District Adds More Instructional Time for Students after Break
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december 2020/ january 2021
District Adds More Instructional Time for Students after Break
Update on Reopening will not take place until Fresno County by Feb. 16, schools will not physically teacher on campus or remaining in the
of Schools moves to the orange Tier 3 – moderate reopen until the fourth quarter. eLearn at My School model. Based
risk – of the state’s risk levels.
Fresno Unified will increase time with Based on required safety practices,
teachers for students in distance learning Upon reaching orange, plans call for a elementary parents will have a choice See Reopening of schools
following the winter break as it contin- safe, phased in approach to returning of in-person instruction with their Continued on page 2
ues to work toward bringing students students to in-person learning, begin-
back to campus for in-person learning ning with 50% of pre-kindergarten
when it is safe to do so. through first grade and phasing in 25%
of students at middle and high school
Instruction will resume for students
sites. Once in the orange tier, elementary
following the break on Jan. 12. Note that
schools will slowly phase in additional
Jan. 11 will not be an instruction day but
grades every two weeks.
will be used by teachers for professional
learning. Given the need to maintain six feet of
physical distancing, elementary sites
Upon returning, students in grades 1-6
will have no more than 50% of students
will have 95 minutes of additional live
on campus at one time and middle and
instructional time with their teach-
high schools will have no more than
ers each week, while middle and high
25% of students.
school students will have approximately
35 minutes of additional time per period Once the county is in the orange tier
per week. and the district can begin phasing in At Muir Elementary School Nov. 18, paraprofessional Katie Aguilar reads to
in-person learning, additional learn- students Michael Montufor, left, and Roger Esperanza while paraprofessional
The district continues to work toward
ing time will also be added. If Fresno Jacqueline Manriguez helps out. Muir is one of five pilot elementary schools with
in-person learning for students, but that small groups of students learning in person.
County does not reach the orange tier
Portion of Lane Avenue Renamed to Honor Principal Tim Liles
A portion of Lane Avenue that Liles’ service to both the campus Liles’ dedication to his students
From left, Fresno Unified
leads into Sunnyside High School and the community. Superinten- and the Sunnyside community. Superintendent Bob
was renamed for Tim Liles, the dent Bob Nelson described Liles Nelson, school board
“I think that’s so fitting the fact
campus’ beloved principal, on as “everything we would hope for member Valerie Davis
that we landed on Tim Liles Way
Nov. 6 during a ceremony in front in a leader.” and Fresno City Council
because it’s the entranceway
of the school. Member Luis Chavez
At the ceremony, Fresno City to Sunnyside High and we can
celebrate the new sign for
For video, go to Council Member Luis Chavez, always say the road to success a portion of Lane Avenue
vimeo.com/fresnounified/ who represents the area and was a goes through Tim Liles Way,” that was renamed Tim
timlilesway student of Liles’, pledged $2,500 Chavez said. Liles Way on Nov. 6. The
for a scholarship in honor of renamed street segment
Liles passed away Sept. 22 from Valerie Davis, who represents the
Liles. Combined with other dona- leads into Sunnyside High
a brain tumor. The city of Fresno, Sunnyside area, said, “I still hear
tions, the fund will have a little School, where Liles was
by vote of the Fresno City Coun- him in my ears. I still feel him in principal until passing
more than $9,000.
cil, renamed a portion of the my heart.” away in September.
street Tim Liles Way in honor of Chavez spoke at the ceremony of
Administrative Assistant Meet Two Outstanding Superintendent Message in
(Page 5) Dedicated Employees (Pages 6-7) (Page 13) (Page 15)
Wins Award Educators Spanish and Hmong
december 2020/ january 2021
reopening of schools estudiantes el 12 de enero, después de dizaje a distancia. ias y preparatorias tenían dos grupos de
Continued from page 1 las vacaciones. Tengan en cuenta que 10 estudiantes.
Se enviará una encuesta en noviembre a
el día 11 de enero, no será un día educa-
los padres y tutores de primaria, como El 3 de noviembre, el distrito duplicó
tivo, sino que será utilizado para capac-
on a special grouping of criteria, only también a los maestros con el propósito y la cantidad de grupos en los planteles
itación de aprendizaje profesional de
25% of the secondary (middle and high posibilidades de regresar al aprendizaje escolares para el aprendizaje en línea.
maestros.
school) student population will return en persona cuando el condado alcance el También, en noviembre el distrito llevó
to campus. Al regresar los estudiantes de 1ro a 6to nivel naranja. La encuesta permanecerá a cabo la enseñanza en persona en forma
grado, tendrán 95 minutos de tiempo abierta hasta el 3 de diciembre. piloto en cinco de las escuelas primarias
Once the orange tier is achieved, teach-
adicional de instrucción en vivo con sus para grupos pequeños de estudiantes en
ers will be providing instruction in El Distrito y los líderes de la Asociación
maestros cada semana, mientras que los educación especial.
person and via distance learning simul- de Maestros del Distrito de Fresno lleva-
estudiantes de secundaria y preparato-
taneously. ron a cabo una reunión de foro abierto Hauv Paus Tsev Kawm Ntxiv
ria tendrán aproximadamente 35 minu-
con los padres, estudiantes y la comuni- Sij Hawm Qhia rau Cov Tub
A survey was sent in November to tos de tiempo adicional por período a la
dad el 19 de noviembre para explicar los Kawm Ntawv
elementary parents and guardians as semana.
planes. El distrito también llevó a cabo
well as all teachers about intentions and Kev Hloov Tshiab rau Kev Rov
El distrito continúa trabajando hacia el una reunión virtual de foro abierto con
capabilities for returning to in-person Qhib Tsev Kawm Ntawv
aprendizaje en persona para los estudi- el personal interno el 18 de noviembre.
learning when the county reaches the
antes, pero eso no tendrá lugar hasta que Fresno Hauv Paus Tsev Kawm Ntawv
orange tier. The survey is open until El distrito comenzó a invitar a grupos
el Condado de Fresno regrese al color yuav tau ntxiv sij hawm rau cov kws qhia
Dec. 3. pequeños de estudiantes para el regreso
naranja Nivel 3 – riesgo moderado – de ntawv thiab cov tub ntxhais kawm uas
al plantel escolar el 12 de octubre para
District and Fresno Teachers Associa- los niveles de riesgo estatal. tseem kawm nrug deb tom qab lub caij
llevar a cabo su aprendizaje en línea.
tion leaders held a virtual town hall with ntuj so, ua yuav los coj cov tub ntxhais
En cuanto alcancemos el nivel naranja, El enfoque fue centrado en los estudi-
parents, students and the community on kawm rov qab mus tom tsev kawm
los planes requerirán un enfoque seguro antes que mayormente se beneficiarán
Nov. 19 to explain plans. The district ntawv tim ntsej tim muag thaum muaj
y gradual para el regreso de aprendizaje de regresar al plantel escolar y tomar
also held a virtual town hall with internal thaum muaj kev nyob nyab xeeb lawm.
en persona para los estudiantes, iniciare- ventaja del internet del distrito, alimen-
staff on Nov. 18.
mos con el 50% de pre-kinder a quinto tos y del apoyo personal.
Kev qhia ntawv yuav muaj ntxiv mus
The district began inviting small groups grado y el 25% de los estudiantes en las
Estos grupos incluyen estudiantes en tom qab so tas rau lub Ib Hlis Hnub
of students back to campus on Oct. 12 to escuelas secundarias y preparatorias.
situaciones de personas sin hogar y tim 12. Nco ntsoov tias Lub Ib Hlis
do their online learning. The focus was Una vez que regresemos al nivel nara-
bajo el cuidado en hogar de crianza, Hnub tim 11 yuav tsis yog ib hnub qhia
on students who would benefit the most nja, las escuelas primarias pasarán grad-
estudiantes aprendices de inglés recién ntawv tab sis yuav siv los rau cov kws
from returning to campus to take advan- ualmente a grados adicionales cada dos
llegados y estudiantes con incapacid-
tage of the district’s internet, meals and semanas.
ades. Las escuelas primarias tenían un See reopening of schools
staff support. Continued on page 10
Considerando la necesidad de mantener grupo de 10 estudiantes y las secundar-
These groups include students in home- el distanciamiento físico de seis pies, las
less situations and foster care, newcomer escuelas primarias no tendrán más del
English language learners and students 50% de estudiantes en el plantel esco-
with disabilities. Elementary schools lar a la vez y las escuelas secundarias y
had a group of 10 and middle and high preparatorias tampoco tendrán más del KEY CONTACTS FOR PARENTS
schools had two groups of 10. 25% de estudiantes.
On Nov. 3, the district doubled the Una vez que el condado esté en el nivel CONSTITUENT SERVICES:
number of cohorts on campuses for naranja y el distrito pueda iniciar grad- 457-3736 Constituent Services Webpage
online learning. Also in November, the ualmente el aprendizaje en persona, EARLY LEARNING:
district piloted in-person teaching at five también se aumentará tiempo adicional 457-3682 Early Learning Webpage
elementary schools for small groups of de aprendizaje. Si para el 16 de febrero, ENGLISH LEARNER SERVICES:
students in special education. el Condado de Fresno no ha alcanzado 457-3928 English Learner Services Webpage
el nivel naranja, no se reabrirán las
El Distrito Aumenta Más escuelas en forma física hasta el cuarto FAMILY LEARNING AND TECHNOLOGY SUPPORT CENTER:
457-3939 Tech Support
Tiempo de Instrucción Para semestre.
los Estudiantes FOOD SERVICES:
Basado en las prácticas de seguri- 457-6250 Free meals sites
Actualización y Reapertura de la dad requeridas, los padres de primaria
Escuelas tendrán la opción de instrucción en HEALTH SERVICES:
457-3294 Health Services webpage
persona con su maestro/a en el plan-
El Distrito Escolar Unificado de Fresno HOMELESS AND FOSTER CARE:
tel escolar o permanecer en el modelo
aumentará el tiempo con los maestros Project ACCESS, 457-3359 Project ACCESS webpage
eLearn en My School. Basado en la
para los estudiantes en aprendizaje a
agrupación especial del criterio, solo el QUESTIONS ABOUT eLEARN AT MY SCHOOL:
distancia después de las vacaciones de
25% de la población de estudiantes de School phone numbers
invierno, mientras se continúa traba-
secundaria (secundaria y preparatoria) SOCIAL EMOTIONAL SUPPORT:
jando para traer a los estudiantes de
regresarán al plantel escolar. Department of Prevention and Intervention,
regreso al plantel escolar para el apre-
ndizaje en persona cuando sea seguro Una vez que se logre llegar al nivel 457-3340 Resources
hacerlo. naranja, los maestros estarán propor- SPECIAL EDUCATION:
cionando la instrucción en persona y 457-3220 Special Education webpage
La instrucción se reanudará para los
simultáneamente, a través de apren-
Page 2 PREPARING CAREER READY GRADUATES www.FresnoUnified.org
december 2020/ january 2021
board Feeling Grateful Even in this Time of Uncertainty
Keshia Thomas Area 1 The holidays are upon us and I want to tier of the State’s Blueprint for a Safer expand our small cohorts of students who
President wish you all a very happy and safe holi- Economy. As I’m writing this message, are on campuses doing their distance learn-
keshia.thomas@fresnounified.org day season. Does anyone else feel like this we have fallen back into the most restric- ing each day. These small cohorts provide a
Liaison Lauren.Lima-Brown
lauren.lima-brown@fresnounified.org year has flown by and felt like 100 years tive tier of the state’s guidelines, which is safe and reliable space for our students with
wrapped in one purple or “widespread.” Unfortunately, that disabilities, foster and homeless students,
Valerie F. Davis Area 3 all at the same means we have some major work to do as and our English language learner newcom-
Clerk time? We have a county to control the spread of COVID- ers to complete their distance learning each
Valerie.Davis@fresnounified.org
been constantly 19 before we can safely bring students and day. They have access to stable internet,
Claudia Cazares Area 6 consumed staff back for in-person learning. Please, healthy meals, and support from our classi-
Claudia.Cazares@fresnounified.org with the global please continue to practice safety by wear- fied staff and site leadership in the moment.
Liaison: McKenzie Rivera pandemic, keep- ing your mask, physically distancing from
mckenzie.rivera@fresnounified.org We continue to provide assessments
ing our Fresno those outside of your household, washing and crucial services for our students
Veva Islas Area 4 Unified family your hands frequently, and getting your flu on campuses that absolutely cannot be
veva.islas@fresnounified.org safe, and pivot- shot. Your daily actions make all the differ-
Liaison: Danielle Claybon provided through a distance learning
ing our entire ence to our district being able to return to format, and our sports continue to prac-
danielle.claybon@fresnounified.org
educational our campuses. tice safely together. All these activities are
Carol Mills, J.D. Area 5 system to ensure Robert G. Nelson, Ed.D. Having said all of that and feeling the happening in line with required safety prac-
Carolmillsfusd@comcast.net high-quality Superintendent
heavy pandemic fatigue right along each tices and more. Mandatory mask-wearing,
Liaison: Michele Rodriguez instruction for of you, there are things happening at the and increased sanitizing of our learning
Michele.rodriguez@fresnounified.org our students even in a digital format. Every district that I’m incredibly grateful to share. spaces, cafeterias, bathrooms, and buses for
Elizabeth Jonasson Rosas Area 2 minute has felt precious, urgent, and heavy, First, I’m so grateful to our community for our students happen every day, maintain-
Elizabeth.Jonasson.Rosas@fresnounified.org making it feel as though we have never supporting our Fresno Unified Scholar- ing physical distance, practicing daily self-
Liaison: Brandalyn Hastings had enough time, all the while we have all ship Fund. When the pandemic cancelled health screenings, and conducting robust
brandalyn.hastings@fresnounified.org endured more in 2020 than seemed imagin- our plans to join in-person for our annual contact tracing are all happening to support
Major Terry Slatic USMC (Retired) Area 7 able to go through in a decade! My hope for State of Education luncheon fundraiser, our our efforts to limit the spread of COVID-19.
terry.slatic@fresnounified.org you and your loved ones is that this holiday teams quickly pivoted to ensure our Class
Liaison: Michelle Asadoorian season you can live in the moment, push Lastly, we are starting the implementa-
of 2021 would still be supported by our tion of our newly adopted district Vision,
michelle.asadoorian@fresnounified.org the urgency away, and enjoy the precious scholarship fund this year. We’re so proud
moments that are at our fingertips even in Mission, Values and Goals, which the board
to share that our community came together approved on Oct. 21. Please take a moment
ADMINISTRATION this craziest of years. to raise more than $50,000 for our scholar- to read the vision and mission statements
As hopefully you heard in our town halls ship fund. Those dollars directly support
Robert G. Nelson, Ed.D. in November, as a district we continue dozens of graduating seniors with financial
and watch for more information on the
Superintendent
to plan for the eventual safe return to scholarships as they head off to the college
Santino Danisi in-person learning on our campuses. We of their choice next fall. I cannot thank you
Chief Financial Officer (interim) See SUPT. MESSAGE
believe the time to start phasing in our all enough for your donations and support!
Nikki Henry in-person instruction will be when Fresno SPANISH and HMONG
Chief Information Officer Also, we continue to operate and work to Continued on page 15
County reaches the orange or “moderate”
Paul Idsvoog
Chief Human Resources/Labor Relations Officer
Kurt Madden Message from Nicole Linder, Executive Director, Marjaree Mason Center
Chief Technology Officer
Kim Mecum Building Futures Free of Domestic Violence
Chief Academic Officer Marjaree Mason Center (MMC), Fresno ciative of the active partnership with FUSD tionship. Safe Dates is an 11-week curric-
Lindsay Sanders County’s only dedicated provider of domes- as we work together to meet the needs of ulum-based program presented to middle
Chief Equity and Access tic violence shel- children impacted by the trauma of domes- school students. kNOw MORE is a forum
Karin Temple ter and support tic violence. for teens to speak to other teens utilizing
Chief Operations Officer services, is drama, music, social media and other real-
Children staying in emergency and transi-
guided by our tional safe housing benefit from FUSD’s life situations and statistics of domestic
BUILDING FUTURES mission to Project ACCESS. Project ACCESS is a violence in teen relationships to demon-
“support and primary resource to MMC families by dedi- strate the seriousness of the problem, while
Amy Idsvoog empower adults communicating the resources and help that
Executive Officer cating a FUSD social worker who helps
and their chil- children maintain enrollment in school and are available.
Tony Bernard dren affected advocates for children’s rights and district “Students have a difficult time learning
Media Technician by domes- services. Families receive bus tokens, food, when they are in crisis and do not know
Anne Ellis tic violence, clothing and housing assistance. Children where to turn. The student programs in our
Community Relations Officer while striving who need additional learning support are schools continue to meet students where
Bryce Marshall to prevent and also connected to internal and external they are and match them with the resources
Media Production Specialist end the cycle of Nicole Linder resources. Most recently, Project ACCESS they need, so students are able to focus on
Vanessa Ramirez abuse through Executive Director, has been a critical resource helping fami- learning once again,” said Leslie Loewen,
Public Information Officer education and Marjaree Mason Center lies secure laptops, tablets, and hotspots for Fresno Unified campus culture manager.
Keith Rybaczyk advocacy.” This successful online learning. “We truly appreciate the knowledge and
Media Production Specialist mission has services MMC has provided over the
been the driving force of our work since In turn, MMC provides youth education
programs to help FUSD students detect years and the innovative options they have
we opened in January of 1979. However, worked with us to create in ever-changing
Building Futures is a monthly publication of Fresno the red flags of domestic violence while
Unified School District prepared by the Communications we cannot do our work alone. We are appre- times.”
Office. To place an ad, contact (559) 457-3733 or email learning the components of a healthy rela-
Communications@FresnoUnified.org.
Non-Discrimination Policy: Fresno Unified School District does not harass, intimidate, or discriminate on the basis of race, color, ethnicity, national origin, immigration status, ancestry, age, creed, religion, political affiliation, gender,
gender identity or expression or genetic information, mental or physical disability, sex, sexual orientation, marital, pregnancy or parental status, military veteran status, or any other basis protected by law or regulation, in its educational
program(s) or employment (BP 0410). For the full policy, a list of compliance officers, and Title IX information, go to www.fresnounified.org.
www.FresnoUnified.org PREPARING CAREER READY GRADUATES Page 3
december 2020/ january 2021
PARENTS
Frequently Asked Questions about the Reopening of Schools
In anticipation of the district’s eventual is to keep students with their teacher. School model. An elementary parent fast and lunch meal distribution will
return to campus in the second semes- Based on physical distancing require- survey is available from Nov. 20-Dec. continue on a grab and go basis at
ter, Fresno Unified and Fresno Teach- ments of six feet, secondary sites can 3 at fresnounified.org for families to designated sites. Students returning to
ers Association (FTA) have worked only accommodate up to 25% of their communicate their plans for returning or campus for in-person instruction will
together to finalize plans for when student enrollment. Secondary students remaining in distance learning. Based on receive their meals on campus during
Fresno County achieves orange tier that return to in-person instruction will safety guidelines at the secondary level, scheduled meal periods.
status, and the district can safely bring be identified based on a specific criteria: only 25% of the student population will
What type of health screening will be
students and staff back to in-person return to campus, based on a grouping
Have an Individualized Education in place for students and staff? Since
instruction. The district and FTA hosted of criteria.
Program (IEP) last spring, Fresno Unified staff have
two town hall meetings the week of Nov.
Struggled with attendance and/or Will students be required to wear been conducting a self-health screen-
16 to provide details about the timeline
connectivity during distance learning masks when they return to campus? ing at home prior to leaving for work.
for returning, school schedules, safety
Academically struggling with multi- Yes. Based on state and local health That same screening tool will be in place
and health protocols and more. Here are
ple failing grades or is in need of guidance, masks are required both inside for students. If an employee, student or
a few frequently asked questions that
additional intervention supports and outside for students, staff and essen- essential visitor answer “yes” to any
came from those virtual events. To learn
English language learners, homeless, tial visitors for ages 2 years old and of the self-health screening questions,
more about Fresno Unified’s plan please
foster youth older. Fresno Unified is supplying five they should stay home and notify their
review the Strategic Plan for Reopening
At least one parent is an essential masks to each student and district staff school site or department. You can find
found on Fresnounified.org.
worker (education is essential) member. more detailed information on health and
When will Fresno Unified bring safety protocols by viewing this video,
What will school schedules look like What additional personal protective
students and staff back to campus for our self-health screening tool or in our
second semester if Fresno is in the equipment (PPE) is being provided
in-person instruction? Students and newest version of the Strategic Plan for
purple/red tier? When students return to employees? All staff have or will
staff will physically return to campus Reopening Schools.
on Jan. 12, there will be a shift to daily receive five Fresno Unified cloth masks.
when Fresno County reaches the
student schedules. To provide more Additional PPE is provided to health What if a student or staff member
orange tier. Focused on safety, stability
instructional time for kids, additional services staff, special education, early shows COVID symptoms at school?
and access to high quality instruction,
instructional minutes are being added to learning and athletic trainers. Class- What happens then? COVID symp-
Fresno Unified does not plan on bring-
the week. Teachers will also have added room and office kits have been created toms may include high fever and chills,
ing students and staff back to campus
planning time. to include hand sanitizer, wipes, first aid cough, shortness of breath or difficulty
for in-person instruction until that time.
kit and gloves. breathing, congestion or runny nose,
What will school schedules look like
What safety procedures will be in fatigue, repeated shaking/tremors,
in second semester if Fresno is in With physical distancing require-
place? When that occurs, all state and muscle pains or body aches, headache,
the orange/yellow tier? We antici- ments of six feet, how many students
county safety protocols are required, sore throat, new loss of smell or taste,
pate adding additional instructional can be in class? Class sizes will be
including PPE use, self-health screen- nausea, vomiting or diarrhea. While
minutes when we reach the orange reduced when we are able to safely
ing, and physical distancing of six feet. some of these symptoms can also indi-
tier and students and teachers return return some students to campus for
Given that there is no scenario under cate the common cold or flu, students
to in-person instruction. Schedules in-person instruction. Based on physi-
which we can provide six feet of physi- and or staff showcasing any of these
for second semester are available on cal distancing requirements of six feet,
cal distance for ALL our students, our symptoms will be sent home. Students
the district website for elementary and no more than 10 students will be in a
return to school, even in the orange will be sent to an isolation room until
middle/high schools. classroom.
tier, will be in phases, starting with our they have been picked up by parents.
youngest students. What professional learning will be How will teachers provide instruction Staff/students will have to isolate for at
provided to staff around returning to with some students physically in class least 10 days or until they have received
How will students be phased in?
campus in the orange tier? Site lead- and others continuing with distance a negative COVID test, symptoms are
Using our phased in approach, after two
ers will provide professional develop- learning? Technology provides Fresno resolved and they have gone 24 hours
weeks of orange numbers, the following
ment to teachers on Jan. 11, 2021. This Unified teachers the ability to simultane- without a fever and without fever reduc-
Monday 50% of students in pre-kinder-
day will resemble a traditional buyback ously teach students both on campus and ing medication. Household family
garten and kindergarten could return and
day to review schedules, timelines and those who remain at home. This method members will also need to quarantine
secondary sites could begin phasing in
health/safety protocols. Students will provides more instructional time for for a minimum of 14 days.
25% of their enrollment. Two weeks
have the day off. students and ensures students receive the
after that, 50% of students in grades 1-3 What if there is a positive outbreak
same high-quality instruction whether
could return with secondary continuing Will families be given a choice of at school? How will parents and staff
in-person or remote. It also allows more
to phase in up to 25% of their enroll- sending their student to campus be notified? As we have seen during
students to stay with their teacher.
ment. Two weeks after that, 50% of or staying with distance learning? our small student cohorts, if a student
students in grades 4-6 could return with Parents will have a choice to keep their How will transportation be provided or staff member is having symptoms
a max of no more than 25% of students student home. Based on required safety for students? Transportation details are on campus, they will be immediately
returning at the secondary level. practices (wearing a mask, physical being finalized, but we know riders will sent home. However, this is no indica-
distancing of six feet, etc.) elementary be required to wear masks and physical tion of a positive case. Should a student
Why are middle school and high
parents will have the choice of in-person distance on the bus and at the bus stop.
school students not returning in the
instruction with their teacher on campus See faqs on reopening
same way as elementary? Our intention How will meals be served? Break-
or remaining in the eLearn at My Continued on page 9
Page 4 PREPARING CAREER READY GRADUATES www.FresnoUnified.org
december 2020/ january 2021
Walk/Run for the Class of 2021 Raises Money for Scholarships
T-shirts and swag bags were handed out
Nov. 12 and 13 to the participants of the Walk/Run for the Class of
virtual Walk/Run for the Class of 2021, 2021 Top Corporate and
the primary fundraiser for the Fresno
Community Sponsors
Unified Scholarship Fund.
Corporate, community and individual GOLD LEVEL ($5,000)
sponsors contributed $50,125 through Fresno Housing Authority
the walk/run for scholarships. Partici- SIMPBK
pants were invited to walk or run on their CalViva
own and post photos to #IPledge or send EECU
to communications@fresnounified.org. AALRR
Darden Architects
The walk/run fundraising effort for
HAW-Fifty
scholarships is part of the district’s
IPledge campaign launched in Septem- SILVER LEVEL ($2,500)
ber to highlight the efforts of staff and Fresno County Superintendent
students to do their part to reduce the of Schools
spread of COVID-19 and make the most Blair, Church & Flynn Arjen Perry, a special education teacher at Anthony Elementary
School, pledges, "I pledge to give my students the best possible
of virtual learning. The Walk/Run for Fresno State
education, keeping them interested, happy and emotionally
the Class of 2021 focused on this year’s supported during these times." What's your pledge? Make the
BRONZE LEVEL ($1,500)
seniors, who have shown resilience pledge at https://www.fresnounified.org/news/pledge/
Welty Center
despite the impact of COVID-19 on
MeTEOR Education
their final year of high school.
ACSA
The goal of the campaign is to moti-
TEAM LEVEL ($500)
vate, encourage and connect the Fresno
Central Unified School District
Unified family and larger community
during this time.
Administrative Assistant Wins
Fresno County Educator Award
Annette Montague, admin- High School, was a finalist
istrative assistant for school in the administrator cate-
leadership, was named gory.
Employee of the Year for
The awards are given annu-
Fresno County on Nov. 22.
ally by the Fresno County
Montague was selected as Superintendent of Schools
one of three finalists from Office. Montague quali-
among classified employees fied after winning a Fresno
throughout Fresno County Unified Excellence in Educa-
school districts. The awards tion award in February.
were aired on ABC30.
Montague, a 26-year veteran of several
Due to COVID-19 restrictions, Montague departments, can be relied upon to be
heard her name announced while watch- calm, collected and confident, even
ing from home. (She and the other finalists during challenging situations and crises.
had pre-recorded acceptance speeches.) As the executive assistant in the School
Leadership Office, she works directly
She later reflected on the shock she felt
with school sites as well as families and
when she heard her name and on what
community members.
the award means to her.
She understands that many families
“I thought how truly humbled I am by
have trouble navigating the district’s
this award. This is about giving the
system. She has a sense of urgency to
very best service to our staff, schools,
solve problems, especially when they
students, and families. It’s what I strive
directly involve a child’s education. Her
to do all the time and what I think we all Carla Maya, a parent at Centennial Elementary School,
sincere concern and caring for district pledges, "I pledge to have a little space for my kids to
need to do,” Montague said.
families, community members and her have during video calls."
Rebecca Wheeler, principal at Hoover colleagues is evident.
www.FresnoUnified.org PREPARING CAREER READY GRADUATES Page 5
december 2020/ january 2021
dedicated employees
Employees Find New Ways
of Supporting Students
during Pandemic
Lupe Martinez,
plant coordinator
at Tehipite Middle
School, uses a
special sanitizing
tool on Nov. 19.
Crystin Puentes, a counselor at Tehipite Middle School,
works with Angelica Barajas as she does her online learn-
ing on campus on Oct. 13.
Campus safety assistant Demiree Garcia talks with Wishon
Elementary School fourth grader Matthew Molina during a
lunch break on Oct. 13. The safety assistants help to encour-
age and engage the small groups of students who have been
invited to do their online learning at their campus.
Robinson Elementary School
kindergarten teacher Joe
Dawson has built an elaborate
teaching space at his class-
room to get the most out of
distance learning.
Cheslie Odom, special education teacher at Robinson El-
ementary School, tries to keep online learning lively and fun.
Page 6 PREPARING CAREER READY GRADUATES www.FresnoUnified.org
december 2020/ january 2021
dedicated employees
Bus driver Hector Arevalo sanitizes his bus between
trips, one of the many safety protocols the district has
implemented as it has brought small groups of stu-
dents back to campus.
Licensed vocational nurse Patricia Harris helps
a student at Muir Elementary School on Nov. 18.
The student is part of a small group on campus
for learning.
Administrative secre-
tary Leticia DeSan-
tiago works with co-
athletic director Brett
Mar in the Goal 2 of-
fice, helping to coor-
dinate athletics and
activities in different
formats due to CO-
VID-19.
Donna Kossian, library media technician at Starr El-
ementary School, works on a protective book cover
on Nov. 19. Although schools are closed for most stu-
dents, they can use the district’s Destiny internet site
to check out books and pick them up on Thursdays. Jessica Avina, a school psychologist at Robinson Elementary
School, works with a student online on Nov. 17.
www.FresnoUnified.org PREPARING CAREER READY GRADUATES Page 7
december 2020/ january 2021
Focus Groups Helping the District Implement New Strategic Plan
As the district moves forward on a stra- intellect, and leadership of our students We strive to ensure that all feel loved, Expand student-centered and real-
tegic plan surrounding its newly adopted by providing an excellent, equitable valued, informed, and heard. world learning experiences
vision, mission, values and goals, it education in a culturally proficient envi- We Value Positive Behavior Increase student engagement in their
held 18 virtual focus groups with 487 ronment. school and community
students in November. We promote all individuals to grow
Values intellectually, emotionally, morally, Staff
In December and January, the district We Value Learning socially, and culturally. Increase recruitment and retention
will hold additional focus groups with We demonstrate a passion for life of staff reflecting the diversity of our
We provide high quality teaching and
parents and staff. rooted in respecting and understand- community
learning that involves challenging
The Fresno Unified Board of Educa- and relevant experiences to produce ing one another. Families
tion adopted the vision, mission, values critical, collaborative, and solution- We prepare our students to play
and goals on Oct. 21 after hearing oriented thinkers. active roles in building positive Increase inclusive opportunities for
from more than 66,000 constituents. We create learning experiences that communities. families to engage in their students’
support a wide range of ability and education
We Value Accountability
The vision, mission, values and goals are focused on improving every day
will guide the district as it develops with constructive and consistent We have a responsibility to action
objectives during the second semes- feedback. and own the consequences of our
ter with departments and schools. The We emphasize learning is enjoyable, actions.
development of objectives is the second engaging, and interactive. We measure and reflect on outcomes
phase of the strategic plan to ensure the We know all individuals can learn to improve the quality of our work.
district’s goals guide program evalua- and we demonstrate that by having We use evidence-based methods and
tions and the allocation of resources. high expectations and a growth make data-informed decisions.
mindset. We own the intent and the impact
Vision of our actions at all levels of Fresno
Fresno Unified School District – where We Value People and Our Community Unified.
students, families and staff are valued We create a welcoming place where Goals
and empowered to achieve their great- diversity, equity, and inclusion are Student
est potential. at the forefront of all our decisions
to create a place where people are Improve academic performance at
Mission treated with respect and compassion. challenging levels
We nurture and cultivate the interests,
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Page 8 PREPARING CAREER READY GRADUATES www.FresnoUnified.org
december 2020/ january 2021
Fresno Unified Food Services Department Feeding more than Students
From the first day of school closures due For video, go to vimeo.com/
to COVID-19 in March, the district’s fresnounified/foodservices
food services staff stepped forward to
chance to regroup as they worked from
fill a gap for not
home during the initial COVID-19 shut-
only students,
down, Food Services employees headed
but their fami-
to the front lines.
lies and even
the community. “We’ve truly been there since Day 1,
doing all this hard work serving not just
Although
our students but families, the commu-
campuses were
nity, adults, needy adults, the home-
closed, the
less and even Creek Fire evacuees,”
district estab-
said Amanda Harvey, director of Food
lished grab-
Services.
and-go food Amanda Harvey
distribution Director of Food Services “So, it’s been such a great experience for
from 23 school our staff, to be just really the stars right
sites. The district is currently dispens- now, to do this for our community.”
ing food from 47 elementary schools,
When families drive up to get meals,
11 middle schools and five high schools. Carla Garcia, a food services assistant, Vanessa Pacheco, a food services
“they see a familiar face in a time of
Early in the pandemic, as people lost complete unknown,” Harvey said. said it’s been rewarding to serve others assistant, said the school meals some
during the pandemic. families get are their only of the day.
their jobs and lives were disrupted,
On average, Food Services is serving
Fresno Unified leaders decided they
20,000 breakfasts and 20,000 lunches
would not turn away anyone who
every day at its elementary sites.
showed up at a school site for food.
Some days, the district distributed as Nutrition services assistant Carla Garcia
many as 60,000 meals in a day. said it’s been rewarding to be part of the
“big picture in the world” and truly serv-
For the first time ever, the district has
ing those reeling from the pandemic.
recently begun distributing weekend
meals on Fridays for those families who “It’s very motivational to see the smiles
want them, and also for the first time, you can put on peoples’ faces just by
a week’s worth of breakfast and lunch handing out food,” Garcia said.
meals were provided on Nov. 23 at the
Vanessa Pacheco, also a nutrition
start of the Thanksgiving break.
services assistant, said she knows that
Superintendent Bob Nelson singled many of the students they provide food
out the Food Services staff during the to have little at home and are struggling
Nov. 9 board meeting: “They have truly financially.
stepped up as huge leaders in our district
“It makes me feel good knowing I am
and community during this pandemic.”
helping the community out,” Pacheco
While many district employees had a said.
faqs on reopening ing for all.
Continued from page 4
How will parents/staff be notified
if someone at our school/work is
or staff confirm positive, close contacts confirmed COVID positive? When an
(those who were within six feet, with- individual is confirmed positive, only
out a mask for more than 15 minutes) close contacts (within six feet, with-
will be notified and instructed to self- out a mask for more than 15 minutes)
quarantine for a minimum of 14 days. are notified. Two confirmed cases in a
To ensure an individual’s health privacy classroom within 14 days triggers class
in this above scenario, close contacts are notification and potential return to 100%
the only ones notified. Should two indi- distance learning. Three confirmed
viduals in a class or three individuals cases in a school site within 14 days
at a school confirm positive within 14 triggers school notification and poten-
days, Fresno Unified will work with the tial return to 100% distance learning.
Fresno County Department of Public
Health to message to families and deter- See faqs on reopening
mine potential returns to distance learn- Continued on page 16
www.FresnoUnified.org PREPARING CAREER READY GRADUATES Page 9
december 2020/ january 2021
Board of Education to Discuss Fresno High Warrior Mascot
The district has been gathering informa- students, alumni, parents and several mascot, and research on Native Ameri- try. All feedback was provided back to
tion and opinions from various stake- Native American community leaders. can mascot discussions around the coun- the board to discuss on Dec. 9.
holders on the Fresno High School
Fresno High held a virtual town
mascot following the circulation
hall for all students on Nov. 9 and
of two petitions – one opposing
the district held a virtual town
the use of the Warrior mascot
hall open to the entire commu-
image and one in support of it.
nity on Nov. 12.
The Fresno Unified Board
Those listening to the
of Education is expected
town hall heard from peti-
to discuss the mascot and
tion authors, alumni, and a
determine the next steps on
parent, and had the opportunity
the issue at the Dec. 9 board
to submit live feedback and
meeting.
comments through the Q&A
Leading up to that discussion, a district feature on Microsoft Teams Live.
team made up of leaders from Fresno
All comments were collected, along
High, and the Equity and Access,
with feedback from the student town
Communications and Indian Education
hall, the two small listening sessions, the In January 2020, Fresno High School — the city's first high school — celebrated
departments conducted two small listen-
petitions, conversations and comments its 130th birthday. The board of education will discuss the school's Warrior mascot
ing sessions in September and Octo-
from social media regarding the Warrior this month.
ber, hearing directly from Fresno High
reopening of schools deb lwm tus, cov tsev kawm ntawv menyuam nyob rau Elementary nrog rau Lub Kaum Hli Hnub 12 kom lawv tau
Continued from page 2 elementary yuav tsis muaj ntau tshaj lawv cov kws qhia ntawv txog ntawm seb ib qho chaw kawm online. Qhov no yog
li 50% ntawm cov tub ntxhais kawm yuav ua li cas thiab kev yuav tuaj rov qab rau cov tub ntxhais kawm uas tsim nyog
nyob hauv tsev kawm ntawv tuaj ua ke tau li cas kom tuaj kawm tau kom pom txais kev pab los ntawm siv/txais inter-
qhia ntawv rau kev kawm ua hauj lwm.
thiab cov tsev kawm theem nrab thiab ntsej pom muag thaum uas lub nroog net zoo, zaub mov noj thiab txhawb nqa
theem siab yuav tsum tsis pub ntau tshaj rov qab mus cuag theem kob kab ntxwv. los ntawm cov neeg ua hauj lwm.
Thaum rov qab los lawm, cov tub
25% ntawm cov tub ntxhais kawm. Daim ntawv soj ntsuam no tseem yauv
ntxhais kawm qib 1-6 yuav muaj 95 feeb Cov pab pawg no suav nrog cov tub
qhib txais txog ntua lub 12 hlis tim 3.
ntxiv ntawm lub sij hawm kawm ntawv ntxhais kawm nyob tsis muaj tsev thiab
Thaum lub nroog txav mus rau theem
nrog lawv cov xib fwb qhia ntawv txhua cov menyuam ua nyob nrog niam qhuav
kob kab ntxwv lawm cov tsev kawm Hauv Paus Tsev Kawm Ntawv thiab
lub lim tiam, ho cov tub ntxhais kawm txiv qhuav, cov tuaj tshiab kawm lus
ntawv yuav pib qhia ntawv kom tim Fresno Teachers Association cov kws
theem nrab thiab theem siab yuav muaj Askiv thiab cov menyuam xiam oob
ntsej tim muag tau, yuav muab sij hawm qhia ntawv koos haum tau tuav lub rooj
li ntawm 35 feeb ntxiv rau ib chav kawm khab los yog muaj kev tshwj xeeb. Cov
kawm ntxiv rau cov tub ntxhais kawm. sib tham hauv town hall uas yog tham
rau ib lim tiam. tsev kawm theem qis coj 10 tus tub
Yog Fresno County tsis ncav cuag theem rau hauv virtual nrog cov niam txiv, cov
ntxhais kawm thiab tsev kawm theem
Hauv puas tsev kawm ntawv tseem ua kob kab ntxwv ua ntej Lub Ob Hlis Hnub tub ntxhais kawm thiab cov peej xeem
nrab thiab theem siab muaj ob pab
hauj lwm rau qhov kom mus kawm tim 16, cov tsev kawm yuav tsis rov qhib hauv zej zog thaum Lub Kaum Ib Hlis
ntawm 10 leej.
tau kom tim ntsej tim muag rau cov kom txog thaum lub quarter thib plaub. Hnub tim 19 los piav qhia txog lub hom
tub ntxhais kawm, tab sis qhov ntawd phiaj. Hauv paus tsev kawm ntawv kuj Lub Kaum Ib Hlis Hnub tim 3, hauv paus
Raws li kev xyaus nyab xeeb, cov
yuav tsis muaj txog thaum Lub Nroog muaj lub rooj sib tham hauv virtual nrog tsev kawm ntawv ntxiv ob npaug ntawm
niam txiv uas muaj menyuam kawm
Fresno pauv mus rau theem 3 – ua yog lawv cov neeg ua hauj lwm thaum Lub cov tsev kawm ntawv ua kawm online.
rau Elementary yuav muaj kev xaiv
kob kab ntxwv -pheej txoj hmoo ua yuav Kaum Ib Hlis Hnub 18. Tsis tas li ntawd lub Kaum Ib Hlis, hauv
seb yuav cia lawv cov menyuam tuaj
- ntawm lub xeev cov kev pheej hmoo. paus tsev kawm ntawv tau sim qhia tim
kawm rau tom tsev kawm ntawv kom Hauv paus tsev kawm ntawv pib caw ib
ntsej tim muag coj ib pawg me me rau
tim ntsej tim muag nrog lawv tus kws pawg tub ntxhais kawm ntawv rov qab
Thaum ncav cuag kob kab ntxwv lawm, tsib lub tsev kawm ntawv theem qis rau
qhia ntawv los sis kawm txuas ntxiv tuaj rau tom tsev kawm ntawv thaum
txoj kev npaj hu rau kev nyab xeeb, hais cov tub ntxhais kawm tshwj xeeb.
rau nram tsev uas yog siv eLearn
txog qhov rov qab los ntawm cov tub
ntawm My School tus qauv. Raws li
ntxhais kawm rov qab mus kawm tim
kev npaj cov tshwj xeeb, tsuas yog 25%
ntsej tim muag, pib nrog 50% ntawm
ntawm cov tub ntxhais kawm theem
pre-kindergarten mus txog qib ib thiab
ntawm cov tub ntxhais kawm hauv tsev
ob (theem nrab thiab theem siab) yuav
rov qab los hauv tsev kawm ntawv.
Important Dates
kawm theem nrab thiab theem siab mus
rau li 25%. Yog tias thaum twg peb mus
Thaum peb mus cuag theem kob kab December 21- January 8 Winter Break
rau kob kab ntxwv lawm, cov tsev kawm
ntxwv lawm, cov kws qhia ntawv yuav
ntawv theem pib yuav maj mam coj cov
muab kev qhia ntawv kom tim ntsej tim
January 11 Professional Learning for Staff
qib siab zog ntxiv tuaj txhua ob lub lim January 12 Return to School (Online)
muag thiab kev kawm nrug deb ib txhij.
tiam twg.
Ib daim ntawv soj ntsuam twb tau muab January 18 Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday
Raws li qhov xav tau kom saib xyuas
xa thaum lub Kaum Ib Hlis rau cov February 8 and 15 Presidents Days Holidays
tau txhua leej txhua tus kom nyob nrug
niam txiv thiab cov saib xyuas ua muaj
Page 10 PREPARING CAREER READY GRADUATES www.FresnoUnified.orgdecember 2020/ january 2021
For Performing Arts Students, the Show Must Go On - Virtually
Distance learning has not suppressed the “Fresno Unified has definitely made a
creativity of Fresno Unified students. good decision to fund this program. The
students’ reactions are beautiful. The
Throughout the district, students and
students with the most severe needs have
staff are finding ways to participate in
the most fun. Oh, and they’re learning to
visual and performing arts. Examples
listen and develop an awareness about
include:
music too.”
At Edison High School, students from
At Roosevelt School of the Arts, students
the Tiger Theatre Company competed
in the Showcase and directing classes
in the Drama Teachers Association of
presented ”The Longest Day Project -- a
Southern California Theater Festival,
Melodrama in 4 Acts” virtually on Nov.
held virtually. This year, Joshua Corey
12. Seniors wrote, directed, and acted in
and Sarah Debord placed with their
their first virtual production. The show
performance of “Uncle Vanya” by Anton
was inspired by a skit by Jimmy Fallon,
Chekhov. Annie Cooper, Riley Randel
Kristen Wiig, and Will Ferrell.
and Bella Anooshian placed in Graphics
Design for “Once on this Island.” Kratt and Leavenworth elementary
Leavenworth Elementary School students presented virtual band and orchestra band and orchestra students put together
The Tiger Theatre Company competes concerts. some great Flipgrids to share their love
every year in this festival, though it is
of music. In many of the videos, family
outside Southern California and is not
classes are participating in music program in Lois Henderson’s class. members could be seen enjoying their
a performing arts school like the other
instruction through the Play with Us performances.
competitors. Henderson said Play with Us has been
program, which uses United Sound
an exciting addition to the school week. The virtual band and orchestra concerts
“This year, the kids have really stepped curriculum.
were led by music teacher Harmony
up through the challenges of performing “Students with moderate to severe
Through Play with Us, a trained special Mendez. The Flipgrids premiered for
virtually,” said theater teacher Bianca disabilities, typically, have limited
education music teacher provides a students at the Quarter 1 celebration on
Ankrum. access to the experts in the arts. The
weekly interactive videoconference Oct. 30.
accommodations and modifications that
At middle and high schools, students music class for middle and high school
have been made in these classes make Students and teachers are also work-
with moderate to severe disabilities in students. Sequoia Middle School has
this program accessible and enjoyable ing on a virtual art exhibit expected to
Alternative Learning Pathways (ALPs) been having great success with the
for our students,” Henderson said. premier in January.
Valley PBS Program Featuring Fresno Unified Teachers is a Hit
Parents have embraced kindergarten students as it shirt and blue paper and sponge paint
Reading Explorers, a is often difficult for children for the pants.
program for children pre- that young to sit and learn
Early learning literacy coach Karina
kindergarten to third grade in front of their laptop or
Lara in one of her episodes introduced
featuring Fresno Unified tablet. Some of the district’s
the focus for the week – dental health.
teachers. The program is preschool students are as
She also discussed strategies that chil-
available every morning young as 3.
dren can use to calm themselves, using a
before online learning starts.
That work includes the Calm Down Wheel she spins to demon-
Reading Explorers is a Valley PBS shows. For strate the different ideas.
partnership with Valley example, preschool literacy
The episode included an intentional
PBS featuring hand-picked coach Claudia Readwright
message with embedded vocabulary and
exemplary and entertaining in one of her episodes intro-
learning for the week, sorting pictures
Fresno Unified teachers. It is duced artist Grant Wood,
with the children of healthy and non-
on Channel 18 and streamed Sidney Vang, a literacy coach for the district, teaches a lesson whose passion was painting
on Valley PBS for second graders. The Reading Explorers pro- healthy foods, singing and chanting
on Valley PBS Facebook gram offers lessons every morning before online learning starts people and the countryside.
with the students in English and Spanish
Live and www.valleypbs.org for pre-kindergarten through third grade. His works include “Amer-
about brushing teeth and using Chomp-
from 7:30-8:45 a.m. every ican Gothic,” a man and
ers the dinosaur puppet to model how to
weekday. Different teachers woman in front of a country
brush and floss.
offer 15-minute lessons for pre-school, comments from parents expressing home. Readwright explains how Wood
transitional kindergarten, kindergarten, their gratitude, said Deanna Mathies, used his sister and dentist as models for Reading Explorers Schedule
first grade, second grade and third grade. executive officer for the Early Learning the painting. Pre-kindergarten – 7:30 a.m.
Department. Transitional kindergarten – 7:45 a.m.
The programs have been an especially During the episode, the children chanted
Kindergarten – 8 a.m.
useful tool for Fresno Unified families The district’s Early Learning Depart- and sang songs, including a chant about
First grade – 8:15 a.m.
with preschoolers through kindergar- ment is working hard to provide new a crow. The art activity was creating a
Second grade – 8:30 a.m.
teners, based on emails and Facebook ways to engage its preschool through scarecrow, using a ruler to make a plaid
Third grade – 8:45 a.m.
www.FresnoUnified.org PREPARING CAREER READY GRADUATES Page 11december 2020/ january 2021
Linked learning spotlight
Fresno High Combines Work-Based Learning, Academic Rigor
Fresno High School’s first cohort of completed in 2021 will house Warrior
students from a new International Bacca- Entertainment, Construction & Design,
laureate (IB) careers-related program and HVAC programs. The building will
will graduate in June, another milestone include a video production suite with
for the district’s original high school. recording studio, sound studio, and
stage; presentation center; and construc-
When Fresno High added the Career-
tion and HVAC shops and individual
related Programme in the spring of 2018,
yards.
it launched an opportunity for students
to develop career-critical skills within a Fresno High IB Career Programs:
challenging academic framework.
Construction, Design, and
The program combines coursework Architecture Technology
from the IB diploma program with a (C.D.A.T.) Academy
hands-on and individualized curricu-
Students can begin the program as
lum. Each program provides students
early as ninth grade by enrolling in
the opportunity to participate in industry
the Engineering, Construction, and
work-based learning experiences, such Students from Fresno High School’s construction program installed a Little Free
Design course
as internships, industry certifications, Library box at Heaton Elementary School in September 2019. The construction
Can focus on one of the areas in their
career-focused certifications, guest program is among several offered through the International Baccalaureate pro-
senior year
speakers, and job shadow events. gram that combines work experience with rigorous academics.
Also offers the only HVAC tech-
“Our program is young compared to nician program for high school
others in the district, but the founda- students in the Valley through a dual Last March, Fresno High’s Women Ayanna Moore, a senior CDAT Acad-
tion is strong. The purpose of the career enrollment partnership with Fresno in Construction team of four female emy student.
program is to ensure students realize City College’s HVAC technician construction students won the annual
In alignment with IB’s goal that students
their career aspirations, their definition program; students who earn a grade WIC Build Competition for best
contribute to their community, construc-
of success, and most importantly, their of C or better in the course are guar- doghouse.
tion students worked with Reading
full potential. We want to make sure anteed a seat in the FCC program;
“Being a female student in the construc- Heart, Every Neighborhood Partner-
that every enrolled student has a plan, 2019 graduates Michael Barrios and
tion course use to be intimidating but ship and district departments to build
whether that plan is a four-year college Alexx Brown have graduated from
then I realized that I’m just as good, if eight Little Free Libraries for the eight
or university, a CTE program at the local the city college program and are now
not better, than the male students. I make district high school regions. In addition,
community college, or straight to work, certified pre-apprentice in HVAC
sure that I have a voice in the construc- 27 CDAT students helped three families
they will be prepared,” said Keisha technology
tion of any project I’m involved in. build their homes through a partnership
Shabazz, career program coordinator. Students can earn college credits,
There needs to be more women repre-
industry certifications, CPR and Stop
A new, two-story career technology sented in the construction field, from See cte spotlight
the Bleed Certifications, and an IB
education building expected to be laborers to project management,” said Continued on page 14
CP Diploma
Sunnyside High School Team Wins Esports League Tournament
Sunnyside High Team 2 took first place the Sunnyside library and pick up their Esports is a booming industry with production, streaming and management.
in the districtwide esport sports league medals and prizes. They had not seen numerous job opportunities beyond More than 200 colleges and universi-
tournament, which concluded Nov. 14, each other since March, when school being a player, including game design, ties are actively recruiting and providing
battling in League of Legends. closed, and had never met the freshman coding, testing, sales and marketing, scholarships for esports players.
of the team, Yufang Yang. They only
About 100 students from 11 district high
recognized him from his voice.
schools and the Center for Advanced
Research and Technology (a partner- The tournament was the culmina-
ship between Fresno and Clovis unified tion of the fall season for the Fresno
school districts) participated. Unified eSports League – FUeL –
which attracted more than 130 students
Placing second was Team 2 from
competing on 27 teams representing
DeWolf High School and third was
their high schools.
Team 1 from Sunnyside.
The championship tournament was
Because of COVID-19 restrictions, all
broadcast on the Battlefy online plat- Team 2 for Sunnyside High School won the districtwide esports league tourna-
team members competed on their own
form, where other students and the ment in November. Students are, from left, Steven Touch, Justin Her, Jet Xiong,
from their homes. The winning team Kory Heu, coach Alan Gurrola and Yufang Yang.
community could watch the games.
was able to gather briefly to celebrate at
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