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
Innovation Grants Awarded
The 2025 Innovation Grant recipients were celebrated at a special reception honoring their innovation and dedication in developing programs that inspire and support student success. This year, 30 grants of up to $1,000 each were awarded, thanks to the generous support from the employees of Fresno County Superintendent of Schools (FCSS) through monthly payroll deductions.
STEM for Girls Conference
The STEM for Girls Conference (pictured below) was held at Fresno State and welcomed more than 450 girls for a full day of hands-on learning and inspiration. Students participated in a wide range of interactive workshops, explored exhibits showcasing real-world STEM applications, and heard from an inspiring keynote speaker who encouraged them to dream boldly and pursue their passions.
Career Tech Expo 2025
The Career Tech Expo, held at Chukchansi Park, welcomed more than 2,000 students eager to explore future career pathways. Throughout the day, students had the opportunity to connect with over 100 industry and college partners, participate in hands-on demonstrations, and learn directly from professionals about the skills and education needed to succeed in a wide range of fields.
October Superintendent's Superstar
The October Superintendent's Superstar is Julian, an 8th grader at Pacific Union Elementary. Julian is a hardworking student and athlete who demonstrates kindness, reliability and a willingness to help both his peers and teachers. He never hesitates when asked to assist and is often the first to volunteer. His everyday character of "doing the right thing, even when no one is looking," helps contribute to a positive learning environment for all.
September Superintendent's Superstar
The September Superintendent's Superstar is Parker. Parker, a 7th grader at Orange Center, is an extraordinary student whose character, determination and heart set him apart as a true inspiration to all who know him. He continues to raise the bar for what it means to be a dedicated student. Finishing last semester with a perfect 4.0 GPA, he exemplifies academic excellence and a deep love for learning. His consistent placement on the Honor Roll reflects not only his intelligence, but also the discipline and perseverance that fuel his success.
Reedley High’s Band Gets a Boost
Thanks to the generosity of the Rogers Endowment for the Arts, Reedley High School’s band program has received brand-new sousaphones, giving students the tools they need to create richer, fuller sounds. The new instruments enhance every performance, allowing students to explore their musical talents more fully while building confidence, discipline, and teamwork.
July Superintendent's Superstar
The July Superintendent's Superstary is Jacob Cavazos II, a standout senior at Career Technical Education Charter High School, embodies excellence, leadership and impact. As a gifted fabricator and artist, Jacob took first place in both the regional and state SkillsUSA Welding Sculpture competitions, and he will represent California at the national level — an incredible accomplishment that reflects his exceptional skill and dedication.
Fresno County Summer Arts Academy
Summer kicked off with creativity taking center stage as students from across Fresno County participated in the Fresno County Summer Arts Academy (FCSAA). FCSAA is an immersive program designed to inspire and nurture young artists. Hosted by the Fresno County Superintendent of Schools, in partnership with Fresno City College, the Academy offered hands-on instruction in visual arts, music, theater, and digital media, providing students a space to express themselves, build confidence, and explore new artistic skills.
New Kayaks, New Adventures at Scout Island
A few months ago, 16 brand-new kayaks arrived at the Scout Island Outdoor Education Center, thanks to the generosity of donor Kaye Bonner Cummings. With summer programs now underway, the kayaks are now in full use. Students participating in the program learn more than just how to paddle, they gain essential skills in water safety, teamwork, and communication.
Picture the Valley Film Festival
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.
Agriculture Grant Awarded to Selma High School
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.
May Superintendent's Superstar
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.
2025 Terrific Teachers!
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.
April Superintendent's Superstar
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.
Generous Gift Fuels Outdoor Learning at Scout Island
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.
Health Youth Corps Showcase
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.
March Superintendent's Superstar
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.
Clovis West Student Advances at Science Fair
The Fresno County Science Fair, hosted by Fresno County Superintendent of Schools (FCSS), once again showcased the incredible talent and innovation of local students. Among the standout participants was Olaf Muchalski, a junior from Clovis West High School, who captured the top prize by being named the Sweepstakes winner. With this prestigious honor, Olaf will now advance to the International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF), where he will compete against some of the brightest young minds from around the world.
Arts Education Month
March was Arts Education Month, a time dedicated to promoting and recognizing the importance of arts education in schools, as well as highlighting the value of integrating visual arts, music, theater, dance, and other creative disciplines into the educational experience. Throughout the month, FCSS celebrated by hosting performances every Friday, featuring talented students from local high schools. These performances were made possible in part by a grant from the Hewlett Foundation, which supports arts education initiatives.
February Superintendent's Superstar
The February Superintendent's Superstar is Jade, a junior at Laton High School and a shining example of school spirit. As a Navajo Native American and Hispanic student, Jade has maximized all that the district provides to grow, lead and inspire. Raised in the close-knit community of Laton, she has flourished in an environment that values connection, opportunity and perseverance. Drawing strength from her grandparents, the father figures who have guided her, and -- most importantly -- her mother’s unwavering support, Jade has turned encouragement into action. Guided by the saying, “Be the reason the tree grows,” she credits those who have nurtured her success and, in turn, strives to uplift others.