Clovis Schools Enhance Youth Programs with Free Sports and Arts Camps

The Clovis Public Works Committee meeting on July 23, 2025, highlighted significant developments in youth sports programs and infrastructure planning for Clovis High School. The discussions underscored the collaborative efforts between the City of Clovis and local schools to enhance opportunities for children in the community.

A key focus of the meeting was the success of youth sports programs, which have seen a substantial increase in participation. Last year, 637 children participated in flag football, 519 in volleyball, and 924 in basketball, averaging 693 participants across various sports. These programs are offered free of charge, ensuring that financial barriers do not prevent children from engaging in sports. The committee emphasized that increased participation in sports correlates with improved school retention and graduation rates.

In addition to regular sports, the committee reported on summer camps that provided further opportunities for youth. Over four weeks in June, camps for volleyball, football, basketball, and fine arts attracted an average of 457 children each week. High school athletes and coaches led these camps, fostering mentorship and community engagement.

Looking ahead, the committee announced plans to expand sports offerings, including indoor soccer and cheerleading clinics, while also addressing community feedback regarding the need for soccer programs. This expansion aims to create a more inclusive environment for youth sports.

On the infrastructure front, the committee discussed the urgent need for renovations at Clovis High School, which is over 50 years old. A strategic plan for a $20 million general obligation bond was approved, aimed at renovating and replacing aging facilities over the next decade. The plan will be executed in three phases, focusing first on essential upgrades and then on constructing new facilities to enhance educational and vocational training opportunities.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to improving traffic management around the high school, addressing concerns about student drop-off and parking. The committee plans to implement new traffic measures, including relocating school flashers and issuing parking permits to residents in nearby neighborhoods to alleviate congestion.

Overall, the meeting underscored the importance of community partnerships in providing youth with opportunities for growth and development, while also addressing critical infrastructure needs to support educational excellence in Clovis.