The Peer Mentoring Group at Benevidez Elementary (Parlier Unified) paired 5th and 6th grade girls with younger students needing support in managing emotions, expressing feelings, and developing social skills. Many of the mentors had previously faced challenges such as peer conflict and self-harm. Through their leadership roles, they found purpose, empowerment, and a renewed sense of responsibility, while making a positive impact on their school community.

With advancements in educational technology, students at Raisin City Elementary explored creativity and critical thinking through STEM MakeyMakey kits.

The Learn By Playing! classroom project at Heaton Elementary (Fresno Unified) focused on enhancing students' phonemic awareness, number sense, and STEM skills through the use of engaging learning games and hands-on materials. The impact was remarkable, with students showing increased confidence as they collaborated on activities designed to strengthen core academic skills.

The Laton FFA Chapter utilized the $1,000 Innovation Grant to purchase essential uniform components, significantly improving student access to leadership conferences, career development events, and livestock exhibitions. This funding was especially impactful for students from the local low-income, rural community by replacing outdated and worn items such as white collared shirts, black skirts, slacks, and dress shoes.

The Mindful Movement Through Yoga project at Riverdale High School introduced students to breath awareness and mindful movement as tools for developing self-awareness and self-management. Initially offered as an after-school enrichment through the extended learning program, the class saw greater engagement when it was brought into the school day through the AVID 11 curriculum.

The RHS Laboratory Upgrade Project focused on modernizing the on-campus farm laboratory by integrating new technology, improving infrastructure, and introducing a variety of animals to support California Career and Technical Education Standards and Next Generation Science Standards.

The Empowering Future Scientists project provided high school students with meaningful, hands-on experiences in biology that sparked curiosity and deepened scientific understanding. Through engaging experiments and activities, students explored essential topics such as plant and animal life cycles, ecosystems, human body systems, and genetics.

Measurable gains in both academic performance and self-esteem have been observed among students at Burrel Union Elementary School following the implementation of targeted support programs and engaging teaching strategies. These efforts have created a more inclusive and encouraging classroom environment where students feel empowered to participate and succeed.

The addition of a laser engraver has enabled woodshop students to develop vital 21st-century skills by incorporating modern manufacturing techniques using CAD software. Students primarily use Lightburn, the software compatible with the engraver, alongside Canva to learn graphic design basics for project layout.

Advanced students in Firebaugh High School’s Construction Technology program recently participated in the Annual Wooden Pen Making Contest. Using identical pen kits and wood blanks, students had one week to complete a handcrafted pen, applying over 35 steps and advanced woodturning techniques.

Students across Fresno County recently showcased their unique perspectives through the Picture the Valley Film Festival, a youth-led storytelling event hosted by the Office of the Fresno County Superintendent of Schools. The event invited middle and high school students to submit short films that captured life in the Central Valley. Students explored themes about entertainment, the environment, culture, safety, and social issues.

Selma High School was awarded the Marvin Meyers Agriculture Education Grant for the 2025-2026 school year. Building on the success of an already impactful agricultural education program students will engage in an exciting new enhancement: a comparative incubation project featuring emu eggs and chicken eggs. This expanded learning opportunity will deepen students' understanding of animal science while adding an entrepreneurial twist.

The May Superintendent's Superstar is Bianca, affectionately known as “Angel” by her friends. She is a senior at Clovis West High School who has consistently demonstrated excellence throughout her academic journey. She is a remarkable, competent, capable and caring student whose outstanding achievements, leadership and dedication to her school and community make her shine.

As part of Teacher Appreciation Week, the Terrific Teacher recognitions celebrated outstanding educators across Fresno County who have left an indelible mark through their inspiration, support, and encouragement of students, colleagues, families, and their communities. This year, more than 300 teachers were nominated countywide, and five exceptional educators were selected for this special recognition. Each recipient received a surprise visit to announce their award and celebrate their remarkable contributions.

The April Superintendent's Superstar is Sandra, a senior at Mendota High School who exemplifies what it means to be an Aztec. Sandra’s formal education in the United States began in the 3rd grade when she arrived from her native country of Guatemala. Sandra has maximized all the opportunities that Mendota High School offers to better herself and support the community. Sandra’s academic accomplishments are second to none. She will graduate with a GPA of 4.56.

Thanks to a generous donation, the FCSS Scout Island Outdoor Education Center is making waves—literally. Earlier this year, The Bonner Family Foundation made an impactful contribution to support the growth of the FCSS Scout Island program. Their donation funded the purchase of brand-new kayaks, which have now arrived and are ready to launch new educational adventures for students.

The Health Youth Corps Showcase brought together passionate high school students to present innovative, research-driven solutions to real health issues affecting their communities. The event highlighted the creativity and leadership of youth who are deeply engaged in improving public health where they live and learn. Projects were grounded in both personal relevance and community need, showcasing how health is shaped not just by systems and policies—but by voices on the ground.

The March Superintendent's Superstar is Zoe, a senior at University High School. Zoe is a distinguished student leader and a shining example of dedication and perseverance. With a GPA of 4.029, she demonstrates academic excellence while balancing a range of leadership roles and extracurricular activities. She currently serves as the President of the Black Student Union and Captain of the Debate and History Day teams, where she leads her peers with passion and integrity.