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Lemoore Elementary begins Aug. 17 as 3,131 students, 23 new teachers start school
Superintendent Cheryl Hunt, starting her first year at the helm of the local school district, told The Leader that the district will welcome 23 new teachers and six new classified staff to the work roster this year.
Finding 23 new teachers is quite an achievement considering the statewide teacher shortage in California. As of a few days ago, Fresno Unified had roamed several states looking for new teachers and are still about 50 teachers short as the fourth largest school district in California gets set to begin classes this week.
Hunt took the top job when former the former superintendent, Rick Rayburn, decided to retire in June. Hunt, 47, a former cheerleader, is a Hanford High graduate and attended Fresno State where she earned a degree in biology and then a teaching credential. Her first teaching job was in 1994 at Corcoran High School.
She later earned an advanced degree and an administrative credential and served as an assistant principal and later principal at Hanford High School.
As the new superintendent, Hunt has charged her staff with doing the best they can to create a successful environment for the 3,131 students that are scheduled to show up on the first day. “Our staff is accountable for ensuring our culture is focused on kids, supporting all of our students regarding their academic and social and emotional progress, and providing a safe, nurturing environment so our students can thrive.”
At Cinnamon Elementary, Sarah Streib is the new learning coordinator and Christina Weaver joins the staff there as a counselor. Warkentin will also work out of Cinnamon School.
A newcomer, Ed Ochoa, got the job as the new assistant superintendent, replacing Hunt.
The district has also made a few changes to the school sites. “Our major projects have been modernization of restrooms at Meadow Lane Elementary and Engvall Elementary schools,” said Hunt. “We also purchased new desks for our fourth grade classrooms.”
