It's been more than three decades since any substantial work was done on Sierra Unified's junior/senior high school. Its "newest" school, Foothill, opened as a middle school 25 years ago and now is the district's sole elementary. In recognition that the existing schools are in need of modernization, Sierra Unified...
Foothill School Board Opts to Slightly Admonish Member for Capitol Riot Activities
Sierra Unified School District trustees voted Monday to remind Trustee James Hoak Jr. of his increased visibility and responsibility to act with professionalism and decorum as a member of the School Board. But despite calls from some community members for more serious action, the board decided not to censure Hoak...
Vote of Confidence for Fresno Schools Chief Comes with a Pay Raise
The Fresno Unified School Board gave Superintendent Bob Nelson its seal of approval Wednesday night with a 7-0 vote on a positive job evaluation that gives him a pay hike. The board vote was taken in the closed session prior to the public meeting held online. Board clerk Keshia Thomas,...
Embattled Sierra Unified Trustee Says He’s Staying ‘Because Elections Matter’
Sierra Unified Trustee James Hoak Jr., who is facing heated criticism and calls for his removal because of his involvement in protests over Joe Biden's election as president last week at the Capitol, said Monday night that he's not resigning "because elections matter." Hoak's comments came during a lengthy public...
Did Area School Trustee Violate His Oath of Office at US Capitol?
Sierra Unified School District trustees said Monday they're not sure what, if any, action could be taken against newly-elected Trustee James Hoak Jr., whose social media posts show he was one of thousands of Trump supporters at the Capitol last Wednesday. Meanwhile, a petition drive on change.org is seeking to...
With Schools Closed, What Options Do Working Parents Have for Kids?
The school year is starting and many working parents are facing the same conundrum they faced last spring — how do you juggle a full-time job with overseeing your kids' distance learning because schools are still closed? Some parents are creating pods with other parents to share learning oversight and...