Farmersville Junior High chess team, PBIS and college‑credit students recognized at board meeting

The Farmersville Unified School District board recognized extracurricular and academic achievements from Farmersville Junior High.

Principal Chris Sanchez described the district’s chess partnership with Freedom Elementary and outlined tournament results: six tournaments this year with five team second‑place trophies and one third‑place, and multiple individual student medals. Sanchez said many participants were new to chess and praised volunteer coaches including Coach Ruth and Mrs. Sickles. "We're here trying to make the program very strong," he said, noting parade participation and community support.

Mrs. Sickles explained tournament medal criteria (students play five games; winning three of five earns a medal) and highlighted consistent student performance across grade levels. The board presented pins to coaches and invited photo recognition.

Chris Sanchez also presented junior high academic highlights: average reading gains of roughly two grade levels, English‑learner progress rising from about 45.7% to approximately 62% in one year, attendance initiatives including Saturday school and PBIS incentives, and college‑credit opportunities that allow selected students to take classes at College of the Sequoias over the summer. Students accepted into COS courses and UC Merced math academies spoke briefly about the opportunities and thanked counselors for assistance.

The board applauded the presentations and gave tokens of appreciation to coaches and student groups. Several trustees asked for periodic site updates from each school during future board meetings.