Education Matters

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.