Education Matters

Hundreds of students celebrated Hmong Heritage Education Day at Fresno State, exploring their rich cultural traditions through workshops and performances, such as paj ntaub embroidery and creative writing. The event emphasized the importance of preserving Hmong history and language while also encouraging students to value education as a path to success. Organizers say it’s vital for younger generations to connect with their roots and understand their community’s journey over the past 50 years.

Students in the African American Youth Excellence Series took on challenges at Fresno County's Scout Island, building teamwork and leadership skills through activities like climbing and tightrope walking. This program empowers youth to embrace cultural identity, prepare for college, and grow as leaders in their communities.

Thank you to our sponsors – Educational Employees Credit Union, Chevron, Fresno Pacific University & CalViva Health

Vanessa Correa, a student in Fresno Pacific University’s Teacher Residency Program, is fulfilling her lifelong dream of becoming a teacher while giving back to her Selma community. Paired with a mentor teacher, Vanessa gains hands-on experience at Eric White Elementary, benefiting from financial support to focus on her passion. Programs like this are shaping the next generation of educators!

Thank you to our sponsors – Educational Employees Credit Union | EECU, Chevron Central California, Fresno Pacific University & CalViva Health Cares
 

AI in education offers big opportunities—but also big challenges. Dr. Todd Vasquez warns about over-relying on AI’s accuracy, while Mary Allen highlights the need for clear classroom rules. As tools grow smarter, maintaining human connection in learning is key.

Thank you to our sponsors – Educational Employees Credit Union, Chevron, Fresno Pacific University & CalViva Health

Mary Allen, a teacher at the Center for Advanced Research and Technology (CART), is pioneering the use of AI in Fresno County classrooms. She uses tools like ChatGPT to enhance student learning, focusing on guidelines and collaboration to define ethical AI use. Allen believes AI is a powerful tool that, despite challenges, can transform education when used responsibly.

Thank you to our sponsors – Educational Employees Credit Union, Chevron, Fresno Pacific University & CalViva Health

AI is transforming the classroom! Fresno City College is leading the way with a three-year grant to explore AI’s potential in education. Professor Rio Waller and her team are working to develop tailored AI tools that enhance learning and support teachers, addressing questions about effective and ethical AI use.

Thank you to our sponsors – Educational Employees Credit Union | EECU, Chevron Central California, Fresno Pacific University & CalViva Health Cares

Meet student election workers Cameron and Sharlene! These high schoolers are getting hands-on experience with the voting process and helping their community in Clovis. Young people are stepping up and learning valuable lessons in civic engagement and government.

Fresno County students explored hands-on career opportunities at the annual Career Tech Expo, where they connected with industry pros, gained practical experience in fields like construction, culinary, and medical, and even secured internships. Real pathways to future careers start here!

Thank you to our sponsors – Educational Employees Credit Union, Chevron, Fresno Pacific University & CalViva Health

Mercedes Burks, a Fresno native and technical artist for Sledgehammer Games, inspired students at the STEM for Girls Conference. Sharing her journey from biology to video game development, she emphasized that STEM offers endless opportunities, including in fields like gaming and art.

Thank you to our sponsors – Educational Employees Credit Union, Chevron, Fresno Pacific University & CalViva Health

Thanks to a new partnership and state funding, oral health education is making its way back into schools. The Fresno Economic Opportunities Commission's School-Based Sealant Program is helping prevent cavities, which can impact students' health and academic performance. Learn how local dental professionals are working to keep our kids healthy and in the classroom. #OralHealth #EducationMatters

Thank you to our sponsors – Educational Employees Credit Union, Chevron, Fresno Pacific University & CalViva Health

Fair Education Days at The Big Fresno Fair offer a unique learning experience for 20,000 students from kindergarten to eighth grade, with free entry and educational exhibits. With hands-on activities like the Aqua Pals exhibit and a historical museum, students get to see lessons from the classroom come to life. Organized in collaboration with the Fresno County Superintendent of Schools, these events turn the fair into one of the largest outdoor classrooms in the county.

Students from Sanger's Kings River High School took on the tough job of removing graffiti from boulders at Lost Lake Park, a project they worked on for nearly two years. Partnering with the Civic Education Center, they learned the importance of civic engagement and giving back to their community. Teachers at the Educators Institute for Civic Engagement echoed the value of empowering students to create change.

Thank you to our sponsors – Educational Employees Credit Union | EECU, Chevron Central California, Fresno Pacific University & CalViva Health Cares

Washington Union High School’s Patient Care Pathway is providing students like Julian Nguyen, a future cardiologist, with hands-on medical experience. The program offers dual-enrolled classes through Fresno City College, allowing students to earn a medical assisting certificate and even an associate’s degree. With a new on-campus lab and a unique community partnership, the pathway also doubles as a health clinic, giving students the chance to work alongside doctors and serve their local community.

Roosevelt High teacher Josephine Allen uses art to help students understand the history of 9/11. Through the Fresno County Superintendent of Schools’ Spirit of 9/12 contest, students like Rajkiran Kaur Jandu and Natalie Zamorano honor the events of 9/11 through art and poetry. Their work not only earned scholarships and awards but also fosters a deeper connection to history and creative expression.

Thank you to our sponsors – Educational Employees Credit Union, Chevron, Fresno Pacific University & CalViva Health

Dr. André Stephens, President of Fresno Pacific University (FPU), is focused on improving student success by simplifying administrative processes and eliminating barriers. As FPU faces challenges like declining enrollment and tight budgets, Stephens is committed to helping the university thrive. Additionally, FPU is enhancing its degree completion and graduate programs while promoting affordability through scholarships and financial aid, making the university accessible to a wider range of students.

Lorraine Acosta, Transportation Lead for Fowler Unified School District, ensures students

Misty Her, Fresno Unified School District's interim superintendent, is making it a priority to connect with students and staff by visiting 100 schools and classrooms in two weeks. Her approach aligns with her 100-day plan, which focuses on student outcomes and fostering a sense of belonging. Despite the interim title, Her is fully committed to making a lasting impact, drawing from her extensive experience in the district as a former student, teacher, principal, and deputy superintendent.

Meet Danya Gonzalez, a 22-year-old new teacher at Sunnyside High School, eager to make her mark.

Central Valley schools are embracing the concept of "community schools," where educators,

Young children at the La Vera Williams Early Learning Center in Fresno are having fun while gaining valuable knowledge. Fresno Unified is dedicated to early education, offering full-day, year-round programs. Despite the benefits of early learning, California doesn't mandate school attendance until age six, placing some children at a disadvantage. Educators emphasize the importance of informing parents about early education options to better prepare their children for future success.

Rizpah Bellard runs a front porch summer school in her neighborhood, where she teaches local children math, reading, and vocabulary. Her efforts provide a much-needed educational resource, especially for kids who missed out on formal summer school. Bellard's initiative has garnered community support, turning her porch into a vibrant learning hub and fostering a sense of togetherness.

Thank you to our sponsors – Chevron, Educational Employees Credit Union, CalViva Health, and Fresno Pacific University!

The Foundation at the Fresno County Office of Education has been bridging community partners and educational needs for 15 years. Established in 2009 in response to budget cuts, the Foundation supports schools through generous donations and annual fundraisers. Recent grants, such as one from Kaiser Permanente, fund innovative programs like a life skills kitchen for special needs students, providing valuable hands-on learning opportunities.

Thank you to our sponsors – Chevron, Educational Employees Credit Union, CalViva Health, and Fresno Pacific University!

Fresno County Superintendent of Schools is supporting Expanded Learning Programs (ELP) across 31 districts, offering students valuable enrichment opportunities. At Jefferson Elementary in Kings Canyon Unified, activities like boxing are part of the program, while Eric White Elementary in Selma Unified balances academics with enrichment, engaging over 1,200 students. These partnerships aim to enhance learning and provide essential support outside regular school hours.

The Fresno City College campus is alive with the sounds of music and arts, as the FCSS Summer Arts Program returns for its third year! Thanks to the partnership with the Office of the Fresno County Superintendent of Schools, students enjoy free classes in concert band, dance, photography, and more. Esteemed instructors like Joel Abels, Jennifer Coull and Paul Barber bring a wealth of experience to students eager to explore and develop their artistic talents.

CTEC High School's Robotics Team, the Titans, hosted their first-ever Robo Summer Camp, ta

Thanks to the CalKIDS program, California parents can now start saving for their children'