TCOE will host a free Cybersecurity Conference on October 13 at 6200 S. Mooney Blvd. in Visalia. The event will include lunch, a vendor fair, and breakout sessions.

Throughout the day, attendees will discover practical, forward-looking cybersecurity sessions designed specifically for K-12 technology leaders. Topics include AI and cyber risk, threat intelligence, phishing defense, network security, identity-based access control, security frameworks, and proven strategies for defending schools against evolving threats.

The conference is sponsored by SecureW2, HPE, AMS.NET, MGT, CrowdStrike, and Breadcrumb Cybsercurity. Vendors for the day will include Howard Technology Solutions, Cisco, CDW, Lightspeed Systems, GoGuardian, Fortinet, and more. Some sponsors and vendors will present the breakout sessions, along with Apple, Managed Methods, Red Herring, MS-ISAC, and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.

To register for the free conference, visit https://tcoe.org/cybersecurityconf. Registration closes on September 18.

Yesterday, employees celebrated service milestones at the fifth annual TCOE Convocation. Human Resources honored 165 staff members who marked their 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, and 40 years of service to the organization and the children of Tulare County. “The quality of our organization and care we provide our students and Tulare County districts is a direct reflection of the dedication of our employees,” said Tulare County Superintendent of Schools Tim Hire. “This year alone, employees who are celebrating milestones have dedicated nearly 2,800 years of combined service in programs within the Administration, Business Services, District Support Services, Human Resources, Special Services, and Student Support Services divisions.

Nearly 1,600 employees attended the convocation and celebrated their colleagues. Employees who reached their 35^th and 40^th milestone anniversaries were introduced to the audience by Mr. Hire, who read brief remarks provided by their administrators.

40-Year Honoree

Jovita Carranza, Teacher Assistant, Early Childhood Education Program

Jovita Carranza has dedicated 40 years of service to Early Childhood Education as a teacher’s assistant, becoming one of the most respected and beloved members of the program. Throughout her career, she has exemplified kindness, compassion, and professionalism in everything she does. Her gentle nature and caring spirit have made a lasting impact on children, families, and colleagues alike.

She leads by example every day, demonstrating the core values the program strives to uphold. The Earlimart Center has been honored to have her support for many years and is grateful for her outstanding service.

35-Year Honoree

Helen Lewis, Instructional Assistant, AcCEL Program

Helen Lewis began her career with TCOE in 1991 in Visalia, working at Riverbend for three years before transferring to Tulare, where she has spent the past 32 years serving students of all ages across a variety of sites.

Throughout her career, Lewis has been a dedicated and hardworking team member, consistently supporting students, teachers, and colleagues with compassion. Her cheerful spirit, willingness to help, and unwavering commitment have made a lasting impact on countless students and staff members. Lewis’s optimism and dedication have earned her the respect and appreciation of everyone fortunate enough to work alongside her.

Carla Mateus, Center Supervisor, Early Childhood Education Program

Carla began her TCOE career in November 1990 as an instructional aide with TCOE’s Teenage Parenting Program, where she discovered her passion for caring for and supporting young children. In 1997, she joined Early Childhood Education as a teacher assistant at Maple Child Development Center and became a lead teacher in 2001, helping preschoolers build strong foundations for learning.

Since 2017, Carla has served as site supervisor at Senaida Garcia Child Development Center, where she continues to lead with compassion, dedication, and a deep commitment to children, families, and early childhood education.

Margarita Quintana, Secretary, School Health Programs

Margarita’s journey began when she was a student in TCOE’s nationally recognized Teenage Parenting Program, from which she graduated in 1989 and was later honored as a distinguished alumna.

Quintana joined TCOE in 1991 as a clerical assistant in School Health Programs and advanced through several roles, serving today as Secretary of School Health Programs. Over more than three decades, she has adapted to evolving technologies, organizational changes, and program restructuring while becoming a cornerstone of the department. Quintana says what she enjoys most about her job is “everything,” especially serving others and contributing to positive outcomes for students, families, and the community.

Celeste Rodriguez, Program Coordinator, Connections for Quality Care

For 35 years, Celeste Rodriguez has been a valued member of the Connections for Quality Care family in the Early Childhood Education Program. Throughout her career, Rodgriguez has embraced a variety of responsibilities and continually demonstrated a passion for helping others. She is widely recognized for her outstanding customer service, ensuring that every individual she serves feels respected, supported, and heard.

Beyond her accomplishments, Rodriguez is admired for the personal qualities she brings to the workplace each day. Her kindness, patience, and positive attitude have created a welcoming environment for everyone around her. 

Alma Rooney, Payroll & Retirement Specialist, External Business Department

Throughout her 35-year career, Alma Rooney has played a vital role in payroll and retirement reporting, serving as a cornerstone of the School Teachers’ Retirement System reporting process. She has successfully navigated evolving reporting requirements, helping TCOE and school districts adapt to changing regulations, technologies, and procedures. Her expertise has been instrumental in ensuring accurate and reliable retirement reporting for educators throughout Tulare County.

Rooney’s success is rooted in her attention to detail, exceptional organization, and unwavering commitment to accuracy. Her department is grateful for her dedication and the many ways she has strengthened payroll and retirement operations. Her contributions have left a lasting impact on both the organization and the school districts we serves.

Scott Unser, Teacher, AcCEL Program

Scott Unser has dedicated 35 years of service to the AcCEL Program. He currently teaches in the Community Based Instruction (CBI) Program in Porterville, where he helps adult students develop vocational, independent living, and social skills that support greater independence and success in their communities.

Throughout his career, Unser has been a strong advocate for meaningful, real-world learning opportunities. Through partnerships with local businesses and organizations, he has created valuable hands-on work experiences for students. His students contribute to the Porterville community by working at local schools and providing landscaping and cleaning services for a church. Unser also established a student store where CBI students can practice everyday skills such as making purchases, handling money, and operating a cash register in an authentic setting.

30-Year Honorees

Jennifer Giannetto, AcCEL Program

Matthew Lee, Court/Community Schools

Tiffany Manning, AcCEL Program

Debbie Michaelian, AcCEL Program

Carmen Tapia, Early Childhood Education Program     

Pa Vang, Early Childhood Education Program     

Melissa Velasquez, Early Childhood Education Program

Rosalie Velazco, Early Childhood Education Program

25-Year Honorees

Jody Arriaga, Internal Business Services

Maria Ayala, Early Childhood Education Program

Laura Banuelos, Early Childhood Education Program

Marisela Chavez, Early Childhood Education Program

Tracy Clark, Internal Business Services

Erika Delgado, Internal Business Services

Margarita Flores, Early Childhood Education Program

Ninfa Guerrero, Early Childhood Education Program

Demetria Gutierrez, Early Childhood Education Program

Patricia Gutierrez-Murillo, External Business Department

Rosanna Guzman, Bright Start Program

Rose Ann Hernandez, AcCEL Program

Rudy Jimenez, AcCEL Program

Maria Juarez, Migrant Education Program

Lisa Keeley, AcCEL Program

Mimi Lakhani, Early Childhood Education Program

Frances Madrigal, Early Childhood Education Program

Stacey Martin, AcCEL Program

Letty Mendez, Early Childhood Education Program

Martha Mendiola, Early Childhood Education Program

Brenda Moreno, Internal Business Services

Linda Pena, Internal Business Services

Rob Ridenour, AcCEL Program

Justina Sanchez, Early Childhood Education Program

Mercedes Sanchez Lopez, Early Childhood Education Program

Ofelia Trevino-Toste, External Business Department

Rosa Villegas, Early Childhood Education Program

Courtney Wittman, AcCEL Program

Steven Woods, Educational Resource Services

20-Year Honorees

Elizabeth Aguilera, Early Childhood Education Program

Heather Albanez, AcCEL Program

Maria Barcenas, Early Childhood Education Program

Marcelina Basurto, Early Childhood Education Program

Cindy Bush, AcCEL Program

Georgina Carreno, Early Childhood Education Program

Ernestina Fernandez, Early Childhood Education Program

Jennifer Fisher, Administration

Charlotte Garcia Da Rosa, Theatre Company

Diana Gonzalez, Early Childhood Education Program

Lorene Johnson, Bright Start Program

Kirstin La Tour, AcCEL Program

Maria Magana Gutierrez, Early Childhood Education Program

Pam Malloy, Related Services

Hulda Mendoza, Early Childhood Education Program

Heather Parker, AcCEL Program

Maria Pizano, AcCEL Program

Beatriz Rodriguez Anguiano, Early Childhood Education Program

Sara Romer, Early Childhood Education Program

Christina Sartuche, Educational Resource Services

Pam Segrue, Bright Start Program

Dianne Shew, SCICON

James Smith, AcCEL Program

Diana Zapata, Early Childhood Education Program

15-Year Honorees

Josrito Ancheta, Behavioral Health Services

Melissa Avina, Psychological Services

Jennifer Barela, AcCEL Program

Tammy Bradford, Special Services

Timothy Budz, Educational Resource Services

Brandi Chavez, Bright Start Program

Yolanda Coa, Bright Start Program

Irma Cobarruvias, Intervention Resource Classrooms

Veronica Devora, Migrant Education Program

Kendra Espinoza, AcCEL Program

Azucena Fabian, Early Childhood Education Program

Ramon Garcia, Human Resources

Misael Gomez, Foster Youth Services

Jacqualine Gridiron, Intervention Resource Classrooms

Shelby Hamby, Related Services

Sarah Hamilton, AcCEL Program

Yessica Hernandez, AcCEL Program

Christina Joaquin, AcCEL Program

Maricela Ledezma, AcCEL Program

Daniel Lopez, Intervention Resource Classrooms

Ricardo Mayorga Jr, Early Childhood Education Program

Brooke Parbst, Related Services

Michelle Quintana, Bright Start Program

Jessie Reyes, Early Childhood Education Program

Christina Rodriguez, School Health Programs

Melissa Smith, Bright Start Program

Rocio Torres Amezcua, Bright Start Program

Michelle Van Till, AcCEL Program

Ter Xiong, AcCEL Program

Veronica Yanez, AcCEL Program

10-Year Honorees

Maricruz Acevedo, Intervention Resource Classrooms

Ana Aguayo, Intervention Resource Classrooms

Angel Alvarez, AcCEL Program

Tabatha Andrade, Early Childhood Education Program

Rebecca Andrews, AcCEL Program

Adriana Anguiano Barajas, Early Childhood Education Program

Patti Ayala, AcCEL Program

Sally Battenfield, AcCEL Program

Margarita Benavidez, Early Childhood Education Program

Cori Bernal, External Business Department

Donetta Brown, AcCEL Program

Jackie Bruno, Bright Start Program

Claudia Carballo, Early Childhood Education Program

Edison Carlos, Operational Services

Gabrel Castro, La Sierra Military Academy

Kristi Certuche, AcCEL Program

Chrystal Cid, Early Childhood Education Program

Julie Clark, SELPA Compliance Department

Idania Contreras-Lujan, AcCEL Program

Michael Cox Jr, Information Systems

Maria Echaverry, Early Childhood Education Program

Alex Elliott, Early Childhood Education Program

Perla Estrada, California Friday Night Live Partnership

Chris Feierbach, Human Resources

Allison Fletcher, Special Services - Related Services

Maria Flores, External Business Department

Martin Frolli, Leadership Support Services

Jesus Garcia Gomez, Internal Business Services

Roger Gibson, SCICON

Kevin Golding, Bright Future Program

Clarissa Gomez, AcCEL Program

Gloria Gonzalez-Haro, Bright Start Program

Mia Griswold, Mild to Moderate Programs

Anna Guzman, Psychological Services

Blanca Guzman Ramirez, Migrant Education Program

Angelica Hawkes, Bright Start Program

Rebecca Hendrickson, AcCEL Program

Mariela Hernandez, Bright Start Program

Maricruz Hernandez Cano, Migrant Education Program

Jacob James, AcCEL Program

Ramona Joven, AcCEL Program

Lisa Lemus, Leadership Support Services

Jeff Lynch, CHOICES Programs

Linda Machado, Early Childhood Education Program

Rosa Marroquin, Early Childhood Education Program

Terry Martinez, AcCEL Program

Joe Martinez, Psychological Services

Felicitas Mendez, AcCEL Program

Christie Mora, AcCEL Program

Jami Morris, AcCEL Program

Chris Nasemento, AcCEL Program

Russ Notturno, Court/Community Schools

Angel Olea, Court/Community Schools

Jajaira Ortiz, Early Childhood Education Program

Nancy Perez, AcCEL Program

Olga Perez, Psychological Services

Mary Pineda, AcCEL Program

Jeff Ramsay, General Services

Jennifer Reimer, Mild To Moderate Programs

Sylvia Reyes, Intervention Resource Classrooms

Anabel Rivas, Special Services - Related Services

Aipa Saesee, AcCEL Program

Veronica Saldivar, AcCEL Program

Vickie Segura, Early Childhood Education Program

Jaclyn Terry, AcCEL Program

Sharon Twitty, College and Career Readiness

Sonya Valle Diaz, Early Childhood Education Program

Last week, the Planetarium & Science Center and the Theatre Company partnered to create a weeklong day camp for Dinuba Unified School District elementary students. The program was named “Camp Cosmic – Where Everyone is a Star!”

Over 150 students participated in five full days of hands-on science and performing arts learning. Students were divided into three groups based on grade levels. Each day, the groups rotated through three activities – dancing, singing, and astronomy studies. 

In the dancing and singing portions, students learned several short musical numbers that they performed for an audience of parents and school staff members on the final day of the camp. In the astronomy portion of the camp, students learned about constellations and the lifecycle of stars, orbits, building and launching straw rockets, the solar system, and telescopes, probes, and rovers.

Camp Cosmic was the partnership’s first summer camp. For more information on the program, contact Bethany Rader at bethany.rader@tcoe.org or Conan Palmer at conanp@tcoe.org.

Last month, Farmersville Unified School District held a ribbon cutting ceremony for its new preschool and transitional kindergarten classrooms at J.E. Hester School.

In partnership with Farmersville Unified, the TCOE Early Childhood Education Program will support three preschool classrooms in the new building, with up to 20 children in each classroom.

Families interested in enrolling their children in these preschool classrooms (ages 2-5) are encouraged to apply by emailing enroll@tcoe.org or calling 559-651-3026. Mention “Hester” or “Farmersville” when leaving a message.

The first day of school for preschool is August 6, and the hours of service will be from 7:45 a.m. until 3:00 p.m. Monday through Friday. Breakfast, lunch, and nutritious snacks will be served daily; while education, health, nutrition, and family support will also be provided to both children and families enrolled.

Children of all abilities are encouraged to attend the preschool and potty training is not required for enrollment.

For more information on the ribbon cutting, see the video at https://youtu.be/PLwRtspz0-4?si=SMro5yeG0OOdusu.

Photo above:

~ Farmersville Unified School District held a ribbon cutting ceremony for its new preschool and transitional kindergarten classrooms at J.E. Hester School.

~ Aidan, 3, holds a letter “F” as he explores his potential preschool classroom at J.E. Hester School.

Editor: Robert Herman, Communications Director
Contributors: Nayirah Dosu, Jennifer Fisher, Jaime Burnitzki, Douglas Cairns, Zoty Briceño