The classrooms are open, teachers are ready and students are returning for another school year in Grass Valley. In this episode of On The Town, host Tom Fitzsimmons speaks with Grass Valley School District Superintendent Andrew Withers about the excitement—and enormous amount of preparation—that goes into beginning a new academic year.

Withers discusses current enrollment, the work happening behind the scenes at district schools and the energy teachers and staff bring to their campuses. The conversation also highlights Community Roots School Food Services Agency and its effort to provide students with free, scratch-cooked meals prepared with fresh and locally sourced ingredients.

The episode continues with updates on preschool and early-learning opportunities, improvements taking place at district campuses and playgrounds, and the district’s broader goals for student achievement. Withers explains the continued emphasis on strengthening mathematics instruction, early literacy and targeted academic support for students.

It is an informative look at what families can expect from the Grass Valley School District during the 2026–27 school year—and the educators, programs and community partnerships working to help every student succeed.