On Monday, September 29, 2025, Atticus Reyes, Field Representative for California State Assemblymember Steve Bennett, who represents the 38th Assembly District, visited Fillmore High School. Reyes toured the campus and learned all about Fillmore High School’s Career Technical Education (CTE) program and its pathway offerings.

Fillmore Unified School District Superintendent Christine Schieferle said, “Students taking Anatomy and Physiology courses use the Anatomage table, one of the most advanced human-based 3D anatomy and medical education system tools. This state-of-the-art platform offers digitized human cadavers, superior medical learning tools, and realistic 3D anatomy experiences. Students at FHS receive high-quality, relevant learning experiences to prepare them for college, career, and life experiences.”
On Monday, September 29, 2025, Atticus Reyes, Field Representative for California State Assemblymember Steve Bennett, who represents the 38th Assembly District, visited Fillmore High School. Reyes toured the campus and learned all about Fillmore High School’s Career Technical Education (CTE) program and its pathway offerings. Fillmore Unified School District Superintendent Christine Schieferle said, “Students taking Anatomy and Physiology courses use the Anatomage table, one of the most advanced human-based 3D anatomy and medical education system tools. This state-of-the-art platform offers digitized human cadavers, superior medical learning tools, and realistic 3D anatomy experiences. Students at FHS receive high-quality, relevant learning experiences to prepare them for college, career, and life experiences.”
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Rio Vista Elementary School Principal Kayleigh Kelp said, “Congratulations to our very first “Character Matters” Award Winners! This month, students were recognized for showing respect through their actions, words, and the way they treat others. We are so proud of these role models who make our school a kinder and stronger community every day.”
Rio Vista Elementary School Principal Kayleigh Kelp said, “Congratulations to our very first “Character Matters” Award Winners! This month, students were recognized for showing respect through their actions, words, and the way they treat others. We are so proud of these role models who make our school a kinder and stronger community every day.”
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https://www.facebook.com/FillmoreHighSchoolAlumniAssociation

Coach Jim Fauver, and Carmen Fauver to ride in this year’s Homecoming Parade Thursday evening.

In celebrating the 50th anniversary of the first organized girls softball team at this year‘s homecoming parade, the alumni
Association has invited past teams and coaches to participate.

Coach Jim Fauver coached Varsity girls Softball from 1981-1993. He also coached JV girls softball 3 years before.

He was responsible for having the girls have their own softball field. He went to the superintendent and said it wasn’t fair
that the girls don’t have their own field and the boys had 2 so they gave them the one that’s currently there. He also had
dug outs put in.

He said he didn’t start the Cassidy league which was a girls softball league but he had one of the first teams called Elkins
EZ Riders. His daughter, Karen was on that team and they were able to be in an organized sport to ready themselves for high
school.

The parade starts at 6 PM at the corner of second Street and Central. Come out and give Coach Fauver and Carmen Fauver a big
wave.

Also participating in this year’s celebration will be Coach Eddie Ortiz, and his group of softball players from the 1990s
into the millennium.

 
Fillmore Middle School Principal Jenny Plugge said, “We want to celebrate our students of the week for September 26, 2025. Lilyanna Vargas, Ihan Benitez, and Cassandra Saldivar. Congratulations to these Bulldogs for demonstrating Bulldog Pride!”
Fillmore Middle School Principal Jenny Plugge said, “We want to celebrate our students of the week for September 26, 2025. Lilyanna Vargas, Ihan Benitez, and Cassandra Saldivar. Congratulations to these Bulldogs for demonstrating Bulldog Pride!”
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Fillmore Unified School District Superintendent Christine Schieferle, said, “A big Thank You to Bank of Sierra for your generous donation of backpacks and $250.00 to each of our elementary schools. Fillmore Unified School District staff, students, and families appreciate your support and are truly grateful for your kindness. Photo credit https://www.blog.fillmoreusd.org/fillmore-unified-school-district-blog/2025/8/22/bank-of-sierra-donation.
Fillmore Unified School District Superintendent Christine Schieferle, said, “A big Thank You to Bank of Sierra for your generous donation of backpacks and $250.00 to each of our elementary schools. Fillmore Unified School District staff, students, and families appreciate your support and are truly grateful for your kindness. Photo credit https://www.blog.fillmoreusd.org/fillmore-unified-school-district-blog/2025/8/22/bank-of-sierra-donation.
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Fillmore Unified School District Superintendent Christine Schieferle, said, “The Fillmore Unified School District wants to extend our heartfelt thanks to our families and dedicated staff for making the first day and week of school such a positive and welcoming experience for our students. What a great start to the 2025-25 school year!” photos country https://www.blog.fillmoreusd.org/fillmore-unified-school-district-blog/2025/8/13/first-day-of-school and https://www.blog.fillmoreusd.org/piru-elementary-condors-blog/2025/8/13/first-day-of-school.
Fillmore Unified School District Superintendent Christine Schieferle, said, “The Fillmore Unified School District wants to extend our heartfelt thanks to our families and dedicated staff for making the first day and week of school such a positive and welcoming experience for our students. What a great start to the 2025-25 school year!” photos country https://www.blog.fillmoreusd.org/fillmore-unified-school-district-blog/2025/8/13/first-day-of-school and https://www.blog.fillmoreusd.org/piru-elementary-condors-blog/2025/8/13/first-day-of-school.
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Fillmore Middle School Principal Jenny Plugge said, “The Fillmore Middle School ASB leaders were on campus for their ASB Boot Camp to kick off the 2025-26 school year. They worked to prep for registration and start planning for the school year activities. They are a great group of student leaders!” Courtesy https://www.facebook.com/permalink.php?story_fbid=pfbid02cDwoWZb4Zz1ZcRuaPjzvah5DVU7DbVQt5TVofuYnGsDjvQcGXHnawnL2vBtRvzZwl&id=100063524712513.
Fillmore Middle School Principal Jenny Plugge said, “The Fillmore Middle School ASB leaders were on campus for their ASB Boot Camp to kick off the 2025-26 school year. They worked to prep for registration and start planning for the school year activities. They are a great group of student leaders!” Courtesy https://www.facebook.com/permalink.php?story_fbid=pfbid02cDwoWZb4Zz1ZcRuaPjzvah5DVU7DbVQt5TVofuYnGsDjvQcGXHnawnL2vBtRvzZwl&id=100063524712513.
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Rio Vista Elementary School Principal Kayleigh Kelp said, “That’s a wrap on our TK/K Bootcamp! Our youngest learners had a blast getting to know their classrooms, learning routines, playing games, and making new friends. We’re so proud of how much they’ve grown in just a few days and now they’re more than ready to kick off the school year! We can’t wait to see everyone back on Wednesday, August 13th for the first day of school! Courtesy https://www.facebook.com/permalink.php?story_fbid=pfbid02WKnoBc19zByYLCJT7NGGXaCF2hVJhijHdaYb2vAnxJisgjA2RvFaX4G78NhqyLHbl&id=100063829652014.
Rio Vista Elementary School Principal Kayleigh Kelp said, “That’s a wrap on our TK/K Bootcamp! Our youngest learners had a blast getting to know their classrooms, learning routines, playing games, and making new friends. We’re so proud of how much they’ve grown in just a few days and now they’re more than ready to kick off the school year! We can’t wait to see everyone back on Wednesday, August 13th for the first day of school! Courtesy https://www.facebook.com/permalink.php?story_fbid=pfbid02WKnoBc19zByYLCJT7NGGXaCF2hVJhijHdaYb2vAnxJisgjA2RvFaX4G78NhqyLHbl&id=100063829652014.
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Mountain Vista Elementary Principal Christine McDaniels said, “Kindergarten Bootcamp students tour the office to meet Miss Erica, Miss Mirna, and Miss Diana. We are here to help you! Courtesy https://www.facebook.com/permalink.php?story_fbid=pfbid0TSvDj9fgsPa91Pmejmvcb4fXatH43GNoRmUCwqmuGUoH4V51BFjLWhQVFVbDKQcxl&id=100063493185283.
Mountain Vista Elementary Principal Christine McDaniels said, “Kindergarten Bootcamp students tour the office to meet Miss Erica, Miss Mirna, and Miss Diana. We are here to help you! Courtesy https://www.facebook.com/permalink.php?story_fbid=pfbid0TSvDj9fgsPa91Pmejmvcb4fXatH43GNoRmUCwqmuGUoH4V51BFjLWhQVFVbDKQcxl&id=100063493185283.
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Fillmore Middle School Principal Jenny Plugge said, “We are so thankful for the hard-working MOT department. They are working morning to night to get our campus ready for students. THANK YOU, Kevin, Hector and MOT Team! Courtesy https://www.facebook.com/permalink.php?story_fbid=pfbid0juCKEpuH88BrSXCxSfVx8avvqa3JtE21tEHxh5PjkERBTXitkrujjZ9RPLZU9QCNl&id=100063524712513.
Fillmore Middle School Principal Jenny Plugge said, “We are so thankful for the hard-working MOT department. They are working morning to night to get our campus ready for students. THANK YOU, Kevin, Hector and MOT Team! Courtesy https://www.facebook.com/permalink.php?story_fbid=pfbid0juCKEpuH88BrSXCxSfVx8avvqa3JtE21tEHxh5PjkERBTXitkrujjZ9RPLZU9QCNl&id=100063524712513.
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Rio Vista Elementary Roadrunners joined Mountain Vista Elementary Wildcats for summer school classes and activities that included social emotion learning and physical fitness. Mountain Vista Elementary Principal Christine McDaniels said, “Wildcats and Roadrunners together for the summer building relationships!” Courtesy https://www.facebook.com/504261341700301/posts/1256551286471299.
Rio Vista Elementary Roadrunners joined Mountain Vista Elementary Wildcats for summer school classes and activities that included social emotion learning and physical fitness. Mountain Vista Elementary Principal Christine McDaniels said, “Wildcats and Roadrunners together for the summer building relationships!” Courtesy https://www.facebook.com/504261341700301/posts/1256551286471299.
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Rio Vista staff and students thanked Principal Beverly Garnica for her outstanding leadership and service to Rio Vista Elementary School. Principal Garnica signed off for the time as she retires from Fillmore Unified School District saying, “Thank you to all the Rio Vista families, my amazing Roadrunners and wonderful staff. This school is such a special place. It has been a beautiful 10 years.” Courtesy https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=1185594010244910&set=a.479636187507366&type=3.
Rio Vista staff and students thanked Principal Beverly Garnica for her outstanding leadership and service to Rio Vista Elementary School. Principal Garnica signed off for the time as she retires from Fillmore Unified School District saying, “Thank you to all the Rio Vista families, my amazing Roadrunners and wonderful staff. This school is such a special place. It has been a beautiful 10 years.” Courtesy https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=1185594010244910&set=a.479636187507366&type=3.
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At the Tuesday, June 3rd, 2025, School Board Meeting, Presley McLain was recognized for her contributions and dedicated service as Student Representative during the 2024–2025 school year. Superintendent Christine Schieferle, said, “Thank you Presley. We look forward to learning about all you will accomplish in the future!” Courtesy https://www.blog.fillmoreusd.org/fillmore-unified-school-district-blog/2025/6/4/presley-mclain-recognized-for-service-by-fillmore-unified-trustees-and-superintendent.
At the Tuesday, June 3rd, 2025, School Board Meeting, Presley McLain was recognized for her contributions and dedicated service as Student Representative during the 2024–2025 school year. Superintendent Christine Schieferle, said, “Thank you Presley. We look forward to learning about all you will accomplish in the future!” Courtesy https://www.blog.fillmoreusd.org/fillmore-unified-school-district-blog/2025/6/4/presley-mclain-recognized-for-service-by-fillmore-unified-trustees-and-superintendent.
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Fillmore Middle School Principal Jenny Plugge said, “It was a beautiful afternoon to celebrate our 8th Grade students at Promotion. Congratulations to the class of 2025. We wish you success in all you do as you take the next step to high school. A special thank you to the wonderful 8th grade team at FMS for all their work to make this a wonderful ceremony.” See more photos online. Courtesy https://www.facebook.com/permalink.php?story_fbid=pfbid02E1zwLLJY1xomUygunpQikVmk8xCWrMJR9GFRuM7eoyBzpk6CkpqRYRR7Vye4FtzKl&id=100063524712513.
Fillmore Middle School Principal Jenny Plugge said, “It was a beautiful afternoon to celebrate our 8th Grade students at Promotion. Congratulations to the class of 2025. We wish you success in all you do as you take the next step to high school. A special thank you to the wonderful 8th grade team at FMS for all their work to make this a wonderful ceremony.” See more photos online. Courtesy https://www.facebook.com/permalink.php?story_fbid=pfbid02E1zwLLJY1xomUygunpQikVmk8xCWrMJR9GFRuM7eoyBzpk6CkpqRYRR7Vye4FtzKl&id=100063524712513.
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Fillmore Adult School Principal Blanca Mendieta said, “Congratulations to all Fillmore Adult School graduates of 2025! Your dedication is inspiring. We would also like to thank our dedicated staff for helping make this a year of growth and success.” Courtesy https://www.blog.fillmoreusd.org/fillmore-unified-school-district-blog/2025/6/2/graduation-week-at-fillmore-unified-fillmore-adult-school.
Fillmore Adult School Principal Blanca Mendieta said, “Congratulations to all Fillmore Adult School graduates of 2025! Your dedication is inspiring. We would also like to thank our dedicated staff for helping make this a year of growth and success.” Courtesy https://www.blog.fillmoreusd.org/fillmore-unified-school-district-blog/2025/6/2/graduation-week-at-fillmore-unified-fillmore-adult-school.
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For Immediate Release: May 29, 2025

Ventura, Calif.—The Ventura College Foundation distributed a record $940,854 in scholarships to students during its 36th
Annual Scholarship Awards ceremony held May 17 at the Ventura College Sportsplex Field.

The foundation presented 435 scholarships for the 2025-26 academic year, marking the highest distribution amount in the
organization’s more than 40-year history.

Of the total awarded, $885,800 went toward 413 general scholarships and $55,054 supported 22 paramedic and other career
scholarships. The funds benefited 269 student scholarship recipients, many receiving multiple awards.

“The cost of college is a barrier to many who want to receive an education that will lead to well-paying and rewarding
careers,” said Nicole Kreutz, chair of the Ventura College Foundation board of directors. “Scholarships can be a huge help.
Many of our students face incredible adversity yet still excel and stay focused on their education goals. Everyone can
learn and be inspired by them.”

Kamea Kellner, president of the Associated Students of Ventura College (ASVC), received the Academic Senate and the
Westside scholarships. Kellner is a first-generation college student majoring in Business Administration. She plans to
transfer to a four-year university in Fall 2026.

“Receiving a scholarship means so much to me. As a student from a low-income family, it has always been challenging to
solely focus on my studies. I’ve needed to provide not only for myself but my family as well,” says Kellner. “The honor of
receiving a scholarship helps alleviate that worry, and gives me some peace of mind on the financial side, affording more
time to pursue my educational career.”

Continuing students receive an average of $2,100 in scholarships while students transferring to four-year universities
receive an average of $2,480. At a minimum, each student receives a $1,000 scholarship.

Jose Garcia is a Marine veteran. His career goal is to work within Ventura County’s Human Services Agency Farmworker
Resource Program. “Going back to school after the military has been such an unexpected turn in my life,” says Garcia. “I
was never the type of student to care for school or grades but now that has all changed. With a welcoming community and
thoughtful professors, I am now a focused student with ambitions of earning my master’s degree.”

Garcia received the Kada Family and the Lucia Tebbe Memorial Phoenix scholarships. Phoenix scholarships are for those
students who have renewed their pursuit of a college education after time away.

Each year, the foundation’s Scholarship Review Committee evaluates applications following a specific scoring scale. Those
who meet all the application requirements and have the highest scores receive scholarships.

The Ventura College Foundation is grateful for the continuing support of scholarship event sponsors. They include AMR Gold
Coast, Edison International, Searle Creative, Composition Wealth, Ventura Music Festival L&T Catering, Trinity Wheeler
Photography, Montecito Bank & Trust, Feddersen & Company, LLP, LetzChat, Luners Production Services and Ed Summers.

Scholarship applications for the next academic year will be accepted beginning in the fall. For more about the Ventura
College Foundation and donation opportunities, go to https://venturacollegefoundation.org.

***

Ventura College Foundation

Established in 1983, the Ventura College Foundation transforms students’ lives through education by providing innovative
and vital resources and financial support. The Foundation collaborates with Ventura College to enhance human potential,
civic engagement, careers, and academic success of students enabling their effective impact and legacy on the college,
local workforce, and our community. The Foundation also hosts the Ventura College Foundation Marketplace; an outdoor
shopping experience held every weekend on the Ventura College campus. For more information, contact Chloe Boswell-Dondorf
at (805) 289-6418 or cboswelldondorf@vcccd.edu or visit www.VenturaCollegeFoundation.org.

 
On Tuesday, 13th, 2025, Fillmore Unified announced the 2025 Staff and Students of the Year Awards. Courtesy https://www.blog.fillmoreusd.org/fillmore-unified-school-district-blog/2025/5/23/congratulations-retirees-staff-amp-students-of-the-year.
On Tuesday, 13th, 2025, Fillmore Unified announced the 2025 Staff and Students of the Year Awards. Courtesy https://www.blog.fillmoreusd.org/fillmore-unified-school-district-blog/2025/5/23/congratulations-retirees-staff-amp-students-of-the-year.
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On Tuesday, May 13th, FUSD announced staff and student of the year awards. Staff and students are nominated by FUSD staff, and nominations are reviewed and selected by the Superintendent and her executive cabinet members. Staff are recognized for their commitment to students, contribution to creating a positive and collaborative culture, and leadership and involvement in the school community. Students from Sierra High School and Fillmore High School are nominated by staff members and are selected based on academic achievement, participation in school activities, and leadership qualities.

The winners are:
Administrator of the Year: Beverly Garnica, Principal for Rio Vista School
Certificated Staff Member of the Year: Ashley McClain, Science/AVID Teacher at Fillmore Middle School
Classified Staff Member of the Year: Martha Hope, Attendance Clerk, San Cayetano School
Fillmore High School Student of the Year: Presley McLain
Sierra High School Student of the Year: Lesly Izarraraz

 
On Friday, May 16th, 2025, Sierra High School recognized Lesly Izarrarz as the 2025 Student of the Year. She is a responsible, cheerful, and hardworking student who consistently goes above and beyond. As an active ASB member, a creative force behind our school posters, and a dependable office aide, she truly makes a difference on our campus. She was selected as Student of the Week by multiple teachers and earned the Student of the Month award in January. We’re so proud of her accomplishments and the positive example she sets for her peers. Courtesy https://www.blog.fillmoreusd.org/sierra-high-school-warriors-blog/2025/5/16/sierra-high-school-student-of-the-year.
On Friday, May 16th, 2025, Sierra High School recognized Lesly Izarrarz as the 2025 Student of the Year. She is a responsible, cheerful, and hardworking student who consistently goes above and beyond. As an active ASB member, a creative force behind our school posters, and a dependable office aide, she truly makes a difference on our campus. She was selected as Student of the Week by multiple teachers and earned the Student of the Month award in January. We’re so proud of her accomplishments and the positive example she sets for her peers. Courtesy https://www.blog.fillmoreusd.org/sierra-high-school-warriors-blog/2025/5/16/sierra-high-school-student-of-the-year.
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Fillmore High Principal Keith Derrick presented an update on programs, activities, and initiatives for the 2024-2025 school year that included recognizing Classified Employee of the Month, Lupe Medina, Community Liaison and Certificated Employee of the Month, Valerie Brown, Science Teacher. Thank you, Lupe and Valerie, for all you do for students, families, and our Fillmore/Piru community. Courtesy  https://www.blog.fillmoreusd.org/fillmore-unified-school-district-blog/2025/5/14/lupe-medina-and-valerie-brown-recognized-at-board-meeting.
Fillmore High Principal Keith Derrick presented an update on programs, activities, and initiatives for the 2024-2025 school year that included recognizing Classified Employee of the Month, Lupe Medina, Community Liaison and Certificated Employee of the Month, Valerie Brown, Science Teacher. Thank you, Lupe and Valerie, for all you do for students, families, and our Fillmore/Piru community. Courtesy https://www.blog.fillmoreusd.org/fillmore-unified-school-district-blog/2025/5/14/lupe-medina-and-valerie-brown-recognized-at-board-meeting.
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Fillmore Middle School students and staff participated in fun and games at their Minion Rally in preparation for state testing. The highlight of the event was watching Principal Plugge get slimed. Fillmore Middle School Principal Jenny Plugge said, “Everyone enjoyed some fun getting ready at out Minion Rally. Our Bulldogs are ready for state testing!” Courtesy https://www.facebook.com/497825872344899/posts/1264181722375973.
Fillmore Middle School students and staff participated in fun and games at their Minion Rally in preparation for state testing. The highlight of the event was watching Principal Plugge get slimed. Fillmore Middle School Principal Jenny Plugge said, “Everyone enjoyed some fun getting ready at out Minion Rally. Our Bulldogs are ready for state testing!” Courtesy https://www.facebook.com/497825872344899/posts/1264181722375973.
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