This Week in KCUSD

The Performing Arts Theater (PAT) at Reedley High School lit up once again as students, staff, and community members came together in January to celebrate its highly anticipated rededication. Since 1981, the PAT has been a cherished space where students, parents, and alumni have shared in laughter, tears, and applause during awards ceremonies, performances, presentations, and graduations.

Thanks to $1.2 million in California Proposition 28 Arts and Music in Schools grant funds, the PAT received a stunning makeover. The remodel, which began in August 2024, included fresh paint, new carpet, and durable epoxy flooring, along with brand-new seats for audience comfort. To enhance the acoustics, sound-absorbing panels were installed on the walls, ensuring every note and word resonates beautifully. Upgraded lighting power and controls now cast a brighter spotlight on the stage, ready to showcase the talent and creativity of KCUSD students.

After heartfelt speeches and the ceremonial ribbon cutting, attendees stepped inside to witness the transformed theater in action. The RHS Madrigals choir and symphonic band delivered captivating performances, christening the updated stage. With its new look and state-of-the-art upgrades, the PAT is set to remain a hub for celebrating student success for decades to come.

REEDLEY, CA – Kings Canyon Unified School District (KCUSD) is proud to announce the addition of Joe Garza, former Reedley Police Chief, as the district’s first-ever Chief of School Safety and Security. This new role reflects KCUSD’s unwavering commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of students, staff, and campuses.

Garza brings decades of experience in public safety, law enforcement, and community engagement to this vital position. His leadership will play a key role in enhancing campus safety measures, strengthening emergency preparedness, and fostering collaboration between the district and local first responders.

“We have been working on finding the right person for this position for a couple of years and are glad to welcome Joe Garza to the KCUSD team,” said Superintendent John Campbell. “Adding this position underscores our commitment to keeping our students and staff safe.”

As Chief of School Safety and Security, Garza’s responsibilities will include:

• Conducting thorough campus safety assessments.
• Leading prevention-focused programs and initiatives.
• Organizing emergency preparedness drills for staff and students.
• Coordinating closely with law enforcement, fire departments, and emergency medical services.
• Enhancing communication between the district, families, and the broader community.

“Ensuring the safety of our schools is a collective effort,” Garza said. “I am honored to serve in this role and look forward to working with our school communities to create a safe and supportive environment for learning and growth.”

Garza’s appointment marks an important step forward in KCUSD’s mission to provide safe, welcoming schools where students can thrive. By prioritizing safety and prevention, the district is creating an environment where everyone can focus on what matters most: teaching, learning, and achieving success together.

Let’s welcome Joe Garza to the KCUSD family!

A big round of applause for Irma Valadez of Washington Elementary, who was recently honored as KSEE 24’s Educator of the Week. This exciting recognition brought a special visit from the news crew, complete with a giant check to support her classroom.

But the real stars of the day were Mrs. Valadez’s students! They eagerly shared stories about their amazing teacher—praising her dedication, the fun and engaging ways she teaches, and how she makes a lasting impact on their education. Congratulations Mrs. Valadez!

FULL STORY

Veronica Diaz, school secretary at Silas Bartsch School, is the latest recipient of the “Service with a Heart” challenge coin. This award recognizes those who go above and beyond to create a supportive and welcoming environment in our district.

Veronica has served as the school secretary for 2.5 years and has made a significant impact during her tenure. She treats all families, staff, students, and guests with the highest possible level of respect, always demonstrating patience and kindness. Customer service is at the forefront of her interactions, and since stepping into her role, Veronica has elevated the level of service in the front office. This improvement is reflected in glowing comments and survey results from the school community. Her dedication and commitment to fostering a positive environment make her an invaluable member of the school community.

This award highlights Kings Canyon Unified’s commitment to building a customer service culture where all educational partners—students, parents, staff, and community members—are respected, valued, and heard. Veronica’s contributions embody the spirit of this vision.

Please join us in congratulating Veronica for her outstanding service and her unwavering dedication to excellence at Silas Bartsch School!

Allison Munoz truly embodies our district motto: "Take it to the next level." As an outstanding instructional coach at A.L. Conner, she goes above and beyond to support KCUSD staff in countless ways.

From modeling exemplary lessons to assisting with targeted instruction planning and providing constructive feedback, Allison is committed to fostering growth and excellence. Her innovative templates and spreadsheets have empowered teachers to elevate their instructional practices, and her passion for education is evident in all she does.

Beyond her professional expertise, Allison is known for her ability to build strong relationships, solve problems creatively, and prioritize professional development. Her caring, motivation, and willingness to help extend to everyone on campus, making her an invaluable part of our district.

Congratulations, Allison, and thank you for all you do! Go Cougars!

REEDLEY – For decades, the Reedley High School (RHS) Performing Arts Theater has served as a gathering place for creative expression and academic celebration, and with a $1.2 million facility update, it will continue to host the Kings Canyon Unified School District (KCUSD) community for decades to come.

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FRESNO COUNTY -- From Reedley Police Chief to Chief of School Safety and Security.

Joe Garza is officially walking the halls of schools in the Kings Canyon Unified School District to help strengthen safety initiatives.

"Ensuring that everything is up to date, that it meets the current standards, that it meets the needs of society, that it meets the needs of our community because KCUSD does cover a large area and does cover multiple cities," said KCUSD Chief of School Safety and Security, Joe Garza.

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REEDLEY – With a new building located at the center of the communities it serves, the Valley Regional Occupation Program (Valley ROP) administrative offices are perfectly positioned to continue launching students from school to a career.

Tucked away behind a neighborhood on the edge of the Reedley High School campus, Valley ROP celebrated its new space at 310 W Myrtle Ave. with an open house and ribbon cutting on Jan. 23.

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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