This Week in KCUSD

Congratulations to Lincoln Elementary School on their recent recognition as a 2025 California Distinguished School, one of the state’s most prestigious honors recognizing excellence in academic achievement and closing achievement gaps. Only six schools in Fresno County were selected for this honor.

This recognition is a powerful testament to the resilience and determination of Lincoln’s students, staff, and community. While a large majority of Lincoln students come from historically underserved backgrounds, the school has made remarkable academic gains.

Over the past several years, administrators and staff at Lincoln Elementary have worked collaboratively to make sure all students succeed, creating a culture of high expectations that have driven steady improvements.

“Being named a California Distinguished School is more than an award—it’s a symbol of what’s possible when we believe in every child’s potential,” said Lincoln Elementary Principal Anita Elizondo. “Our Panthers have proven that the sky's the limit!”

“Although Lincoln is the school being recognized by the state, they are indicative of the hard work going on at all of our KCUSD elementary schools,” said Superintendent John Campbell. “Congratulations to Lincoln students and staff!”

Lincoln Elementary’s recognition is a celebration of perseverance and excellence—and a shining example of the Kings Canyon Unified School District’s commitment to empowering all learners to succeed.

Have a brilliant idea for a special or innovative project? The Kings Canyon Educational Partnership Foundation is now accepting 2025–26 Mini Grant applications — and you could receive up to $1,000 to bring your vision to life! The deadline to submit an application is May 16, 2025.

These grants support creative projects that go above and beyond for our students — and they’re made possible thanks to generous community donors and KCUSD staff like you, who donate through voluntary payroll deductions.

📋 Check the scoring criteria and requirements to see how your application will be evaluated!

📝 Want to support future projects? Submit a Voluntary Deduction Form to payroll@kcusd.com.

We are proud to recognize three dedicated Kings Canyon Unified employees who have recently been honored by Superintendent John Campbell with the “Service from the Heart” challenge coin. This award celebrates individuals who go above and beyond to create a positive, caring, and service-centered culture throughout our schools and departments.

Daisy Nunez, Health Aide at Sheridan Elementary, is known for her big heart and unwavering dedication to students, staff, and families. She approaches every day with a positive attitude and a warm smile that instantly makes others feel at ease. Daisy is a true team player—always ready to lend a hand, no matter the task. Her kindness and reliability make her a cherished member of the Sheridan team.

Juan Medrano, an electrician in our Maintenance Department, brings a strong sense of urgency and care to every project he touches. From ensuring heating and cooling systems are running properly to repairing electrical wiring, Juan tackles each task with professionalism and a cheerful attitude. His communication and willingness to support others reflect the collaborative spirit that defines service with a heart.

David Valdez, Custodian at T.L. Reed School, consistently goes above and beyond to ensure the school operates smoothly. In December, when T.L. Reed hosted multiple concerts, David happily provided support for evening performances—demonstrating his dedication to students, staff, and the wider school community. His dependable and positive presence makes a daily difference on campus.

These recognitions are part of Kings Canyon Unified’s ongoing commitment to a customer service culture where all educational partners—students, families, staff, and community members—are respected, valued, and heard.

Please join us in congratulating Daisy, Juan, and David for their outstanding service and the heart they bring to KCUSD every single day!

REEDLEY – Students are learning English and Spanish at dual immersion schools across the Valley.

In Reedley, teachers are taking a different approach this year with a new instructional strategy. Aribel Cazares is a second-grade dual immersion teacher at Alta Elementary School in Reedley. She only teaches in Spanish. She says the students are confident speaking the language back to her.

This year, a new instructional strategy was added called "cross-linguistic connection."

REEDLEY - Silence obtained only by the highest levels of concentration fell over the gymnasium at Thomas Law Reed School as students faced off over chess boards lined up along lunch tables, their parents quietly supporting them from the bleachers. Now with chess clubs at each of the elementary and middle schools in Kings Canyon Unified School District (KCUSD), long-time chess coach and third grade teacher at T.L. Reed Derek Bergthold helped spearhead KCUSD’s first ever district-wide chess tournament.

To have your story or announcement included in This Week In KCUSD, or on district social media platforms, email Communications Director Alisha Gallon.

Email: gallon-a@kcusd.com
Website: kcusd.com
Location: 1801 10th Street, Reedley, CA, USA
Phone: 559.305.7193