Lemoore College has won the category four consecutive times, reflecting the continued support of Kings County residents and the college’s commitment to providing accessible, affordable and high-quality educational opportunities.

“We are incredibly grateful to our community for recognizing Lemoore College year after year,” said James Preston, president of Lemoore College. “Winning this award four consecutive times is a testament to the dedication of our faculty and staff, the achievements of our students and the strong relationships we have built throughout Kings County. We are honored to be nominated again and proud to serve a community that continues to believe in the value of higher education.”

The annual Best of Kings County People’s Choice Awards recognizes local businesses, organizations and institutions that make a positive impact throughout the region. Winners are selected through community voting.

Lemoore College offers associate degrees, career and technical education programs, transfer pathways and workforce training designed to prepare students for success in higher education and the workforce. Through its academic programs, student support services and community partnerships, the college continues to expand opportunities for students of all backgrounds.

“Being recognized by the people we serve makes this nomination especially meaningful,” Preston said. “Our mission is centered on student success, and we remain committed to helping students achieve their educational and career goals while strengthening the communities we call home.”

Community members, students, alumni and supporters are encouraged to vote for Lemoore College in the 2026 Best of Kings County People’s Choice Awards.

To cast a vote, visit The Hanford Sentinel’s Best of Kings County voting page under the “Community College/Trade School” category.

The post Lemoore College nominated for Best Community College/Trade School in Kings County appeared first on Valley Voice.

“At Fresno Pacific, we want students to receive an education that prepares them for meaningful careers and lives of purpose and service,” said FPU President André Stephens, Ph.D. “These rankings reflect our continued commitment to providing students with a high-quality, Christ-centered education. We are grateful to see that commitment recognized.”

Washington Monthly

In 2026, Fresno Pacific ranked number 92 in the West and number 47 in California for the Best Colleges for Your Tuition (and Tax) Dollars category. This makes Fresno Pacific the number one university among the Council for Christian Colleges and Universities (CCCU) in the West in this category.

Washington Monthly ranked 1,504 colleges, including public, private nonprofit and for-profit institutions. The rankings were based on four equally weighted categories: access, affordability, outcomes and community and national service.

U.S. News & World Report

This year, FPU ranked number 42 in the Regional Universities West category, up four spots from last year, when it ranked 46. FPU also ranked highly in the new Top Private Colleges—Regional Universities West category, coming in at number 20 in the region and number 9 in California. FPU also landed as a top 10 private school in California in three additional categories: Best Value School – Regional Universities (No. 8), Top Performers on Social Mobility – Regional Universities (No. 9) and Best Colleges for Veterans – Regional Universities (No. 5).

U.S. News & World Report compared more than 1,700 colleges and universities to formulate its rankings. Schools were evaluated on factors that included student outcomes, financial resources, faculty resources and student performance.

The post Latest rankings place Fresno Pacific among California’s top private universities appeared first on Valley Voice.

On September 27th through October 2nd, VUSD held Shadow a Student Week where 84 VUSD leaders stepped into the role of a student for a school day. That same week, nearly 100 students in grades 4-12 gathered for the district’s first Superintendent Student Advisory of the school year, providing direct feedback to district leaders on issues that affect their daily school experience. Together, these events reflect VUSD’s commitment to making student voices an integral part of the decision-making process.

Walking in their shoes

Shadow a Student expanded districtwide this fall following a successful spring 2026 pilot that included 25 students. Every leader participating in the event shadowed one student through their regular schedule, experiencing the school day from the student’s perspective. This included academics, sports, and any extra curricular activities involved in the student’s day. Leaders weren’t looking at how well a student performed, they were looking at the classroom environment, how their student transitioned, the pacing in the classroom, engagement with friends, and overall routines and school environment. The goal: to better understand the student experience and identify opportunities for district leaders to adjust, improve or better align their work to support students, teachers, and schools.

“We make decisions as a District, and to be able to see the students and how it directly impacts them, will help us make better decisions,” said John Perez, VUSD Director of Athletics. Leaders are now reviewing information, reflecting on observations, and sharing the information with their teams to ensure alignment with District work.

Shaping the conversation

That same commitment to student voice was on display that same week at El Diamante High School, where nearly 100 diverse students from across VUSD’s elementary, middle and high schools participated in the first Superintendent’s Student Advisory for the 2026-27 school year.

The half day experience began with students being immersed in the El Diamante culture with student performance groups displaying their amazing talent and opportunities on campus. Students then participated in feedback sessions focused on topics specific to their grade levels.

“It makes me proud because I get to share my experiences and what I’ve learned throughout my couple months of being in middle school and just trying to improve the overall state of Visalia Unified School District,” said 7th grade Divisadero student, Jackson Howard.

• Elementary students shared their feedback on newly added lunches, and provided feedback on lunch options they would like to see. Students will have the opportunity to taste those recipes at the next advisory meeting.
• Middle school students provided insight into their school culture and what contributes to a positive student experience. This feedback will be reviewed with school administrators to help shape their culture for the remainder of the school year.
• High school students asked questions and shared their thoughts on the upcoming 2026-27 8-period modified block schedule. Leaders heard feedback on how best to assist students with the transition and communicate leading up to the change.

All students also participated in facilities conversation where they helped rank what they believe is their school’s highest facility priority. Options included a variety of items ranging from safety and access to gathering spaces, outdoor seating and shade, among others.

“It is always a goal for me to gather feedback from students before we implement changes that will impact them,” said VUSD Superintendent Shrum. “We all want to do what’s best for our students, so receiving their ideas and feedback on what we’re planning is critical to not only their success, but the success of our community.”

The Superintendent’s Student Advisory meets in-person four times a year, and on Zoom periodically throughout the year, and the Shadow A Student Day will be an annual event held during the first semester. Together, these events help establish a systematic framework for gathering student feedback that directly impacts how work is designed and implemented across the District.

The post VUSD puts student voices at the center of decision-making appeared first on Valley Voice.

Banned Books Week, October 4-10, 2026, is an annual reminder of how censorship divides us, and libraries and reading bring us together. Tulare County Library, libraries, and bookstores nationwide join together to “Let Books Be. Protect the Freedom to Read.” Protected by the First Amendment of our Constitution, an essential piece of our democracy and libraries, reading is among our greatest freedoms and only the individual or parents or guardians of a child should decide the choice of books to read and media to use.

Efforts to censor books in schools and libraries have been around for a long time. The American Library Association documented 713 attempts by individuals or groups to censor library books and other material in 2025. This included 4,235 attempts to censor unique titles, the second highest number of challenges in a year since challenges were recorded. This exceeded the average of 273 unique titles that were challenged annually between 2001-2020. Books banned and challenged in 2025 included Sold by Patricia McCormick, Gender Queer: A memoir by Maia Kobabe, The Perks of Being a Wallflower by Stephen Chbosky, Looking for Alaska by John Green, A Court of Thorns and Roses by Sarah J. Maas, and A Clockwork Orange by Anthony Burgess.

“The Tulare County Library staff work hard to provide a wide range of resources to our community, because everyone who uses our services in person and online pursues their own varied interests and subjects,” said County Librarian, Darla Wegener. “This is why the Library celebrates Banned Books Week as the freedom to read and access information reflects our community, society, and the world.”

Tulare County Library offers a wide variety of reading and learning opportunities for all ages. From borrowing books, eBooks, and audiobooks, to attending a book club or children’s story time and so much more – there is something for everyone. Whether working on job skills, English proficiency, a hobby, or trying to instill a love of reading in your child, our collections and services are available for free to everyone. Come into a Library Branch today for your Library Card to get started.

The post Tulare County Library celebrates banned books week appeared first on Valley Voice.

The celebration brought together student-athletes, coaches, families, school and district leaders, and community members to recognize the four VUSD teams representing El Diamante, Golden West, Mt. Whitney, and Redwood high schools.

For the students taking the field this season, the opportunity represents more than learning a new sport.

“Being a part of the first-ever flag football team is not only a huge honor, but also a huge responsibility,” said Bella, an El Diamante student-athlete. “All of the teams here are paving the way for a new generation of young girls, and I hope every young girl sitting in the stands today knows that she is following in the footsteps of strong, determined athletes who dared to take the first step and make  history.”

Girls’ flag football is one of the fastest-growing sports in the United States and is expanding opportunities for female athletes at the high school and collegiate levels. The sport is also scheduled to make its Olympic debut at the 2028 Los Angeles Games.

For Mt. Whitney junior and team captain Kavayah Faulkner, the chance to play came naturally after growing up watching her three brothers play football.

“The second a girl’s flag football opportunity opened up for our school district, I knew I had to be a part of it,” Faulkner said. “What I hope to remember most from this season isn’t just the games, but the great friendships and the incredible team culture we are building together.”

VUSD Athletic Director Dr. Watamura said establishing the new sport required the work and commitment of coaches, athletic staff, school administrators, teachers, families and students.

“When we started this process, we knew there would be challenges,” said Dr. Watamura. “We were building something from the ground up. But what made it possible was the commitment of our coaches, our athletic staff, school administration, teachers, and our entire community. “

The launch also highlighted the broader role athletics can play in helping students feel connected to their schools.

VUSD Board Clerk Walta Gamoian said opportunities like girls’ flag football give students another way to develop leadership, build relationships and discover what they are capable of achieving.

“We know learning doesn’t just happen inside the classroom, it happens all around us, including on the field,” said Gamoian. On the field, students learn to solve problems, to be kind, to encourage each other, take on leadership roles and discover that they’re capable of more than they thought. That is why opportunities like this matter.:

Superintendent Kirk Shrum connected the launch to VUSD’s commitment to empowering students through opportunities both inside and outside the classroom.

“What I’m excited about for all of our students on the field tonight, is that you’re the first,” said Shrum. “You get to set the standard and establish the traditions, and you get to show the girls who come after you what it looks like to be a leader and a competitor.”

The celebration also featured a video message from VUSD alumna and 1964 Olympic competitor Erika Bricker, who shared words of encouragement with the inaugural athletes and reflected on her own experience representing her school, community and country on the Olympic stage.

The four inaugural teams were then recognized before taking the field for the first games of the season.

About Visalia Unified: Visalia Unified School District (VUSD) is the 32nd largest district in California serving over 32,000 students in preschool to adult at 56 locations, including 42 schools and several administrative buildings that house a community library, a family resource center, a bus transportation hub, and much more.

The post VUSD Celebrates Launch of Girls’ Flag Football as Official CIF Sport appeared first on Valley Voice.

The Bulldog Bound program provides a guaranteed admission pathway to Fresno State for qualifying Porterville College students who satisfy minimum California State University eligibility requirements. Beyond secured admission, enrolled participants receive valuable benefits designed to support their academic transition, including dedicated advising, early admission notifications, potential application fee waivers, and transfer scholarship opportunities.

Attendees at the Open House will have the opportunity to speak directly with Fresno State counselors, discuss specific major requirements, and create an academic plan. Students will also be able to sign their official Bulldog Bound pledge on site and pick up complimentary Bulldog merchandise.

Whether students are in their first semester mapping out general education courses or preparing to submit their final Cal State Apply application, the event offers the guidance needed to ensure a smooth transition from community college to university. The Open House is free and open to all current Porterville College students.

For more details regarding the Bulldog Bound program or the upcoming event, students are encouraged to visit the Transfer and Career Resource Center on campus.

The post Porterville College partners with Fresno State to offer guaranteed admission pathway appeared first on Valley Voice.

The celebration brought together Houston students, families, staff, and community partners to recognize the transformation of the campus and thank the community for its investment in local schools. The modernization was made possible through Measure A, the $105 million local school bond approved by Visalia voters in 2018. Measure A was designed to support improvements to classrooms, technology, school safety, and balancing of campuses across Visalia Unified.

“Thanks to the incredible support of our community and the passage of Measure A, we’re proud to celebrate these improvements at Houston,” said Superintendent Kirk Shrum. “Our goal through modernizations is to provide every student, regardless of the school they attend, with a high-quality education.”

“Thanks to the incredible support of our community and the passage of Measure A, we’re proud to celebrate these improvements at Houston,” said Shrum. “Our goal through modernizations is to provide every student, regardless of the school they attend, with a high-quality education, because when they succeed, our community succeeds.”

The Houston Elementary project included a wide-range of improvements designed to enhance the safety and learning environments of students and staff.

• New roofing, fencing, concrete, and drop-off zone
• New tile, wall finishes, fixtures, and partitions in student/staff restrooms
• Drainage upgrades to prevent flooding
• Two TVs per classroom, new speakers, wireless access points, and data drops
• New doors, flooring, ceilings, and finishes in classrooms
• Updated fire alarms and added power outlets
• Outdated electrical poles removed
• Portable classrooms: new carpet, paint, and door hardware
• And more

Houston Elementary Principal Monica Saenz also recognized the flexibility and dedication of her staff throughout the construction.

“These updates have created a beautiful, welcoming environment where our Houston Bears can feel valued, inspired, and ready to learn. We see an investment in our students, their education, and their future. I’d like to recognize our incredible staff for their patience and flexibility during the project – this patience is now paying off.”

“The remodel has given us better spaces to learn and play,” said recent alumna Cielo Escareno. “But this remodel is not only for the students here today, it will also help future students, like my sister Estrella, have a safe and comfortable place to learn and create new memories.”

Houston Elementary was built in 1950, making the school over 70 years old. Over 50% of VUSD schools are also 70% old, driving the urgency to upgrade and repair schools for the future of the community. Measure A funds will be exhausted after the upcoming modernization of Veva Blunt Elementary, as well as classrooms added to multiple high schools and a remodel of a building at Mt. Whitney High School to add space for a future advanced learning program.

“Our Board recognizes that for students to achieve at their highest levels, they need an environment that can foster it,” added VUSD Board President Dr. Todd Oto. “That’s why our Board recently voted to place a bond measure on this November’s election ballot. We thank our community for believing in our local schools and for prioritizing students. I hope we can continue to do more of this work together.”

The post Houston Elementary kicks off back-to-school with a campus-wide modernization appeared first on Valley Voice.

In 2023, California legislation expanded opportunities for students to serve on local school boards, including the ability for student board members to cast votes on matters before their boards. Visalia Unified, however, has incorporated student voice on the Board for several years, providing students from across VUSD high schools with most recently having a direct opportunity to participate in Board discussions and decisions that impact their schools and community.

In addition to participating in Board meetings and voting on eligible matters, student representatives receive open-session Board agenda materials and are invited to participate in District events alongside Board members, including grand openings, community forums, and other special events. The representatives also meet monthly and participate in the Superintendent’s Advisory, a group of nearly 100 students in grades 3-12 who provide feedback and perspective on a variety of District priorities throughout the school year.

“Student voice is an important part of how we make decisions in Visalia Unified,” said Superintendent Kirk Shrum. “Our Student Board Representatives bring a unique perspective to the Board and help us better understand what students are experiencing and what is important to them. Throughout the years, these students have provided valuable insight that has shifted school priorities or contributed to policy, such as water bottle stations and how our cellphone policy is implemented.”

At the board meeting, students took their oath of office and signed this year’s student-led campaign priority poster which helps encourage students to Learn, Connect, and Care.

The 2026-27 School Board Representatives are:

• Adrian Lopez Guzman, Redwood High School
• Andrea Reyes Padilla, Golden West High School
• Berkley Towne, Sequoia High School
• Jayda Toor, El Diamante High School
• Mia Bravo, Mt. Whitney High School
• Nikomiah Rebolledo, Visalia Technical Early College High School (VTEC)
• TBD, Visalia Charter Independent School

The post VUSD Student Board Representatives Take Oath of Office appeared first on Valley Voice.

CHOICES is now actively recruiting dedicated student leaders to represent the diverse voices of Tulare County. This unique opportunity is open to youth who are eager to implement the FNL Standards of Practice, which include building meaningful youth-adult partnerships, engaging in community advocacy, and developing leadership skills in a safe, inclusive environment. Council members will gain hands-on experience by conducting community research, analyzing local data through a countywide survey, and planning a major countywide youth conference to showcase their prevention work. By joining this effort, students will serve as vital peer mentors and role models, working directly with local agencies and elected officials to create lasting positive change for their communities.

High school and college-age youth are encouraged to apply for the Tulare County Youth Council at https://bit.ly/TCYC2026.

The post CHOICES Program accepting applicants for new Tulare County Youth Council appeared first on Valley Voice.

Money’s Best Colleges list evaluates four-year colleges on 25 metrics, including graduation rates, costs, financial aid, student debt and alumni salaries. The annual rankings help students and families identify colleges that deliver high value.

“We are honored to once again be recognized by Money,” said FPU President André Stephens, Ph.D. “This recognition reflects our commitment to providing an education that is academically excellent, Christ-centered and accessible while preparing students to lead lives of purpose and service.”

Money evaluated more than 2,400 four-year public and private colleges across the country. Of those, 735 were selected for the Best Colleges list. The publication’s methodology measures colleges in three broad areas: educational quality, affordability and student outcomes.

Fresno Pacific continues to receive high marks from leading publications for the quality and value of its academic programs. In addition to Money, the university has been ranked highly by The Wall Street Journal, Washington Monthly and U.S. News & World Report.

More information about Money‘s Best Colleges in America 2026 rankings and methodology is available at Money.com.

The post Money again names FPU one of the Best Colleges in America appeared first on Valley Voice.