Kern supervisors proclaim child‑abuse prevention, adult education, therapy‑animal and financial‑literacy observances

The Kern County Board of Supervisors on March 24 approved a set of proclamations recognizing local observances and community programs.

Supervisor Chris Parlier read a proclamation designating April 2026 as Child Abuse Prevention Month and invited representatives from local partners to speak. "Each month, CPS gets about 1000 referrals," Lito Murillo of Kern County Human Services said, urging community action, reporting concerns, and listing the county hotline for suspected child abuse.

Supervisor Jeff Flores read a proclamation honoring March 2026 as Adult Education Week and highlighted Bakersfield Adult School's reach. "Bakersfield Adult School serves 5,839 students to meet their academic, personal, and professional goals," Flores said, noting GED and career‑technical completions.

Supervisor Perez presented a proclamation declaring April 30, 2026, as National Therapy Animal Day. Airport staff and handlers described the calming presence of therapy dog Nikki at Meadows Field. "She brings comfort, connection, and a sense of calm to both our passengers and our staff," an airport representative said.

Chair Peters proclaimed April 2026 as Financial Literacy Month and Valley Strong Credit Union representatives discussed local outreach and partnership work to expand financial education.

All proclamations were approved by motion and voice vote during the consent/presentation portion of the agenda. The board moved on to other business after entering these recognitions into the official minutes.

The proclamations are largely ceremonial but intended to spotlight local services and encourage community engagement in child‑safety, adult education, mental‑health supports and financial education programs.