Serving over 206,000 students across Fresno County, The Foundation @ FCOE raised over $1.6 million in 2023-2024 to support programs and services that ensure students obtain a well-rounded education with Excellence, Access, and Innovation at the forefront.
- Excellence: To support academic and co-curricular student events coordinated by the Office of the Fresno County Superintendent of Schools, such as Academic Decathlon, College Night, Science Fair, Spelling Bee, Young Authors’ Faire, and Career Tech Expo.
- Access: To help fund countywide programs that promote opportunities for student success, such as early care and education, empowerment and equity supports, graduation rate improvement, college and career-tech readiness, libraries, technology and more.
- Innovation: To provide grants to school programs across the county that demonstrate innovation and improve student educational success.
Countywide Impact
Exanding Robotics in Rural Schools
The FCSS Robotics program continues to expand opportunities for students across Fresno County, introducing more young learners to the exciting possibilities of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). Over the past year, the program welcomed seven new schools to FIRST Tech Challenge (FTC) and 11 new schools to FIRST LEGO League (FLL). In total, 23 schools, 25 FTC teams, and 191 students participated in competitive robotics, reflecting the growing interest in hands-on STEM learning.
Career Tech Expo
The FCSS CTE Expo at Chukchansi Park was filled with energy and excitement, welcoming more than 2,000 students for a day of hands-on learning, career exploration, and engagement with industry partners. The event provided students with an opportunity to step beyond the classroom and explore the many career pathways available to them through interactive experiences and direct connections with professionals.
STEM for Girls
The FCSS STEM for Girls Conference brought 480 students to Fresno State for a day of exploration, discovery, and exposure to careers in STEM. Designed to spark curiosity and encourage students to envision themselves in STEM fields, the conference provided opportunities to connect with STEM professionals, learn about career pathways, and participate in interactive breakout sessions. Through hands-on experiences and exposure to professionals working in these fields, students gained a broader understanding of the many opportunities available to them.
October Superintendent's Superstar
A senior at Washington Union High School, Elizabeth’s dedication, determination and accomplishments are what truly set her apart. She has demonstrated an impressive commitment to academic excellence while actively taking on challenges that foster both personal and professional growth. A dedicated four-year member of the Robotics Pathway, Elizabeth serves as President and competes on the team, helping earn several team recognitions and qualifying for Nationals last school year. Her work reflects her strong problem-solving skills, initiative and commitment to teamwork.
September Superintendent's Superstar
An 8th grader at Washington Colony Elementary School, Layla is an exceptional Golden Patriot student who has been enrolled in Washington Colony since kindergarten. Layla has maintained a 4.0 GPA throughout all of middle school. She is a dedicated student-athlete who participates in multiple sports throughout the year and has also been a member of the middle school band. Layla goes above and beyond, not only academically but also in her social life. She is a true example of what a Patriot stands for. She is respectful, responsible, prepared and always follows directions.
Tech Bridge: Bridging Gaps, Building Futures
Five local students are beginning their college journeys with new technology and resources to help them stay connected and succeed in college. The Foundation @ FCOE, in partnership with the FCSS Foster and Homeless Youth Education Services Department, recently distributed laptops to five students who graduated from high school and are continuing their education at colleges and universities. The laptops are part of the Tech Bridge: Bridging Gaps, Building Futures project, an initiative designed to provide technology to students who have experienced foster care or homelessness as they transition from high school to higher education.
August Superintendent's Superstar
An incoming senior at Sierra High School, Madison is an exceptional scholar-athlete who ranks second in her class with a 4.43 GPA. She has taken several dual-enrollment college courses alongside her high school honors and AP courses, meeting all academic standards with exemplary marks, all resulting from diligent work habits. While completing the Marketing and Business Leadership CTE pathway, Madison has excelled in learning Canva, Google Workspace and Canvas, demonstrating her creativity through media posts and campus promotional materials. Madison has been a member of the Associated Student Body Leadership program since junior high at Sierra Junior Senior High School. During this period, she has served the Class of 2027 as class representative, secretary, and vice president.
Innovation Grant Applications Now Open
The Foundation @ FCOE is now accepting applications for the 2026 Innovation Grants, providing Fresno County educators with an opportunity to bring creative ideas and innovative learning experiences to their students. The Innovation Grants are designed to encourage fresh approaches to teaching and learning by supporting projects that enhance student development, academic achievement, and engagement. The Foundation aims to award one grant of up to $1,000 to each school district in Fresno County, helping educators turn innovative ideas into impactful programs that benefit students.