Local school districts welcome students and teachers back to the classroom

Lemoore’s two main public-school districts, like most districts in California, will adhere to the state’s health department guidelines requiring schools to follow strict COVID-19 guidelines, especially in the wake of rising infections, primarily among the unvaccinated.

Both local districts are taking the COVID-19 pandemic seriously and will require all students and staff to wear masks, at least while in the classroom setting. Students will not be required to wear masks outside the classroom.

“We had a great first day of school on Monday, August 9,” said Lemoore Union Elementary District Superintendent Cheryl Hunt when contacted by The Leader.

Hunt said that a total of 3,136 students are currently enrolled, and the district welcomed 17 new teachers bringing the district’s total staffing to 385, which includes classified and management staff.

Hunt said the district also welcomed two new learning coordinators to the site leadership teams: Dawn Taylor, Learning Coordinator at Meadow Lane, and Katy Phispham at Lemoore Elementary School.

“We also have a new Dean of our Charter School, Micky Yocum, Jr. and of course with the opening of Freedom Elementary School, we are excited to have Tracy Cassina leading as the new Principal.”

Hunt went on to say that John Raven will serve as the new Director of Special Services.

“Our staff did an exceptional job preparing for all of our students both academically and social-emotionally. We understand we are still in pandemic conditions and our staff and students are adhering to the masking requirement per CDPH. Our number one goal is the health and safety of our students and staff,” added Hunt. 

“We look forward to an exciting year of learning and growing together with a focus on each one of our students, meeting their need to achieve greatness.”