Rio Vista Elementary School Principal Kayleigh Kelp said, “Congratulations Rio Vista Elementary students who were awarded with this month’s character trait, Integrity. This month, we are proud to recognize our students who have demonstrated Integrity, which is doing the right thing, even when no one is watching. We are so proud of our Roadrunners! Beep! Beep!”

 


 
San Cayetano Elementary School Principal Dina Ticas said, “Our students sporting their new San Cayetano Kindness shirts. What an excellent way to end February, the month of Friendsgiving and Kindness!”
San Cayetano Elementary School Principal Dina Ticas said, “Our students sporting their new San Cayetano Kindness shirts. What an excellent way to end February, the month of Friendsgiving and Kindness!”
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We want to celebrate our students of the week for February 20th, Ellyse Miramontes, Camila Leon and Kenia Murillo. Congratulations to these Bulldogs for demonstrating Bulldog Pride. Posted February 20, at 2:23pm courtesy https://www.facebook.com/Fillmore-Middle-School-268457367119759.

 

Ventura, CA – As the March 2 priority financial aid deadline approaches, Ventura County high school seniors completing the FAFSA or California Dream Act Application (CADAA) are encouraged to check whether they have a CalKIDS Scholarship that can help pay for college or career training.
In Ventura County, more than $39 million in CalKIDS Scholarship funds are available to support students pursuing higher education.
The scholarship is easy to claim and doesn’t require essay submissions, recommendation letters, or a minimum GPA.
CalKIDS is the nation’s largest child development account program, providing scholarships of up to $1,500 for eligible California public school students. Funded by the State of California and administered by the ScholarShare Investment Board, chaired by State Treasurer Fiona Ma, CPA, CalKIDS helps reduce financial barriers as students plan for college or career training.
“CalKIDS was created to support students at moments when financial decisions can feel overwhelming,” said State Treasurer Fiona Ma, CPA. “Having scholarship support already in place can empower students and families to make confident financial choices as they plan for college or career training.”
Statewide, more than 60% of public school students in grades 2–12 are eligible to claim a CalKIDS Scholarship worth up to $1,500. Some college-age students may also have a CalKIDS Scholarship available. The scholarship can be used for qualified higher education expenses, including tuition and fees, books and supplies, and computer equipment.
Claiming a CalKIDS Scholarship is simple and can be completed online. Students or families only need the student’s Statewide Student Identifier (SSID), which can be found by contacting the student’s school or by visiting CaliforniaColleges.edu. Once they have the SSID, students can visit CalKIDS.org to check eligibility and claim their scholarship account.
San Ly, a student from University of California, Los Angeles shared, “Having a CalKIDS Account has helped me fund leftover expenses related to school without having to take overtime shifts, which has allowed me to focus on my academics.”
To expand access and awareness, schools across California are required to share CalKIDS information with students who submit the FAFSA or CADAA. Through a partnership with the California Student Aid Commission (CSAC), students who also apply for state financial aid can now view their CalKIDS eligibility through CSAC’s WebGrants 4 Students portal.
“We are grateful to CalKIDS for this partnership. Together, we can help make college affordable for many more Californians.” said Dr. Daisy Gonzales, Executive Director of the California Student Aid Commission. “Utilizing the power of data sharing across state agencies, we can close information siloes…We are the partner that can connect students and families with CalKIDS, and CalKIDS is the missing link when we seek to promote educational equity in our state.”
With support from state agencies, community partners, and schools, more students are checking eligibility and claiming their accounts. Statewide, more than $50 million in CalKIDS Scholarship funds have already been used at colleges and universities, demonstrating how the program can make a real difference in students’ educational journeys.
For eligibility details and to claim a CalKIDS Scholarship Account, visit CalKIDS.org.
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About CalKIDS: The California Kids Investment and Development Savings Program (CalKIDS) is the nation’s largest child development account program, providing scholarships for higher education. Administered by the ScholarShare Investment Board, and Chaired by State Treasurer Fiona Ma, CPA, the program is designed to promote the pursuit of higher education statewide by empowering families to build assets, nurture savings habits, and raise their educational aspirations. Eligible public school students can receive CalKIDS Scholarships worth up to $1,500 and every child born in California on or after July 1, 2022, is awarded a CalKIDS Scholarship worth up to $175, ensuring more families have the resources needed to support their children’s education. To learn more, visit CalKIDS.org.

 
FMS Family Engagement Night. Thank you to our families who came to make connections with their students. A shout-out to Mrs. Hurtado and Mrs. Yanez for leading the conversation. Connections were built one puzzle at a time. Posted on February 10, 2026, 6:23p.m. courtesy https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063524712513#.
FMS Family Engagement Night. Thank you to our families who came to make connections with their students. A shout-out to Mrs. Hurtado and Mrs. Yanez for leading the conversation. Connections were built one puzzle at a time. Posted on February 10, 2026, 6:23p.m. courtesy https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063524712513#.
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Piru Elementary Principal Viviana Magaña-Laureano said, “Students had the opportunity to tour the beautiful campus, learn about the different majors offered, and begin envisioning their future beyond elementary school. They asked thoughtful questions, explored new possibilities, and sparked their curiosity about college and career pathways. Experiences like these help our students dream big and soar to new heights!”
Piru Elementary Principal Viviana Magaña-Laureano said, “Students had the opportunity to tour the beautiful campus, learn about the different majors offered, and begin envisioning their future beyond elementary school. They asked thoughtful questions, explored new possibilities, and sparked their curiosity about college and career pathways. Experiences like these help our students dream big and soar to new heights!”
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This week is National School Counseling Week, and we are so grateful for our amazing counseling team at Rio Vista! A huge thank you to Ms. Ibarra, our incredible school counselor, and her wonderful interns Mr. Hughes and Ms. Gonzales for the care, compassion, and support they provide our students every day. Our school is a better place because of you! Posted on February 3, 2026, at 3:46p.m. courtesy https://www.facebook.com/Rio-Vista-Elementary-433256753864582.

 

In celebration of National School Counseling Week, we want to extend a heartfelt thank you to our school counselor, Mrs. Fuentes, for her unwavering support of our students and staff. From supporting students’ academic success and social-emotional well-being to advocating for families and providing guidance during life’s challenges, she does it all with compassion and care. Her big heart for counseling and commitment to every student makes her an incredible advocate and an essential part of our school community. Posted February 5 at 9:21p.m. courtesy https://www.facebook.com/Piru-Elementary-270636636902397.

 

Sierra High School and Heritage Valley Independent Study would like to recognize, our incredible counselor Jackie, in celebration of National School Counseling Week. She truly cares about our students and consistently goes above and beyond to support them. We are so grateful for the compassion and dedication she brings to our school community. Posted on February 12, 2026, at 12:43p.m. courtesy https://www.facebook.com/FUSDWarriors.

 
Mountain Vista Elementary Principal Christine McDaniels said, “Thank you Mountain Vista staff and students! You all did a great job organizing and competing in this year’s spelling bee. Congratulations to all of our spelling bee contestants, and our winner Michelle.”
Mountain Vista Elementary Principal Christine McDaniels said, “Thank you Mountain Vista staff and students! You all did a great job organizing and competing in this year’s spelling bee. Congratulations to all of our spelling bee contestants, and our winner Michelle.”
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Fillmore Middle School Principal Jenny Plugge said, “We want to celebrate our students of the week for February 6th. Alexx Alanis-Martinez, Lupita Lara, and Steven Dominguez. Congratulations to these Bulldogs for demonstrating Bulldog Pride.”

 
Fillmore Middle School Principal Jenny Plugge said, “Congratulations to our Champion Samuel Eligado and Runner-Up Declan Watson. Thank you to our amazing staff for your work and dedication to this event. We are proud of all the students who participated.”
Fillmore Middle School Principal Jenny Plugge said, “Congratulations to our Champion Samuel Eligado and Runner-Up Declan Watson. Thank you to our amazing staff for your work and dedication to this event. We are proud of all the students who participated.”
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Spelling Bee Champion Samuel Eligado and Runner-Up Declan Watson.
Spelling Bee Champion Samuel Eligado and Runner-Up Declan Watson.
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Rio Vista Elementary School Principal Kayleigh Kelp said, “January’s Roadrunner Character Trait Winners showed what perseverance looks like in action! From tackling tough assignments to staying positive through challenges, these students remind us that effort and resilience truly matter. Way to go, Roadrunners! Beep! Beep!”

 

Fillmore Middle School Principal Jenny Plugge said, “We want to celebrate our students of the week for January 30th. Marco Romero, Melanie Briceno, and Esteban Suarez Ceja (not pictured). Congratulations to these Bulldogs for demonstrating Bulldog Pride.

 
Piru Elementary Principal Viviana Magaña-Laureano said, “Piru Elementary proudly hosted our annual Spelling Bee! Congratulations to our winners and a big shout-out to all the students who participated. Your hard work, courage, and determination truly shined. We are so proud of each and every one of you!” Courtesy https://www.facebook.com/756397931999384/posts/1670075777298257.
Piru Elementary Principal Viviana Magaña-Laureano said, “Piru Elementary proudly hosted our annual Spelling Bee! Congratulations to our winners and a big shout-out to all the students who participated. Your hard work, courage, and determination truly shined. We are so proud of each and every one of you!” Courtesy https://www.facebook.com/756397931999384/posts/1670075777298257.
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Christopher Palushaj
Christopher Palushaj
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Above is some of the artwork to be included in this year’s show by Mia Sandoval and Maria Gallegos. This year’s show will have Opening Reception on Friday, January 30, from 5 to 6 p.m. at the Cole Creativity Center and Amote Gallery at the Santa Paula Art Museum.
Above is some of the artwork to be included in this year’s show by Mia Sandoval and Maria Gallegos. This year’s show will have Opening Reception on Friday, January 30, from 5 to 6 p.m. at the Cole Creativity Center and Amote Gallery at the Santa Paula Art Museum.
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FILLMORE — Student creativity from across the Fillmore Unified School District will be on full display at the 3rd Annual Fillmore Student Art Show, featuring artwork from Piru Elementary School, Fillmore Middle School, and Fillmore High School. The exhibition will be hosted at the Cole Creativity Center and Amote Gallery at the Santa Paula Art Museum, celebrating the artistic talents of students at all grade levels.
The show will open with a public Opening Reception on Friday, January 30, from 5 to 6 p.m., where families, friends, and community members are invited to meet the artists and view the collection. Adding to the evening’s significance, scholarship awards sponsored by the Santa Paula Society of the Arts will be presented to selected student artists in recognition of their achievement and dedication to the arts.
Student work featured in the exhibition includes pieces created under the guidance of Ms. Silva at Piru Elementary School, Ms. Reyes-Gonzales at Fillmore Middle School, and Mr. Torres at Fillmore High School. The artwork spans a wide range of media and themes, highlighting the progression of artistic skill and creative expression from elementary through high school.
The exhibition will remain on view through Sunday, March 1, 2026, which will serve as the final viewing day. The annual event continues to grow as a meaningful collaboration between local schools and the Santa Paula Art Museum, providing young artists with a professional gallery experience and reinforcing the importance of arts education in the community.

 
Rio Vista Elementary School Principal Kayleigh Kelp said, “Congratulations to our Spelling Bee Champion! Rio Vista held its annual school spelling bee, and we are proud to announce that Akina Osido from Ms. DeMeritt’s class is this year’s winner! Akina will represent Rio Vista in an upcoming online competition, with the goal of advancing to the Ventura County Spelling Bee. We wish Akina the best of luck as she represents our school! We are proud of all our Rio Vista Roadrunners who competed and showed perseverance, confidence, and strong spelling skills!” Courtesy https://www.facebook.com/484802076990777/posts/1377773727693603. See more photos online at www.FillmoreGazette.com.
Rio Vista Elementary School Principal Kayleigh Kelp said, “Congratulations to our Spelling Bee Champion! Rio Vista held its annual school spelling bee, and we are proud to announce that Akina Osido from Ms. DeMeritt’s class is this year’s winner! Akina will represent Rio Vista in an upcoming online competition, with the goal of advancing to the Ventura County Spelling Bee. We wish Akina the best of luck as she represents our school! We are proud of all our Rio Vista Roadrunners who competed and showed perseverance, confidence, and strong spelling skills!” Courtesy https://www.facebook.com/484802076990777/posts/1377773727693603. See more photos online at www.FillmoreGazette.com.
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Fillmore Middle School Principal Jenny Plugge said, “The Fillmore Middle School Wellness Peers participated in a training at the county office. The areas of focus were advocating, communication, mental health, and building a positive culture at school. We commend our students and Mrs. Hurtado for their commitment to be leaders on campus.” The Ventura County Office of Education provides training for middle and high school students who serve as Wellness Peers in middle and high school settings. In these training students learn to support and be a resource to students, help fellow students access Wellness Centers, create a safe and welcoming space for all students, connect students with appropriate community resources, and communicate and engage in public speaking. Courtesy https://www.facebook.com/497825872344899/posts/1489054866555323.
Fillmore Middle School Principal Jenny Plugge said, “The Fillmore Middle School Wellness Peers participated in a training at the county office. The areas of focus were advocating, communication, mental health, and building a positive culture at school. We commend our students and Mrs. Hurtado for their commitment to be leaders on campus.” The Ventura County Office of Education provides training for middle and high school students who serve as Wellness Peers in middle and high school settings. In these training students learn to support and be a resource to students, help fellow students access Wellness Centers, create a safe and welcoming space for all students, connect students with appropriate community resources, and communicate and engage in public speaking. Courtesy https://www.facebook.com/497825872344899/posts/1489054866555323.
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San Cayetano Elementary School Principal Dina Ticas said, “Ms. Szamosi’s class took on an exciting project to kick off the new year by selecting a ‘Word for 2026’ that would serve as a guiding principle to help them set and achieve their goals. The inspiring words our students selected range from cooking and family to improve and productive! It’s amazing to see our students thinking critically about the values they want to embody and the positive changes they want to make in their lives. We can’t wait to see how these words inspire and motivate them throughout the year!” Courtesy www.facebook.com/761635201782178/posts/1723585338920488.
San Cayetano Elementary School Principal Dina Ticas said, “Ms. Szamosi’s class took on an exciting project to kick off the new year by selecting a ‘Word for 2026’ that would serve as a guiding principle to help them set and achieve their goals. The inspiring words our students selected range from cooking and family to improve and productive! It’s amazing to see our students thinking critically about the values they want to embody and the positive changes they want to make in their lives. We can’t wait to see how these words inspire and motivate them throughout the year!” Courtesy www.facebook.com/761635201782178/posts/1723585338920488.
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School Board Appreciation Month honors the dedication and hard work of volunteer school board members who set district vision, approve budgets, and create policies to support student success. Superintendent Schieferle said, “January is School Board Appreciation Month, and I would like to recognize our Governing Board for their tireless efforts in setting the vision and direction for our school district. Our board works year-round with district staff and administration to ensure that we are improving outcomes district-wide for our students. Thank you, trustees. You play an integral role in improving our educational system and we appreciate your dedication and commitment to our students, teachers, families, and staff.” Courtesy https://www.blog.fillmoreusd.org/fillmore-unified-school-district-blog/7....