Sierra Unified School District

Sierra Unified School District Contact information, map and directions, contact form, opening hours, services, ratings, photos, videos and announcements from Sierra Unified School District, Public School, 29143 Auberry Road, Prather, CA.

The District currently serves 1,270 students, in grades TK through 12 from three schools; Foothill Elementary (grades TK-6), Sierra Junior High School (grades 7-8), Sierra High School (grades 9-12) and our Sierra Alternative Schools (grades K-12.)

☀️ Dive into summer! Sierra High Summer Pool Hours are officially back for the 2026 season starting June 16! 🏊‍♂️✨Here i...
06/09/2026

☀️ Dive into summer! Sierra High Summer Pool Hours are officially back for the 2026 season starting June 16! 🏊‍♂️✨

Here is everything you need to know to stay cool this summer:🗓️ Public Swim
Dates: June 16 – July 31, 2026
Days: Tuesday – Thursday
Hours: 12:30 PM – 5:00 PM
Daily Cost: $4 per person / Family Pass: $125 (up to 4 members)

Water Aerobics
Days: Monday – Friday
Hours: 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM
Drop-in: $2 per person
Monthly Pass: $30

Swim Lessons
Levels: Mommy & Me, Beginners, Intermediate
Days: Monday – Thursday
Hours: 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Cost: $100 per 2-week session (per swimmer)
Session 1: June 22 – July 2
Session 2: July 6 – July 16
Session 3: July 20 – July 30

How to Sign Up: Register in person during public swim hours!See you at the pool! 🌊

Summer Office Hours Update:Dear Parents and Students,As we transition into the summer break, please note that our school...
06/08/2026

Summer Office Hours Update:

Dear Parents and Students,

As we transition into the summer break, please note that our school office will be operating on an updated schedule:

Monday – Thursday: 7:30 AM – 4:00 PM
Friday – Sunday: CLOSED

Our offices will also remain closed on all major public holidays.

We appreciate your cooperation and hope you have a wonderful, relaxing summer!

End of the Year ReflectionAs we wrap up the 2025–2026 school year, we are proud to celebrate the many accomplishments an...
06/08/2026

End of the Year Reflection

As we wrap up the 2025–2026 school year, we are proud to celebrate the many accomplishments and milestones achieved across Sierra Unified under the leadership of our dedicated staff, teachers, and Superintendent Dr. Lori Grace.

Highlights from this school year include:

Strengthening academic achievement and expanding opportunities that prepare students for college and career success.

Celebrating the incredible accomplishments of the Class of 2026 as they take the next step toward bright futures.

Increasing student engagement through meaningful learning experiences, inclusive activities, and stronger school connections.

Continuing to foster supportive school environments where every student feels valued, included, and empowered to succeed.

Building a strong sense of community through the dedication of our students, staff, families, and supporters.

Thank you to everyone who helped make this school year such a success. We wish all Sierra Unified students, families, and staff a safe, relaxing, and wonderful summer!


Dear Sierra Unified Community,As we close another remarkable school year, I want to take a moment to celebrate the incre...
06/05/2026

Dear Sierra Unified Community,

As we close another remarkable school year, I want to take a moment to celebrate the incredible accomplishments of our students and graduates. This season is filled with milestones, memories, and moments of pride as we recognize the hard work, perseverance, and growth demonstrated by students across our district.

Congratulations to the Class of 2026! Graduation represents years of dedication, learning, and determination. Whether our graduates are heading to college, entering the workforce, joining the military, or pursuing other opportunities, we are proud of all they have achieved and excited for the bright futures that await them.

The opportunities available to our graduates after high school are greater than ever. Sierra Unified students leave our schools prepared to pursue a variety of pathways that align with their goals and aspirations. One of the unique advantages of attending a small high school is the opportunity for high-achieving students to compete for prestigious university scholarships, including Regents Scholarships and other merit-based awards. These highly competitive honors recognize academic excellence, leadership, and service, while providing significant financial support for higher education. We are proud that our students continue to earn recognition for their hard work and dedication, opening doors to exciting opportunities beyond graduation.

We also celebrate the many students who promoted from one grade level to the next. From our youngest learners taking their first steps toward elementary school to students advancing to middle school and high school, each promotion marks an important achievement and the beginning of a new chapter. These milestones remind us that success is built one day, one lesson, and one accomplishment at a time.

None of these achievements happen alone. Thank you to our families, teachers, support staff, administrators, Board of Trustees, and community partners who work together every day to support our students. Your encouragement, commitment, and belief in our children make all the difference.

I would also like to extend a special thank you to our custodial, maintenance, and grounds crews for their tremendous efforts throughout the year and especially during this busy season of celebrations. From preparing facilities and maintaining beautiful campuses to ensuring that every promotion ceremony, graduation, and special event is ready for students and families, their work often happens behind the scenes but is essential to our success. We are fortunate to have such dedicated employees who consistently go above and beyond to create welcoming environments and memorable experiences for our students. Their commitment, pride, and attention to detail help make these milestone events truly special.

As summer begins, I hope our families take time to relax, recharge, and create lasting memories together. Whether you are spending time in the mountains, enjoying local events, traveling, or simply gathering with friends and loved ones, I encourage everyone to embrace the opportunities that summer provides to connect with one another and strengthen the bonds that make our mountain communities so special.

The sense of community, camaraderie, and support that defines Sierra Unified is one of our greatest strengths. It is what allows our students to thrive and what makes our district such a wonderful place to live, learn, and grow.

Thank you for a successful school year. Congratulations once again to all of our graduates and promoting students. Have a safe, enjoyable, and memorable summer. We look forward to welcoming everyone back in the fall for another year of learning, growth, and opportunity.

With gratitude and pride,
Dr. Lori Grace
Superintendent
Sierra Unified School District

06/03/2026

The excitement is building! Tomorrow, the Class of 2026 takes the graduation stage—but today, they took a beautiful trip down memory lane.

Our seniors officially completed their Senior Grad Walk, visiting the halls of Foothill Elementary where so many of their journeys began. Seeing how much they have grown from wide-eyed children into inspiring young adults brings back the most special memories.

An unknown road lies ahead for these seniors, but it is a path filled with unlimited opportunities. The entire Sierra Unified staff is incredibly proud of this class. We wish them the absolute best on their next great adventure!

Huge congratulations to Amanda Unruh from our District Office! Amanda has been accepted into the University of Southern ...
06/02/2026

Huge congratulations to Amanda Unruh from our District Office! Amanda has been accepted into the University of Southern California’s legacy School Business Management Certificate Program (SBMCP)!

Through her hard work and leadership, Amanda serves as a wonderful role model for our students and a stellar representative of our mountain community. We are so proud to support her as she explores this elite step in her career to better serve Sierra Unified!

Building Momentum for Sierra Unified’s Future Through Careful PlanningAt Sierra Unified School District, we believe ever...
05/29/2026

Building Momentum for Sierra Unified’s Future Through Careful Planning

At Sierra Unified School District, we believe every student deserves the opportunity to thrive academically, socially, and professionally. That belief continues to guide the work of District leadership as Sierra Unified advances a bold vision focused on student achievement, engagement, and future readiness.

This year, the District has celebrated measurable progress while laying the groundwork for even greater success in the years ahead. Goals and priorities for the upcoming years were recently highlighted at the District’s May Board meeting.

One of Sierra Unified’s most important priorities is increasing academic outcomes that prepare students for college and career pathways after high school. The District has established ambitious goals to improve student proficiency in English language arts and mathematics by 2029, with targeted annual growth in both CAASPP and diagnostic assessment performance.

Already, we are seeing encouraging results. Student performance in English language arts on the SBAC increased by more than 4.5 percent in the 24-25 school year, while both ELA and math indicators improved on the California Dashboard. These gains reflect strategic investments in classroom instruction, including expanded literacy coaching, math professional development, multi-tiered systems of support implementation at the junior high level, and the expansion of tools for K–6 students.

The District is also strengthening pathways that prepare students for success beyond graduation. We aim to increase the percentage of students graduating A-G eligible from 40.5 percent to 60 percent by 2029. To support this work, counselors now meet monthly, parent presentations have been expanded, and a new four-year academic planning system will launch next year.

Early literacy continues to remain a foundational focus. Sierra Unified has prioritized ensuring students are reading on grade level by third grade, recognizing the long-term impact literacy has on academic achievement. This year alone, the percentage of third graders reading on grade level increased by 6 percent by the third diagnostic assessment.

Beyond academics, we are equally committed to ensuring students feel connected, engaged, and supported throughout their educational experience. Our District goals emphasize meaningful instruction, inclusive activities, and a strong sense of belonging across all school sites.

Student participation in athletics, visual and performing arts, and clubs is helping establish strong baselines for future growth in engagement. The District is working to expand project-based learning experiences like those found in LEAP Lab so that more students across Sierra Unified can benefit from meaningful, real-world learning opportunities that build creativity, collaboration, and critical thinking skills.

In addition, Sierra Unified is investing in training for TK–12 teachers on California’s Native American model curriculum to encourage the inclusion of lessons that teach students about Native American history, culture, and contributions throughout California. This work reflects the District’s commitment to providing students with inclusive learning experiences that honor the diverse histories and perspectives that shape our state and communities.

At the same time, the District is working toward increasing attendance from 91 percent to 95 percent by 2029 while strengthening student connections with trusted adults on campus. These efforts recognize that student success is about more than test scores. Success is reached by ensuring every child feels seen, supported, and inspired to participate in school life.

Career Technical Education is another area where we continue to build momentum. The District’s College and Career Indicator on the California Dashboard improved from orange to green last year, reflecting expanded opportunities and improved student readiness. The District has also implemented surveys to better understand student interest in CTE pathways and expanded career exploration tools for students in grades 7–12.

While these accomplishments are worth celebrating, we recognize there is still important work ahead. Our goals are about creating opportunities for every Sierra Unified student to succeed, whether that path leads to college, career training, military service, or direct entry into the workforce.

The progress already underway demonstrates what is possible when educators, families, staff, and the broader community work together with a shared commitment to student success. We are not only preparing students for the future, but we’re also building a stronger future for the entire community.

As we close out the 25-26 school year, I am immensely proud and encouraged by our progress and eager to continue moving toward accomplishing our goals. For more information on the District’s goals and initiatives, visit sierrausd.org/sierra-excellence.

With gratitude,
Dr. Lori Grace, Superintendent
Sierra Unified School District

Dear Sierra Unified Community,As we approach the end of another incredible school year, we want to remind everyone that ...
05/22/2026

Dear Sierra Unified Community,

As we approach the end of another incredible school year, we want to remind everyone that these final weeks are filled with many exciting activities, celebrations, and opportunities for students across our district. From award ceremonies and field days to graduations and promotion events, this is a special time for our students, staff, and families.

Participation in many of these activities is connected to student behavior and positive citizenship. We encourage all students to continue displaying respectful, responsible, and safe behavior both in and out of the classroom. Finishing the year with integrity and positivity helps ensure that everyone can participate in and enjoy these memorable events.

Parents, the final two weeks of school are also critical academically. Assignments, assessments, attendance, and daily effort all play an important role in final grades and successful completion of the school year. We appreciate your partnership in encouraging students to stay focused, attend school regularly, and finish strong.

Finally, we would like to recognize Memorial Day this Monday. Memorial Day is a time to honor and remember the brave service men and women who gave their lives in service to our country. Their sacrifice has helped preserve the freedoms we enjoy today, and we are grateful for their courage and dedication to this great nation.

Thank you for your continued support of Sierra Unified School District. We look forward to celebrating a strong finish to the school year together.

Measure U
• The board approved MWC guaranteed max amount for the Mechanical project taking place this summer at the board meeting on Monday.
• The District is working closely with Darden on addressing comments/ concerns from DSA on the Modernization Project.
• DSA has returned the Approved plans and we anticipate beginning construction the week school gets out.

Sincerely,
Dr. Lori Grace
Superintendent

May is Physical Fitness Month! At Sierra Unified, we know that staying active is essential for both physical health and ...
05/18/2026

May is Physical Fitness Month!
At Sierra Unified, we know that staying active is essential for both physical health and academic success.
Physical fitness helps build strong bodies, supports mental well-being, and creates healthy habits that
last a lifetime.
Let’s move more, feel better, and support one another in staying active all month long!

Dear Sierra Unified Community,This week has been filled with celebrations, learning, and opportunities to showcase the i...
05/15/2026

Dear Sierra Unified Community,

This week has been filled with celebrations, learning, and opportunities to showcase the incredible work of our students across the district. It has been a wonderful reminder of what is possible when students, staff, families, and the community come together to support one another.

Tuesday’s Senior Project judging was once again an inspiring experience. Senior Projects provide an amazing opportunity to see the investment our students and community make in meaningful, real-world learning. Our seniors dedicate at least 20 hours to volunteering, working, researching, and developing projects that reflect both their passions and future goals. Each year I am amazed not only by the finished products, but also by the powerful learning, growth, and confidence that develop throughout the process. Thank you to all of our community members who volunteered their time to judge projects and encourage our students. Your partnership helps make these experiences so meaningful.

Wednesday brought another wonderful Celebration of Learning at the high school. We truly have so much to celebrate. Our students represent the very best of what can happen when a community rallies around young people and provides opportunities, encouragement, and support. From academics to the arts, leadership, service, and career preparation, our students continue to demonstrate talent, perseverance, and pride in their work.

As we reflect on these experiences, we are also looking ahead to expanding opportunities for younger students. We are actively exploring more ways to bring project-based learning opportunities to all students at Foothill next school year. We have heard clearly from both parents and staff that experiences like those found in Leap Lab are powerful for students, and we want to be responsive to that feedback. Creating engaging, hands-on learning experiences that foster creativity, collaboration, and critical thinking continues to be an important priority for our district.

State testing and AP testing also continue across our campuses. We are so pleased with the focus, determination, and attention our students are putting toward these assessments. Keep up the great work! While one test certainly does not define learning, assessments can provide a strong indicator of how we approach learning in the classroom and the opportunities our students are provided throughout Sierra Unified. We are proud of the effort our students and staff continue to demonstrate every day.

I would also like to extend a very special congratulations to Joanna Dunn, who has been named one of four finalists for Fresno County Teacher of the Year. Joanna is a shining example of the outstanding teachers and educators we are fortunate to have in Sierra Unified. Her dedication to students, passion for education, and commitment to excellence reflect the very best of our mountain community. We are incredibly proud to have her representing Sierra Unified across Fresno County.

Thank you for your continued support of our students, staff, and schools. It is truly a privilege to celebrate the many accomplishments happening throughout our district.

Measure U
• The Board approved the guaranteed maximum price on the HVAC project
• We are set to begin construction on the HVAC project on June 8th
• Darden continues to work on comments from DSA on the large modernization project

With gratitude,
Dr. Lori Grace
Superintendent
Sierra Unified School District

Address

29143 Auberry Road
Prather, CA
93651

Opening Hours

Monday 7:30am - 4pm
Tuesday 7:30am - 4pm
Wednesday 7:30am - 4pm
Thursday 7:30am - 4pm

Telephone

+15598553662

Website

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