol Reid Kluthe
Rachel VanLandingham
Rachel VanLandingham
President, Hermosa Beach Education Foundation; professional career in project management; long-standing, active community volunteer; proud district parent; champion of quality public education in Hermosa Beach
Rachel VanLandingham
Rachel VanLandingham
Rachel VanLandingham
Lieutenant Colonel, US Air Force (retired); tenured law professor; T1D mom & proud district parent; engaged school/city volunteer; staunch advocate for educational excellence & opportunities to thrive
About Carol Reid Kluthe
Why I Love Our Little Beach Town and its Schools
IIn 2010, my husband Quentin and I and our two daughters moved to Hermosa Beach for what are probably a lot of the same reasons as many of you: the unique small community feel, the beautiful beach at our doorstep, and for the schools. We hoped for a great educational experience for our children, and found one here in Hermosa Beach. My involvement in Hermosa schools began when my children started in the district, volunteering in the classroom and at school events. Recognizing a deeper need to support our schools and bring back programs no longer funded, for eight years I served as a on the board for Hermosa Beach Education Foundation (HBEF), including three years as President. In those roles I worked to secure vital programs and funding for our students and community.
Leading in Excellence
- While President, HBEF broke fundraising records and, over my eight years with the organization, we raised $9M.
- I worked closely with the school board members and superintendent to bring back critical programs including music, band, STEM, and Spanish, as well as funding full-time counselors at each campus - all programs and initiatives that help make Hermosa Beach an award-winning school district.
- I was a collaborative member of the committee to reopen our Hermosa schools during COVID and worked alongside staff, the superintendent and other key stakeholders to be one of the first school districts to reopen in LA County.
- I implemented operational and standardized processes for HBEF, including greater transparency with creating an Annual Report, more efficient donor management system, and event software.
- I strengthened ties with business partners and community members, and I oversaw successful and high-profile events such as Hearts of Hermosa and the Skechers Friendship Foundation Walk.
Making our Hermosa Schools Thrive
Along with my tenure with HBEF, I volunteered on the Local Control and Accountability Committee (LCAP; state funding planning) for six years, and served on the superintendent advisory committee for four years. My experience with our district budget, school-connected organizations’ budgets, our unique schools, all key stakeholders, and our vibrant community has deepened my understanding and respect of what it takes for our schools to thrive. It would be an honor to continue to be an advocate for children in Hermosa Beach. I kindly ask for your vote for Hermosa Beach School Board on the November 5th ballot.
I welcome the chance to connect, in person or by phone. Please reach out with any questions via email and stay posted on meet ups on Instagram or Facebook.
With Warm Regards,
Carol
About Rachel VanLandingham
I’m passionate about ensuring that every child in Hermosa Beach schools thrives, and that's why I am running for our school board.
I’m Rachel VanLandingham, a proud Hermosa mom, professor, and retired Lieutenant Colonel with 24 years of active duty in the U.S. Air Force. Together with my husband, Hb City Council member Ray Jackson, we chose Hermosa Beach as our home for its outstanding schools, and our two boys have been a part of this wonderful community since 2014, attending our schools since kindergarten.
In early 2023, our family faced an unexpected challenge when our youngest son, currently at Valley, was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes. The compassion and support we received from the school community—teachers, staff, and leaders—was overwhelming. It’s because of this community that our son was back in school the day after leaving the hospital, thriving despite his diagnosis.
This experience strengthened my belief that our children face unique challenges on their learning journeys, and I deeply understand the importance of a strong school-parent partnership to meet those needs. As a member of the Superintendent’s Wellness Council, I have helped our district focus on promoting responsible, healthy and age-appropriate technology use; anti-bullying initiatives; and healthy body image awareness for our students.
Why I’m Running:
With my background in military leadership, my nine years leading a national nonprofit, and over a decade of teaching experience, I bring a diverse set of skills and a commitment to teamwork, compassion, and community. I want to work alongside you to ensure that our schools continue to excel, with a focus on learning, achievement, and wellness for all students.
My Qualifications:
- 24 years of military leadership (Lieutenant Colonel, USAF, retired)
- Tenured professor of law at a local law school
- Leader of a national nonprofit for service members
- Nine-year involved Hermosa schools parent (youngest at Valley now)
I’m honored to seek your vote for our school board. Together, we can build on our strong school community to ensure every student has the support and resources they need to succeed.
I'd love to hear your thoughts and questions! Please reach out via email or social media (linked below), and let’s work together to continue making Hermosa Beach a wonderful place for our children and entire community.
Warmly,
Rachel VanLandingham