Education Matters

Fresno County Superintendent of Schools is helping rural districts meet the needs of the whole child through the Community Schools Consortium. From on-site health clinics and food pantries to internships and expanded learning, Community Schools go beyond academics to provide critical services for students and families. Learn how districts like Washington Union and others are partnering with FCSS to expand opportunities, engage parents, and strengthen communities.

Fresno Pacific University is celebrating a historic moment with a record-setting $21.9 million gift from the King J. Richter family — the largest in school history. This endowment will provide scholarships for students now and for generations to come, helping first-generation and low-income students achieve their dreams of higher education.

FPU President Dr. André Stephens shares how this gift, combined with a 5-star rating from Money Magazine’s 2025 Best Colleges list, highlights Fresno Pacific’s commitment to affordability, student success, and faith-based education.

Students across Fresno County are using their creativity to honor the spirit of unity that followed September 11 through the annual Spirit of 9/12 Art and Poetry Contest, hosted by the Fresno County Superintendent of Schools and the 9/11 Memorial.

Central Unified has a new leader at the helm. Dr. Mark Marshall, who stepped into his role as Superintendent in July, is spending his first 100 days meeting students, greeting teachers, and listening to community members. With years of experience leading districts in Los Banos and Lancaster, and a career that began as a special education teacher, Dr. Marshall is focused on keeping kids first.

Moving into a college dorm is a big milestone—but for foster youth without family support, even basic necessities can be out of reach. Thanks to the Foster and Homeless Youth Department at the Fresno County Superintendent of Schools, students like Rayganne are receiving dorm kits filled with bedding, toiletries, and supplies to help ease the transition. Hear how these kits—and the caring educators behind them—are making a lasting impact.

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

Six Fresno County schools have been named California Distinguished Schools: Madison Elementary, Copper Hills Elementary, Mayfair Elementary, Goldenrod Elementary, Lincoln Elementary, and Woods (Harold L.) Elementary. Only a small percentage of schools across the state earn this honor.

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

For 23 years, the West Fresno Family Resource Center has hosted its Back-to-School Health Fair, helping families prepare for the new school year with clothes, shoes, backpacks, haircuts and health services. For some, this event provides the only way to get their children the necessities they need for school. See how this act of caring is giving kids confidence and excitement as they head back to class.

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

From icebreaker games to college-level classes, CTEC’s newest freshman class is diving headfirst into high school. See how these students from across Fresno County are building friendships, teamwork skills, and a strong start to their future careers during orientation week.

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

Fresno Unified is helping families get ready for the new school year—one shot at a time. At a recent immunization clinic, students received required vaccinations and sports physicals, with more clinics planned ahead of the first day of school. Health officials are especially concerned about kids born during the pandemic who may have missed key vaccines. Find out what families need to know before school starts.

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

At Sunnyside High School, Career Tech Education students are trading in the classroom for hands-on experience — building a “mare motel” to house goats as part of an ag science internship.

It’s just one example of the real-world training Fresno Unified students are getting this summer in construction, health, photography, and more.

More than 800 students, 20+ industry partners — and lessons that go far beyond the books.

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