Education Matters

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