From teaching seniors how to use technology to transforming young minds in the classroom, Kienan Clewis has made a meaningful impact wherever he goes. Now, Fresno EOC’s School of Unlimited Learning (SOUL) Charter High School proudly welcomes Clewis, known as “Mr. K,” as their new English teacher.
While new to SOUL, Clewis is no stranger to Fresno EOC. His journey with the agency began as a Training Facilitator for the Access to Technology project, overseen by the Fresno EOC Foster Grandparent program. The project provides digital literacy courses to seniors aged 55 and older. Through a 5-10 week curriculum called iPad Essentials, seniors receive training and are gifted an iPad and two years of free internet access, empowering them to stay connected in today’s digital world.
But for Clewis, it was never just about teaching technology. “I loved my time at Access to Technology because it felt great knowing I was making a difference in people’s lives,” Clewis shared. “It wasn’t just about the iPads—it was about building relationships based on care, compassion, and patience.”
During his time with Access to Technology, Clewis created lasting connections with the seniors he taught. His desire to make a larger impact led him to explore other opportunities at Fresno EOC, an agency he quickly grew to admire. “I didn’t realize Fresno EOC had over 30 programs. After I took a tour of the agency, I knew I wanted to continue my journey here,” Clewis said. “This is the kind of environment I want to be in—everyone is here to help others, and that’s why I’m here.”
When a teaching position opened at SOUL, Clewis couldn’t pass it up. His passion for education, combined with his appreciation for Fresno EOC’s mission, made applying for the role a natural next step.
Now, approaching two months into his role at SOUL, Clewis is thriving. “I’ve worked with kids from similar backgrounds as the students at SOUL, and I understand the importance of connecting with them by learning their communication style and meeting them where they are,” Clewis explained.
SOUL offers both classroom-based and individualized learning options, giving Clewis the chance to engage with students in a flexible environment. He encourages creativity in his English classes, a subject he believes offers endless possibilities for self-expression. “I want my students to know they can make English their own,” he said. “It’s the most flexible subject out there.”
A Fresno native and former Edison High Tiger, Clewis went on to earn his Bachelor of Arts in English Education from California State University, Fresno. Now, he’s excited to give back to the community that shaped him and make this school year unforgettable for his students.
Fresno EOC is committed to supporting staff growth by offering opportunities across its more than 30 diverse programs, empowering employees to advance their careers while staying true to the agency’s mission of fighting to end poverty. Just like Kienan Clewis, who transitioned from Access to Technology to SOUL Charter High School, Fresno EOC encourages staff to explore new roles that align with their passions, fostering professional development while creating a diverse and impactful workforce dedicated to serving the community.