Like many students across the Valley, Jodie Howard's son has struggled with distance learning since schools closed abruptly last March due to the coronavirus pandemic. He has autism and has a hard time understanding why his computer, once a source of gaming fun, now represents hard work and challenges as...
When Will ‘All Means All’ Happen at Starr Elementary?
"All means all" is a slogan Fresno Unified Superintendent Bob Nelson often uses to describe inclusion efforts at California's fourth-largest school district. However, past and present trustees and parents argue that the district is not living up to the motto. Their dissatisfaction primarily stems from the situation at Dorothy Starr...
How Do NFL Players Make a Difference? They Donate Their Cleats.
In addition to special-ed students' artwork and the sound of swing-era music, those visiting the Kids' Cafe 2019 in downtown Fresno are greeted by another treat. Custom-designed cleats from Detroit Lions cornerback Andre Chachere. Chachere, who starred at Clovis West High School, donated his cleats to the cafe as part...
How To Fix FUSD Bus Driver Shortage? Make It Full-Time Job.
School bus driver shortages are a nationwide problem, prompting school districts to cancel routes and causing students to arrive late to school. Fresno Unified, the fourth-largest school district in California, is not immune to the problem but is making steady improvement. Back in January, the district reported being short eight...
Special-Ed Meeting Canceled After Trustee Terry Slatic Arrives
A meeting to discuss changes at Starr Elementary School involving special-education students was canceled Thursday afternoon shortly after Trustee Terry Slatic arrived. "I made it crystal clear that it is not my meeting, and that I am there to learn, to gain information so I can advise my constituents," said...