FARMERSVILLE, CA — During its Jan. 27 meeting, the Farmersville Unified School District board honored high school student Cielo Jacuinde for being named the regional Big Sister of the Year.
The recognition, awarded by Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central California, highlights Jacuinde’s two-year commitment to the mentorship program. The organization’s CEO presented the award during the meeting, noting that Jacuinde was selected from student nominees across 21 Central Valley school districts. A panel of community leaders, donors, and board members chose Jacuinde for her leadership and dedication.
Jacuinde’s mentoring has directly helped her mentee, a local student named Roberto, succeed in school. The two participate in weekly sessions that have led to Roberto showing significant academic growth, especially in his dual language classes.
Retirement and Athletics Updates
The school board also honored Steve Hernandez for his 17 years of service in the maintenance, transportation, and facilities department. Hernandez, who recently retired, was not at the meeting, but a family member accepted the recognition on his behalf. Director Tony Melendez praised Hernandez for his work as a custodian, noting that he frequently went beyond his regular duties during his time with the district.
In other business, board members reviewed plans to expand sports programs at Farmersville High School and Farmersville Junior High School. As the district adds more athletic offerings at both levels, officials plan to improve training and communication for coaches.
New Staff Uniforms
Based on employee feedback, the district updated the dress code and provided maintenance and facilities staff with new uniforms. According to the Sun-Gazette, Superintendent Manuel Mendez said the sets include five pairs of jeans and five embroidered Carhartt shirts for each worker.
Staff member Charlie Metcalf thanked the board during the meeting for listening to employees and allowing them to help select the new clothing.
