KCSOS News

Tue November 5, 2024 | District News

Wasco Union Celebrates Students’ Journey to English Proficiency

The Wasco Union Elementary School District held its annual English Language Reclassification Ceremony last week, celebrating the achievements of 127 students in grades K-8 who have successfully transitioned from English Language Learner (ELL) status to reclassified as fluent English proficient students.

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Mon November 4, 2024 | Community News

Local Officials Support Homeless Youth Awareness With a Purple Pie to the Face

November marks Homeless Youth Awareness Month (HYAM). This nationwide effort began in 2007 to highlight the issues faced by young people experiencing homelessness. The Bakersfield-Kern Regional Homeless Collaborative’s (BKRHC) Youth Action Board (YAB) is leading the charge through a series of events all month long. Key activities include the Purple Pie Challenge, a public donation drive, and a Town Hall meeting, all aimed at raising both awareness and resources.

By Katie Avery

Fri November 1, 2024 | Community News

Tickets Now on Sale for CALM’s 22nd HolidayLights Presented by Adventist Health

The California Living Museum (CALM) announced today that tickets for the award-winning HolidayLights, now featuring a refreshed logo, are now on sale at www.calmholidaylights.org. HolidayLights will kick-off on Saturday, Nov. 30 and run nightly through Jan. 4, except on Christmas. Guests can enjoy the lights from 5:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., Sundays through Thursdays, and enjoy new extended hours on Fridays and Saturdays from 5:30 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.

By Jennifer Bryan

Thu October 31, 2024 | District News

County Special Ed Program Reimagined to Reduce Commutes, Enhance Inclusivity

KCSOS has introduced a regionalized model for special education, cutting travel times and fostering deeper connections between families and schools. Fruitvale School District’s Endeavour Elementary, a key partner of this initiative, exemplifies the powerful social and emotional impacts of inclusion.

By Robert Meszaros

Wed October 30, 2024 | Community News

School Nurse David Tate Champions Support for Kids Battling Cancer

In the halls of Rio Bravo-Greeley Union School District (RBG), school nurse David Tate has made it his mission to bridge the gap between education and healthcare for families going through childhood cancer. Inspired by his son’s fight with leukemia, Tate, alongside the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society (LLS), has championed resources aimed at helping schools support children with cancer as they return to the classroom.

By Katie Avery

Tue October 29, 2024 | Community News

Students Bring the Pledge of Allegiance to Local Airwaves with New Community Initiative

By Robert Meszaros

Fri October 25, 2024 | KCSOS News

KCSOS Marks 30 Years at City Centre, Bell Tower Addition Advances Blanton’s Vision for Downtown Education Hub

In the early 1990s, former Kern County Superintendent Kelly Blanton dreamed of moving KCSOS to downtown Bakersfield to create a lively hub of learning and community. His vision became reality in 1994 with the dedication of City Centre, which has since become the beating heart of KCSOS, serving thousands who have worked tirelessly to support Kern County’s children and families over the years. Now, as KCSOS marks 30 years downtown, the addition of the iconic Bell Tower signals an exciting new chapter in Blanton’s enduring legacy.

By Jennifer Bryan

Thu October 24, 2024 | Community News

Creating a Peaceful Path: McKinley Elementary Revitalizes Nature Trail

McKinley Elementary School has welcomed back its Peaceful Paths Nature Trail. This project has transformed a long-forgotten trail into a tranquil space for students and staff alike. The trail, which had fallen into disrepair over the years, was brought back to life thanks to the efforts of Leadership Bakersfield’s Team Three and dedicated community volunteers.

By Katie Avery

Wed October 23, 2024 | District News

Lamont Elementary School District Celebrates 130 Years of Legacy and Progress

The Lamont Elementary School District (LESD) is marking a significant milestone this year, celebrating its 130th anniversary. Since its humble beginnings in the late 19th Century, the district has grown alongside the town of Lamont, transforming into a vital institution at the heart of its community. Current and former school officials, as well as community members gathered at Mountain View Middle School Tuesday morning to celebrate as LESD looks back on its storied past while keeping its eyes set on the future.

By Katie Avery

Mon October 21, 2024 | Community News

California to Require Financial Literacy Education for High Schoolers

In a significant move to equip young Californians with essential life skills, Governor Gavin Newsom signed a bill last June that will require financial literacy education in high schools. Beginning in the 2027-28 school year, all high schools in the state will offer a semester-long personal finance course; by the 2030-31 school year, financial literacy will become a graduation requirement. This initiative aims to give youth the tools they need to navigate adult financial life.

By Katie Avery

Thu October 17, 2024 | District News

First-Ever SEL Symposium Promotes Student Well-Being in Kern County

School representatives from all over Kern County came out to the Padre Hotel Thursday morning for Kern County Superintendent of Schools’ (KCSOS) Social Emotional Learning (SEL) Symposium. The event, themed “Cultivating Hearts and Minds: Empowering the Whole Child,” emphasized the importance of supporting all students from academics to behavior to mental health and well-being.

By Katie Avery

Thu October 17, 2024 | District News

Kern High School District Celebrates Principal Partners’ Day

The Kern High School District (KHSD) brought nearly 400 community partners together for an inspiring day of collaboration and connection during the annual Principal Partners’ Day event on Wednesday. With the theme “Together We Thrive,” this year’s event celebrated the powerful role community partnerships play in shaping the education and future of Kern County’s students.

Erin Briscoe

Thu October 17, 2024 | District News

Test Scores Show Modest Gains, Numerous Bright Spots Among Kern Districts

The latest standardized test results from Kern County show slight improvements in both English Language Arts (ELA) and math. While overall progress has been slow, bright spots are apparent at school districts all over the county.

By Robert Meszaros

Mon October 14, 2024 | Community News

Boys & Girls Club Empowers Kern County Students Through Artfest

The Boys & Girls Clubs of Kern County hosted its highly anticipated Artfest this past Friday, where dozens of young artists from across Kern proudly showcased their visual and performing arts talents. While the event raises essential funds for art programs across four Boys & Girls Club sites, it serves a deeper purpose. It empowers students by building their confidence and encouraging them to pursue their passion for art.

By Jennifer Bryan

Fri October 11, 2024 | Community News

Foster Youth Find Path to Success Through Early Childhood Education Partnership

Inside a classroom at Bakersfield College, a group of young adults is working on building futures that, for some of them, seemed out of reach. The cohort, made up of former foster students, is part of a unique program designed to help them gain skills in early childhood education, a field that is not only in high demand but also offers them a personal connection through their lived experiences.

By Katie Avery

Tue October 8, 2024 | Community News

Free One-on-One College Application Workshops Offered this Fall

To help ease the stress of the college application process, the Kern Regional K-16 Education Collaborative is offering free workshops on October 26, November 16, and November 23. Held in Bakersfield, Mojave, and Shafter, these sessions provide one-on-one assistance with applications, personal essays, FAFSA, and more. Virtual options are available, ensuring support for all students.

By Robert Meszaros

Mon October 7, 2024 | Community News

Kern Network for Children Leadership Program Now Accepting Applications

The Kern County Leadership Program, operated by the Kern County Network for Children, is accepting applications for its next class. Running from January to May, this program is designed to foster leadership skills in those passionate about improving the lives of children and families in the community.

By Katie Avery

Fri October 4, 2024 | District News

BCSD Hosts Inspiring Community Partners in Education Event

Student voices took center stage Thursday morning as the Bakersfield City School District (BCSD) brought together community leaders, local businesses, and educators for its annual Community Partners in Education (CPIE) event. This year’s gathering emphasized the collaboration between schools and the community to help set Bakersfield’s students up for success.

By Katie Avery

Tue October 1, 2024 | Community News

SPECIAL REPORT: Increased Screen Time Has ‘Rewired’ Modern Childhood

Childhood has changed. Kids are more depressed, anxious and lonely, and it’s clear, screens aren’t helping. Award-winning journalist Maddie Janssen took a deep dive into this topic and brings us this special report about our society’s digital addiction.

By Maddie Janssen

Mon September 30, 2024 | District News

Kern County Schools Earn Recognition for Excellence in PBIS Implementation

Several schools across Kern County have been recognized for their outstanding work implementing Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS). PBIS, an evidence-based approach designed to create positive school environments and improve student behavior, has gained traction across California.

By Katie Avery

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November marks Homeless Youth Awareness Month (HYAM). The Bakersfield-Kern Regional Homeless Collaborative`s (BKRHC) Youth Action Board (YAB) is leading the charge through a series of events all month long, including the Purple Pie Challenge. Find out more in our latest EdConnect feature at news.kern.org.

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The historic Bell Tower looked especially majestic as the sun rose over downtown Bakersfield this morning, bringing the building’s stunning details to life. Interior improvements have begun on the building, which will become KCSOS’s signature professional learning center when it reopens next fall.

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November is Native American Heritage Month, a time to honor and celebrate the rich cultures, histories, and contributions of Native American communities. In support of this month, KCSOS’s Equity and Inclusion department has created a comprehensive toolkit to help students explore the diverse traditions and significant impacts of Native American peoples. Let’s come together to recognize and respect the heritage that has shaped our nation and continues to inspire.

Access the resources at the link in our bio.

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KCSOS has recently introduced a regionalized model for special education that cuts travel times and fosters deeper connections between families and schools. Fruitvale School District’s Endeavour Elementary (@fruitvaleschooldistrict), a key partner of this initiative, exemplifies inclusion`s powerful social and emotional impacts.

Read more about this new model in our latest EdConnect feature at the link in our bio or at news.kern.org.

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We had such a good time hosting students from various KCSOS Child Development Centers, as well as students from @gardenpathways, this morning! Which theme was your favorite?! 👻🎃

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Happy Halloween from KCSOS! Staff in our downtown facilities had fun decorating several conference rooms within our City Centre’s first floor while welcoming students from many of our child development centers, as well as some students from Garden Pathways. Themed decorations lined the rooms drawing inspiration from Shrek’s swamp, Hotel Transylvania, and Toy Story! A special thanks to our celebrity judges who stopped by to score each division’s display: Alex Fisher (@alexfisher_kget), news anchor at KGET-TV 17; Andrae Gonzales, Vice Mayor and Bakersfield City Councilman Ward 2; and Jim Damien, Chief Economic Development Officer at Kern County.

We hope everyone has a happy and safe Halloween!

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In the halls of Rio Bravo-Greeley USD (@rbgusd), School Nurse David Tate has turned a personal journey into a powerful mission: bridging the gap between healthcare and education for families facing childhood cancer.

Inspired by his son Lucas’s battle with leukemia, Tate—alongside the The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (@llscentralcalifornia & @llsusa)—developed A School’s Guide for Children With Cancer, a resource to help school personnel, healthcare providers, and families navigate the unique challenges children with cancer face in educational settings.

“They’re not alone. There are people that want to help,” Tate said. “They absolutely do have somebody in their corner that wants to make good decisions and help their students.”

Read more about the Tate’s advocacy journey in our latest EdConnect at the link in our bio or at news.kern.org.

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The Pledge of Allegiance is no longer just a daily classroom tradition. Through a new initiative called Pledge Across Kern, led by the Kern County Superintendent of Schools (KCSOS) in partnership with KUZZ "Bakersfield`s Best Country" 107.9 FM, students from all corners of the county are coming together to lead the Pledge not just in their classrooms but over the airwaves.

Check out the full story where Bakersfield High School Teacher Jeremy Adams reflects on changing perspectives surrounding the Pledge of Allegiance and national anthem in today’s classrooms. Read at news.kern.org or at the link in our bio.

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College-bound students from across the county gathered at the Bell Tower this morning for a hands-on workshop to tackle their most pressing college application questions. With guidance from college advisors, students gained insights into navigating the application process, tips on crafting compelling personal statements, and strategies for meeting key deadlines. Take a look at some of the moments from today’s session in the photos below!

Couldn’t make it this morning? More workshops will be happening this fall. Take a look at the dates and locations:

Mojave
Nov. 16 & Nov. 23
9:00 AM - 3:00 PM
East Kern Community School 15926 K Street

Shafter
Nov. 16
9:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Shafter Veterans Hall
309 California Ave

Bakersfield
Nov. 16 & Nov. 23
9:00 AM - 3:00 PM
KCSOS Bell Tower
1200 Truxtun Ave

Virtual workshops are also available for added flexibility. Sign up now at bit.ly/kerncaw!

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We are resharing one of our favorite Day in the Life videos to let you know we are hiring more Speech Pathologists! Visit www.edjoin.org/kcsos to see job descriptions and apply. 🎉

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Last week marked 30 years since KCSOS moved to City Centre in downtown Bakersfield, a fulfilling milestone from former Superintendent Kelly Blanton`s vision of a vibrant downtown hub where thousands of employees have worked tirelessly to support Kern County’s children and families over the years. Today, we give you a deeper dive into why the move continues to impact our community and how the iconic Bell Tower signals an exciting new chapter in Blanton`s enduring legacy.

Check out the full story on EdConnect at the link in our bio or at news.kern.org.

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McKinley Elementary School is celebrating the return of its Peaceful Paths Nature Trail! Originally built in 1989, the trail was recently transformed into a tranquil space for students to reflect, explore, and connect with nature. Thanks to @bakochamber’s Leadership Bakersfield Team Three, Kern Edible Schoolyards, and community volunteers, the trail is now a sanctuary for social-emotional learning and mindfulness.

Check out the full story and pictures in our latest EdConnect at the link in our bio or at news.kern.org.

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Lamont Elementary School District (@lamont_district) recently celebrated 130 years of service to the community in a ceremony at Mountain View Middle School. The district was founded in 1894 and has grown with Lamont, shaping generations of students. The event featured folklórico dancers, a band performance, and a special LESD history exhibit.

Check out the full story with pictures in our latest EdConnect feature at the link in our bio or at news.kern.org.

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DID YOU KNOW?

Beginning in the 2027-28 school year, all high schools in the state must offer a semester-long personal finance course; by the 2030-31 school year, financial literacy will become a graduation requirement. This initiative aims to give youth the tools they need to navigate adult financial life.

Valley Strong Credit Union (@valleystrong_cu) is already ahead of the curve, offering free resources like classes and apps to promote financial literacy for all ages. Their Bite of Reality program gives high schoolers a real-world budgeting experience, teaching them how to make financial decisions on housing, transportation, and more.

Read all about this new curriculum in our latest EdConnect feature at the link in our bio or at news.kern.org.

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Thank you to everyone who joined us today for our first-ever STEAM on the Streets event. From sensory sand to hands-on art and computer science stations, families enjoyed a morning filled with fun, creativity, and learning. Kids walked away with free books, backpacks, and school supplies, making it a memorable day for all! We can`t wait to see you next time as we celebrate the wonders of STEAM together! 🚀👩‍🔬👨‍🎨

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On Thursday morning, school representatives from across Kern County gathered at the Padre Hotel for KCSOS’s inaugural Social Emotional Learning (SEL) Symposium, themed “Cultivating Hearts and Minds: Empowering the Whole Child.” The day was filled with engaging breakout sessions, meaningful discussions, and powerful strategies to integrate SEL into classrooms.

It was inspiring to see community leaders and educators working together to ensure our students’ academic, behavioral, and emotional needs are met. Attendees also enjoyed networking, a vendor fair, and even a bouquet-making station! Check out the full event coverage in our latest EdConnect at the link in our bio or at news.kern.org.

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It is with much sadness that we share the news of the recent passing of Amy Fong, chief operations officer for California School Information Services (CSIS), an organization administered by KCSOS.

For 24 years, Amy was a mainstay of the FCMAT/CSIS and KCSOS organizations. She was a caring and empowering leader and a mentor to many. Her primary goal was the collective well-being and success of staff, and her solid reputation was instrumental in how FCMAT/CSIS is viewed and trusted by its clients and partners. Her legacy will continue to inspire us all.

Amy began her career with CSIS and KCSOS in February 2001 as a programmer/analyst. Her intelligence, work ethic, and compassionate nature led her from that position to several others, including director, information systems officer, and deputy operations officer, culminating in chief operations officer.

Considered throughout the state as one of the leading experts on educational data practices, Amy taught us that data is not isolated from people. Instead, successful data practices are built upon positive relationships among the people who source and use the data.

Amy was a very proud mother to her young daughter Genevieve, a loving wife, and a caring and devoted sister. She attended to all her co-workers and fostered a loving and supportive home for her family. Please keep Amy’s family and friends in your thoughts and prayers.

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The Kern High School District (KHSD) brought nearly 400 community partners together for an inspiring day of collaboration and connection during the annual Principal Partners’ Day event on Wednesday. With the theme “Together We Thrive,” this year’s event celebrated the powerful role community partnerships play in shaping the education and future of Kern County’s students.

Check out all the photos and the full story in our latest EdConnect at the link in our bio or at news.kern.org.

Open

The Boys & Girls Clubs of Kern County hosted its highly anticipated Artfest this past Friday, where dozens of young artists from across Kern proudly showcased their visual and performing arts talents. While the event raises essential funds for art programs across four Boys & Girls Club sites, it serves a deeper purpose. It empowers students by building their confidence and encouraging them to pursue their passion for art.

Read all about how art education is helping Kern students in our latest EdConnect feature at the link in our bio or at news.kern.org.

This afternoon, students at Valley Oak Charter School’s Bakersfield campus came together for Valley Oaks Via Arté to help raise funds for their Innovation Station. Student artists created masterpieces made of chalk on the campus sidewalks.

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Indigenous Peoples` Day honors Native American and Indigenous communities across the U.S., celebrating their history, culture, and traditions. In recognition of their heritage and resilience, KCSOS’s Equity and Inclusion department created resources for educators and parents. You can access these resources and tools at bit.ly/KernIPDResources.

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Former foster youth are building brighter futures through a unique program at Bakersfield College, created in partnership with the Dream Center and KCSOS. This program equips students with skills in early childhood education, offering support, resources, and a sense of community as they work toward their career goals. Hear from students like Edajzarea Johnson and Tara Kelley, who are determined to make a difference for themselves and the next generation in our latest EdConnect feature.

Read now at the link in our bio or at news.kern.org.

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A HUGE thank you to Sparkling Image Car Wash for its continued support of Camp KEEP. Today, the KEEP Foundation was presented with a check for nearly $17,000 as a result of Sparkling Image’s annual car wash fundraiser held last month. Over the years, Sparkling Image has raised more than $100,000 to benefit KEEP! We are so appreciative of our ongoing partnership.

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Did you know that KCSOS has a Zen Den?

For World Mental Health Day, we’re highlighting the Zen Den, which is located in the Christine Lizardi Frazier building in downtown Bakersfield. It was designed by our KCSOS Student Wellness team and was built to be an example of how educators can create spaces that support social-emotional learning and mental health practices for students. Educators are even encouraged to visit and bring these wellness ideas to their own schools!

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November is #NativeAmericanHeritageMonth! KCSOS’s Equity & Inclusion team has created a toolkit for students to explore Native American cultures, histories, and contributions. Access the tools and resources here: https://bit.ly/2024NAHM

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