The Beverly Hills Unified School District (BHUSD) held a special Organizational Board of Education Meeting and Installation of the 2024-2025 officers on Dec. 17. Two new board members, Sigalie Sabag and Russell Stuart, joined the BHUSD board amidst poignant moments of reflection, gratitude and celebration at the highly attended event. The board also discussed various committee assignments and roles, including liaison positions for city relations and health and safety.
Highlighting a strong partnership between the city of Beverly Hills and the district, the event was attended by several community leaders including Vice Mayor Sharona Nazarian, Councilmembers John Mirisch, Craig Corman and Mary Wells, Beverly Hills Chief of Police Mark Stainbrook and Deputy City Manager Keith Sterling.
Nazarian told the Courier, “It was an honor to swear in two strong, capable women who join a board that now includes four remarkable female leaders—a reflection of the growing trend of women stepping into leadership roles in our community. As this new board of five steps into its role, I want to acknowledge the incredible teachers, administrators and staff who form the backbone of our schools. Our community has entrusted them all with our most precious assets—their children—and I have every confidence in their ability to lead with purpose, compassion and strength as we work together to build a brighter and more united future for our district.”
The event opened on a high note, with performances by the Beverly Hills High School Madrigal Singers led by their teacher Ethan Smith and a rendition of “God Bless America” by Joy Weiser. Superintendent Dr. Michael Bregy remarked upon the district’s achievements and the collaborative leadership of the outgoing and incoming board members, before the board turned their attention to a resolution honoring current President Amanda Stern.
“It’s been a real honor over the last four years,” Stern said, “And it’s an honor to continue to serve an incredible city and incredible District.” Stern will remain an active member, having recently won a second term serving on the BHUSD board.
Heartfelt gratitude was also expressed to outgoing board member Noah Margo. Margo has an extensive history in the education sector, having served as a dedicated member of the BHUSD for 13 years, making him one of the longest- serving elected officials on the Board of Education. Margo was commended by board members for his leadership and contributions to the BHUSD throughout various initiatives. With a strong focus on student growth, Margo allocated funding to raise student achievement, supported the PSAT and SAT for all high school students, expanded access to AP courses and advocated for classroom-based solutions for student success, alongside many more initiatives. After a detailed resolution was read out, several board members and community members offered tributes and expressed their thanks for Margo’s leadership, dedication and positive impact on the district and its students over the years.
Swearing in new board member Sabag, Nazarian said, “You’re no stranger to this district. You’ve been a deeply invested parent, always prioritizing the success of our students and the wellbeing of our children. I know you’re ready to lead with strength and tackle the challenges ahead with courage.”
“I do not and will never take this role as trustee for granted. I am truly honored and thrilled to accept the opportunity to serve on the Beverly Hills Unified School District Governing Board. I’m immensely grateful for the trust and support of our Beverly Hills community,” Sabag said.
Mirisch then administered the oath of office to Russell Stuart, who is assuming his new role while continuing to recover from injuries sustained in a carjacking incident last month during the Rodeo Drive holiday lighting celebrations. Stuart is looking forward to bringing private sector principles and efficiency to the school district, such that it can operate with the same level of responsibility, transparency and fiscal discipline that successful businesses do.
Stuart told the Courier, “[The ceremony] was incredibly humbling, and I’m filled with gratitude for the trust this community has placed in me. As I step into this role, I’m excited to collaborate with parents, teachers and my fellow board members to strengthen our schools. I’m committed to applying private-sector efficiency, accountability and innovation to ensure our children receive a world-class education. Together, we can build a future where every child feels safe, supported and ready to succeed.”
After swearing in the new board members, the new board president, vice president and clerk were elected and agreed upon. Rachelle Marcus was nominated and elected unanimously as the new board president. Judy Manouchehri was nominated for the vice president role, and this nomination was seconded and approved unanimously by the board. Manouchehri’s father-in-law, Parviz Manouchehri, administered the oath of office, officially installing Judy as the new board vice president. Finally, Stern was nominated and chosen as the new board clerk. The board also discussed and assigned various liaison roles, including City Liaison, Joint Powers Agreement, Health and Safety Commission, Human Relations, Recreation and Parks, District Finance Committee, Citizens Bond Oversight Committee, Wellness Committee and CTE Committee.
When opening the floor to public comments, several students spoke about their disappointment over the suspension of Beverly Hills High School teacher Romeo Carey, who oversaw the student media platform, KBEV. Carey was recently suspended after students published a video about a controversial incident that took place at the school. Parent and graduate of BHHS, Robbie Curtis, told attendees that, “Outrage is brewing not just in the hallways of the high school, but throughout the greater Beverly Hills Community,” about Carey’s suspension.
Describing Carey as “perhaps the most admired, impactful, popular and beloved teacher at BHHS,” Curtis urged the board to conclude their investigation into the incident and imminently reinstate Carey as a teacher in the classroom.
