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Senior Spotlight: Avery Francisco Cacal Honors Service and Family Tradition at West Point
Tue July 1, 2025 | Spotlight

Senior Spotlight: Avery Francisco Cacal Honors Service and Family Tradition at West Point

When Avery Francisco Cacal walked across the stage at Delano High School’s graduation, he did so with a sense of purpose greater than himself. His journey is defined by hard work, sacrifice, and a dream of serving his country, just as his family has done before him. This fall, Avery is headed to New York to attend the United States Military Academy Preparatory School (USMAPS) before joining USMA, also known as West Point. His ultimate goal is to join the U.S. Army as an officer, a first for his family.

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Senior Spotlight: Nathan Chavez Blazes a Trail to the Ivy League as First-Gen UPenn Student
Wed June 25, 2025 | Spotlight

Senior Spotlight: Nathan Chavez Blazes a Trail to the Ivy League as First-Gen UPenn Student

This fall, Nathan Chavez will be trading the warm familiarity of Bakersfield for the historic halls of the University of Pennsylvania — one of the most prestigious Ivy League institutions in the country. With an acceptance rate of just 5.9 percent and a reputation for challenging its students, UPenn is no easy feat. Yet, for Nathan, it’s not just a college acceptance — it’s the realization of a dream and a defining milestone as the first in his family to attend a four-year university.

By Katie Avery
By Katie Avery
PHOTO ESSAY: KCSOS Summer STEAM Camps Inspire Lifelong Learning
Tue June 17, 2025 | KCSOS News

PHOTO ESSAY: KCSOS Summer STEAM Camps Inspire Lifelong Learning

Thousands of students across Kern County are sparking curiosity and a love of learning at the Kern County Superintendent of Schools (KCSOS) summer STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics) Camps. The summer extended learning program offers a variety of hands-on activities and lessons for several age groups and districts. The summer STEAM Camps were nominated for a 2025 Beautiful Bakersfield Award in the Educational Excellence category. This year, the camps’ locations have expanded to include the new KCSOS STEAM Yard, which opened at the beginning of May. Each location offers a distinct focus, with lesson plans tailored to match each theme.

By Katie Avery
By Katie Avery
Senior Spotlight: Delano’s Ruby Bravo Graduates High School with Three College Degrees
Fri June 13, 2025 | Spotlight

Senior Spotlight: Delano’s Ruby Bravo Graduates High School with Three College Degrees

Thanks to the extensive early college programs offered by high school districts across Kern County, many local seniors can graduate with more than just a few college credits to their name. In fact, a growing number are earning full associate degrees before they even leave their high school campus.  Ruby Bravo, who recently graduated from Delano High School, has earned three degrees: two Associate of Arts (AA) degrees from Bakersfield College (BC) and one Associate of Science (AS) degree from Cerro Coso Community College.

By Katie Avery
By Katie Avery
New Award Shines Light on Unsung Student Achievements at VOCS 
Fri May 30, 2025 | Spotlight

New Award Shines Light on Unsung Student Achievements at VOCS 

Meet the unsung heroes of Valley Oaks Charter School. The inaugural Superintendent’s Award honors four standout students—not just for grades, but for grit, kindness, and quiet leadership. From running a petting zoo to reviving a drama program, these 8th and 12th graders show that impact isn’t always loud—but it’s always powerful.

By Jennifer Bryan
By Jennifer Bryan
Mark Luque Reflects on Legacy at BCSD, Looks Ahead to New Chapter with KCSOS
Thu May 29, 2025 | KCSOS News

Mark Luque Reflects on Legacy at BCSD, Looks Ahead to New Chapter with KCSOS

After more than a decade in leadership at Bakersfield City School District, Superintendent Mark Luque is stepping into a new role with the Kern County Superintendent of Schools as Chief Training & Advancement Officer. The longtime educator, who once attended BCSD schools himself, says the move isn’t a departure but an expansion — a chance to support and empower school leaders countywide while continuing to champion student success.

By Robert Meszaros
By Robert Meszaros
Kern County Students Earn State Recognition for Civic Engagement
Tue May 20, 2025 | KCSOS News

Kern County Students Earn State Recognition for Civic Engagement

Hundreds of students are being awarded for more than just their academic achievements — they’re being recognized for their commitment to making a difference in their communities. Thanks to a major local push to promote civic participation, more than 700 high school students will earn the State Seal of Civic Engagement (SSCE) this year, a dramatic leap from just two students a few years ago.

By Katie Avery
By Katie Avery
Inspiring Creativity, Tobacco Awareness with TUPE PSA Day
Fri May 16, 2025 | Community News

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.

By Katie Avery
By Katie Avery