Madera Unified begins new school year with new campus and updated logo

MADERA, Calif. (KFSN) -- Class is back in session for thousands of students in the Madera Unified School District.

The district is excited to welcome back over 20,000 students, with a new campus and fresh logo.

It's also the first academic year for the brand-new King Husein School.

The new school, which will serve transitional kindergarten through eighth-grade students, sits on 50 acres of land donated by King Husein, the owner of SPAN Construction and a longtime Madera resident.

District officials want to remind families to adhere to campus traffic procedures, use designated drop-off areas and follow directions from staff.

Students will receive free breakfast and lunch through the school year, regardless of family income.

School is in full swing for some communities throughout the Central Valley, including Madera.

"It's finally here, so we are excited to welcome students and their parents on campus," says Christina Rice.

The district welcomed about 20,000 students at multiple campuses, including their new King Husein School, marking an exciting beginning.

"With the opening of the new school, King Husein, that is a big accomplishment and brings kids into a new space that has been designed for them," says Assistant Superintendent Prince Marshall.

The new campus welcomed a few hundred students but has capacity for about 1,000.

There is also an autism program on the site that will benefit families in need of the resources.

The campus has some unique features, like an outdoor amphitheater and covered basketball courts.

The education initiative will emphasize STEM.

One parent dropped off her daughter and says the opening of this campus is very important for the community.

"For the kids, this is a huge opportunity and for Madera," says Rosie Mendez. "I am very excited."

School leaders say a new campus was necessary with the growing population in Madera County.

They also remind students and parents to be patient the first few days of school.

"Take time, be present for your kids," says Mayor Cece Gallegos. "That is the most important thing, as an educator, that is the most important thing."

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