Central Unified School District kicks off new school year

FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) -- Summer vacation is over for thousands of Central Unified students.

It's one of several Valley school districts that welcomed kids back into the classroom Wednesday morning.

Steinbeck Elementary in West Central Fresno rolled out the red carpet for the first day of school, and the Sharks cheerleading team made sure to pump up everyone as they walked in.

District leaders are just as excited for the 2023-2024 school year.

"I love this day," said Superintendent Ketti Davis. "I love everything we do that leads up to getting our kids back on campus. I'm thrilled. It's finally here!"

According to Davis, the district is focusing on more ways to help students succeed inside and outside the classroom.

Each school site will notice a new face at the office - a bilingual family outreach liaison, who helps families navigate the school system.

"We know they will be a great resource to nervous families or families coming to get new information," Davis said.

At the middle school level, there's one additional academic counselor for students.

"Having an extra person to really help navigate between sixth grade and before they get there to high school is super helpful," Davis said.

Meanwhile, many high school seniors are looking forward to their last year on campus.

Central East encourages students to get involved in after-school activities and clubs.

One senior, who is part of the student NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness) club, said being part of the group has been a valuable part of his high school experience.

"I get to show awareness of mental health, and knowing others want to know about mental health and know about mental illness, it makes me happy," Adan Olague said. "I get to know and connect with my peers."

Central Unified serves more than 15,000 students -- with the goal of empowering each one to become tomorrow's leaders.

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