Foundation for Clovis Schools

"I've always wanted to make a difference in kids' lives the way my dad has," said Matteucci, the daughter of two Clovis Unified teachers. Her dad is Mark, science and health teacher at Clovis North High, while mom, Susann, is a substitute teacher. 

That dream has become a reality this year, as Julia welcomed students into her first-grade classroom at Oraze Elementary for the very first time. 

"My goal is for our classroom to be a second home for every child, knowing they will spend more time here than anywhere else during the day," Julia said. 

Matteucci is one of 170 new teachers to date hired for 2025-26 in Clovis Unified, each of whom received a New Teacher Grant from the Foundation for Clovis Schools. The grant is made possible by donations from community and local business partners. It is awarded to every teacher new to Clovis Unified to help with the costs associated with setting up a new classroom for the first time. 

"Starting your very first classroom is both exciting and overwhelming, and the New Teacher Grant has been such a blessing," said Matteucci, who used her grant for materials and resources that helped create a warm, engaging and supportive environment for her students from Day 1.