This update has been very difficult to write as we mourn the sudden loss of our beloved principal, Tony Corten. Tony had a long history in Pacifica, teaching at Ortega, serving as Vice Principal at Sunset Ridge, and most recently as Principal at Ocean Shore. His passing leaves a deep void in the lives of the families he impacted. In his short time at Ocean Shore, Tony won the hearts of students, staff, and parents with his positivity, excitement, and genuine care, inspiring hope for the school’s future. The OSSPTO has sent a gift to his wife Kelley, and we encourage contributions to the GoFundMe set up in his memory. A memorial service will be held on Sunday, March 30, 2025 at 1 PM at Terra Nova High School Gym. All are welcome.
Legal Update
On February 20, 2025, the Ocean Shore PTO and Pacifica Citizen Alliance filed an amendment to the lawsuit against the Pacifica School District, adding eleven new complaints. The goal is to halt further harm to K-8 schools and push for a court order ensuring the district follows due process, engages with the community, and conducts necessary financial evaluations before proceeding with any more reorganization plans. On February 26, 2025, the School Board met in closed session to discuss the lawsuit and explore mediation options offered by our legal counsel. We are awaiting their decision on this. They have however removed the dumpster from OSS. The district is actively trying to curtail the use of PTO funds to challenge their illegal actions even though we are an independent organization. Please consider donating to the legal fund to help us continue the fight.
Pacifica Citizen Alliance (PCA):
The PCA, a group of local residents, is advocating for more accountability and transparency from the school district. Visit their website for ways to get involved.
What’s New on Transition Plans
The district has formed one Visionary Team so far consisting of principals, staff, and a handful of parents selected by the principal to address transition logistics of Ocean Shore to Sunset Ridge The first meeting was held on February 25, 2025, just before Tony Corten’s passing. Jeanne Bellinger will replace Tony on this team at the next bi-weekly meeting. A separate team is expected for the transition to IBL but has not been established yet.
The district also announced selections for the Transition Team with representative parents from all schools on February 21, 2025. This team will meet for the first time on March 19, 2025
Got Questions? We’ve Got Answers.
We have a new Frequently Asked Questions page on our website:
Catch up on what’s happening, our position, and key talking points. Also, find out more about what we are doing to protect our K-8 school.
How You Can Help
- Support teachers and staff: Volunteer to provide general assistance to teachers over the next few weeks in case they need to step out as they continue to grieve the loss of Tony..
- Attend the protest: Join the protest before the next school board meeting on March 12, 2025 at 4:30pm at the District Offices on Reina Del Mar Ave
