Community Partners Host Under the Sea Storytime at CALM
Families had an ocean-themed adventure as the Under the Sea Summer Storytime transformed CALM into a day of hands-on learning, imaginative play, and community resources.
Community News
Annual Shopping Spree Helps Kern Students Start School Ready to Succeed
More than 100 Kern County students received new clothes, school supplies, and a confident start to the school year through the annual Kohl’s Children’s Shopping Spree.
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Adult Learners Forge New Career Paths in Spanish-Language Child Education
A small cohort of 25 adult learners proudly walked across the graduation stage at Cerro Coso Community College in Ridgecrest last week with not just a certificate, but the beginning of a new career path. The students are part of a Spanish-language child development cohort supported by a partnership between the Kern County Superintendent of Schools (KCSOS) and the college.
Senior Spotlight: Teen Philanthropist Brings Giving Spirit to UCLA
For Liberty High School senior Imanni Brar, success has never been measured by what you gain, but what you give. An entrepreneur and philanthropist from a young age, Imanni has set her sights on the University of California – Los Angeles, where she plans to study Business Economics and further her nonprofit enterprise.
Three Finalists Named Kern County Teachers of the Year
Every year, dozens of Kern County educators rise through the ranks of their school and their district to be named Teacher of the Year, but only three become finalists to earn recognition from the state of California. The Kern County Superintendent of Schools (KCSOS) office recognized all these outstanding individuals Thursday evening at the annual Kern County Education Champions of the Year celebration Thursday evening at the Historic Bell Tower Plaza. There, KCSOS announced the three finalists for the prestigious 2026 Kern County Teacher of the Year award. The trio is now eligible to apply for the California Teacher of the Year program.
Mountain View Officially Dedicated as Newest Panama-Buena Vista Campus
The Panama-Buena Vista Union School District (PBVUSD) celebrated the completion of Mountain View TK-8 School on Thursday morning with a dedication ceremony that reflected the school’s growth from elementary school to a combined elementary and middle school.
Elk Hills Students Plant 40 Trees for Earth Day Celebration
The students of the Elk Hills School District are giving their school a gift that will be passed down for generations to come. In celebration of Earth Day on Wednesday, they came together with volunteers in the community to plant 40 sapling trees on campus grounds.
Rio Bravo Greeley Cuts the Ribbon on Renovated Aquatic Center
Rio Bravo-Greeley Union School District leaders held a ribbon-cutting ceremony Friday to celebrate the newly renovated Ed Edgmon Aquatic Center.
Kern County Unites for Child Abuse Prevention Month
This April, Kern County joins communities nationwide in observing Child Abuse Prevention Month, bringing together families and organizations to promote safe, supportive environments for children.
Audible Easter Egg Hunt Marks Ten Years of Inclusion, Joy
For a decade, the sound of beeping eggs has signaled something special each spring in East Bakersfield. That tradition continued today as students, families, educators, and community partners gathered at the Police Activities League for the 10th Annual Audible Easter Egg Hunt. The event is designed to ensure that students with visual impairments can experience the excitement of a traditional egg hunt in an accessible, welcoming, and joyful way.
YES! Conference Connects Foster Youth with Resources, Each Other
Middle and high school students from across Kern County gathered Friday for a day of support, connection, and finding their voice at the 11th annual Youth Empowering Success (YES!) Conference at Bakersfield College. Each year, the conference brings together homeless and foster youth, educators, caregivers, and community partners for workshops, discussions, and activities centered on helping them succeed in school and beyond.
After Rare Super Quiz Tie, McKittrick Emerges as Whiz Kids Champion
Seventh and eighth grade students from McKittrick Elementary School beat out four other districts Friday to take home the top trophy at the annual Whiz Kids Competition. The Academic Decathlon-style event tests students’ knowledge in a variety of different subjects including math, science, history, and writing. The event concludes with a “Super Quiz” that questions students about a pre-selected novel.
Teaching the Parents: KCSOS Family Workshop Series Focuses on Early Literacy
Kern County families are invited to participate in the new KCSOS Parent Workshop Series, focused on the foundations of literacy and reading. Led by the Curriculum and Instruction team, the workshops were created to build parents’ capacity to support early literacy development using practical, research-based strategies.
Kern Valley Students Become Published Authors for Dickens Day of Writing
On a seemingly ordinary February morning in Lake Isabella, the library of Kern Valley High School buzzed with activity that was anything but ordinary — high school seniors studying literature, learning a Victorian ballroom dance, and becoming published authors. It’s all part of the annual Dickens Day of Writing, an academic celebration held in honor of Charles Dickens’ birthday.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Dozens of Students Take Center Stage, Inspiring Peers in Bakersfield’s Nutcracker
Bakersfield’s beloved holiday tradition, The Nutcracker, is returning to the stage for its 48th annual production this Christmas season. Presented by Civic Dance Center, the longtime production is once again enchanting audiences while also introducing the performing arts to thousands of local students through its popular Young People’s Concerts.
VOCS Art Haven Celebrates Emerging Artists, Expanding CTE Pathways
Young artists specializing in a variety of different mediums showcased their talents Thursday night at the Valley Oaks Charter School (VOCS) annual Art Haven fall exhibition. The Art Haven is a VOCS pop-up art gallery that promotes art culture and celebrates student artists. The art show featured a range of media and artistic themes crafted by select elementary, junior high, and high school students.
Four Lost Hills Students With Hearing Loss Lead by Example
At Lost Hills Union School District, four boys can often be found sprinting across the track, laughing with their teammates and friends, or swapping stories in the classroom. They are students, athletes, and leaders, and they also happen to experience hearing loss. But to their school community, that hearing loss is not what defines them.
Community Volunteers Power Reading Gains for Second Graders
Second graders across Kern County are building confidence as readers thanks to the Community Reading Project. Learn how you can get involved.
Valley Oaks Charter School Marks 25 Years of Innovation, Family & Growth
This fall, Valley Oaks Charter School (VOCS) is celebrating 25 years of reimagining education in Kern County. What began in 2000 with fewer than two dozen students, two part-time teachers, and a single bamboo table has since grown into one of the most unique and family-centered learning communities in the area.
Small Acts, Big Impact: KCSOS Launches Kindness Project
KCSOS has launched the Kern County Kindness Project to honor high school students whose small acts of compassion make a big difference in their schools and communities. Nominations are open through December 5.
STEAM on the Streets Returns for Second Year at New Home — The STEAM Yard
The excitement is building for the second annual STEAM on the Streets, and this year, the celebration is moving into a brand-new home. On Saturday, October 25, families from across Kern County are invited to gather at The STEAM Yard (2020 K Street) for a free morning of hands-on exploration, creativity, and community fun centered around Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics.
A Spooktacular Tradition Returns to CALM Zoo
For two decades, families across Kern County have marked their calendars for one of the most beloved fall traditions in Bakersfield — Boo at the Zoo. This year, the California Living Museum (CALM) is celebrating the 20th anniversary of the Halloween-themed event, welcoming guests October 15–19 for five days of festive fun, animal encounters, and community spirit.
New Dream Center Mural Brings Youth Voices to Life in Downtown Bakersfield
Where once there was a blank stucco wall on the southwest side of the Dream Center, there is now a splash of vibrant color – a mural that tells a story of resilience, growth, and community, all brought to life by the very youth the center serves. Local artist Jennifer Williams-Cordova, and current and former foster youth from the Dream Center collaborated to brainstorm, design, and paint the mural from start to finish.
First Cohort of Bilingual Authorization Graduates Return to the Classroom
Kern County’s need for bilingual educators is growing — and thanks to a partnership between the Kern County Superintendent of Schools (KCSOS) and California State University, Bakersfield (CSUB), the pipeline is beginning to strengthen. Through the state-funded Bilingual Teacher Professional Development Program (BTPDP), teachers across Kern County have the opportunity to complete coursework at CSUB at no cost and earn their Bilingual Authorization (BILA). This credential allows them to teach in dual language immersion (DLI) programs.
KCSOS Alt Ed Students Earn Top Honors in Woodworking, Culinary Arts
From blue-ribbon woodwork to award-winning culinary creations, students at Crossroads and the Youth Detention Center are proving that hands-on learning builds skills — and pride. See how their projects at the Kern County Fair are making a lasting impact.
Finding Her Place: First-Gen College Student Begins Her Journey at UC Davis
At the beginning of August, Julissa Rocha packed up her life in Bakersfield and drove four and a half hours north to begin her journey into higher education. Now a freshman history major at UC Davis, Rocha is embracing her new life as a first-generation college student, balancing summer courses, making new friends, and exploring a new home.
Kern Districts, Partners Unite to Strengthen Schools through Community Model
Over the summer, school districts from across Kern County came together for the region’s first Community Partner Convening, an event dedicated to building stronger collaborations between schools and community organizations. Hosted by the Kern County Superintendent of Schools (KCSOS), the convening welcomed more than 90 participants — including representatives from 15 school districts — to strengthen regional networks and share strategies for supporting students and their families.
Southern Kern Unified Welcomes Students Back to School with Community Event
The Southern Kern Unified School District (SKUSD) is opening its doors after the summer break to welcome students and families back to campus and provide them with everything they need to start the new school year off right. This week, the district hosted its annual Ice Cream Social and Backpack Giveaway, bringing the community together for a day of fun and community support.
Sierra Sands Celebrates Grand Opening of Richmond Elementary After Years of Setbacks
The Sierra Sands Unified School District (SSUSD) in Ridgecrest cut the ribbon Tuesday morning on its new Richmond Elementary School. School staff, military officials, local leaders, and community members all celebrated the legacy of the beloved institution while bringing it into the future.
Inspiring Creativity, Tobacco Awareness with TUPE PSA Day
Middle school students across Kern County got a chance to flex their creative muscles today and spread a message of tobacco prevention at the same time, with an awareness campaign created by kids for kids. The Kern County Superintendent of Schools’ Tobacco Use Prevention Education (TUPE) program teamed up with the Delano Union School District Friday to host a ‘PSA day’ at La Viña Middle School.
Mary C. Barlow Aurora Center Honors Former Superintendent’s Legacy
Kern County education leaders gathered to dedicate the Aurora Learning Center in honor of former Superintendent Mary C. Barlow, whose advocacy helped create a safe, supportive space for students with the most complex needs.
General Shafter School Hosts Inaugural Community Resource and TK Readiness Fair
General Shafter School welcomed families from across the community to its first annual Community Resource Fair, featuring a special TK/Kindergarten Readiness event for young children and their parents. The event helped connect families with valuable local resources and support early childhood education. Community partners like the Kern County Sheriff’s Department, Kern Family Health Care, and the Kern County Superintendent of Schools (KCSOS) were on hand to provide information and assistance.
Susan Holloway Clothing Bank Opens at Greenfield Family Resource Center
More than two decades ago, sixth-grade teacher Susan Holloway began collecting various clothing and hygiene items in her classroom to give to her students and their families in need. Those decades of hard work culminated in the grand opening and ribbon cutting of the Susan Holloway clothing bank at the Greenfield Family Resource Center in the Greenfield Union School District (GFUSD). Thanks to Holloway’s determination, Greenfield’s outreach efforts, and community contributions, the district can offer another vital resource to the families it serves.
Students Honored, Scholarships Awarded at African American Awards Program
Nearly $42,000 in scholarships were awarded to 48 high-achieving seniors during the 46th Annual African American Graduation Awards in Bakersfield — a powerful evening of celebration, pride, and academic excellence.
Kern County Event Inspires Girls to Pursue Futures in STEM
In a day packed with energy, creativity, and inspiration, young girls from across Kern County got hands-on with science and engineering — and saw just how bright their futures in STEM can be.
Annual Summit Teaches Kern Students to Advocate for Tobacco Policy Change
Middle and high schoolers from across Kern County stepped into the spotlight at the Youth Against Commercial Tobacco Summit, learning to lead the charge against vaping and smoking through advocacy, education, and grit.
The 10th Annual YES! Conference: A Celebration of Foster Youth Success and Empowerment
Youth Empowering Success (YES!) marked its monumental 10th annual conference recently, bringing together foster youth, educators, and community leaders across Kern County for a day of growth, empowerment, and connection. Held at Bakersfield College, this year’s event focused on the journey of YES! throughout the years.
Farm Day in the City Brings Agricultural Education to Kern County Students
The Kern County Fairgrounds were bustling with excitement this week for the 41st annual Farm Day in the City. Hosted by the Kern County Farm Bureau, the event continues a long tradition of educating the next generation about the origins of their food and the significance of agriculture. About 5,000 students from all over the county came to the Kern County Fairgrounds for the two-day event, eager to explore the hands-on exhibits and demonstrations highlighting the importance of farming and ranching in Kern County.
Finding Purpose Through Service: AmeriCorps Mentors Making an Impact
For years, the KCSOS AmeriCorps Mentoring Program has provided invaluable support to Kern County students through dedicated mentors who go beyond academics to address the whole child. From tackling chronic absenteeism to building meaningful connections, mentors like Samantha Lopez and Candice Magaña are making a real impact—both in students’ lives and their own. Discover how AmeriCorps is shaping futures and building stronger communities.
Crescent Elementary Becomes First Certified Healthy School in Kern County
Kern County Public Health and Greenfield Union School District (GFUSD) Nutrition Services celebrated a significant milestone in promoting student health and wellness this week, as Crescent Elementary School became the first Certified Healthy School in Kern County. This designation is part of Public Health’s new Certified Healthy Schools Initiative, which recognizes schools that serve nutritious and well-balanced meals to students.
Buttonwillow Union School District Opens New Early Learning & Family Resource Center
Buttonwillow Union School District (BUSD) is celebrating a giant leap forward in its capacity to provide much-needed services and resources to its rural community. On Wednesday, the small district hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony for its new early childhood education facility and family resource center.
California Dreamin’ Bringing Kern County’s Labor History to the Classroom
This summer, 72 educators from here at home and across the nation will embark on an interactive journey through the history of labor and migration in California’s Central Valley. The California Dreamin’ program is once again bringing to light our region’s rich and often overlooked history.
CALM’s Cats Pick Eagles to Win the Super Bowl, While Bears Snooze the Season Away
With Super Bowl legend Cinnamon the bear snoozing, CALM’s mountain lions and bobcats took over prediction duties. Their pick for the Big Game? The Eagles! Will they match Cid’s 85% accuracy? Find out Sunday if the Cats of California are the new champs of Super Bowl forecasting!
PHOTO ESSAY: It Was a ‘Grand Night for Music’
Kern’s finest high school musicians and singers took the stage at the Mechanics Bank 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 members who endured demanding auditions and grueling practice schedules to earn their spot on the stage.
How “Second Career” CTE Teachers are Shaping the Workforce of Tomorrow
Since its inception two decades ago, California’s Career Technical Education (CTE) program has been celebrated for equipping students with practical skills and industry-relevant knowledge. Many CTE instructors bring a wealth of experience from their first careers, offering students a unique perspective. But what inspires these professionals to embark on a “second career” in teaching?
Yachtley Crew Set to Drop Anchor at CALM for 4th Annual Jamboree
Tickets are now on sale for the 4th annual KEEP CALM Jamboree presented by Valley Strong Credit Union. Back by popular demand is Yächtley Crëw, the nation’s top “Yacht Rock” cover band performing soft rock classics from the 1970s and early 80s.
Revamped PBIS ACER 2.0 Certification Aims to Further Improve School Climate, Student Success
Schools throughout the region are set to benefit from the launch of PBIS ACER 2.0, a comprehensive certification overhaul designed to enhance the implementation of Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS). This updated process emphasizes consistency, quality, and accountability, taking school climate and student outcomes to the next level.
PHOTO GALLERY: Nutcracker Young People’s Concerts Delight Thousands of Students
Bakersfield’s beloved holiday tradition, The Nutcracker, is celebrating its 47th annual production this Christmas season, bringing magic to audiences of all ages. Today and tomorrow, as many as 6,000 local students will have the chance to experience the wonder of ballet during the Nutcracker Young People’s Concerts held at the Mechanics Bank Convention Center.
Kern County Secures $5.2 Million Grant to Combat Youth Homelessness
Kern County has been awarded a $5.2 million Youth Homelessness Demonstration Program (YHDP) grant, a groundbreaking investment that aims to transform the lives of thousands of young people facing housing instability.
Foster Youth Gains Independence with Car Donation from Community Partnership
Gloria Rodriguez, a 22-year-old foster youth, was beaming with excitement and hope today as she received her first car — a gently used Ford EcoSport SE — thanks to a community partnership between the Dream Center, Kern County Network for Children (KCNC), and Jim Burke Ford. The donation marks a transformative moment in Rodriguez’s journey toward independence and success.
FAFSA Application Now Open: Kern Leaders Urge Students to Apply Early
Applications officially opened for the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) today. Y2LEF teamed up with the Kern Regional K-16 Education Collaborative and the Kern County Superintendent of Schools (KCSOS) to host a news conference highlighting financial aid opportunities here in Kern County. Local education leaders and community officials joined the conference, stressing the importance of access to higher education.
Reduced Absenteeism, Improved Graduation Rates Highlight School Dashboard Release
The annual update to the California School Dashboard, the state’s annual report card for K-12 public schools, was released today. It provides a transparent overview of how schools and districts are performing across key indicators.
Three Kern County Equity Champions Named During EMBRACE Symposium
The Embrace Equity Symposium in Bakersfield is honoring three Equity Champions whose dedication to inclusivity is inspiring change in Kern County. This year’s honorees—Salvador Avalos, Raji K. Brar, and Ishmeet Singh—are celebrated for their tireless work to uplift others.
Hundreds Gather at EMBRACE Symposium to Champion Equity in Education
Nearly 500 educators and community members from Kern County and beyond gathered at the Mechanics Bank Convention Center for the 4th Annual EMBRACE Kern Equity Symposium, marking the first day of this impactful two-day event.
School District TK-3 Classrooms Showcase How Play is Shaping Future Learners
As California gears up to offer an entirely new type of teaching credential geared toward pre-kindergarten through third-grade teachers, experts and educators alike are rallying around the idea that play is more than just a break from learning — it is the learning.
Students Explore Local Career Opportunities at Annual East Kern Expo
Nearly 2,000 students from nine school districts across eastern Kern County gathered Thursday at the Mojave Air and Space Port for the third annual East Kern Career Expo. The event, packed with exploration and learning, provided students from grades six through twelve with a firsthand look at potential college and career paths in their own region.
Standard Middle, Mt. Vernon Elementary Become Latest Blue Zone Approved Schools
Standard Middle School and Mt. Vernon Elementary School are Bakersfield’s latest Blue Zones Project Approved Schools. Both campuses celebrated their milestones this week. Over the past year, staff at each school have worked with Blue Zones Project Bakersfield to implement changes to help make their campuses healthier for students.
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.
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.
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.
Students Bring the Pledge of Allegiance to Local Airwaves with New Community Initiative
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 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Hispanic Heritage Month Spotlight: Candi Huizar, a Shining Example of Equity & Compassion
As the daughter of Mexican immigrants, Candi Huizar, KCSOS’s director of equity and inclusion, knows firsthand the power of resilience and determination. Growing up, she and her seven siblings navigated the challenges of language barriers, poverty, and adapting to a new way of life in the U.S. Now, forty years later, Huizar looks back on her family’s incredible journey — eight children, all college graduates, three with master’s degrees, and Huizar herself on the path to earning her doctorate.
Students Battle for Best Recipe in Kern County Fair Chopped Challenge
The Kern County Fair came alive today with the inaugural Chopped Challenge, where teams of school nutrition directors and high school students faced off in a cooking competition. Hosted at the Frontier Stage, the event showcased creative culinary talent and promoted the principles of healthy eating inspired by the Blue Zones Project (BZP).
Hispanic Heritage Month Spotlight: Young Mariachi Star Finds Her Voice
Seven-year-old Alessandra Gutierrez recently won the 2024 National Mariachi Youth Vocalist Competition and gained millions of TikTok views for her remarkable singing. Her passion for mariachi began during a family trip to Mexico and is deeply tied to her cultural heritage, supported by her bilingual education.
Schools Combat Chronic Absenteeism by Addressing Sleep, Family Engagement
Kern County schools are tackling chronic absenteeism by addressing sleep deprivation and fostering strong student-family relationships. Initiatives like Student Sleep Health Month, community engagement, and targeted support have helped reduce absenteeism, improving student success.
Redwood Elementary Celebrates Inclusivity with Start With Hello Week
Redwood Elementary School (Richland School District) in Shafter is celebrating its first-ever Start With Hello Week, joining schools nationwide in a program focused on fostering empathy and a sense of belonging among students. On Monday morning, Redwood staff, along with board members, district staff, high school students, and community members, walked the corridors, giving a warm greeting, a smile, and a big hello to every elementary student.
Youth Leaders Stand Against Drug Use at Annual Drug Free Youth Summit
More than 250 youth leaders from 24 schools across Kern County rallied behind drug prevention efforts at the annual Drug-Free Youth Summit hosted today by Kern County Behavioral Health and Recovery Services (KernBHRS). Student representatives came together to sharpen their strategies for drug and alcohol prevention, connect with their peers, and plan impactful activities like Red Ribbon Week.
Students Honor Heroes, Remember Lives Lost During September 11 Memorial Events
Even though they were not yet born when the tragic events of September 11, 2001 unfolded, a new generation is stepping up to honor and remember the day that forever changed America. Across Kern County today, young people organized and participated in memorial events, paying tribute to the victims, first responders, and all those impacted by the attacks.
Create, Discover, Explore: KCSOS Announces Plans for Community STEAM Learning Center
The Kern County Superintendent of Schools (KCSOS), in partnership with Chevron, announced its plans today for The STEAM Yard, a first-of-its-kind educational center dedicated to fostering student growth through an innovative, student-centered approach.
Innovative Environmental Education Curriculum Launched for Local Students
The California Coastal Commission Whale Tail Grant Program has funded the development of a new environmental sustainability curriculum that will be implemented this fall at Camp KEEP’s Ocean and By the Sea campuses.
High School Seniors Prepare for College: Resources, Support Available
Applying to college requires time and effort. Just ask the more than 2,500 Kern County high school seniors who have started, or will start soon, navigating the sometimes complex process. Thankfully, several resources are available to students and families.
Wasco Students Gear up for First-Ever Trip to Camp KEEP Thanks to Strata Credit Union, CRC
Officials from Strata Credit Union and California Resources Corporation attended back to school nights in Wasco this week to surprise students and families with a $250,000 gift that will send all sixth graders to Camp KEEP this year.
HopSkipDrive Provides Transportation Services for Bakersfield’s Most Vulnerable Students
The Kern County Superintendent of Schools (KCSOS) and the Kern County Department of Human Services (DHS) have partnered with HopSkipDrive, a rideshare service designed to get students to and from school. The service aims to fill gaps in transportation for some of the community’s most vulnerable children, including those in foster care and experiencing homelessness.
Annual Kern County College Night Returns September 9 for 25th Year
Kern County Superintendent of Schools (KCSOS), in conjunction with the Kern High School District, Bakersfield College, CSU, Bakersfield, and Taft College will host the annual Kern County College Night on Monday, Sept. 9 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Mechanics Bank Convention Center.
From Wasco to Princeton: Alexis Cruz Overcomes All Odds
Wasco native Alexis Cruz, 19, has a remarkable story to share — one marked by perseverance, resilience, and impassioned support. He experienced hearing loss early in life, which presented challenges that could have easily limited his potential. Instead, these obstacles became the stepping stones leading him to the prestigious halls of Princeton University, where he recently finished his first year.
AmeriCorps Mentors Celebrate Graduation, Embrace New Horizons
The KCSOS AmeriCorps Program has become an invaluable resource in Kern County. Through the deployment of mentors across various school sites, the program provides crucial one-on-one support to students, assisting their academic and personal development and fostering positive learning environments.
Strength in Numbers: Pooling Resources Means More Money for Kids
Self-Insured Schools of California is the largest public school pool in the United States, fostering the health and well-being of California’s educators and their families.
School Classified Employee of the Year Spotlight: Tony Cervantes
This is one in a series of stories highlighting the 2024 Kern County School Classified Employees of the Year Selections. Eight employees were selected by a committee from a pool of thirty nominees in a variety of job classifications. The eight are now eligible for the statewide award program.
School Classified Employee of the Year Spotlight: Alan Button
This is one in a series of stories highlighting the 2024 Kern County School Classified Employees of the Year Selections. Eight employees were selected by a committee from a pool of thirty nominees in a variety of job classifications. The eight are now eligible for the statewide award program.
Kern County Career & STEM Expo: Inspiring Tomorrow’s Workforce
Thousands of local students got a glimpse into their possible futures Friday at the Kern County Career & STEM Expo hosted by the Career Technical Education Center (CTEC).
SISC Represented at White House Cancer Moonshot Event
The Self Insured Schools of California (SISC) is well-known throughout Kern County and California as a major insurer of school districts, with more than 400,000 members in its network. Now the organization is taking its place on a national stage with other big-name companies.
Richland School District Families Find Support at Shafter Resource Center
The Richland Union School District, serving the small community of Shafter, is making great strides toward student success by addressing the needs of the whole child and the whole community.
Inaugural Tobacco Youth Summit Educates Students on the Power of Advocacy
Middle and high school students from across Kern County attended the first-ever Tobacco Youth Summit today. The event aimed to empower youth against tobacco use and the importance of advocacy.
Community Voice: Let’s Work Together to Combat Child Abuse, Neglect
April marks the observance of Child Abuse Prevention Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about the critical issue of child abuse and neglect. As we shine a spotlight on this problem, it is imperative that we not only acknowledge its existence but also commit ourselves to proactive measures to protect the most vulnerable members of our society, our children.
