Hort Elementary has be providing academic services for many years. Before it adopted the name “Hort” in 1956, it was known as Hawthorne School. The school was named after Fred Hort and his wife Ovillah. Fred Hort worked with the city schools for 21 years, including roles as storekeeper and assistant purchasing agent. Ovillah Hort taught in many schools in Bakersfield from 1910 to 1955. She helped establish the first hot-lunch program and was active in the first parent-teacher association in Bakersfield. We are proud to have such a rich heritage, and everyday the staff continues the valiant efforts of Mr. and Mrs. Hort to provide excellence and innovation in education for each of its students.