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.
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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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Vineland Elementary students shopped for fresh produce during a student Farmers Market that doubled as a lesson in nutrition and money management.
KCSOS and CALM Zoo are joining forces to launch Stock the Shelves, a community-driven donation effort to help restock school-site pantries that provide vital support to students and their families facing food insecurity.
Centennial High School captured first place at today’s We the People competition at Golden Valley High School, just edging out Arvin High School in a tight overall finish that highlighted an impressive field of contenders. The event marked more than just the announcement of winners — it also brought a change in leadership and welcomed a new school to the countywide program.
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.
Williams Elementary students took part in Bakersfield’s first Ruby Bridges Walk to School Day, honoring the courage of a child who helped change history.
Four Kern County school districts were celebrated at this year’s CSBA Golden Bell Awards, earning statewide recognition for innovative programs that boost student success, strengthen school communities, and expand opportunities from early literacy to early college.
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.
Every afternoon during fifth period at Robert F. Kennedy High School in Delano, an ordinary classroom transforms into the T-Bird Tea Bar, a place where teachers can get their afternoon caffeine fix, and where special needs students can gain real-world experience that will support them long after they leave campus.
Registration is now open for the 26th Annual Kern County Teacher Recruitment Fair, set for Saturday, January 31, 2026, from 9 a.m. to noon at the Larry E. Reider Education Center in downtown Bakersfield. The event, hosted by the Kern County Superintendent of Schools (KCSOS), remains the county’s largest one-stop opportunity for individuals interested in beginning or advancing a career in education.
The California Living Museum (CALM) welcomed sponsors, community partners, and members of the media on Monday night for an exclusive first look at the 23rd annual HolidayLights at CALM Zoo. Presented by Adventist Health, the preview was highlighted by the unveiling new displays, expanded features, and special additions ahead of Saturday’s public opening.
