REEDLEY – Kings Canyon Unified School District (KCUSD) officially opened its Student Support Center with a ribbon cutting ceremony at 9 a.m. on Aug. 16.
Roughly 50 people attended the ceremony, which was held outdoors in front of the center. Robert Gutierrez, KCUSD Deputy Superintendent Personnel, served as master of ceremonies. He said the center was created with a clear and powerful mission: “To be a beacon of support for our students and families.”
“This center is the place where students can find the help they need when they need it most,” Gutierrez said.
The center will offer counseling to students, families, even faculty. There are four support rooms available for one-to-one discussions. KCUSD counselors and social workers will be on staff and there will be someone available to provide counseling during the hours when the center is open.
Following his opening remarks, Gutierrez introduced KCUSD board members, staff and other individuals who were instrumental in making the center a reality.
Bernadette Sanchez, KCUSD lead social worker and head of the family and student clinicians group, followed Gutierrez at the podium. Sanchez reflected on the district’s importance to the community.
“Our school district has always been one of the cornerstones of the community in providing not only a high level of education but ensuring that our students thrive in life,” Sanchez said. “This center represents our commitment to ensuring that all our students, regardless of their background or circumstances, have access to the resources they need to be successful – academically, socially and emotionally.”
Sanchez added, “As a school social worker, I’ve seen firsthand the challenges that many of our students face. Some struggle with mental health issues while others grapple with the basic needs, like food, clothing, and housing. These challenges make it incredibly difficult to step up and support them. It’s our responsibility to step up and support them.”
Fresno County Superintendent of Schools Dr. Michele Cantwell-Copher spoke about the importance of community.
“I know what it means for a community to raise a child,” she said. “And the sense of community here is palpable. This building represents more than just bricks and mortar; it embodies our shared commitment to the well-being and success of our students. As we cut the ribbon today, we are not just opening doors to a new facility; we are opening doors of opportunity.”
Cantwell-Copher added, “This center will stand as a testament to the nurturing and empowering service to the next generation. As we move forward, let this center remind us all of what we can achieve when we come together as a community. May it serve as a place where dreams are nurtured, challenges are overcome, and futures are built.”
The land on which the center stands was previously occupied for 60 years by a shotput factory. KCUSD Superintendent John Campbell said he had no intention of acquiring the property.
“The owner stopped me one day and asked me if I wanted to buy it. I said, ‘No. No more buildings’,” said Campbell. “Thankfully, the KCUSD board had the foresight and vision to realize the property would be the ideal spot for a new student services center.”
He remarked on the amazing transformation. And the sense of pride it and other buildings instill in the community.
“To picture that little cottage that sat here two years ago and now to look at this building? It’s just amazing. The community drives by. It takes great pride in seeing buildings like this. And schools that are well kept, well maintained,” he said.
Referring to the services that will be offered at this center, Campbell said, “This is the place to start when you’re having problems.”
Campbell said the center will be open from 7 a.m. until 8 p.m. during the school week.
EDITOR’S NOTE: This article was updated on Aug. 16, 2024 at 3:41 p.m. PST.
