Fresno County superintendent candidates clash on literacy crisis and AI in schools
Three candidates for Fresno County Superintendent of Schools addressed declining enrollment, classroom artificial intelligence, and a persistent literacy problem at a forum this week. Michele Cantwell-Copher, the incumbent, faces former Clovis Unified Superintendent Eimear O'Brien and Parlier Unified Assistant Superintendent Johnny Alvarado.
The literacy gap emerged as the sharpest dividing line. O'Brien and Alvarado both called it a crisis. About 60% of third-graders in Fresno County cannot read at grade level, O'Brien said, calling it "unacceptable." Alvarado cited 11 years of data showing roughly 55% of county students annually fail to read or write at grade level, while 68% meet math benchmarks.
Cantwell-Copher highlighted test score gains during her tenure, saying the county ranks among the highest in California for growth.
AI training and guardrails
All three candidates acknowledged that artificial intelligence cannot be ignored in schools. The county office is "enthusiastically embracing AI," Cantwell-Copher said, using it first to improve efficiency and second to ensure teachers feel comfortable deploying it in classrooms.
O'Brien and Alvarado stressed that individual districts must set parameters around AI use. Teachers need training on ethical implementation, O'Brien said. Cantwell-Copher added the office is establishing "guardrails for students so they can responsibly and safely use these amazing tools."
For educators looking to build AI competency, AI Learning Path for Teachers offers practical training on classroom integration. The AI for Education resource covers implementation strategies across school systems.
Enrollment and school closures
Fresno Unified and other districts are losing students as families relocate within the county. Cantwell-Copher said overall county enrollment remains relatively stable, though individual districts face shifts.
Alvarado described school closures as a "necessary evil" sometimes, but said districts must first understand why students leave and make changes to retain them. Community input matters when closures become unavoidable.
O'Brien pointed to long-range planning as the solution. Clovis Unified examined birth rates, construction, and enrollment trends before major decisions. Other districts need similar approaches to prevent closures rather than react to them.
Cell phones and immigration concerns
All three candidates said they will comply with Assembly Bill 3216, signed in 2024, which requires districts to limit cell phone use during school hours by July. Success requires buy-in from students, parents, teachers, and administrators working together.
On immigration enforcement concerns, candidates differed slightly in framing but aligned on reassurance. Alvarado emphasized meeting families where they are and establishing schools as safe spaces. Cantwell-Copher called families' fears "legitimate" and said positive school climate and parent engagement provide reassurance. O'Brien stressed the importance of helping families understand school policies amid ICE concerns.
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