Fresno High Student Dies
by Alan Smithee
“It is with a heavy heart that I write to inform you that the student who had a medical emergency while on campus today passed away at the hospital.” Principal Amy Smith
On March 9, 2026, emergency services were called to Fresno High School for a PE student, freshman Daniel Padilla, who collapsed. The student was taken to a hospital, where they later died.
Warriors were stunned by the emergency and devastated to learn their classmate did not survive.
In a statement, the district said, "Our hearts are with the student's family, friends, and school community during this incredibly difficult time."
Warrior Marching Band to FSU
by Valerie Juarez
On March 20, the Fresno High School band went to Fresno State to perform in a festival. This was the very first time the Fresno High band has ever attended this specific event. Getting to play on a college stage was a big milestone for all the students involved and in general for all high school performers.
The band played three pieces of music: “Billy Goat Hill,” “Creed,” and “Rippling Watercolors.” After they finished, a clinician worked with them and congratulated them on their performance. It was a successful day for the band despite being very nervous since any wrong sound could be heard in the small concert hall. “One tip I’d have is to never look at the audience because you mess up,” shared Yoseline Valdez. “Just stay calm like I do.”
Even though the clinician thought they did good, they also gave the students some tips on how to get better. The band learned that while they performed well, there are always small things to fix, like protecting the melody and knowing when to exaggerate certain pieces in the music. They left the festival feeling good about what they did and were ready to keep working towards their next concert.
Open House
by Alan Smithee
Fresno High School hosted their annual Open House on March 24. Sophomore Personal Projects were displayed at the entrance, and guests were encouraged to explore the Art Gallery, Science Fair entries, and CTE Showcase.
Link Crew and Leadership students helped guide visitors, creating a welcoming and positive atmosphere. The festivities were started off by the JROTC Colorguard. Then there were many memorable student performances from folklorico, band, and the cast of Mean Girls the Musical to name a few.
Teachers were stationed throughout Warrior Park, allowing parents and guardians to connect with their student’s instructor. The event lasted from 5:30 to 7:30 pm. Food trucks were available in front of the school and a number of clubs sold snacks at the stairs to Royce Hall.
JROTC’s annual Junior Cadet Leadership Camp
By Michael Garcia
This year marked JROTC’s annual Junior Cadet Leadership Camp (JCLC), which started on Monday, March 16, and ran through Sunday, March 22. However, before cadets could go to camp, they were mandated to undergo “Hell Week,” which consists of five days of grueling physical exercises to prepare for camp. Located at Fort Hunter Liggett near the coast, cadets were able to partake in many of the unique activities it has to offer alongside various other schools also participating.
Throughout camp, cadets participated in a wide range of activities such as rappelling, an obstacle course, vehicle simulation, and archery, which allowed many cadets to experience these activities. In addition, cadets were able to live in their own barracks and eat at the site's own dining hall. Afterwards, cadets were able to explore Fort Hunter Liggett on their own after dinner, provided that they had a battle buddy with them at all times. Fort Hunter Liggett had all sorts of activities such as bowling, shops, gyms, and more.
At camp, most cadets were able to learn more about leadership, responsibility, and skills, which was the main goal of JCLC. However, near the end of camp, some issues became apparent but were resolved. Overall, this experience was new to many cadets and highlighted the fun of going to camp, which has made some cadets want to go back next year.
Kopi Sotiropulos Retires
by Alan Smithee
Known to fans as simply “Kopi,” Mr. Kopi Sotiropulos announced his retirement on March 27th.
Born in the Greece, his family came to the United States when he was a boy. He attended Fremont Elementary, Hamilton Jr. High, and Fresno High. After graduation he majored in broadcasting at San Francisco State.
He was hired by KMPH in October 1971 when the station first began broadcasting. Six years, he headed to Hollywood, where he spent ten years acting, but decided to return to Fresno. Kopi's weather forecasts, humor, enthusiasm, and wild ties made him a local legend. He joined co-host Kim Stephens on the Great Day morning show on October 6, 2003.
Now the time has come for Kopi’s final sign off. Fresno High School, with the help of Leadership, Marching Band, Cheer, and Mr. Mahon Brown’s students, to name a few, filmed a farewell segment for Great Day on the morning of March 26, thanking Fresno High’s arguably most famous alumni for the memories.