KCSOS News

Thu February 5, 2026 | District News

Centennial High Rises to the Top in a New Era of Kern County Mock Trials

The Kern County Board of Supervisors Board Chambers buzzed with anticipation as high school students filed into their seats Wednesday evening. Months of preparation came down to the final round of carefully timed objections. But this year’s Mock Trial competition brought more than the usual adrenaline — it introduced a new system designed to make competition more transparent and equitable than ever before.

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Mon February 2, 2026 | Community News

Apprenticeship Program Opens Doors to Careers in School Nutrition

At the Kern County Superintendent of Schools (KCSOS) Central Kitchen, staff prepare thousands of meals a day while also cooking up future careers. Through a growing network of internship and apprenticeship programs, the KCSOS Central Kitchen is becoming a training ground for aspiring culinary professionals, career changers, and students seeking real-world experience. While multiple pathways are available, the newest opportunity comes through a partnership with the Chef Ann Foundation, a national nonprofit aiming to promote more clean eating and scratch cooking.

By Katie Avery

Fri January 30, 2026 | Community News

The Great Kindness Challenge Brings Out the Best of Kern County Schools

From enhancing your morning brew to putting the “I” in KIND, students across Kern County are finding creative ways to lead with compassion this week as part of the Great Kindness Challenge, a worldwide effort to strengthen school climate and foster safe, supportive learning environments. The Great Kindness Challenge began as a positive, proactive bullying-prevention initiative for PreK-12 schools back in 2011. Now, the program serves more than 21 million students across more than 43,000 schools.

By Katie Avery

Thu January 29, 2026 | Community News

KCSOS’s No-Cost Childcare Helps Families Build a Foundation for Learning

KCSOS is working to increase enrollment in its state-funded preschool programs, which serve children ages two to five and are designed to support families across Kern County, including many who may not realize they qualify. Each KCSOS early childhood education site offers all-day educational childcare in a safe and nurturing environment.

By Katie Avery

Wed January 28, 2026 | District News

First Harvest Parade Shakes Up Student Learning at Maple Elementary

Maple Elementary’s first Harvest Parade connected lessons to real-world agricultural practices this week. Through live demonstrations, expert explanations, and a Tower Challenge using the machinery, students gained a deeper understanding of local farming and the impact it has on their families’ lives.

By Erin Pruitt

Wed January 28, 2026 | District News

Dr. Karling Aguilera-Fort Appointed Superintendent of Bakersfield City School District

The Bakersfield City School District Board of Education has appointed Dr. Karling Aguilera-Fort as the District’s next superintendent, formalizing his leadership following a period of service as interim superintendent.

By Robert Meszaros

Tue January 27, 2026 | Community News

CALM ZOO Launches 3rd Annual Roses or Roaches Valentine’s Day Fundraiser

Join CALM for its third annual delightfully mischievous Valentine’s Day tradition: Roses or Roaches! This playful fundraiser lets you celebrate love, laughter, and a little lighthearted sass.

By Robert Meszaros

Mon January 26, 2026 | District News

Achievement Leaders Help Drive Student Success in Kernville

In the rural mountain communities of the Kern River Valley, new data from the Kernville Union School District reveals districtwide gains in academic performance, attendance, and student behavior, with Wallace Middle School leading the way.

By Erin Pruitt

Thu January 22, 2026 | Spotlight

Kern County Hosts Third Annual CTE Summit, CTE Superstar Honored

Educators, industry leaders, and community partners gathered Thursday to celebrate innovation in Career Technical Education, with CTE Superstars recognized for their impact on student success across Kern County.

By Erin Pruitt

Thu January 22, 2026 | Community News

Charlie Cart Project Makes Nutrition Education Fun, Free, and Accessible

Kern County children are gaining a new opportunity to learn about healthy eating through hands-on experience with the installation of a Charlie Cart teaching kitchen at the Beale Memorial Library. The mobile cart is designed to help children develop practical cooking skills, learn about nutrition, and understand how food fuels their bodies. The Charlie Cart Project is a collaboration between Blue Zones Project Bakersfield, the Kern County Library, and the Kern County Superintendent of Schools (KCSOS). For the next six weeks, cooking professionals will provide hands-on lessons and cooking demonstrations for kids every Wednesday afternoon inside the Beale Memorial Library. These lessons are free and open to the public.

By Katie Avery

Wed January 21, 2026 | Community News

Mind, Body & Spirit: Greenfield Celebrates First Student Wellness Center

The Greenfield Union School District (GFUSD) is putting student physical and emotional health front and center with the grand opening and ribbon cutting of its new student wellness center this week. Dubbed the “Pawsitive Wolfpack Den,” the wellness center at Crescent Elementary School is the first of 12 that will open across the district over the next two years to provide students with encouragement, support, and a sense of belonging.

By Katie Avery

Fri January 16, 2026 | Spotlight

Smiles Meet Safety: How Local Crossing Guards Impact Students Every Day

They’re often the first smiles of the day for students and families across Kern County. Crossing guards like Melvin Wandick and Mike LaBarge show how a wave, a smile, and a few kind words can shape a student’s entire day — leaving behind memories that last long after the final bell.

By Erin Pruitt

Thu January 15, 2026 | Spotlight

Young Leaders Climb to New Heights at Student Voice Matters Day

Dozens of middle and high school students from across Kern County gathered at California State University, Bakersfield for the third annual Student Voice Matters Day — a powerful celebration of young people finding their confidence, building leadership skills, and learning how their voices can drive real change on their campuses and beyond.

By Katie Avery

Thu January 15, 2026 | Community News

Yachtley Crew Returns to CALM for 5th KEEP CALM Jamboree, April 24

The 5th Annual KEEP CALM Jamboree — presented by Valley Strong Credit Union — will return to the California Living Museum (CALM Zoo) on Friday, April 24, celebrating a milestone year for one of Kern County’s most anticipated spring events. What began as a creative way to pair live music with community giving has grown into a signature fundraiser benefiting CALM Zoo and Camp KEEP, supporting wildlife education, conservation, and hands-on learning experiences for students.

By Erin Pruitt

Tue January 13, 2026 | District News

A Decade of Growth: School Social Workers Strengthen Student Support in Kern

Over the last decade, the field of School Social Work has expanded dramatically in Kern County, changing the way schools support students, families, and communities, and marking a significant shift toward whole-child wellbeing. That growth was on full display Monday and Tuesday as Bakersfield College hosted the California Association of School Social Workers (CASSW) Annual Conference for the first time.

By Katie Avery

Fri January 9, 2026 | Spotlight

KCSOS’s Future Readiness Center Opens New Pathways for Kern Students

In classrooms and communities across Kern County, students are beginning to see what’s possible for their futures — and they don’t have to figure it out alone. The new KCSOS Future Readiness Center is opening doors to college and career guidance, connecting students and families with free, personalized support, real-world professionals, and pathways to high-demand careers right here at home.

By Erin Pruitt

Fri January 9, 2026 | Community News

Bakersfield Mayor, Student Advocates Promote State Seal of Biliteracy

A countywide effort is underway to showcase the value of multilingualism in local schools, as the Kern County Superintendent of Schools (KCSOS) partners with Bakersfield Mayor Karen Goh and California State University, Bakersfield (CSUB) President Dr. Vernon Harper to promote the California State Seal of Biliteracy.

By Katie Avery

Tue January 6, 2026 | Community News

District Spotlight: Longevity, Community Form the Foundation of Lost Hills

Of all the words to describe the Lost Hills Union School District in the rural lands of northwest Kern County, the best would be ‘longevity.’ From the teachers and staff members who started as students themselves and went on to spend decades serving the district to the school site that survived wild fluctuations in student enrollment the district has stood the test of time.

By Katie Avery

Fri December 19, 2025 | District News

Maple Elementary Elevates Family Engagement Through New Video Series

At Maple Elementary in Shafter, education isn’t limited to the school day — it continues around the kitchen table, in living rooms, and other places where families gather, talk, and learn together. Recognizing that many parents are unable to attend traditional evening events, the district found a creative way to meet families where they are, using simple videos and activities to strengthen connections, support students, and keep the rural community rooted in family learning.

By Erin Pruitt

Mon December 15, 2025 | District News

Cadet Corps Provides Purpose, Pathways for Students Across Kern County

The California Cadet Corps (CACC) is experiencing remarkable growth and impact across Kern County, where nearly 300 students at Rosamond High School and Tropico Middle School (Southern Kern Unified School District) alone are finding connection, confidence, and purpose through the century-old leadership program.

By Katie Avery

kcsosofficial

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From major rule changes designed to improve fairness and transparency to a dramatic final round inside the Board of Supervisors Chambers, this year’s Kern County Mock Trial redefined the competition experience.

In the end, it was Centennial High School that emerged as the champions!

Read more and see all of the photos on EdConnect at edconnectkern.org or by clicking the link in our bio.

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From major rule changes designed to improve fairness and transparency to a dramatic final round inside the Board of Supervisors Chambers, this year’s Kern County Mock Trial redefined the competition experience.

In the end, it was Centennial High School that emerged as the champions!

Read more and see all of the photos on EdConnect at edconnectkern.org or by clicking the link in our bio.

College preparation doesn’t end once applications are submitted! The College Unlocked continuation workshops are designed to support students and families through the next critical phases of the college journey, whether or not they participated in the fall application workshops.

Students can receive guidance through:
Phase 2: FAFSA completion
Phase 3: Scholarship support
Phase 4: What’s Next — preparing for the transition to college

Workshops include both one-on-one and group support. Parents and families are encouraged to attend, especially for the “What’s Next” sessions focused on navigating the transition to college.

All workshops are held at the Future Readiness Center.

Reserve your spot at bit.ly/CollegeUnlockedSeries25-26

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College preparation doesn’t end once applications are submitted! The College Unlocked continuation workshops are designed to support students and families through the next critical phases of the college journey, whether or not they participated in the fall application workshops.

Students can receive guidance through:
Phase 2: FAFSA completion
Phase 3: Scholarship support
Phase 4: What’s Next — preparing for the transition to college

Workshops include both one-on-one and group support. Parents and families are encouraged to attend, especially for the “What’s Next” sessions focused on navigating the transition to college.

All workshops are held at the Future Readiness Center.

Reserve your spot at bit.ly/CollegeUnlockedSeries25-26

Did you know?

Hands-on learning can make all the difference when complex science concepts don’t quite click. Through KCSOS’s STEAM 4 Kern Lending Library, teachers can bring science to life with ready-to-use kits that let students build, test, and explore concepts like electricity together.

Each kit includes lesson plans, slides, and enough materials for a full class—delivered straight to your school, with pickup included. Thanks to support from Chevron, access to high-quality STEAM materials is no longer a barrier.

Explore the kits and bring hands-on science to your classroom:
https://steam4kern.org/lending-library/

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Did you know?

Hands-on learning can make all the difference when complex science concepts don’t quite click. Through KCSOS’s STEAM 4 Kern Lending Library, teachers can bring science to life with ready-to-use kits that let students build, test, and explore concepts like electricity together.

Each kit includes lesson plans, slides, and enough materials for a full class—delivered straight to your school, with pickup included. Thanks to support from Chevron, access to high-quality STEAM materials is no longer a barrier.

Explore the kits and bring hands-on science to your classroom:
https://steam4kern.org/lending-library/

February is National Children`s Dental Health Month! Over the last 20 years, the Kern County Children’s Dental Health Network (KCCDHN) has been a staple in the community by providing free dental screenings to children under the age of five.

The department’s mission is to provide these essential dental check-ups in a quick, comfortable, and most importantly, fun manner. Visit this website for more information: https://kern.org/dental-network/

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February is National Children's Dental Health Month! Over the last 20 years, the Kern County Children’s Dental Health Network (KCCDHN) has been a staple in the community by providing free dental screenings to children under the age of five.

The department’s mission is to provide these essential dental check-ups in a quick, comfortable, and most importantly, fun manner. Visit this website for more information: https://kern.org/dental-network/

The KCSOS Central Kitchen is cooking up more than meals, it’s creating careers.

Through expanded internships and apprenticeships, including a new partnership with the Chef Ann Foundation focused on scratch cooking and clean eating, the kitchen is opening doors to real-world experience.

Read more in our latest EdConnect at the link in our bio or at edconnectkern.org.

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The KCSOS Central Kitchen is cooking up more than meals, it’s creating careers.

Through expanded internships and apprenticeships, including a new partnership with the Chef Ann Foundation focused on scratch cooking and clean eating, the kitchen is opening doors to real-world experience.

Read more in our latest EdConnect at the link in our bio or at edconnectkern.org.

Future educators took the next step in their careers at the 26th Annual Kern County Teacher Recruitment Fair! Nearly 1,000 attendees connected with districts across Kern County to explore teaching and support-service opportunities for the year ahead.

Missed out on attending? Visit kern.org/human-resources/ for more information about open positions at KCSOS and teaching opportunities across Kern County.

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Future educators took the next step in their careers at the 26th Annual Kern County Teacher Recruitment Fair! Nearly 1,000 attendees connected with districts across Kern County to explore teaching and support-service opportunities for the year ahead.

Missed out on attending? Visit kern.org/human-resources/ for more information about open positions at KCSOS and teaching opportunities across Kern County.

Did you know your child may qualify for free preschool through KCSOS?

Read how families across Kern County are enrolling children ages 2–5 in KCSOS Child Development Centers, offering all-day educational care in safe, supportive classrooms in our latest EdConnect at edconnectkern.org or by clicking the link in our bio!

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Did you know your child may qualify for free preschool through KCSOS?

Read how families across Kern County are enrolling children ages 2–5 in KCSOS Child Development Centers, offering all-day educational care in safe, supportive classrooms in our latest EdConnect at edconnectkern.org or by clicking the link in our bio!

The 44th annual Kern County Mock Trial finals are set! After a full day of courtroom competition today, Centennial High School and Wonderful College Prep Academy (Black) emerged as the top two teams and will face off in Wednesday evening’s finals. High school students from across Kern County showcased months of preparation, sharp legal arguments, and strong public-speaking skills. Congratulations to all teams — and good luck to our finalists! Full results coming next Thursday.

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The 44th annual Kern County Mock Trial finals are set! After a full day of courtroom competition today, Centennial High School and Wonderful College Prep Academy (Black) emerged as the top two teams and will face off in Wednesday evening’s finals. High school students from across Kern County showcased months of preparation, sharp legal arguments, and strong public-speaking skills. Congratulations to all teams — and good luck to our finalists! Full results coming next Thursday.

From decorating coffee sleeves to putting the “I” in KIND, Kern County students are showing how small acts can make a big impact 💙

This week, schools across the county are taking part in the Great Kindness Challenge, a global, student-led initiative that promotes compassion, connection, and positive school climates. Read our latest EdConnect to learn more at the link in our bio or at edconnectkern.org.

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From decorating coffee sleeves to putting the “I” in KIND, Kern County students are showing how small acts can make a big impact 💙

This week, schools across the county are taking part in the Great Kindness Challenge, a global, student-led initiative that promotes compassion, connection, and positive school climates. Read our latest EdConnect to learn more at the link in our bio or at edconnectkern.org.

Tickets are on sale now for the 5th Annual KEEP CALM Jamboree presented by @valleystrongcu. Mark your calendar for April 24. Don’t miss the boat - buy your tickets now at calmzoo.org!

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Tickets are on sale now for the 5th Annual KEEP CALM Jamboree presented by @valleystrongcu. Mark your calendar for April 24. Don’t miss the boat - buy your tickets now at calmzoo.org!

The Bakersfield Symphony Orchestra (@bsonow) is welcoming nearly 5,000 Kern County students to its annual Young People’s Concerts, giving many their first-ever experience seeing live music. In partnership with Kern County Superintendent of Schools, elementary students are being bused in from dozens of schools for four concerts over two days at the Dignity Health Theater and Convention Center.

This year’s theme, Compose Yourself!, shows students how instruments work and how music can be created using unexpected objects like garden hoses and everyday items. Student volunteers help select melody, harmony, and rhythm, then watch their original composition come to life in a live performance.

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The Bakersfield Symphony Orchestra (@bsonow) is welcoming nearly 5,000 Kern County students to its annual Young People’s Concerts, giving many their first-ever experience seeing live music. In partnership with Kern County Superintendent of Schools, elementary students are being bused in from dozens of schools for four concerts over two days at the Dignity Health Theater and Convention Center.

This year’s theme, Compose Yourself!, shows students how instruments work and how music can be created using unexpected objects like garden hoses and everyday items. Student volunteers help select melody, harmony, and rhythm, then watch their original composition come to life in a live performance.

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Maple Elementary’s first Harvest Parade connected lessons to real-world agricultural practices this week. Through live demonstrations, expert explanations, and a Tower Challenge using the machinery, students gained a deeper understanding of local farming and the impact it has on their families’ lives.

Take a look at all of the photos and read our full story on EdConnect at the link in our bio or at edconnectkern.org.

Kern County’s finest high school musicians and singers took the stage at Dignity Health Theater last night for the annual It’s a Grand Night for Music. The honors music festival featured nearly 800 high school orchestra, band, and choir students who earned their place through demanding auditions and rigorous practice schedules. Congratulations to all who performed!

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Kern County’s finest high school musicians and singers took the stage at Dignity Health Theater last night for the annual It’s a Grand Night for Music. The honors music festival featured nearly 800 high school orchestra, band, and choir students who earned their place through demanding auditions and rigorous practice schedules. Congratulations to all who performed!

What happens when schools invest in teacher leadership and student connection? Students learn more. Absences and discipline decline. School culture improves.

Across the Kern River Valley, Kernville Union School District is seeing meaningful gains through its investment in Achievement Leaders—teacher leaders who strengthen instruction, support intervention, and build positive school culture. The result: campuses where students feel supported, connected, and ready to succeed.

Read our latest EdConnect to learn more at the link in our bio or at edconnectkern.org.

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What happens when schools invest in teacher leadership and student connection? Students learn more. Absences and discipline decline. School culture improves.

Across the Kern River Valley, Kernville Union School District is seeing meaningful gains through its investment in Achievement Leaders—teacher leaders who strengthen instruction, support intervention, and build positive school culture. The result: campuses where students feel supported, connected, and ready to succeed.

Read our latest EdConnect to learn more at the link in our bio or at edconnectkern.org.

It’s time for the Great Kindness Challenge! Shafter is celebrating kindness one cup at a time. This week, Redwood Elementary School in the Richland School District is teaming up with local coffee shop, Tin Cup Coffee, to spread positivity and smiles for the Great Kindness Challenge.

Monday and Tuesday, students from the elementary school are spending their recess decorating coffee cup sleeves, adding a personal touch and messages of kindness for the community. These personalized sleeves will be distributed through the coffee shop all throughout the week. The students are also decorating posters which will be shared with other schools across the district.

How are you celebrating the Great Kindness Challenge? Let us know and you may be featured on our website!

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It’s time for the Great Kindness Challenge! Shafter is celebrating kindness one cup at a time. This week, Redwood Elementary School in the Richland School District is teaming up with local coffee shop, Tin Cup Coffee, to spread positivity and smiles for the Great Kindness Challenge.

Monday and Tuesday, students from the elementary school are spending their recess decorating coffee cup sleeves, adding a personal touch and messages of kindness for the community. These personalized sleeves will be distributed through the coffee shop all throughout the week. The students are also decorating posters which will be shared with other schools across the district.

How are you celebrating the Great Kindness Challenge? Let us know and you may be featured on our website!

The Annual Leaders in Life conference is coming up on March 12! Students can still sign up to attend. Work with your school counselors to ensure your registration is placed by March 12, 2026 to not incur any late charges. You can find the Leaders in Life registration form here: https://bit.ly/4t2l0Ik

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Educators, industry leaders, and community partners came together today at the Dignity Health Convention Center for Kern County’s 3rd Annual CTE Summit, a full day focused on strengthening Career Technical Education across our region.

One of the day’s highlights was the presentation of the CTE Superstar Award to Mario Lizarraga, Automotive Collision & Refinishing Technology instructor at the Regional Occupational Center (ROC) in the Kern High School District. Recognized for his leadership in the Transportation CTE pathway, Lizarraga has built an industry-aligned program that prepares students for real careers — and it shows in their confidence, skill, and success beyond the classroom.

Hosted by KCSOS’s College & Career Programs, the summit featured student voices, keynote speakers, breakout sessions, and meaningful conversations around aligning education with workforce needs.

Check it out in our latest EdConnect at the link in our bio or at edconnectkern.org.

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Educators, industry leaders, and community partners came together today at the Dignity Health Convention Center for Kern County’s 3rd Annual CTE Summit, a full day focused on strengthening Career Technical Education across our region.

One of the day’s highlights was the presentation of the CTE Superstar Award to Mario Lizarraga, Automotive Collision & Refinishing Technology instructor at the Regional Occupational Center (ROC) in the Kern High School District. Recognized for his leadership in the Transportation CTE pathway, Lizarraga has built an industry-aligned program that prepares students for real careers — and it shows in their confidence, skill, and success beyond the classroom.

Hosted by KCSOS’s College & Career Programs, the summit featured student voices, keynote speakers, breakout sessions, and meaningful conversations around aligning education with workforce needs.

Check it out in our latest EdConnect at the link in our bio or at edconnectkern.org.

DID YOU KNOW?

Kern County kids are getting hands-on with healthy eating thanks to a new Charlie Cart teaching kitchen at the Beale Library. Through interactive cooking lessons, children are learning practical skills, nutrition basics, and how food fuels their bodies. This six-week program is a collaboration between Blue Zones Project Bakersfield, Kern County Library, and Kern County Superintendent of Schools, with free lessons offered every Wednesday afternoon inside the library.

Read more in our latest EdConnect article to learn how this program is shaping healthy habits for local kids. Click the link in our bio or visit edconnectkern.org.

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DID YOU KNOW?

Kern County kids are getting hands-on with healthy eating thanks to a new Charlie Cart teaching kitchen at the Beale Library. Through interactive cooking lessons, children are learning practical skills, nutrition basics, and how food fuels their bodies. This six-week program is a collaboration between Blue Zones Project Bakersfield, Kern County Library, and Kern County Superintendent of Schools, with free lessons offered every Wednesday afternoon inside the library.

Read more in our latest EdConnect article to learn how this program is shaping healthy habits for local kids. Click the link in our bio or visit edconnectkern.org.

The Greenfield Union School District (@greenfieldschooldistrict) is putting student physical and emotional health front and center with the grand opening and ribbon cutting of its new student wellness center this week. Dubbed the “Pawsitive Wolfpack Den,” the wellness center at Crescent Elementary School is the first of 12 that will open across the district over the next two years to provide students with encouragement, support, and a sense of belonging.

Read more about it in our latest EdConnect: https://bit.ly/4r56ldh

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The Greenfield Union School District (@greenfieldschooldistrict) is putting student physical and emotional health front and center with the grand opening and ribbon cutting of its new student wellness center this week. Dubbed the “Pawsitive Wolfpack Den,” the wellness center at Crescent Elementary School is the first of 12 that will open across the district over the next two years to provide students with encouragement, support, and a sense of belonging.

Read more about it in our latest EdConnect: https://bit.ly/4r56ldh

Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. once said: “Life’s most persistent and urgent question is, ‘What are you doing for others?’” Giving back doesn’t have to be big – sometimes all you need is a small act to ignite greater change within your community. These poignant words are certainly worth sharing with our community, especially on this National Day of Service. How will you celebrate?

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Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. once said: “Life’s most persistent and urgent question is, ‘What are you doing for others?’” Giving back doesn’t have to be big – sometimes all you need is a small act to ignite greater change within your community. These poignant words are certainly worth sharing with our community, especially on this National Day of Service. How will you celebrate?

They’re often the first smiles of the day and the quiet heroes keeping students safe.

Meet “Mr. Melvin” Wandick, who faithfully watches over students at Fruitvale Junior High School from his corner at Calloway Drive and Holland Street, and Mike LaBarge, a familiar and reassuring presence for families at Patriot Elementary School near Old Farm Road and Yearling Avenue.

From daily waves and shouted greetings to lasting bonds with students and families, their stories show how a single corner and a caring presence can shape an entire community.

Read the full story on EdConnect at the link in our bio or at edconnectkern.org.

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They’re often the first smiles of the day and the quiet heroes keeping students safe.

Meet “Mr. Melvin” Wandick, who faithfully watches over students at Fruitvale Junior High School from his corner at Calloway Drive and Holland Street, and Mike LaBarge, a familiar and reassuring presence for families at Patriot Elementary School near Old Farm Road and Yearling Avenue.

From daily waves and shouted greetings to lasting bonds with students and families, their stories show how a single corner and a caring presence can shape an entire community.

Read the full story on EdConnect at the link in our bio or at edconnectkern.org.

Dozens of middle and high school students from across Kern County gathered at California State University, Bakersfield today for the third annual Student Voice Matters Day — a powerful celebration of young people finding their confidence, building leadership skills, and learning how their voices can drive real change on their campuses and beyond. Read all about it on www.edconnectkern.org.

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Dozens of middle and high school students from across Kern County gathered at California State University, Bakersfield today for the third annual Student Voice Matters Day — a powerful celebration of young people finding their confidence, building leadership skills, and learning how their voices can drive real change on their campuses and beyond. Read all about it on www.edconnectkern.org.

The 5th annual KEEP CALM Jamboree, presented by Valley Strong Credit Union, is returning to CALM Zoo on Friday, April 24! This signature fundraiser blends entertainment with impact, with proceeds supporting CALM Zoo’s animal care and educational programming. Funds also benefit Camp KEEP, KCSOS`s outdoor education program that provides students with immersive, nature-based learning experiences, raising more than $300,000 in the past four years.

“Yachtley Crew really sets the tone for the night,” said Rob Meszaros, co-chair of the event’s organizing committee. “Their music instantly brings people together. You look around and see people singing along, laughing, and reconnecting — that’s exactly what we hope for with this event.”

Read all about it, view the photo gallery from last year, and access the ticket link in our latest EdConnect at the link in our bio or at edconnectkern.org.

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The 5th annual KEEP CALM Jamboree, presented by Valley Strong Credit Union, is returning to CALM Zoo on Friday, April 24! This signature fundraiser blends entertainment with impact, with proceeds supporting CALM Zoo’s animal care and educational programming. Funds also benefit Camp KEEP, KCSOS's outdoor education program that provides students with immersive, nature-based learning experiences, raising more than $300,000 in the past four years.

“Yachtley Crew really sets the tone for the night,” said Rob Meszaros, co-chair of the event’s organizing committee. “Their music instantly brings people together. You look around and see people singing along, laughing, and reconnecting — that’s exactly what we hope for with this event.”

Read all about it, view the photo gallery from last year, and access the ticket link in our latest EdConnect at the link in our bio or at edconnectkern.org.

A Decade of Growth in Student Support!
From just one school social worker in 2016 to 150+ serving students today, these professionals are now essential to student success — supporting well-being and connecting families to resources. Their impact was celebrated at the CASSW Annual Conference at held Bakersfield College, where Kern earned multiple honors. Read all about it in our latest EdConnect at edconnectkern.org.

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A Decade of Growth in Student Support!
From just one school social worker in 2016 to 150+ serving students today, these professionals are now essential to student success — supporting well-being and connecting families to resources. Their impact was celebrated at the CASSW Annual Conference at held Bakersfield College, where Kern earned multiple honors. Read all about it in our latest EdConnect at edconnectkern.org.

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