As the philanthropic arm of the Fresno County Superintendent of Schools, the Foundation supports essential programs and services to ensure students achieve their full academic potential.
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Our Mission
The Foundation @ FCOE is committed to the goal of extending greater opportunities to Fresno County students. We serve over 206,000 students, with a focus on closing the achievement gap. Learn More
The Foundation @ FCOE in 2023-24 raised over $1.6 million to enhance, build and help sustain essential programs that support students in the areas of health, equity, academics, agriculture, the arts, athletics, and more. Learn More
Superintendent Michele Cantwell-Copher, Ed.D. and The Foundation @ FCOE Board of Directors invite you to join us at the FCOE Honors Gala on Saturday evening, September 20, 2025. The Gala will be held at the Fresno City College, Old Administration Building. The event will feature a social hour and silent auction at 6:00 p.m. followed by a multifaceted tribute performance at 7:00 p.m. and an after-theatre dinner at 8:00 p.m. in the courtyard under the stars.
The July Superintendent's Superstary is Jacob Cavazos II, a standout senior at Career Technical Education Charter High School, embodies excellence, leadership and impact. As a gifted fabricator and artist, Jacob took first place in both the regional and state SkillsUSA Welding Sculpture competitions, and he will represent California at the national level — an incredible accomplishment that reflects his exceptional skill and dedication.
Summer kicked off with creativity taking center stage as students from across Fresno County participated in the Fresno County Summer Arts Academy (FCSAA). FCSAA is an immersive program designed to inspire and nurture young artists. Hosted by the Fresno County Superintendent of Schools, in partnership with Fresno City College, the Academy offered hands-on instruction in visual arts, music, theater, and digital media, providing students a space to express themselves, build confidence, and explore new artistic skills.
A few months ago, 16 brand-new kayaks arrived at the Scout Island Outdoor Education Center, thanks to the generosity of donor Kaye Bonner Cummings. With summer programs now underway, the kayaks are now in full use. Students participating in the program learn more than just how to paddle, they gain essential skills in water safety, teamwork, and communication.
Students across Fresno County recently showcased their unique perspectives through the Picture the Valley Film Festival, a youth-led storytelling event hosted by the Office of the Fresno County Superintendent of Schools. The event invited middle and high school students to submit short films that captured life in the Central Valley. Students explored themes about entertainment, the environment, culture, safety, and social issues.
Selma High School was awarded the Marvin Meyers Agriculture Education Grant for the 2025-2026 school year. Building on the success of an already impactful agricultural education program students will engage in an exciting new enhancement: a comparative incubation project featuring emu eggs and chicken eggs. This expanded learning opportunity will deepen students' understanding of animal science while adding an entrepreneurial twist.
The May Superintendent's Superstar is Bianca, affectionately known as “Angel” by her friends. She is a senior at Clovis West High School who has consistently demonstrated excellence throughout her academic journey. She is a remarkable, competent, capable and caring student whose outstanding achievements, leadership and dedication to her school and community make her shine.
As part of Teacher Appreciation Week, the Terrific Teacher recognitions celebrated outstanding educators across Fresno County who have left an indelible mark through their inspiration, support, and encouragement of students, colleagues, families, and their communities. This year, more than 300 teachers were nominated countywide, and five exceptional educators were selected for this special recognition. Each recipient received a surprise visit to announce their award and celebrate their remarkable contributions.
The April Superintendent's Superstar is Sandra, a senior at Mendota High School who exemplifies what it means to be an Aztec. Sandra’s formal education in the United States began in the 3rd grade when she arrived from her native country of Guatemala. Sandra has maximized all the opportunities that Mendota High School offers to better herself and support the community. Sandra’s academic accomplishments are second to none. She will graduate with a GPA of 4.56.
Thanks to a generous donation, the FCSS Scout Island Outdoor Education Center is making waves—literally. Earlier this year, The Bonner Family Foundation made an impactful contribution to support the growth of the FCSS Scout Island program. Their donation funded the purchase of brand-new kayaks, which have now arrived and are ready to launch new educational adventures for students.
The Health Youth Corps Showcase brought together passionate high school students to present innovative, research-driven solutions to real health issues affecting their communities. The event highlighted the creativity and leadership of youth who are deeply engaged in improving public health where they live and learn. Projects were grounded in both personal relevance and community need, showcasing how health is shaped not just by systems and policies—but by voices on the ground.
Get Involved
Contributors to The Foundation @ FCOE are unique in their interests and vocations, but all share the vision of supporting education in Fresno County.
To achieve the Foundation's mission, the Foundation accepts gifts of money, property, goods or in-kind services, as well as bequests and estate gifts from individuals, businesses and other organizations. Contributors may earmark gifts for a specific program or allow the Foundation to use donations in the area of greatest need.