West Park Elementary's school calendar brings students back in July

FRESNO COUNTY, Calif. (KFSN) -- Families of students at West Park Elementary were greeted by the school's mascot and educators on Tuesday.

It's the first day of the school year and the early start is something the district says has been in place for decades.

"Something that has been embedded in this community. And the community loves it, and we love it, so we haven't changed it," said West Park School District Superintendent Tamita Boyd.

The pre-K through 8th grade school was established in 1885 and is nestled in a tight-knit agricultural area just southwest of Fresno.

With just 239 total students there, educators say the community is like their family.

"The community is very involved, always very positive and very supportive," said Dean of Schools Randy Randolph.

Randolph says he's spent most of his life here - he's been with the district for more than 30 years and is himself a graduate of West Park Elementary.

As he steps into his new role of Dean of Schools this year, he says part of why he loves the school is the benefits its unique yearly schedule offers students.

"It refreshes the kids. They come back energetic, and there's no drag by the time we get to the Winter break," said Randolph.

Because of the shorter summer break, students get longer breaks spread throughout the year - namely in September, and around Easter.

Administrators say it not only refreshes students, but there are also educational benefits.

"It gives them the opportunity to retain more. I mean, because we do run our summer school all the way through June 30th. So, our students that participate in summer school, they have two weeks and then they're back," Boyd said.

The district has two other charter schools in Hanford and Fresno.

Those students will be back to school next month.

Kerry Mannix is a general assignment reporter for ABC30 Action News. For news updates, follow her on Instagram.