Education Matters

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'

The Washington Unified School District celebrates a milestone with 144 students reclassified from English learners to fluent speakers. Rosa Lopez and Maria Rodriguez, who faced significant challenges and self-doubt, successfully passed the English Language Proficiency Assessments for California, thanks to the dedication of their teachers and staff.

Thank you to our sponsors – Chevron & Educational Employees Credit Union!

Celebrating the incredible achievements of students from the Fresno County Superintendent of Schools Adult Transition Program! Despite challenges, graduates like Gabriella Lucio have developed essential life and job skills. Gabby, who has worked at Ace Hardware for three years, is a shining example of perseverance and success. Proud families and teachers cheered on these inspiring students!

Patrick Guizar, a 21-year-old diagnosed with autism at age three, enjoys pickleball and works at Grocery Outlet in Kerman. Enrolled in the Fresno County Superintendent of Schools Adult Transition Program, he has made remarkable progress from being non-verbal in his early years to excelling in various pursuits, including earning the prestigious American FFA Degree. Recently, Patrick was honored as a Superintendent’s Superstar, demonstrating the potential of students with special needs when given support and opportunities.

Edison High senior Matthew Pitcher, along with classmates, was honored by dignitaries for creating the Edison High Peace Garden in memory of Ali Shabazz, a beloved community leader. This project taught Matthew about civic engagement as he navigated challenging bureaucratic processes to secure approval and support. The Civic Education Center aids students in such community projects, emphasizing the importance of teaching civics to foster future leaders.

Thank you to our sponsors – Chevron & Educational Employees Credit Union!

At the School Safety Symposium, law enforcement officials emphasized the multifaceted threats facing students beyond shootings, including bullying, social media dangers, and substance abuse. They underscored the importance of collaborative efforts among schools, law enforcement, and mental health professionals to address these issues and urged students to speak up about concerning behavior to prevent tragedies. The focus was on proactive intervention rather than punitive measures, aiming to steer individuals away from violence and towards positive paths.

Students at CART, collaborating with the Fresno Chaffee Zoo, crafted enrichment tools like a faux prey feeder for animals, sparking natural behaviors. Through research, design, and partnership with zookeepers, these creations engage animals physically and behaviorally, reflecting their wild instincts. This collaborative effort not only benefits the animals but also provides real-world learning opportunities for students, emphasizing the importance of hands-on education.

Thank you to our sponsors – Chevron & Educational Employees Credit Union!

Students from CTEC High School in Fresno County, along with their counterparts from Duncan Polytechnical High School, CART (Center for Advanced Research and Technology), Fresno State, and other participating schools, are gearing up to contribute to the production of the Trion Nemesis, an electric supercar. Selected for their demonstrated expertise in programs such as heavy machinery, engineering, and welding, these students will play a pivotal role in constructing various components of the vehicle.

Central Unified students successfully advocate for the presence of Narcan, a life-saving m

Kings Canyon Middle School in Fresno Unified School District has been designated as a Cali

Jacqueline and Breanne, mentored by their science fair coach Stephanie Salas since sixth g

Young construction workers enrolled in high school pathway programs raced against the clock to build storage sheds in just three days, emulating a real workday experience. Mentored by industry professionals, these students showcased their skills and enthusiasm, with Clovis High School clinching the top prize, some even securing job offers. The event not only highlighted their talent but also emphasized the importance of hands-on education in preparing students for lifelong careers in construction.

The LAO Community Mini Conference, hosted by the Fresno County Superintendent of Schools, brought together Lao youth, parents, and elders to navigate the balance between cultural traditions and educational aspirations. Speakers like Diane Phakonekham emphasized the importance of understanding and supporting children's individual goals, while participants gained valuable insights into college application processes, financial aid, and resources.