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This message is to let you know that it will be necessary to turn off the electricity to the main server area at the Education Center from Thursday evening (July 30) to Friday afternoon (July 31) to complete the installation of a generator. In the future, this generator will supply backup power to the servers when the electrical supply to the Education Center is interrupted.

IT will begin shutting down servers at 5 p.m.Thursday and we anticipate that services will be restored by 2 p.m. Friday.

During this time, SUSD will not have any network connections to schools or to the internet. This includes but is not limited to:

Users will not be able to log on to the Novell network, computers will work in “workstation” mode only

The Governing Board voted on June 30 to approve the District’s 2009-10 Fiscal Year Budget as presented at the Board meeting on June 16.

Scottsdale Unified School District (SUSD) was recently awarded the Grants for the Integration of Schools and Mental Health Systems Program from the Department of Education (DOE) in the amount of $261,541. SUSD was one of 19 entities in the country to be awarded this grant. The grant will be used to coordinate school and community programs in a cohesive and comprehensive way to improve access to quality mental health services for SUSD students. Training from Drs. Adlelman and Taylor, UCLA, is provided through the grant.

Dr. Sylvia Cohen, lead psychologist, said “There is a national movement for the integration of schools and mental health systems. UCLA has a center for programs and policy analysis regarding mental health in schools and addressing barriers to learning. We applied for the grant because there is a need to develop comprehensive and detailed protocols for linking our students with mental health services in the community.”

The grant also provides funding for a half-time clinical services director to coordinate the writing of common protocols and referral procedures as well as to identify training needs for staff in meeting the mental health needs of SUSD students and families.

The June 30 ^th Governing Board Meeting is open to the public. Live video streaming will also be provided online through the District Web site at www.susd.org.

To view the meeting online, visit www.susd.org on June 30 ^th at 5:30 p.m. and click on the Live Video Stream icon. You will need Windows Media Player or the Flip4Mac player to view the online video stream.

If you are using a PC and do not already have Windows Media Player, please download it free at: http://www.microsoft.com/windows/windowsmedia/player/download/download.aspx

If you are using a Mac, please download the Flip4Mac software and player free at: http://www.flip4mac.com/wmv_download.htm

If you are accessing the Live Video Stream from within the District, please go to HomeRoom and click on the Live Video Stream icon there.

Tavan Elementary School is hosting its 5th Annual Fine Arts Summer Program Finale from 6-7 p.m. on Thursday, June 25 in the school’s café, 4610 E. Osborn Road, Phoenix. This event is dedicated to Janet Blum, fine arts coordinator, and Bonnie Sneed, Governing Board member, for their support of the Arts. This celebration will also include a visual arts gallery and presentations in drama, music, dance, yoga, and technology. Refreshments will be served.

The Scottsdale Unified School District (SUSD) Governing Board approved the recommendations for classroom technology and the financing for the Capital Outlay Override at their June 16th meeting.

Included are the purchase and installation of Phase I and Phase II classroom technology equipment from CCS Presentation Systems. Originally, SUSD was going to roll out this new technology in two separate phases so classrooms would have received the Phase I implementation first. This includes a projector, a document camera and an audio system. Phase II, which is the installation of an interactive white board, would not have happened until the following year. The new plan calls for combining the two phases into a single roll-out. “Combining both phases is beneficial for the students, the teachers and the District,” explained Tom Clark, executive director for Technology and Information Systems for SUSD. By purchasing everything in volume, the District will have a better return on investment, and teachers and students will benefit by receiving all the technology at one time. Read more...

This week, students who attend Kids Club summer camp at Arcadia Neighborhood Learning Center were treated to a special presentation by Scottsdale Unified School District administrators and city officials.

Katy Cavanagh, assistant superintendent of Excelling Teaching & Learning; City of Scottsdale Mayor Jim Lane, Bob DeLeon, assistant fire chief for Scottsdale and Sean Duggan, assistant police chief for Scottsdale, spoke to the students about community leadership and how they got to their current positions. During the presentation, each community leader was presented with a certificate of appreciation.

Many high school parents and students may be wondering "What is Unitown?" Unitown is an opportunity for high school students to learn to recognize and combat discrimination.

Unitown’s weeklong leadership retreat provides student delegates the opportunity to cross barriers that often divide them in their schools and to have honest and open dialogue about stereotypes and biases related to race, class, gender, sexual orientation and other traits that differentiate people from one another. Unitown empowers students to form strong relationships with peers from all backgrounds and to eliminate prejudice, bias and inequalities found in their school and community. Student delegates then bring this information back to the school to share with others. Read more in the June 18th issue of the Community Connection e-newsletter.

About 50 days ago, I proudly stepped into my new role as Superintendent of the Scottsdale Unified School District (SUSD). The community forums I attended during the candidate selection process had demonstrated that I would be working with a well-informed and involved community and an experienced and dedicated administration. I also knew that Arizona’s budget was in turmoil and presented severe economic challenges to SUSD.

As I entered the District, I found a community and staff ready to roll up their sleeves, have their voices heard at the legislature and help SUSD get through this incredibly difficult time with understanding, support and dignity. This spirit of cooperation and collaboration makes SUSD a great school community. Read more...

Chaparral High School and Desert Mountain High School were named as two of 2009's top 1500 high schools in the country, according to Newsweek's Web site. Chaparral and Desert Mountain are two of a handful of public high schools in Arizona to make the list. Desert Mountain was ranked 1125th, and Chaparral was ranked 1230th on the list. This is the fifth consecutive year that Chaparral has made the list and the third consecutive year for Desert Mountain. To view the complete list, please visit Newsweek.

The Governing Board voted on Tuesday night to adopt a resolution to renew the K-3 Override and place it on the November 3, 2009 ballot. For more information about the K-3 Override, please visit http://www.susd.org/district/currinstruction/K3Override.cfm.

This Friday and Saturday (June 26 and 27), it will be necessary to turn off the electricity to the main server area at the Education Center to complete the installation of a generator. In the future, this generator will supply backup power to the servers when the electrical supply to the Education Center is interrupted.

During this time, SUSD will not have any network connections to schools or to the Internet. This includes but is not limited to:

The June 16 ^th Governing Board Meeting is open to the public. Live video streaming will also be provided online through the District Web site at www.susd.org.

To view the meeting online, visit www.susd.org on June 16^th at 5:30 p.m. and click on the Live Video Stream icon. You will need Windows Media Player or the Flip4Mac player to view the online video stream.

If you are using a PC and do not already have Windows Media Player, please download it free at: http://www.microsoft.com/windows/windowsmedia/player/download/download.aspx

If you are using a Mac, please download the Flip4Mac software and player free at: http://www.flip4mac.com/wmv_download.htm

If you are accessing the Live Video Stream from within the District, please go to HomeRoom and click on the Live Video Stream icon there.

Scottsdale Unified School District (SUSD) employees often help one another, but one former employee is taking this spirit of help to a new level by literally saving the life of her friend and former co-worker.

Cindy Hans and Marti Klein met when they both worked at SUSD’s Mountainside Middle School more than 15 years ago. They became friends, and when Ms. Hans left Mountainside MS to become the principal at Ingleside Middle School, the two women remained close. Read more...

If you would like to drop off an open enrollment application, registration packet or have a general question to ask, please visit the high school or middle school in your designated complex. Staff members at these sites are ready to assist you with friendly smiles and/or helpful voices over the phone.

Summer Hours:

Registration for Kids Club or Community Schools’ summer programs will be accepted only from from 6:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Thursday at the Warehouse, 9313 N. 95th Way, Scottsdale.

Feeder School Chart

The June 2^nd Governing Board Meeting is open to the public. Live video streaming will also be provided online through the District Web site at www.susd.org.

To view the meeting online, visit www.susd.org on June 2^nd at 5:30 p.m. and click on the Live Video Stream icon. You will need Windows Media Player or the Flip4Mac player to view the online video stream.

If you are using a PC and do not already have Windows Media Player, please download it free at: http://www.microsoft.com/windows/windowsmedia/player/download/download.aspx

If you are using a Mac, please download the Flip4Mac software and player free at: http://www.flip4mac.com/wmv_download.htm

If you are accessing the Live Video Stream from within the District, please go to HomeRoom and click on the Live Video Stream icon there.

There was plenty of pomp and circumstance throughout the Scottsdale Unified School District as 1,994 students graduated on May 27th.

We thank our 2008 Tax Credit donors for supporting our schools! For the 2008-09 fiscal year, our community has donated $2,144,581.11 to our schools.

Your tax credit donation will be used to enrich education for SUSD students by funding:

Hohokam Elementary School is in the process of transitioning into a traditional school. Next school year will still be a transition year, but one change that will begin in August is the implementation of a new dress code. The Hohokam school community has worked hard to develop a list of fundamental beliefs that is referred to as the Traditional Pillars:

For the following school year—the 2010-11 school year—the campus will be fully transitioned to Hohokam Traditional School. The Scottsdale Unified School District Governing Board supported the transition and approved the new dress code during their April 7th meeting. For more information about Hohokam’s transition to a traditional school or information about the new dress code, please contact the school at 480-484-1800 or visit the school’s Web site.

How Parent and Community Groups Can Support SUSD During Challenging Economic Times

What can parents and community organizations do during this challenging economic time?

Countdown to graduation has already begun for both parents and seniors. On Wednesday, May 27th, 1,994 students will be graduating from Arcadia, Chaparral, Coronado, Desert Mountain and Saguaro high schools and Sierra Vista Academy.

For the 2009-10 school year, Scottsdale Unified School District (SUSD) will offer a viable athletic program for our middle school students. SUSD has analyzed many models and has chosen a two tiered program – an All Included Tier and a Competitive Tier – to meet the needs of all middle school students.

The fees for the new program will be $60 for the all included tier and an additional $30 for students invited to participate in the competitive tier.

The sports seasons will be as follows:

All students participating in Middle School Sports are required to have a current annual physical examination card on file at the school prior to the start of the first practice. Read more…

As summer quickly approaches, many parents are beginning to research quality summer programs for their children. Scottsdale Unified School District (SUSD) is offering a variety of summer camps, enrichment programs and academic summer school classes to meet your child's interests and needs. Read more in the April 24th issue of the Community Connection e-newsletter.

Superintendent Dr. Gary T. Catalani wants to build relationships with the entire SUSD community – parents, students, employees and the community around us. To develop these relationships, he will be hosting office hours at each school. During these times, anyone is welcome to stop by to talk with him. Dr. Catalani hopes you will all take the opportunity to introduce yourselves during those times.

Denise Rapp, a dance teacher at Arcadia High School, has been awarded The National Dance Education Organization Outstanding Dance Educator: K-12 Award for 2009. This honor recognizeszzzz her ongoing commitment to advancing the field of dance education as well as her numerous contributions to dance education in Arizona. The award will be presented at the 2009 Conference held in New York during the week of June 23.

At Monday night’s All City Athletic Awards Banquet, the following athletes received scholarships: Coby Van Loan, a senior at Arcadia High School, and Kevin Rayes, a senior at Arcadia High School received the Scottsdale Charros Scholarship; Catlin Melnychenko, a senior at Chaparral High School, and Paul Porras, a senior at Saguaro High School, received the Scottsdale Healthcare Health & Wellness Scholarship; and Megan Crawley, a senior at Saguaro High School, and Bryan Dunlavey, a senior at Coronado High School received The Larry Hellestrae Memorial Scholarship.

Spring sports were honored during the evening. These sports include track, baseball, softball and tennis.

The Scottsdale All City Athletic Awards Banquet is at 6 p.m. on Monday, May 18 at Chaparral Suites, 5001 N. Scottsdale Road.

This tri-annual banquet is a way for Scottsdale citizens and businesses to recognize and honor the accomplishments — both academic and athletic — of athletes within SUSD’s sports programs. More than 40 athletes will be honored and scholarships will be handed out by the Scottsdale Charros and Scottsdale Healthcare. Spring sports will be honored during this banquet. These sports include: track, baseball, softball and tennis.

Marijke Van Fleet, public information officer, will serve on Scottsdale Mayor Jim Lane's Channel 11 Advisory Committee. The committee consists of 11 members. They are: J. Marty Gendron, Barry Kluger, Pete Klute, Bob Krahman., Ned O’Hearn, Debra Ott, Lisa Timmes, Lisa Urias, John Washington, Lamar Whitmer and Ms. Van Fleet.

The group is charged with reviewing the policy and programming guidelines of the city’s government-access cable station. Last fall, the city canceled programs after some questioned whether non-city entities should have shows on Channel 11.

Scottsdale Unified School District now issues high school credit toward graduation for students successfully completing Algebra I during their middle school years. In addition to the credit, students will earn grade points toward their high school Grade Point Average (GPA).

Middle school Algebra I is as rigorous as high school Algebra I. The state standards are thoroughly covered, and extension activities are available to help students prepare for the rigor of high school honors mathematics.

Parents of 6th and 7th grade Pre-Algebra students are invited to attend a Parent Information Night meeting to learn more. For more information, please view the parent letter and schedule. Desert Canyon Middle School's meeting has been rescheduled at 6:30 p.m. on May 18.

The May 5^th Governing Board Meeting is open to the public. Live video streaming will also be provided online through the District Web site at www.susd.org.

To view the meeting online, visit www.susd.org on May 5^th at 5:30 p.m. and click on the Live Video Stream icon. You will need Windows Media Player or the Flip4Mac player to view the online video stream.

If you are using a PC and do not already have Windows Media Player, please download it free at: http://www.microsoft.com/windows/windowsmedia/player/download/download.aspx

If you are using a Mac, please download the Flip4Mac software and player free at: http://www.flip4mac.com/wmv_download.htm

If you are accessing the Live Video Stream from within the District, please go to HomeRoom and click on the Live Video Stream icon there.

As many people have heard in the media, symptoms of the Swine Flu are like those of any other flu strain. They include fever, muscle aches, fatigue and coughing; they may also include vomiting and diarrhea. Read more...

We have learned that there are confirmed cases of Swine Flu in Arizona; we DO NOT have any cases within our SUSD schools.

As a measure of prevention, we have posted information about good hygiene practices as a way to prevent the spread of Swine Flu and other illnesses. Important Message from Maricopa County Department of Public Health 05/04/09

For more information, you can visit these sites:

(Links to non-federal organizations are provided solely as a service to our users. These links do not constitute an endorsement of these organizations or their programs by the Scottsdale Unified School District (SUSD), and none should be inferred. SUSD is not responsible for the content of the individual organization Web pages found at these links.)

Do you know how we came to celebrate National Teacher Appreciation Day and Week? In 1944, Arkansas teacher Mattye Whyte Woodridge began corresponding with political and education leaders about the need for a national day to honor teachers. Woodridge wrote to Eleanor Roosevelt, who in 1953 persuaded the 81st Congress to proclaim a National Teacher Day.

Celebrated on the Tuesday of the first full week of May, the actual date varies each year. In 2009, National Teacher Day is May 5th.

This year's theme for National School Nurse Day is "School Nurses: Meeting Needs of Today's Students." National School Nurse Day was established to foster a better understanding of the role of nurses in the educational setting. Since 1972, National School Nurse Day has been set aside to recognize school nurses. National School Nurse Day is always the Wednesday within National Nurse Week, which this year is May 6th.

Steve Geislinger, a math teacher at Arcadia High School, and Cheryl Dunham, a science teacher at Arcadia High School, have been selected as iPlant Teacher Fellows for summer, 2009. We were chosen from a very qualified group of teachers in Biology, Mathematics and Computer Science from across the country. Nine teachers were selected to participate in this summer’s fellowship program. Read more in the May 1st issue of the Community Connection e-newsletter.

Although at this time there are NO confirmed cases of Swine Flu in Arizona or within any of the SUSD schools, as a measure of prevention, we are posting information today about the Swine Flu outbreak.

Symptoms of the Swine Flu are like those of any other flu strain. They include fever, muscle aches, fatigue and coughing; they may also include vomiting and diarrhea.

Again, as of this morning, there are no cases in Arizona. However, it is important to take precautions and to follow the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidelines to ensure a safe and healthy school environment. The first few days are when the virus is most contagious. read more...>

Tracey Dodrill, a 7th grade science teacher at Mohave Middle School, will join 25 applicants from Arizona to study Meteorology topics at NASA's Teacher Academy in Meteorology Education from July 13-17 at Embry Riddle University in Prescott, Ariz. Read more in the April 24th issue of the Community Connection e-newsletter.

Due to proposed budget reductions from the State Legislature, Scottsdale Unified School District (SUSD) has been looking at many different ways to save money.

One of the options proposed to the SUSD Governing Board was a change in start times for our schools for next year. This would have saved the District $500,000.

However, after receiving a great deal of community input and talking with staff throughout the District, we have decided to remove this option from the list of possible budget reductions. Thus, there will be no changes to school start times for next year.

I, as superintendent, will establish a task force to study all aspects of time in our schools including start time, length of the school day, length of the school year and more.

We are also reviewing the bus stops that are within a mile radius of each school. Our Transportation Department is working closely with each school site during this process. We do not receive State funding for busing students from these locations. However, I want to assure all stakeholders that any bus stops where safety is a concern will not be eliminated (for example, a bus stop within a mile of a school that, if eliminated, would require students to cross a busy street).

We thank you, our community members, for your prompt responses and valuable input.

The Scottsdale Unified School District Foundation (SUSD Foundation) invites you the 2nd Annual Quest for Excellence Golf Tournament at 1:30 p.m. on April 28 at Grayhawk Golf Club, 8620 E. Thompson Peak Parkway. Read more in the March 27th issue of Community Connection.

Elementary schools throughout the District will be hosting tours and open houses in preparation for enrolling children for Kindergarten for the 2009-10 school year. Come visit us to meet teachers, principals and learn about great programs offered by schools in the Scottsdale Unified School District.

For more information, please view the schedule for Kindergarten Round-Up

Diana Campbell, a science coordinator at Navajo Elementary School; Cathy Constantinescu, a Gifted teacher at Anasazi Elementary School; Melissa Diggins, a fifth grade teacher at Anasazi Elementary School; and Chris Dittburner, an eighth grade science teacher at Supai Middle School, have been selected to attend Honeywell's 2009 Space Academy for Educators program from June 20-26 at the U.S. Space and Rocket Center in Huntsville, Ala.

Throughout the week of Space Academy for Educators, educators will participate in a wide variety of activities that use space to meet math and science objectives. All activities are correlated to National Science, Math and Reading standards. Most activities can be adapted to any grade level and most subject objectives, but are mainly designed for 4-9th grade.

Alexandra Ammons, a student at Desert Mountain High School; Alexa Lugo, a student at Saguaro High School; and Roxanne Zaad, a student at Saguaro High School, were recognized for their academic excellence and inspirational extracurricular achievements during the 2nd Annual Scottsdale Community Collaborative Scholarship Luncheon on April 14 at Scottsdale Community College.

Each student will receive a $2,500 scholarship toward secondary education expenses at the college or university of her choice.

This scholarship program has been made possible through corporate donations that were designated in support of two community events – the Martin Luther King, Jr. Dinner Celebration and the City of Scottsdale’s Hispanic Heritage Community Celebration. The following community partners also provided funding for the event and scholarship: Community Celebrating Diversity, APS, Morgan Stanley, General Dynamics, SmartHealth, Arizona Federal Credit Union, Cox Communications and Sunrise Bank of Arizona.

Learning Leadership Team (LLT) will be holding some of its meetings at various campuses. This will enable LLT members to see firsthand the great work that has been occurring across the District and in our classrooms. During the time they are on a campus, LLT will also visit classrooms so that students, faculty and staff can get to meet Dr. Catalani and members of the Learning Leadership Team. Look for them on your campus starting Tuesday, April 14th, at Saguaro HS.

Students at Navajo Elementary School are working together with students from Yu Neng Primary School in Singapore to produce newscasts. To view the first newscast, please visit http://www.newsmaker.tv/PlayVideo.aspx?video=277. Navajo is a STEM focus school.

I want to take this opportunity to say hello to my new Scottsdale Unified School District family! I am very excited to be on board and look forward to meeting and working with each of you. As we look toward the end of our current fiscal year, we have a lot of challenges. Rest assured that I am on board and here to help.

I can tell already that I have joined an amazing team. The accomplishments within SUSD are incredible and really reflect what a great district this is!

Since I have not had a chance to meet everyone yet, I want to take this opportunity to let you know a little bit about me and my goals for SUSD.

First and foremost, my focus here will be our students. I believe all students can learn at high levels and that teachers cause that learning to occur. I also want to build relationships with the entire SUSD community – parents, students, employees and the community around us. To develop these relationships, I will be hosting office hours at each school. During these times, anyone is welcome to stop by to talk with me. I hope you will all take the opportunity to introduce yourselves during those times. Read more...

Stacey Greene, a third teacher at Hopi Elementary School, and Trista Read, a fourth teacher at Copper Ridge School, were selected to attend the Mickelson ExxonMobil Teachers Academy this summer in Jersey City, New Jersey.

The teachers will be joined by math and science experts from the National Science Teachers Association and Math Solutions who will teach them at the academy. They will come up with fun ways to learn math and science while playing with balloons, rocket cars and marbles.

The Academy was founded by pro golfer Phil Mickelson and his wife, Amy. They worked with ExxonMobil to create a special learning environment for teachers.

The April 7 ^th Governing Board Meeting is open to the public. Live video streaming will also be provided online through the District Web site at www.susd.org.

To view the meeting online, visit www.susd.org on April 7^th at 5:30 p.m. and click on the Live Video Stream icon. You will need Windows Media Player or the Flip4Mac player to view the online video stream.

If you are using a PC and do not already have Windows Media Player, please download it free at: http://www.microsoft.com/windows/windowsmedia/player/download/download.aspx

If you are using a Mac, please download the Flip4Mac software and player free at: http://www.flip4mac.com/wmv_download.htm

If you are accessing the Live Video Stream from within the District, please go to HomeRoom and click on the Live Video Stream icon there.

Scottsdale Unified School District and other schools across the Valley encourage parents to take their children to the workplace for a learning experience – after school is out for the summer. Districts around the Valley are recommending June 18 as a preferred date for Take Your Child to Work Day.

The national date, April 23, comes at a particularly difficult time for students who are working hard to complete their school work for the year. Taking children to work after the school year ends allows them to learn from their visit to the workplace without missing a single precious day of school.

The Scottsdale Unified School District is happy to welcome our new superintendent, Dr. Gary Catalani, today.

Dr. Catalani will be hosting “office hours” at each school so that he can get to know our wonderful community – from parents to students to employees and the community as a whole. We have scheduled dates and times for those visits so that you can mark your calendar if you would like to stop by and visit with him.

Welcome, Dr. Catalani!

Community Schools is proud to announce the expansion of its Pre-Kindergarten Program. New for the 2009-10 school year, the Pre-K program will be available at Pima Elementary School in addition to Anasazi*, Cochise, Copper Ridge*, Laguna, Cherokee, Pueblo and Redfield elementary schools.

Students must turn 4 years old by August 31, 2009 to attend the Pre-K program. To register for Pre-K, contact your school’s front office for a registration packet or visit the Community Schools office, 9313 N 95th Way, Scottsdale. For more information, please visit the Community Schools Web page or call 480-484-8614.

The Pre-K program is tuition based and is able to accept DES assistance. The program follows the school’s start and release times and school calendar. This state licensed program is taught by certified teachers and follows State and District academic guidelines to provide a successful transition to Kindergarten.

*Both sites have wait lists.

The Scottsdale Unified School District’s Honors Visual Art Show reception is from 5-7 p.m. on March 25 in the Conference Center at Arcadia High School, 4703 E. Indian School Road, Phoenix. Artwork from students in grades Kindergarten through 12th will be showcased. The exhibit is open to the public and will run through April 2. Visit the gallery during school hours and on March 31 until 7 p.m.

The Scottsdale Unified School District’s High School Honors Band will perform at 7 p.m. on March 26 in the Auditorium at Arcadia High School, 4703 E. Indian School Road, Phoenix. The event is open to the public.

Mayan Zeitlin, a senior at Arcadia High School, and Danny Franz, a senior at Desert Mountain High School, received the Scottsdale Charros All City Scholarship Awards at Monday night’s All City Athletic Awards Banquet.

Winter sports were honored during this banquet. These sports included basketball, wrestling and soccer.

The next banquet will take place on May 18 for spring sports (track, baseball, softball, tennis).

The March 24^th Governing Board Meeting is open to the public. Live video streaming will also be provided online through the District Web site at www.susd.org.

To view the meeting online, visit www.susd.org on March 24^th at 5:30 p.m. and click on the Live Video Stream icon. You will need Windows Media Player or the Flip4Mac player to view the online video stream.

If you are using a PC and do not already have Windows Media Player, please download it free at: http://www.microsoft.com/windows/windowsmedia/player/download/download.aspx

If you are using a Mac, please download the Flip4Mac software and player free at: http://www.flip4mac.com/wmv_download.htm

If you are accessing the Live Video Stream from within the District, please go to HomeRoom and click on the Live Video Stream icon there.

With tax season upon us, it’s a great time to think about ways you can reduce your 2009 Arizona State Income taxes. Although the deadline has passed for claiming a tax credit on your 2008 State taxes, it’s never too early to make a donation that can be claimed when you file your 2009 State taxes.

Did you know that Arizona law allows taxpayers to receive a tax credit of up to $200 for individual filers and up to $400 for married filers? You can claim the tax credit when filing your 2009 Arizona State Income Tax. The school must receive the funds by December 31, 2009. It’s a win, win situation for you and the school! To contribute online, please visit: http://payments.susd.org/

The National Merit Scholarship Program is an academic scholarship competition for recognition and college scholarships administered by National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC), a privately funded, not-for-profit organization. Of the 1.4 million entrants, about 50,000 qualify for recognition. Read more in the March 20th issue of the Community Connection e-newsletter.

Healthy Families Rock will educate, raise awareness and provide access to resources for youth and families to empower and engage them to become drug-free. This is event is from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. on April 4 at Mountainside Middle School, 11256 N. 128th St., Scottsdale 85259, and is open to the public at no cost. Bethany Wright, Arizona FOX-10 Idol winner, will headline the event.

Participants will have an opportunity to learn about six risky behaviors that contribute to the leading causes of death, disability and social problems in the United States and positive ways to address them, while participating in healthy low-risk activities with their peers and families. The event will include food, live music, an air guitar video game contest and a series of educational booths that participants will attend and complete tasks in order to win prizes. Food and beverages will be available for a fee.

Healthy Families Rocks partners include the Boys and Girls Club of Greater Scottsdale, City of Scottsdale, Community Bridges, Partner Up, Arizona, Scottsdale Prevention Institute, Scottsdale Unified School District and Teen Lifeline.

The Scottsdale All City Athletic Awards Banquet is at 6 p.m. on Monday, March 23 at Chaparral Suites, 5001 N. Scottsdale Road.

This tri-annual banquet is a way for Scottsdale citizens and businesses to recognize and honor the accomplishments — both academic and athletic — of athletes within SUSD’s sports programs. More than 40 athletes will be honored and scholarships will be handed out by the Scottsdale Charros and Scottsdale Healthcare. Winter sports will be honored during this banquet. These sports include: basketball, wrestling and soccer.

The next banquet will take place on May 18 for spring sports (track, baseball, softball, tennis).

Five Scottsdale Unified School District students have been chosen to serve as youth ambassadors and travel to Phoenix's sister cities through a summer exchange program. Those students are Mackenzie Blaile, Arcadia High School; Elise Phalen, Arcadia High School; Erica Lieberman, Arcadia High School; Micah Brierley, Arcadia High School; and Leigh Kloss, Desert Mountain High School. Read more in the March 6th issue of Community Connection.

It was a special day for students at SUSD’s 10th Annual Super Kids Field Day on March 4th. Almost 200 students representing 20 Scottsdale Unified School District schools were treated to bowling, basketball, golf, soccer, tennis, target throws, face painting and music. Read more in the March 6th issue of Community Connection.

Scottsdale Unified School District students are honoring a literary legend. Along with the National Education Association, students and teachers are saluting Dr. Seuss as part of the 12th Annual Read Across America Week.

In celebration, members of the community visited several classrooms at SUSD schools to read stories to the students. At many elementary schools, students and teachers dressed up as literary characters to get into the spirit. This year marks the 52nd anniversary of "The Cat in the Hat."

At the Governing Board meeting on 2/20/09, the Board voted 5-0 to enter into contract negotiations with Dr. Gary T. Catalani. The next step in the process is the successful completion of a background check and contract negotiations. read more...

The March 3rd Governing Board Meeting is open to the public. Live video streaming will also be provided online through the District Web site at www.susd.org.

To view the meeting online, visit www.susd.org on March 3rd at 5:30 p.m. and click on the Live Video Stream icon. You will need Windows Media Player or the Flip4Mac player to view the online video stream.

If you are using a PC and do not already have Windows Media Player, please download it free at: http://www.microsoft.com/windows/windowsmedia/player/download/download.aspx

If you are using a Mac, please download the Flip4Mac software and player free at: http://www.flip4mac.com/wmv_download.htm

If you are accessing the Live Video Stream from within the District, please go to HomeRoom and click on the Live Video Stream icon there.

Co-Interim Superintendents Katy Cavanagh and Dr. David Peterson are seeking ideas and input from the greater SUSD community as the District faces budget cuts imposed by the State Legislature in the amount of $21 million dollars. The Scottsdale Unified School District Governing Board will discuss its final budget decisions at the March 3, 2009 Governing Board meeting.

District leadership has been working on the 2009-2010 budget in order to let employees know about their contracts by April 15th. We anticipate significant cuts to staff and programs. District leadership is seeking input from the community as they work within these budget constraints. The input you provide will contribute to the recommendations made to the Governing Board. What is best for students will continue to be the center of all conversations and long-term goals. Your ideas, information and input are greatly appreciated.

Send your input via e-mail to susdcommunications@susd.org

The Scottsdale Unified School District (SUSD) Governing Board has narrowed the search for a new superintendent to three final candidates.

The three candidates will attend public forums that are open to the public. During the forums, the community can learn more about the candidates and ask them questions. The forums are scheduled for:

This year’s outstanding Scottsdale Unified School District educators, volunteers and students have been announced for 2009. This week Principals at each SUSD school presented their winners with an awards letter from the Charros. The winning educators also received a balloon bouquet courtesy of Cactus Flowers. Founded in 1961 as a special activity organization of the Scottsdale Chamber of Commerce, the Scottsdale Charros consists of 40 Active members and more than 150 Life members dedicated to serving the community through the promotion and support of education, youth programs and economic development. For more than 40 years, the Charros have provided their time and financial support to athletic programs, parent teacher organizations and the faculty of each school in the Scottsdale Unified School District. The Charros annually award full scholarships to in-state universities to two Scottsdale high school seniors who are pursuing a degree in education.

Read more in the February 13th issue of Community Connection.

Last week, students from across the Scottsdale Unified School District were treated to an afternoon of baseball excitement courtesy of the Scottsdale Charros.

The Charros held their annual baseball luncheon at Scottsdale Stadium.

Under a crystal blue sky, students enjoyed lunch donated by Julio G's and then hit the fields for some baseball skills training.

Former Major League players shared some trade secrets with the youth who represented SUSD's elementary, middle and high schools. Players included Leon Brown – New York Mets #23, Byron Browne Sr. - Philadelphia Phillies #29, Ethan Blackaby - Arizona Diamondbacks #45, Jack Heideman - Cleveland Indians #17, Jim McAndrew – New York Mets #43, and Buddy Schmelz – New York Mets #44.

Thank you, Charros, for a wonderful afternoon!

AZ Magazine, a division of Republic media and publisher of the Arizona Republic newspaper, has ranked The Math and Science Academy at Saguaro High School, Chaparral High School and Desert Mountain High School as three of the Top 10 Valley High Schools, based on AIMS scores, in the February 2009 issue.

As many of you have heard on the news, the state budget situation is not good, especially when it comes to funding K-12 education. We remain steadfast in our belief that the Scottsdale Unified School District will continue to be a national leader in urban education, meeting the needs of each student while preparing them well for life beyond high school.

Over the past few weeks we have met with legislators and have been monitoring events there. We have also met with the leaders for our employee groups and are sharing information and starting to plan for the difficult task ahead. As a result of our conversations, we are collectively sending this letter so that you know we are working together to do what is in the best interests of our employees, students and community during this incredibly challenging time. Read more...

The Scottsdale Community Collaborative Scholarship is funded by the corporate sponsors of the annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration, the Hispanic Heritage Community Celebration, along with the educational partnership of Community Celebrating Diversity and the Scottsdale Unified School District. For more information about the scholarship, please view the application.

The February 10th Governing Board Meeting is open to the public. Live video streaming will also be provided online through the District Web site at www.susd.org.

To view the meeting online, visit www.susd.org on February 10th at 5:30 p.m. and click on the Live Video Stream icon. You will need Windows Media Player or the Flip4Mac player to view the online video stream.

If you are using a PC and do not already have Windows Media Player, please download it free at: http://www.microsoft.com/windows/windowsmedia/player/download/download.aspx

If you are using a Mac, please download the Flip4Mac software and player free at: http://www.flip4mac.com/wmv_download.htm

If you are accessing the Live Video Stream from within the District, please go to HomeRoom and click on the Live Video Stream icon there.

Taylor Jones, a senior at Desert Mountain High School, and Paul Porras, a senior at Saguaro High School, received the Scottsdale Charros All City Scholarship Awards and Loren Wynn, a senior at Saguaro High, received the Scottsdale Healthcare All City Scholarship Award at Monday night’s All City Athletic Awards Banquet.

Fall sports were honored during this banquet. These sports included: football, swimming and diving, cross-country, badminton, golf and volleyball.

The next two banquets will take place later in the spring:

National School Counselor Week, February 2-6, is set aside to recognize the critical work counselors perform that positively impacts Arizona students. Counselors help students examine their personal strengths, abilities, interests and talents. Students who understand how to plan for their future make better course choices related to their educational and career goals, are more motivated to achieve better grades, and take greater responsibility for directing their own educational achievement. Counselors are the connecting link between students, parents, teachers and the school system.

At last night's Governing Board meeting, the Board voted 5-0 to change the name of Aztec/Zuni transition school to Redfield Elementary School. The change will take place for the start of the 2009-10 school year.

Congratulations to Austen Yueh, a student at Mountainside Middle School, who took home the first place trophy in Scottsdale Unified School District’s Spelling Bee.

Twenty-eight elementary and middle school students from across the District competed for the title of District champion. Family members gathered at Arcadia High School to cheer on the students.

Yueh and Mara Green, a student at Cocopah Middle School, were the final two spellers!

Yueh was declared the winner after spelling the words extrinsic and sleuth.

The top seven competitors from the bee move on to the Regional II Spelling Bee next month. They are: Austen Yueh, Mountainside; Mara Green, Cocopah; Amanda Thomas, Aztec; Alina Kim, Desert Canyon Middle; Chris Rehling, Hopi; Kalli Hopkins, Pueblo; and Charles Unfricht, Supai.

Fit City Scottsdale hosted its kickoff event last Saturday in Downtown Scottsdale. Many employees from Scottsdale Unified School District (SUSD) took part in the Great Wellness Chase.

SUSD’s Wellness Policy, adopted in 2006, promotes the physical, mental and emotional aspects of physical fitness along with safety and nutrition. SUSD is also a sponsor of Fit City Scottsdale.

Fit City Scottsdale is a community initiative focused on promoting fitness, improving health education and offering activities to make Scottsdale the country's most fit community. For more information, please visit www.fitcityscottsdale.com

to access the great resources the community offers in the area of health and wellness.

MaxPreps and the Army National Guard presented Saguaro High School’s Football team and Coach Sanders with a trophy for being a nationally ranked football team and the ONLY ranked team in Arizona. One of the highlights of the ceremony was when the Army National guard landed a Black Hawk Helicopter on the field and drove the team in on Humvees.

Congratulations to Coach Sanders and the football team.

The January 27th Governing Board Meeting is open to the public. Live video streaming will also be provided online through the District Web site at www.susd.org.

To view the meeting online, visit www.susd.org on January 27th at 5:30 p.m. and click on the Live Video Stream icon. You will need Windows Media Player or the Flip4Mac player to view the online video stream.

If you are using a PC and do not already have Windows Media Player, please download it free at: http://www.microsoft.com/windows/windowsmedia/player/download/download.aspx

If you are using a Mac, please download the Flip4Mac software and player free at: http://www.flip4mac.com/wmv_download.htm

If you are accessing the Live Video Stream from within the District, please go to HomeRoom and click on the Live Video Stream icon there.

The SUSD 21st Century Community Learning Centers (21st CCLC) are the recipients of two wonderful opportunities that our students will benefit from!

The Arizona Department of Education (ADE) 21st Century Community Learning Centers in partnership with the City of Phoenix Office of Arts & Culture (POAC), ASU Herberger College of the Arts and the Arizona State Library, awarded artspace grants to Tavan Elementary and Supai Middle schools. This grant will help SUSD create and implement innovative programs in the arts.

The ADE awarded funds for three SUSD 21st CCLC teachers to attend the Steve Spangler Science in the Rockies conference next July. Teachers will return ready to integrate fun and engaging science into their 21st CCLC classes.

Lesa Friend, principal at Tonalea Elementary School, was named as a finalist for the Rodel Foundation’s 2009 Rodel Exemplary Principal Initiative.

Principals selected for this honor will be those who “have demonstrated a history of leadership that has earned them the respect of colleagues, students, staff, parents and community members” and who “have made measurable differences in the lives of students, staff and local communities.”

On Sunday, February 1, an article in the Arizona Republic will be published and will feature the eight 2009 Exemplary Principal finalists. The four finalists who are selected as Rodel Exemplary Principals will be profiled in a second article in The Arizona Republic on Sunday, February 8.

The spirit of Saguaro soared Wednesday night as an official ceremony to dedicate the completion of construction was held on campus.

Students, faculty, community members and alumni were on hand to celebrate the beginning of a new era at Saguaro.

Scottsdale Mayor Jim Lane, Interim Co-Superintendents Katy Cavanagh and Dr. David Peterson, Governing Board member Jennifer Petersen, Principal Annie Preston and project representatives all took part in the dedication ceremony.

At the January 13th Governing Board meeting, the Board re-elected Karen Beckvar as President and Dr. Eric Meyer as Clerk for 2009.

The Special Education department is hosting a series of trainings for parents of students with special needs. The trainings will be conducted by the Arizona Department of Education's Parent Information Network. For more information, please view the flyer

Join us for a dedication, celebration and ribbon cutting for the brand new Saguaro High School from 6-8 p.m. on January 14th, 6250 N. 82nd St., Scottsdale.This is the final ribbon-cutting for the rebuilt Scottsdale Unified School District high schools.

Wednesday’s event includes guest speakers, a ribbon cutting ceremony, and performances by Saguaro’s orchestra students, choir (National Anthem) and wind ensemble. Students will also be serving refreshments and handing out programs. There will also be an unveiling of a mural for the 300 Building. The mural was painted by a Saguaro student. Read more...

The January 13th Governing Board Meeting is open to the public. Live video streaming will also be provided online through the District Web site at www.susd.org.

To view the meeting online, visit www.susd.org on January 13th at 5:30 p.m. and click on the Live Video Stream icon. You will need Windows Media Player or the Flip4Mac player to view the online video stream.

If you are using a PC and do not already have Windows Media Player, please download it free at: http://www.microsoft.com/windows/windowsmedia/player/download/download.aspx

If you are using a Mac, please download the Flip4Mac software and player free at: http://www.flip4mac.com/wmv_download.htm

If you are accessing the Live Video Stream from within the District, please go to HomeRoom and click on the Live Video Stream icon there.

High School AIMS Testing is mandatory for all sophomore students and mandatory for all juniors and seniors who have not yet met the standard for Reading, Writing or Math. Juniors and seniors who have not met a section of the test will automatically be signed up to take the test. Juniors who have met the standard may sign up to retake one or more sections of the test to try to exceed the standard. Those students must sign up at their high school office by February 6th so that a test can be ordered for them. Only results obtained during a student’s sophomore or junior year are used toward the tuition waiver scholarship.

Additional information regarding the AIMS tests can be found on the following Web site:
http://www.ade.state.az.us/AIMS/default.asp

Additional information regarding the requirements for the tuition waiver scholarship can be found at: http://www.ade.state.az.us/asd/tuitionwaiver/parents-students.asp

HS Spring Test Dates:

Note: The AIMS Science test is Mandatory for sophomore students who did not take AIMS Science in grade 9. Freshmen students who are enrolled in a life science course may also elect to take the test this year instead of waiting until their sophomore year. Passing the AIMS Science test is not required for high school graduation at this time.

Make-up Test Dates:

High schools will be on special testing schedules during the regular testing days. Please have your student listen carefully to the announcements at the school for details. Students who need to take the make-up tests will miss their regularly scheduled classes.

We thank our 2008 Tax Credit donors for supporting our schools!

Your tax credit donation will be used to enrich education for SUSD students by funding:

Please share this Web site with your family and friends. Thank you again for your support!

Today, Community Celebrating Diversity (CCD), in collaboration with Scottsdale Unified School District, celebrated its annual “Youth Voices” program in honor of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. at Coronado High School.

Tonight at 5:30 p.m., Susan L. Taylor is the keynote speaker for Scottsdale’s Martin Luther King Jr. Community Celebration at Chaparral Suites, Scottsdale. Taylor is Editor Emerita of Essence Magazine and founder of the National Cares Mentoring Movement. As the driving force behind one of the most celebrated Black-owned businesses for nearly three decades, Taylor has become a legend in the magazine publishing world, and has received the Henry Johnson Fisher Award from the Magazine Publishers of America. She also is a recipient of the NAACP President’s Award for visionary leadership.

The event is sponsored by Community Celebrating Diversity (CCD) and APS. The program also will honor Scottsdale’s Diversity Champions and will feature live entertainment. read more...

Governing Board President Karen Beckvar swore in incumbent members Dr. Eric Meyer and Jennifer Petersen and new member Bonnie Sneed at a Special Board meeting that was held on December 15. Their four year terms will begin in January 2009.

It’s never too late to make a donation that can be claimed when you file your 2008 State tax returns.

Did you know that Arizona law allows taxpayers to receive a tax credit of up to $200 for individual filers and up to $400 for married filers for donations made to SUSD schools? You can claim the tax credit when filing your 2008 Arizona State Income Tax return. The school must receive the funds by December 31, 2008. It's a win, win situation for you and the school!

To contribute online, please visit: http://payments.susd.org/

If you have additional questions, please contact Scottsdale Unified School District at 480-484-6143, or the Arizona Department of Revenue at: www.azdor.gov/ResearchStats/Schooltaxcredit.htm

The December 16th Governing Board Meeting is open to the public. Live video streaming will also be provided online through the District Web site at www.susd.org.

To view the meeting online, visit www.susd.org on December 16th at 5:30 p.m. and click on the Live Video Stream icon. You will need Windows Media Player or the Flip4Mac player to view the online video stream.

If you are using a PC and do not already have Windows Media Player, please download it free at: http://www.microsoft.com/windows/windowsmedia/player/download/download.aspx

If you are using a Mac, please download the Flip4Mac software and player free at: http://www.flip4mac.com/wmv_download.htm

If you are accessing the Live Video Stream from within the District, please go to Homeroom and click on the Live Video Stream icon there.

US News & World Report ranked the top high schools in gold, silver, bronze and honorable mention categories based on student achievement, AP testing and college readiness. Arcadia, Chaparral and Desert Mountain high schools were three of ten schools in Arizona that earned the Silver Award. To view the complete list, please visit http://www.usnews.com/sections/education/high-schools/index.html

Saguaro High School won its third consecutive Class 4A Division I State Championship with a 38-0 victory over Chaparral High School Saturday at the Arizona State University Stadium in Tempe.

Next year, Chaparral moves up to Class 5A Division II while Saguaro will stay in Class 4A-I.

Congratulations to the Saguaro Sabercats football team and athletic staff! To view the complete coverage, please view the Arizona Republic article

and the East Valley Tribune article

In 2005, voters overwhelmingly approved a K-3 Override. The K-3 Override reduces Kindergarten class sizes to a District-wide target of 21 students to 1 teacher. These funds have also enabled the district to reduce class sizes in grades 1, 2 and 3 considerably below normal staffing levels. Additional funds are used for instructional assistants in Kindergarten and first grade as needed. The Override raises about $3.2 million per year. The Override is in place for seven years and will be brought back to voters to be extended. If the K-3 Override is not renewed by the voters in 2009, it will reduce by one-third each year and result in an approximate loss of $3.5 million by 2011. If the K-3 Override is not renewed, the small class sizes that currently benefit SUSD's students’ in Kindergarten could increase to 28 students, in first grade to as high as 29 students and in 2nd and 3rd grades to as high as 31 students.

Thank you for your continued support of public education! Your support has made excelling education possible in the Scottsdale Unified School District. Thank you!

At last night’s Scottsdale Unified School District (SUSD) Governing Board meeting, the Board voted 4-1 in favor of consolidating Zuni and Aztec elementary schools. This means that the students at both of these elementary schools will attend Zuni Elementary next year. The students at Cheyenne Traditional School will be moved to the Aztec site.

These changes will take place in August 2009 for the 2009-10 school year. Read more...

Last night, the Governing Board voted 4-1 to consolidate Zuni and Aztec elementary schools with all students attending Zuni and to relocate Cheyenne Traditional School to the Aztec site. The changes will happen in August 2009.

To view the presentation from last night’s Governing Board meeting, please visit http://www.susd.org/district/govboard/meetings.cfm.

Phones are down at the District office because a major communications cable in northeast Phoenix has been cut. Qwest is working on repairing the phone lines. At this time, there is not an estimated time for this cable to be repaired. If you need to contact someone at the District office, please do so via e-mail. Thank you for your patience!

The December 2nd Governing Board Meeting is open to the public. Live video streaming will also be provided online through the District Web site at www.susd.org.

To view the meeting online, visit www.susd.org on December 2nd at 5:30 p.m. and click on the Live Video Stream icon. You will need Windows Media Player or the Flip4Mac player to view the online video stream.

If you are using a PC and do not already have Windows Media Player, please download it free at: http://www.microsoft.com/windows/windowsmedia/player/download/download.aspx

If you are using a Mac, please download the Flip4Mac software and player free at: http://www.flip4mac.com/wmv_download.htm

If you are accessing the Live Video Stream from within the District, please go to Homeroom and click on the Live Video Stream icon there.

It's that time of year again - the Scottsdale Unified School District's Holiday Drive! The Holiday Drive began five years ago with the belief that no child should go without during the holiday season. This program is voluntary and has been successful because of your generosity in donating and making a child's holiday season memorable. We are once again asking those of you that can, to help out a student or family in need this holiday season.

The process is simple:

Please contact Amanda Goodhall

at 480-484-5055 with any questions, concerns or if you would like to participate in sponsoring a child. Please view the flyer

for more details .

Scottsdale Unified School District hosted its 2nd Annual Steroid Awareness Days last week at Arcadia, Chaparral, Coronado, Desert Mountain and Saguaro high schools and an evening presentation at the Hilton Scottsdale Resort and Villas. Special guests at the evening event included Don Hooton, president of the Taylor Hooton Foundation and Kevin Young, former Major League Baseball player.

The Taylor Hooton Foundation is a non-profit organization founded in 2004 to raise awareness about the dangers of Performance Enhancing Drug (PED) use in the nation’s high schools.

The organization is named after Hooton’s son, Taylor, a young athlete who died at age 17 as a result of his use of anabolic steroids. The Foundation focuses on raising awareness and educating the public about the widespread use and dangers of PEDs.

For more information, please visit www.taylorhooton.org

Gifted testing for grades K,1,2,4,5,6,7 and 8 will take place on Saturday, January 24, 2009 and Saturday, January 31, 2009 from 9-11 a.m. Students must attend on both Saturdays in order to complete the test. A referral form must be filled out by the parent and returned to the school office by December 19th. With the exception of the 08-09 3rd grade students, any child who has not been tested within the last 12 months may take the test. Students who turn in forms late will not be tested. You may obtain the form by visiting your school’s Web site or by requesting one from your child’s teacher. All testing will take place at Zuni and Pima elementary schools. Please note preferred location on the referral form.

Did you know that parents outside of the SUSD boundaries may enroll their child in a Scottsdale Unified School District school? SUSD will begin to accept Open Enrollment applications for the 2009-10 school year during the initial enrollment period of December 1, 2008- January 15, 2009.

Open Enrollment packets will be available at all of our 32 schools and on our Web site at http://www.susd.org/district/administrativeservices/howtoopenenroll.cfm.

Attention Parents: New application acceptance procedures! Only one form is required if you are requesting multiple schools as your choice for open enrollment. A District-wide tracking process has been implemented for Open Enrollment applications. Please submit the application form to your first school of choice. The school will copy and submit the form to the other schools.

Once accepted to an SUSD school through the Open Enrollment process, parents will not need to fill out another application for the remainder of their child’s public school career. Parents will need to provide their child's transportation to and from school. There are a limited number of our schools that are not accepting students through the Open Enrollment process because those schools are at full capacity. Please call the school in which you are interested to check Open Enrollment availability.

BJ Pasquel, varsity football coach at Coronado High School, was named 2008 4A Division II East Sky Region Coach of the Year. Congratulations!

Winter Break Kids Club Camp will be held from December 22nd-24th and December 29th-31st at Arcadia Neighborhood Learning Center, 4330 N. 62nd St., Cheyenne Traditional School, 11130 E. Cholla St. and Zuni Elementary School, 9181 E. Redfield Road. Please remember that the Kids Club camp will be closed on December 25th and 26th and on January 1st and 2nd. The cost for the camp is $40 a day or $120 a week. Please pack a lunch and three drinks each day for your child. For more information about the Winter Camp, please contact the Community Schools department at 480-484-8614 or 480-484-8616.

Scottsdale McDonald’s owner/operator Jennifer Setterberg and Scottsdale Unified School District Co-Interim Superintendent Katy Cavanagh presented Yavapai Elementary fourth graders with a free book, Down the Colorado: John Wesley Powell, the One-Armed Explorer and Happy Meal bookmark/coupons compliments of Arizona McDonald’s owners and Arizona Governor Janet Napolitano.

Yavapai Elementary is the first Scottsdale school to receive the book. Book distribution around the state will start later this month.

McDonald’s employees are helping distribute the books to highlight the importance of reading.

After two years of providing books to first grade students in Arizona, the Governor’s book program expanded to include fourth graders in 2005. Roughly 93,000 copies of Down the Colorado will be distributed to students. The book is about John Wesley Powell who led the first scientific expedition down the Colorado River and through the Grand Canyon. Accompanying each book, will be a coupon for a free McDonald’s Happy Meal.

McDonald’s is a sponsor of the printing and distribution of the book.

Supai Middle School Principal Dawn Ewan Thompson recently sat down with Scottsdale Republic reporter Alex Bloom to talk about her goals for helping the school achieve Adequate Yearly Progress. Read more in the article that ran in Scottsdale Republic.

Registration for the SUSD winter camp for students with special needs is now available. The completed packet

is due to SUSD by December 12. The camp will be session from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. from December 29-31 at Scottsdale Bible Church. For more information, please view the flyer

American Education Week kicks off Sunday, November 16th. Each year in November, a week is set aside to honor educators and support staff for their hard work and dedication to our children.

Wednesday, November 19th, is Education Support Professionals Day. Scottsdale Unified School District will declare November 19th as Classified Appreciation Day to recognize the hard work and dedication of administrative assistants, secretaries, classroom aides, crossing guards, noon aides, maintenance staff, cafeteria workers, bus drivers and the many other employees who are there every day taking care of our 23,000 students. We don’t often get the chance to say "Thank You" to our Classified employees, and this day of celebration is just one small token of appreciation for all the dedication, passion and hard work that is given every day in pursuit of excellence for our life-long learners.

So the next time you walk across the street with the help of a school crossing guard or visit a school office, take a moment to say “Thank You” for all you do!

Congratulations on your day of recognition. You deserve it. Thank you to all of our Classified employees; you are appreciated more than you know. Keep up the good work.

In recognition of their contributions, the Classified employees will each receive a gift from the District and many District-wide celebrations will be planned at the schools.

The Scottsdale Charros, a volunteer organization dedicated to supporting youth and education charities, and the Scottsdale Unified School District are working together to raise awareness among high school students about the dangers of anabolic steroid use.

On November 18, the two organizations will support a national steroid awareness effort by welcoming Don Hooton and his associates from the Taylor Hooton Foundation to speak at school assemblies in all Scottsdale Unified School District high schools. Freshman and Sophomores will learn about the dangerous effects of anabolic steroids on the male and female body and mind. A special event for parents and coaches also will be held that evening with former Major League Baseball player Kevin Young. Read more...

The November 18 Special and Regular Governing Board Meetings are open to the public. Live video streaming will also be provided online through the District Web site at www.susd.org.

To view the meetings online, visit www.susd.org on November 18 at 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. and click on the Live Video Stream icon. You will need Windows Media Player or the Flip4Mac player to view the online video stream.

If you are using a PC and do not already have Windows Media Player, please download it free at: http://www.microsoft.com/windows/windowsmedia/player/download/download.aspx

If you are using a Mac, please download the Flip4Mac software and player free at: http://www.flip4mac.com/wmv_download.htm

If you are accessing the Live Video Stream from within the District, please go to Homeroom and click on the Live Video Stream icon there.

BJ Pasquel, head football coach at Coronado High School, was awarded "Best Coaching Job" by the East Valley Tribune. The East Valley Tribune also named Coronado's Football Team the "Biggest Surprise," and Kaylin Ashley "Best Performance" vs. Tempe High. To read the complete story, please visit: http://varsity.evtrib.com/story/129888. Congratulations!

Erica McClurg was named Coach of the Year by the East Sky Region. She guided the Arcadia High School Swim/Dive team to another state championship. Congratulations!

Congratulations to the Chaparral Badminton Team. They won the Region with a 13-1 record. In the 4A Team State Tournament:

Scottsdale voters re-elected Dr. Eric Meyer and Jennifer Petersen and elected Bonnie Sneed to the Governing Board yesterday. Bonnie Sneed will join incumbents Dr. Eric Meyer, Jennifer Petersen, Karen Beckvar and Dieter Schaefer at the Tuesday, January 13, 2009 Governing Board meeting.

We would like to thank outgoing Board member Molly Holzer for her hard work and dedication to our children and our schools.

Rumpelstiltskin came alive with excitement last week as Hohokam Elementary School hosted the Missoula Children’s Theatre for a week long residency. Two amazing directors helped 53 students from kindergarten through sixth grade learn their lines, songs and choreography to present two performances. This wonderful event raised more than $800 for the campus beautification project.

Kayrene Willis, volleyball coach at Coronado High School, was named the East Sky Region Volleyball Coach of the Year. Congratulations!

The Chaparral High School Girls Swim Team recently won the 4A-I Title championship in the state tournament held at Arizona State University. The team beat rival Tucson Catalina Foothills. The team is coached by Laura Winslow.

Please visit the Facility Utilization Information and Updates Web page for a copy of the presentation that was given at the October 30th meeting. As always, the Meeting Agenda, Spotlights, Board Briefs and other documents can also be found on the Governing Board Web page.

The recording of the live video stream of the meeting will be posted in the next few days.

Join us for the ribbon cutting ceremony and dedication of the brand new Arcadia High School!

Friday’s event includes guest speakers, a ribbon cutting ceremony, tours of the school and performances by the school’s band, choir and dance students. The tour will be followed by a tailgate party including a barbeque which costs $5. This will be followed by the school’s football game against local rival, Coronado High School. It is also “Spirit Night” when senior football players and Spirit-line performers will be honored. Read more...

The October 30 Governing Board Meeting is open to the public. Live video streaming will also be provided online through the District Web site at www.susd.org.

To view the meeting online, visit www.susd.org on October 30 at 6 p.m. and click on the Live Video Stream icon. You will need Windows Media Player or the Flip4Mac player to view the online video stream.

If you are using a PC and do not already have Windows Media Player, please download it free at: http://www.microsoft.com/windows/windowsmedia/player/download/download.aspx

If you are using a Mac, please download the Flip4Mac software and player free at: http://www.flip4mac.com/wmv_download.htm

If you are accessing the Live Video Stream from within the District, please go to Homeroom and click on the Live Video Stream icon there.

View the October 28th Governing Board Meeting Online

10/28/2008

The October 28 Governing Board Meeting is open to the public. Live video streaming will also be provided online through the District Web site at www.susd.org.

To view the meeting online, visit www.susd.org on October 28 at 5:30 p.m. and click on the Live Video Stream icon. You will need Windows Media Player or the Flip4Mac player to view the online video stream.

If you are using a PC and do not already have Windows Media Player, please download it free at: http://www.microsoft.com/windows/windowsmedia/player/download/download.aspx

If you are using a Mac, please download the Flip4Mac software and player free at: http://www.flip4mac.com/wmv_download.htm

If you are accessing the Live Video Stream from within the District, please go to Homeroom and click on the Live Video Stream icon there.

We Want Your Input!

10/24/2008

Scottsdale Unified School District (SUSD) is in the process of redesigning its Web site. The Communications & Marketing Department is seeking your opinion regarding the features you would like to see and ways to make our site more user-friendly. To submit your input/feedback, please complete the survey at: http://www.surveymonkey.com/s.aspx?sm=r4RGLRoDlnyYoTQSeAPcdg_3d_3d

Cochise Teacher Wins Award

10/24/2008

Fredericka ( Freddie) Jorgenson, a Lifeskills teacher at Cochise Elementary School, was selected as Elementary Teacher of the Year by the Scottsdale Mayor’s Committee on Employment/People with Disabilities Division. The award will be presented to Freddie on November 10th at the Chaparral Suites. Congratulations!

Students celebrate “Make A Difference Day” on Saturday Oct. 25
Scottsdale Unified Service Learning students meet real community needs by volunteering

10/24/2008

Scottsdale Unified School District Service Learning students will spend this weekend helping the members of their community in various service activities for “Make A Difference Day.”

Saturday, October 25 is “Make A Difference Day,” a national day of helping others created by USA WEEKEND Magazine. This annual event takes place on the fourth Saturday of October.

For Make a Difference Day, clients of the City of Scottsdale Granite Reef Senior Center signed up to have a teen volunteer visit them for the afternoon. Volunteers will spend time with them and help do things around their apartments. Some seniors have teen volunteers vacuum, dust, talk, read and write letters.

More information about the Service Learning Program is available on the SUSD Web site at: www.susd.org/district/servicelearning/.

Hohokam Hosts the Missoula Children's Theatre

10/24/2008

Hohokam is excited to host the Missoula Children’s Theatre for a week of residency – October 27- November 1. The week will culminate with two performances of Rumplestiltskin on Saturday, November 1 at 1:30 p.m. and 4 p.m. at the school, 8451 E. Oak St., Scottsdale 85257.

The Missoula Children’s Theatre (MCT), the nation’s largest touring children’s theatre, has been touring extensively, from Montana to Japan for 35 years. MCT's 36 teams of tour actors/directors will visit more than 1,200 communities this year. A tour team will be arriving at Hohokam on October 27 with a set, lights, costumes, props and make-up. The team will hold an open audition and will cast 50-60 Hohokam students to perform in the production of Rumplestiltskin. The show will be rehearsed throughout the week. Rumplestiltskin, like all MCT shows, is an original adaptation of the classic children’s fairy tale … a twist on the the classic story that you know and love.

Also included in the residency are three enrichment workshops presented by the tour actors/directors. Creativity, social skills, goal achievement, communications skills and self-esteem are all characteristics that will be attained through participation in this unique educational project. For more information on MCT, please visit: http://www.mctinc.org.

Donations Needed for Holiday Food Drive

10/22/2008

Each year Scottsdale Unified School District’s Service Learning students deliver turkeys and all the trimmings to less fortunate families throughout the District. The holiday boxes are a result of weeks of food drives and fundraisers.

This year, the Service Learning program needs your help. The program is asking the community to donate the following items:

Boxed potatoes
Canned vegetables
Stuffing
Frozen turkeys

Donations can be dropped off at Arcadia, Chaparral, Coronado, Desert Mountain or Saguaro high schools during the week of November 17-21. If you are interested in sponsoring a family this Thanksgiving, please e-mail Julie Gieringer

Dedication, Celebration and Ribbon Cutting for the “New” Chaparral High School

10/20/2008

Join us for a dedication, celebration and ribbon cutting for the brand new Chaparral High School on October 24! This event is in conjunction with the school’s Homecoming festivities.

Friday's event includes guest speakers, a ribbon cutting ceremony, a video of the history of the school, photos from past decades, tours of the school given by various student groups and performances by the school's orchestra, band, and chorus students. The Homecoming football game will be played after the festivities. Read more...

SUSD to Host Superintendent Search Community Forums

10/17/2008

Hazard, Young Attea & Associates, Ltd. has been conducting community forums for the SUSD Superintendent search. The consultant firm is looking for community input. Please fill out the Leadership Profile Assessment form. The final forum is scheduled as follows.

Oct. 21 at 7 PM – Saguaro HS – Room 211

For more information, please visit http://www.susd.org/district/superintendent/supersearch.cfm

Coronado Dedicates New School

10/16/2008

The spirit of Coronado soared Wednesday night as an official ceremony to dedicate the completion of construction was held on campus.

Students, faculty, community members and alumni were on hand to celebrate the beginning of a new era at Coronado.

Scottsdale Mayor Mary Manross, Superintendent Dr. John M. Baracy, Governing Board members Dieter Schaefer and Jennifer Petersen, Principal John Biera and project representatives all took part in the dedication ceremony.

In November 2004, voters approved a $217 million bond to improve high schools throughout the Scottsdale Unified School District.

Celebrations for completion of other schools will be happening in the near future.

A huge thank you goes to the Scottsdale Papago rotary Club. At the dedication, former Scottsdale City Councilman David Ortega, the club’s president, presented a check to Bob Flach of the Coronado Foundation for the Future in the amount of $100,000. The money will be used for scholarships and general school needs.

Click here for more photos

Title I Preschool Academy Receives Donation

10/17/2008

Valley of the Sun United Way donated 700 Success by 6 school readiness kits to SUSD's Title I Preschool Academy. The estimated the value of the kits is $14,000. The kits include three books and information about learning and development, nutrition and the first day of school. The Preschool Coordinators met and discussed using the kits as part of their transition plan and distributing them at the end of the year.

Last year, the Preschool Academy distributed the kits in May at a parent training. The parents loved the kits and were glad the preschool teacher provided the training on how to use the kit at home.

DMHS Service Learning Students Lend a Helping Hand
Written by Julie Gieringer, Service Learning teacher on assignment

10/17/2008


Debra Ewing, Sara Teller, Jessica DeGiulio (Town of Munster Park and Recreation and Volunteer Coordinator) and Erica Ewing	Erica Ewing with shipment of boxes arriving at Chicago's O'Hare Airport

Desert Mountain High School students are learning about geography, business, tragedy and service without a lecture or text book!

In response to the recent flood disaster in Munster, Ind., Desert Mountain High School Service Learning students began a supply drive to collect necessities for victims, many of whom have been displaced from their homes since September 15. Read more in the October 17th issue of Community Connection.

22 SUSD Schools Rated Excelling by ADE

10/8/2008

Scottsdale Unified School District is leading the way in Arizona education as 22 of its 33 schools received the state’s highest ranking for the 2007-08 school year. Twenty-two schools received the Excelling label, three are ranked Highly Performing, seven are Performing Plus and two are Performing.

The Department of Education ranks schools as Excelling, Highly Performing, Performing Plus, Performing, Under Performing and Failing. Ratings are based on student performance on state tests and graduation and dropout rates. Also, it was announced that 32 of Scottsdale’s 33 schools also made academic “Adequate Yearly Progress” under the No Child Left Behind Act.

Excelling Schools: Anasazi, Aztec, Cherokee, Cheyenne Traditional, Cochise, Copper Ridge, Desert Canyon, Hopi, Kiva, Laguna, Pima, Sequoya and Zuni Elementary Schools; Cocopah, Copper Ridge, Desert Canyon, Ingleside and Mountainside Middle Schools; Arcadia, Chaparral, Desert Mountain and Saguaro High Schools.

Highly Performing Schools: Tavan Elementary School, Arcadia Neighborhood Learning Center and Mohave Middle School.

Performing Plus Schools: Hohokam, Navajo, Pueblo, Tonalea and Yavapai Elementary Schools, Coronado High School and Copper Ridge Math & Science Academy.*

Performing Schools: Supai Middle School, Sierra Vista Academy** (6-8) and Sierra Vista Academy** (High School).

* Copper Ridge Math & Science Academy received an AZ LEARNS classification; however, this program has moved to Saguaro High School for the 2008-09 school year.

**Sierra Vista Academy has earned the highest Education label possible for alternative schools which is "Performing."

Dedication and Ribbon-Cutting for the “New” Coronado High School

10/14/2008

Join us for the ribbon cutting ceremony and dedication of the brand new Coronado High School!

Entire buildings were torn down and new ones built – all while the school continued to function. Construction to rebuild this campus began in the summer of 2005 and continued until February when the auditorium was completed. There are currently more than 1,280 students attending Coronado.

Wednesday’s event includes guest speakers, a ribbon cutting ceremony, tours of the school given by students from Student Council and Student Ambassadors and performances by the school’s band, choir, strings, dance and drama students. Read more...

Construction Update

10/3/2008


Administration Building at Chaparral High School	Administration Building at Saguaro High School

Construction is almost complete at Arcadia, Chaparral, and Saguaro high schools. Last school year, construction on buildings was completed at Coronado and Desert Mountain high schools.

During the summer at Arcadia High School, the auxiliary gym and the north grandstand buildings were demolished to make way for parking lot improvements on the west side of the campus and the new stadium bleachers, including a press box with viewing platform at the football field. Additionally, the new practice baseball and softball fields are in construction in the southeast section of the campus. This area was purchased from the R&G Ranch and was once an orange orchard. The estimated cost of construction at the school is $42.1 million. The dedication is set for November 7th.
At Chaparral High School, demolition of the academic classroom building has been completed. All new permanent buildings on the site are complete and occupied. Site work in the new student parking lot and bus lane is ongoing with a completion date of these areas in early November. Following the completion of the parking lot, the tennis court area that is being used as temporary parking will be completed. The courts will be surfaced and the nets installed. This is scheduled for completion in January 2009. The Chaparral Band Boosters completed a concession building at the north bleachers, and the football boosters are in process of completing a new football field house that will be used this season. The estimated cost to rebuild Chaparral is $49 million. McCarthy is the contractor and Orcutt/Winslow is the architectural firm for the project. The dedication will take place on October 24th from 4:30-6:30 p.m.
At Saguaro High School, demolition of the 300 and 400 buildings and the north half of the 500 building took place over the summer months. The new north student parking lot is progressing well. Once this parking lot is complete in October, the new softball and baseball fields will be installed. Theses areas will be completed for the start of the softball and baseball season in February. The estimated cost to rebuild Saguaro is $47 million. DL Withers is the contractor and DLR Group is the architectural firm for the project.
At Coronado, additional work is being done on the football and track areas. The lighting system at the football field will be replaced with new light poles located near the bleachers. The track will be renovated and upgraded to an eight lane track. The dedication is scheduled at 6 p.m. on October 15th.

During this construction process, the administrations at all sites are successfully balancing construction to accommodate academic and athletic needs at the schools with minimal disruption to the education process.

These projects were made possible thanks to voters who approved a $217 million bond in November 2004 to modernize Arcadia, Chaparral, Coronado and Saguaro high schools, make improvements to Desert Mountain High School, begin Phase II construction at Sierra Vista Academy and purchase land and buses. At this time, all projects are on time and on budget. The result will be outstanding centers of learning, arts and athletics for our children.

September 24th Governing Board Meeting Video

9/26/2008

Please visit the Facility Utilization Information and Updates Web page for copies of the presentations that were given at the meeting on September 16th. As always, the Meeting Agenda, Spotlights, Board Briefs and other documents can also be found on the Governing Board Web page.

The September 24, 2008 Governing Board Meeting, was recorded. Click here to view

.
NOTE: If you are within the SUSD network, use this link

.

The video recording of the September 16th Board meeting is now posted at http://www.susd.org/district/facilities/utilization.cfm
Thank you for your patience.

31 SUSD Students Named as National Merit Commended Students

9/26/2008

In late September, more than two-thirds of the approximately 50,000 high scorers on the PSAT/NMSQT® receive Letters of Commendation in recognition of their outstanding academic promise. Commended Students are named on the basis of a nationally applied Selection Index score that may vary from year to year but is below the level required for participants to be named Semifinalists in their respective states. Although Commended Students do not continue in the competition for Merit Scholarship® awards, some of these students do become candidates for Special Scholarships sponsored by corporations and businesses.

The following Scottsdale Unified School District students were named as Commended Students for 2009 National Merit:

Arcadia
Jazmine Barkley-Russell, Grace Cheifetz, Cassidy Milder and Sadie Smeck

Chaparral
Taylor Bilby, Cecilia Chou, Brett Dinner, Ariel Fabrega, Weston Gramer, Jenna Heitlinger, Meghan Lynch, Katherine Macdonough, Joshua Spiro, Rebecca Steffens, Kristin Whitten and Cody Wong

Coronado
Elora Barrett

Desert Mountain
Angela Giunta, Nile Kristol, Jordan Louk, Jacqueline Moench, Hannah Schwartz, Benjamin Ueberroth and Brando Welbourn

Saguaro
Catherine Duchene, Aaron Feldberg, Jennifer Nestlerode, Jesse Warner and Bernadette White

Please note: additional students qualified, but their parents requested that their name not be released.

Hopi Teacher Wins Award

9/26/2008

Stacey Greene, a third grade teacher at Hopi Elementary School, has won the Arizona Elementary Science Teacher of the Year award. She will accept her award on September 26th at the Arizona Science Teacher Association conference. Congratulations!

DMHS Teacher Wins Award

9/26/2008

Jeannie Critchfield, a special education teacher at Desert Mountain High School, was selected as the Scottsdale Sam’s Club Teacher of the Year. Jeannie received a framed certificate and $100 gift card, and DMHS received a $1,000 check. Congratulation!

Aztec, Cheyenne and Zuni Changes Considered

9/24/2008

The consolidation of Aztec and Zuni is being considered due to low student enrollment and to allow for better utilization of school facilities. The consolidation will allow for financial savings in current overhead and administrative costs. The enclosed map identifies the current and proposed boundaries

.

The relocation of Cheyenne to the Aztec campus is being considered for better utilization of school facilities. The proposal will allow for future savings in construction bonds.

The Scottsdale Governing Board will consider the above recommendation at a public meeting at the following location and time:

October 30, 6:00 PM
Desert Mountain High School, Auditorium
12575 E. Via Linda
Scottsdale, AZ 85259

Read more...

Yavapai Students Have Fun with Math

9/22/2008

Count Mathula (Superintendent Dr. John M. Baracy) and Count-ess (Principal Wendy Cohen) made a special visit to Yavapai Elementary School last week to kick off the Math Achievement Club by Rodel (MACRo) to 1st, 2nd, 3rd and 4th graders.

MACRo is a home learning component of the Yavapai Math Program. Students will complete a monthly workbook that is aligned with state standards to help improve their math competencies. "This is a great math incentive for our students," said Cohen.

Because there is tremendous parent involvement with the program, the school hosted a MACRo Parent Night on Thursday to introduce parent training and to provide information on signing off on the book. MACRo is sponsored by the Rodel Foundation.

26 SUSD Students Named Semifinalists in the 2009 National Merit® Scholarship Program

9/19/2008

The National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC) announced the names of approximately 16,000 Semifinalists in the 54th annual National Merit Scholarship Program. These academically talented high school seniors have an opportunity to continue in the competition for some 8,200 National Merit® Scholarships, worth more than $35 million, that will be offered next spring. To be considered for a Merit Scholarship® award, Semifinalists must fulfill several requirements to advance to the Finalist level of the competition. About 90 percent of the Semifinalists are expected to attain Finalist standing, and approximately half of the Finalists will win a National Merit Scholarship, earning the Merit Scholar® title.

The following Scottsdale Unified School students were named as semifinalists:

Arcadia High School
Laura Irei, Jinkyu Kim and Gabrielle Zerbib
Please note: an additional student qualified, but the parents requested that the name not be released.

Chaparral High School
Sean Arn, Michelle Gaynor, Leslie Hillman, Beth Magerman, Michael Morris-Nussbaum, Erik O’Malley, Dana Paikowsky, Natalie Rodriquez, Alison Rosenfeld and Danielle Swanner

Desert Mountain High School
Jae Cheon, Caitlin Fine, Michael Fraser, Christine Garcia, Jennifer Largent, Eric Loew, Morgan Shnier, Sara Smith, Mikayla Welborn, Patrick White and Sebastien Zany

Saguaro High School
Thalia Craig

*Editor's note: SUSD has not received a complete list of National Merit Commended students. We will run a follow up article with that information once it is received.

Enhanced Communication Through School Marquees

9/15/2008

As part of part of the Scottsdale Unified School District’s Building Renewal Plan, new marquees have recently been installed on all school campuses and at the Education Center. The need to provide better communication with our school communities and the condition of the old school signs necessitated replacing and upgrading the School Marquees.

Way to Go Coronado Volleyball Team!

9/19/2008

The 2008 Coronado High School Volleyball Team has a regular season record of 4-1 and won the Silver Division of the Queen Creek Invitational. The team had won just one game in the previous two seasons. First year Head Coach Kayrene Willis now has the Dons ranked #3 in the AIA power rankings.

Laguna Honored in Nation's Capital

9/12/2008

Dr. Katie Root, principal at Laguna Elementary School, Kim Clark, a fourth-grade teacher, Superintendent Dr. John Baracy and Governing Board member Dieter Schaefer attended the 2008 Intel Schools of Distinction Awards celebration in Washington, D.C. this week.

In June, Intel judges chose Laguna as one of six schools to receive its 2008 Intel Schools of Distinction Award. The annual awards recognize U.S. schools that implement innovative math and science programs and serve as role models for other schools. Laguna's award was for excellence in science education. Read more in the September 12th issue of Community Connection.

Constitution Commemoration Day

8/22/2008

Celebrate the signing of our Constitution at the Constitution Commemoration Day Celebration from 5:30-8:30 p.m. on September 17 at the Scottsdale Civic Center Plaza, 3839 Drinkwater Blvd., Scottsdale. Read more in the August 22nd issue of Community Connection.

DMHS Badminton Team Hosts Fundraiser

9/12/2008

Desert Mountain High School's Badminton Team is hosting a fundraiser for Operation Smile. This charity performs surgeries to repair cleft lips and cleft palates for children in countries too poor to provide the service. Medical teams donate their time, but they still need financial help for supplies. Last year DMHS raised $940! This was enough money to provide four surgeries. Each surgery costs $240.

During the fundraiser, students, staff, family and friends challenge the badminton players in a game for a small donation. All proceeds go directly to Operation Smile.

This event will take place this Friday, September 12, from 3-5:30 p.m. and Saturday, September 13, from 9 a.m. - noon in the main gym at Desert Mountain High School, 12575 E. Via Linda, Scottsdale 85259.

Interim Co-Superintendent Wins Award

8/29/2008

Dr. David Peterson, interim co-superintendent, was recently named as the Arizona Association of School Business Officials (AASBO) Member of the Year. Congratulations!

GE Security Education Solutions Team Conducts Comprehensive Security Assessment for Scottsdale Unified School District

8/29/2008

GE Security, Inc., a business of GE Enterprise Solutions, announced completion of phase one of a District-wide strategic security master planning process designed to boost safety and support student achievement for Scottsdale Unified School District (SUSD). The District recently received results of the security assessment, including recommendations on ways security might be further improved throughout the District’s schools.

GE Security’s education, security, technology and process experts worked closely with SUSD to anticipate, evaluate and address security needs in a four-month, broad-based study of the District, which includes 32 schools serving more than 26,000 students. The security assessment report included recommendations to improve security by integrating all systems on a single technology platform, further upgrading current security technology and creating a school district emergency operations control center. Other recommendations included hiring a security director for the school district to centralize security oversight under one person.
Read more in the August 29th issue of Community Connection.

Red Cross Opens Cooling Center at Arcadia High School

8/29/2008

The Grand Canyon Chapter of the American Red Cross is opening a cooling center at 3 p.m. on August 29 in the Auxiliary Gym at Arcadia High School, 4703 E. Indian School Road, Phoenix. Those persons who lost power or whose homes were damaged during last night’s monsoon storm may seek shelter. Red Cross volunteers will provide water, snacks and support. For more information, please contact Tracey Kiest 602-321-2173 or Dave Knoer 602-486-2006.

SUSD Students Participate in Cox Communications' My Voice My Vote

8/22/2008

On August 20th, Cox Communications partnered with CNN to bring the CNN Election Express Bus to Coronado High School. At the event, more than 250 student government students from Arcadia, Coronado and Desert Mountain high schools and Sierra Vista Academy participated in an interactive assembly led by Marco Ceglie of "Vote 18" (www.Vote18.org). Students learned about the history of voting, the importance of making sure your voice is heard in today's political process and also participated in a mock election. Read more in the August 22nd issue of Community Connection.

DMHS Receives $10,000 from Wendy's

8/22/2008

On August 20th, representatives from Wendy's presented a $10,000 check to Desert Mountain High School in honor of Angela Duckworth, who won the 2007 Wendy’s High School Heisman Award. Congratulations!

Award-winning Crossing Guard

8/15/2008

Dolores “Dee” Kirby, crossing guard at Desert Canyon Elementary School, was named Crossing Guard of the Year for the 2007-2008 school year by AAA of Arizona. Dee was honored at the Maricopa Association of Government’s (MAG) annual Crossing Guard Training, held earlier this month. Congratulations!

Parental Involvement — The Key to School Success!

8/15/2008

According to the National Education Association (NEA), parents must be actively involved in order to insure a child’s success in school. Study after study has indicated that a child’s educational experience is enhanced when a parental figure is involved. Read more in the August 15^thissue of Community Connection.

DMHS Girls’ Swim and Dive Team Ranked No. 9 in Nation

8/8/2008

The National Interscholastic Swim Coaches Association (NISCA) recently announced that the Desert Mountain High School Girls’ Swim and Dive Team is ranked 9th in the Nation for large public schools.

Last season, the team broke Xavier’s 212-win dual meet streak, and Ally Loper, Emily Barton, Angela Duckworth and Whitney Lopus smashed the State Record in the 400 Free Relay.

The team is coached by Chrissy Bodmer.

SUSD Prepares to START SMART on Monday, August 11th

START SMART Poster Contest, Crossing Guard of the Year and
Special Enforcement Zones with the Scottsdale Police Department

8/8/2008

Scottsdale Unified School District (SUSD) teachers, administrators and students will be Starting Smart again on Monday.

In fact, the START SMART campaign for the 2008-09 school year began last spring with a poster contest for students. They were asked to draw a poster explaining what they think makes SUSD schools great. Dr. John M. Baracy, SUSD superintendent, said the response was amazing. “We had more than 100 entries and the artwork was just terrific! Choosing the finalists was a tough job.” Read more...

New Teachers Prepare for School

8/8/2008

SUSD’s newest teachers gathered for 5 day orientation filled with opportunities to collaborate with district leaders about curriculum, instruction, assessment, and technology. The learning was designed to prepare our newest educators for the 2008-09 school year beginning August 11.

Superintendent Dr. John M. Baracy, the SUSD Excelling Teaching and Learning Team, and principals welcomed 150 newly hired teachers on July 30 at Chaparral Suites. Teachers learned about the District’s vision and goals as well as the extensive professional development support that will be offered to them throughout their career in SUSD. This event was sponsored by the Scottsdale Unified School District Foundation. "Goody bags" were donated by American Teaching Supply. The Scottsdale Education Association sponsored lunch for new teachers on August 1.

SUSD's New Principals and APs

7/31/2008

For the 2008-09 school year, the District has several new principals and assistant principals.

Tanya Beckwith is the new principal at Ingleside Middle School, where Nicole Wilfert is the new assistant principal (AP). At Supai, the new principal is Dawn Ewan Thompson. Desert Canyon Middle School's new AP is Marilyn Engle, and Steve Richie is an AP at Mountainside.

Several changes have been made at elementary schools, too. At Cherokee, Sharon Boomer replaces Sarah Stammegna as AP. Sarah is the new principal at Cochise. Neela Bhavnani is interim principal at Sequoya where Ann Achtziger will be acting AP. Pima's new principal is Sheryl Rednor and Art Velarde is now AP at Tavan.

Congratulations to all. We look forward to a very successful school year!

SUSD Receives Department of Education Grant

7/31/2008

Scottsdale Unified School District was recently awarded a three-year $400,000 grant from the United States Department of Education. The grant was written by Sylvia Cohen, Ph.D. and Birgit Lurie, lead psychologists, to provide early intervention services in elementary schools. The goals specified in the grant are to create a positive school climate and to increase academic achievement. There will be more information available at a later date regarding these additional resources for our campuses.

Online High School Registration

7/22/2008

Online registration is available for high school students who were registered in a Scottsdale Unified School District (SUSD) school at the end of last year.

Before you log on, make sure you have a few important pieces of information. You will need the student's name, birthday and school ID number. Once you have this information, you can access the online registration system by visiting http://register.susd.org.

Registering online allows the user to review information contained on our student management system and tell us of any changes that need to be made - like the student and parent contact information and medical record information - from the comfort of home. In addition, the user can also order yearbooks, buy parking passes, pay for student activity cards and pay class fees (if applicable).

Paying online also helps students avoid long lines. The student needs to PRINT THE RECEIPT once the online registration process is complete and bring that receipt to pick up items at school. Check with your school to find out when items can be picked up.

START SMART August 11th!

7/2/2008

Did you know that students are only in the classroom 180 days of each year? It’s important that children are in school because learning begins on the very first day of instruction. Scottsdale Unified teachers come to class each day prepared to teach all students, but learning can only happen when children are in class! Remember to START SMART on August 11th!

Back to School Checklist

7/29/2008

With only a few weeks of summer vacation left, parents are getting their children geared up for the 2008-09 school year by scheduling immunizations, eye exams and physicals and purchasing school supplies. With such busy schedules, it is easy to forget what day school actually starts – Monday, August 11th.

Click on the following links for more information about:

Calendar	Boundary Maps
Immunizations	Kids Club After School Child Care
Our Schools	Open Enrollment
Start and Release Times	Registration

If you have any additional questions, please call the District office at 480-484-6100.

Governing Board Approves New Budget

7/2/2008

The Scottsdale Unified School District (SUSD) Governing Board unanimously approved the 2008-09 budget at the July 1st meeting. The $168 million maintenance-and-operations budget includes money for 2.16 percent raises for teachers and 2 percent raises for other District staff. In addition, the budget includes a 75 cent reduction in the tax rate. This will save Scottsdale taxpayers an average of $150 annually on a $200,000 home.

Special Governing Board Meeting Video

5/21/2008

The May 20th, 2008 Governing Board Meeting, was recorded. Click here to view.

NOTE: If you are using the district network to access this video stream, please go to Homeroom, to access it.

Desert Mountain Makes List of Top Schools

5/20/2008

Desert Mountain High School was named, for the second consecutive year, as one of the top 1300 high schools in the country according to Newsweek's Web site. DMHS is one of a handful of public high schools in Arizona to make the list and was ranked 867th. To view the complete list, please see the article: http://www.newsweek.com/id/39380.

Laguna Elementary Named Winner of Intel ® Schools of Distinction Award

Of the hundreds of applicants from across the country, Laguna Elementary School has been named the elementary-level winner of Intel's Schools of Distinction Award for Science Excellence. The annual program honors schools for implementing innovative and replicable math and science programs that produce positive educational results. Laguna was recognized specifically for its science curriculum which incorporates hands-on investigative experiences.

As a winner, Laguna received a $10,000 grant from the Intel Foundation and an award package that includes curriculum materials, professional development resources, hardware and software. The grant will be used to support teacher and student learning through professional development opportunities and science enrichment classes beyond the school day.

"We are in awe of this incredible recognition and greatly honored to be chosen for Intel's School of Distinction. We hope to serve as a role model for other schools and provide other educators ideas for their science program," said Principal Katie Root, Ph.D.

Representatives from Laguna, and from the winning schools in five other categories, will attend an awards celebration on Sept. 9 in Washington, D.C.. One school will be named "Star Innovator," and will receive additional prizes including a $15,000 grant from the Intel Foundation.

For more information, visit http://www.intel.com/education/schoolsofdistinction/

Two Principals Nominated for Award

5/02/2008

Jan Howard, principal at Cherokee Elementary School, and Dr. Michael Helminski, principal at Kiva Elementary School, were selected, based on the nomination and survey feedback from staff and parents, as a finalist for the AZ Leads Circle of Honor award. Read more in the May 2^nd issue of Community Connection.

Scottsdale Unified School District Superintendent Announces Retirement

4/25/2008

The Scottsdale Unified School District (SUSD) Governing Board will be acting upon the retirement notice from Superintendent John M. Baracy on May 6th. Dr. Baracy will be retiring on Friday, October 3, 2008.

“The Governing Board has been very pleased with Dr. Baracy’s leadership and would like to have him stay. We feel very fortunate to have worked with him for the past four years and are glad to have his expertise as we continue to work through the upcoming facility usage issues. We are confident that the culture of collaboration he helped create will continue and that the leadership team he has assembled will allow us to achieve great things with our next leader,” said Karen Beckvar, SUSD Governing Board President. Read more...

Please read a letter from Dr. Baracy

Scottsdale Unified School District Goes Green
Multiple Programs and Increased Awareness Save Money While Preserving the Environment for Future Students

4/22/2008

Scottsdale Unified School District (SUSD) is going green by implementing numerous “Earth-friendly” programs and increasing awareness among employees.

SUSD has made efforts to “get greener” in lots of areas ranging from energy-efficient appliances to artificial turf to upgraded lighting fixtures and bulbs. “Our efforts don’t end there,” said John Muir, director of Building Services for the District. “We have also switched to green cleaning products and systems that limit electricity and water use. Our efforts are paying off, too. We’ve received hundreds of thousands of dollars in rebates.” In fact, the District has received more than $400,000 in rebates from APS, SRP and GE. Read more...

The Stars of Scottsdale Schools
Charros honor District’s top teachers and students

4/25/2008


	Charro George Jackson, scholarship chairman, and Claren Mortenson	Gianna Miller and Charro George Jackson, scholarship chairman

Students and staff of the Scottsdale Unified School District were center stage as the Scottsdale Charros rewarded excellence in education.

The civic group honored 34 teachers, one from each school, and 11 high school students at its annual banquet held last Friday night at the Doubletree Paradise Valley Resort.

The Scottsdale Unified School District would like to extend our sincerest thanks to the Scottsdale Charros for their continued generous support of our teachers and students.

The Charros named Gianna Miller from Desert Mountain High and Claren Mortenson from Chaparral High as recipients of the Future Teacher Scholarship award. Each will receive scholarships valued at $75,000 to pursue degrees in education at any in-state University. Upon completion of their education degree, these scholars were also offered teaching positions in the Scottsdale Unified School District upon graduation from college. The Charros announced that next year they will offer five scholarships and will also award three scholarships to SUSD teachers pursuing their Masters Degree.

Thank you Scottsdale Charros, for all you do for our school district!

Two Principals Nominated for National Distinguished Principals Program

4/25/2008

Dr. Michael Helminski, principal at Kiva Elementary School, and Jeff Quisberg, principal at Anasazi Elementary School, have been nominated for the National Distinguished Principals (NDP) Program. Read more in the April 25^th issue of Community Connection.

Arcadia Hosts DNA Week

4/25/2008

Approximately 300 8th through 12th grade students from Arcadia Neighborhood Learning Center, Ingleside Middle School and Arcadia High School and 75 teachers participated in lead-in activities during DNA Week at Arcadia High School this week. The event was designed to inspire, advance and promote Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) opportunities for students, teachers and community.

Students and teachers rotated through DNA fingerprinting and extractions labs in an onsite CCS Presentation Mobile equipped with the latest technology. Arcadia High School's Biotechnology and Advanced Placement student leaders and teachers provided direction and support. Read more in the April 25^th issue of Community Connection.

Board Approves Naming of the New Baseball Complex at Coronado High School

4/18/2008

The Scottsdale Unified School District's Governing Board voted to approve the naming of Coronado High School's newest facility — the Roy Coppinger Baseball Complex.

Coppinger was the baseball head coach from 1961 until 1989. During his tenure, Coppinger led the baseball team to 10 state championship games that resulted in four state titles.

Coronado High School's alumni group has to raise $5,000 before it can buy a $17,000 scoreboard that will display Coppinger's name and the years the team played in championship games.

Laguna Named Finalist for Intel Schools Of Distinction Awards

4/18/2008

Laguna Elementary School was recently named one of nine finalists for the Intel® Schools of Distinction Awards – Science Excellence category. The annual program honors schools for implementing innovative and replicable math and science programs that produce positive educational results. As a finalist, Laguna received $2,500 grant from the Intel Foundation.

Earth Day Celebrations

4/18/2008

Did you know that April 22^nd is Earth Day? Many of our students are reducing their "carbon footprint" this year by planning activities, proposing possible solutions to problems and environmental issues and planting flowers and trees. Read more in the April 18^th issue of Community Connection.


	Athena Koenig 4th Grade Desert Canyon Elementary School	Tessa Tzineff 8th Grade Mountainside Middle School	Rachel Lowenstein 12th Grade Arcadia High School

START SMART 2008 Poster Winners Announced:
New Campaign Utilizes Student Talent to Tell the World about SUSD

4/16/2008

Scottsdale Unified School District (SUSD) is kicking off a new START SMART campaign for the 2008-09 school year. This year, the posters will reflect what students say makes their school district great.

“We decided that this year we would let the students tell why they like to ‘START SMART’,” said Dr. John M. Baracy, SUSD superintendent. “I was very excited to see all the fantastic artwork, not to mention hearing directly from our students about what they like about SUSD,” he added. Read more...

Aztec Hosts an Open House

4/16/2008

Aztec Elementary School is hosting an Open House from 6:30-8 p.m. on April 23 to provide parents an opportunity to participate in the Scholastic Book Fair and to view student art work that will be displayed in the hallway around the courtyard. Parents will also have an opportunity to see students perform a portion of the musical "Tom Sawyer" that was presented in March. There will be an informational meeting about the preschool program, kindergarten program and 6th grade program. The Aztec choir, band, and strings will perform in the NW courtyard from 7:15-7:30 PM. Liberty Wildlife and Desert Botanical Gardens are also expected to be at the Open House to provide a couple of "being there" experiences. All classrooms will be open to the public. For more information, please view the flyer

District Message

4/16/2008

All of our students are safe. Two schools - Cocopah Middle School and Sequoya Elementary School - have been in precautionary lockdown. Police are in the area investigating a domestic dispute.

We will provide you with additional information as we receive it.

Thank you for your patience during this time.

SUSD Offers Summer Programs

4/4/2008

As summer quickly approaches, many parents are beginning to research quality summer programs for their children. Scottsdale Unified School District is offering a variety of summer camps, enrichment programs and academic summer school classes to meet your child's interests and needs. Read more in the April 4^th issue of Community Connection.

Chaparral Student Awarded the Flinn Scholarship

4/4/2008

Anatola He, a senior at Chaparral High School, was awarded the Flinn Scholarship, which provides 20 of Arizona’s highest-achieving students an unparalleled package for undergraduate study. In partnership with Arizona’s three state universities, the program develops enriched educational experiences to expand scholars' life and career options, while creating the challenging educational environment that students experience at the nation’s most selective colleges. The scholarship helps students achieve their most ambitious educational goals by underwriting tuition and living expenses and providing an allowance for international study.

The Flinn Scholarship also provides the full cost of tuition and fees for four years at an Arizona public university; a three-week overseas seminar plus two additional summers or semesters of international study-related travel and professional development; personal mentoring by university faculty and Flinn Foundation professionals; Public policy seminars on timely topics and issues; opportunities to meet leaders in business, government, education and the arts and fellowship in a community of similarly high-achieving students.

Anatola is also the Siemens College Board 2007-2008 Student winner.

Saguaro Student Awarded the Flinn Scholarship

4/4/2008

John Ingraham, a senior at Saguaro High School, was awarded the Flinn Scholarship, which provides 20 of Arizona’s highest-achieving students an unparalleled package for undergraduate study. In partnership with Arizona’s three state universities, the program develops enriched educational experiences to expand scholars' life and career options, while creating the challenging educational environment that students experience at the nation’s most selective colleges. The scholarship helps students achieve their most ambitious educational goals by underwriting tuition and living expenses and providing an allowance for international study.

The Flinn Scholarship also provides the full cost of tuition and fees for four years at an Arizona public university; a three-week overseas seminar plus two additional summers or semesters of international study-related travel and professional development; personal mentoring by university faculty and Flinn Foundation professionals; Public policy seminars on timely topics and issues; opportunities to meet leaders in business, government, education and the arts and fellowship in a community of similarly high-achieving students.

April is Autism Awareness Month ribbon lapel pin

4/3/2008

Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASDs) include:
• Autism
• Asperger’s Syndrome
• Pervasive Developmental Disorders/Not Otherwise Specified (PDD/NOS).

Did you know that today 1 in 150 children is diagnosed with an ASD? A new case is diagnosed almost every 20 minutes resulting in 67 children being diagnosed per day. There will be more children diagnosed with an ASD this year than with AIDS, diabetes and cancer combined. It affects over 1.5 million people in America and is the fastest-growing serious developmental disability in the U.S. In SUSD 1 out of every 145 students has a diagnosis of ASD. Read More...

Take Your Child to Work – After School is Out

3/31/2008

Scottsdale Unified School District and other schools across the Valley encourage parents to take their children to the workplace for a learning experience – after school is out for the summer. Districts around the Valley are recommending June 19 as a preferred date for Take Your Child to Work Day.

The national date, April 24, comes at a particularly difficult time for students who are working hard to complete their school work for the year. Taking children to work after the school year ends allows them to learn from their visit to the workplace without missing a single precious day of school.

Desert Mountain Teacher Wins Award

3/28/2008

Julianne Trump, a business and marketing teacher at Desert Mountain High School, was recently named the DECA Advisor of the Year at the Arizona State DECA conference in Tucson.

Ms. Trump has been extremely involved with the DECA leadership both, at Desert Mountain High School and state-wide, for many years. Ms Trump has encouraged students to take on leadership roles in the State DECA program and Desert Mountain Co-President Lindsey Gilman was elected to State Office at the Tucson convention. Student Jennalee Pfeiffer currently serves as a State DECA Officer. This year the DECA-Booster (DMBAA-DECA Booster) program formed a 501 (c) (3) corporation to help provide financial support for the Desert Mountain students.

Help Scottsdale Unified Schools While Reducing Your State Tax Bill!

3/28/2008

With tax season upon us, it’s a great time to think about ways you can reduce your 2008 Arizona State Income taxes. Although the deadline has passed for claiming a tax credit on your 2007 State taxes, it’s never too early to make a donation that can be claimed when you file your 2008 State taxes.

Did you know that Arizona law allows taxpayers to receive a tax credit of up to $200 for individual filers and up to $400 for married filers? You can claim the tax credit when filing your 2008 Arizona State Income Tax. The school must receive the funds by December 31, 2008. It’s a win, win situation for you and the school!

To contribute online, please visit: http://payments.susd.org/

If you have additional questions, please contact Scottsdale Unified School District at 480-484-6143, or the Arizona Department of Revenue at: www.azdor.gov/ResearchStats/Schooltaxcredit.htm

E.I.S. Parent Informational Meeting

3/06/2008

A series of informational meetings for parents on the new English Language Development Models that will be implemented for the 2008-2009 school is being held. For dates, times and locations of the Road Shows, please view the flyer

Coronado Dedicates New Eugene L. Hanson Performing Arts Auditorium and Gatti Mosaic

3/20/2008

Hundreds came to Coronado High School on Wednesday evening to pay tribute to Eugene L. Hanson and Joe Gatti at the school's dedication ceremony for the new Eugene L. Hanson Performing Arts Auditorium and unveiling of the re-constructed Gatti “The Seven Arts” Mosaic. Read more in the March 20^th issue of Community Connection.

Scottsdale All City Athletic Awards Banquet

3/20/2008

Scottsdale All City Athletic Awards Banquet is at 6 p.m. on Monday, March 24 at Chaparral Suites, 5001 N. Scottsdale Road.

This new, tri-annual banquet is a way for Scottsdale citizens and businesses to recognize and honor the accomplishments — both academic and athletic — of athletes within SUSD’s sports programs. More than 48 athletes will be honored and scholarships will be handed out by the Scottsdale Charros and Scottsdale Healthcare. Winter sports will be honored during this banquet. These sports include: basketball, wrestling and soccer.

The next banquet will take place on May 19 for spring sports (track, baseball, softball, tennis).

News from the SUSD Foundation

3/20/2008

The Scottsdale Unified School District Foundation (SUSDF) celebrated its first year of grants funding with “Quest for Student Excellence Grants.”

The selection committee met over Spring Break and reviewed all applications. SUSDF was delighted with the initial response received. They reviewed more than 40 grant applications from 18 schools and will be issuing more than $31,000 in 24 grants to 16 schools. The process has heightened the awareness of both the needs and the vast creativity among SUSD teachers and administration and inspired the foundation to continue its efforts to raise more funds for more causes.

The SUSDF will announce a new grants application process in the Fall of 2008.

Dedication of the New Eugene L. Hanson Performing Arts Auditorium and Gatti Mosaic at Coronado High School

3/17/2008

Coronado staff, students and alumni will dedicate the new Eugene L. Hanson Performing Arts Auditorium and unveil the re-constructed Gatti “The Seven Arts” Mosaic at 6 p.m. on March 19.

Eugene L. Hanson wrote Coronado High School’s fight song and hymn and he helped design the school’s original auditorium. He was Coronado’s first band and orchestra director when the school opened in 1961. Hanson family members will be in
attendance for the dedication. Read more...

Attendance = Learning and Successful Testing

2/8/2008

Each day our teachers plan new and important lessons to help SUSD students gain mastery of the subject matter in their classes. That is why it so important for children to be in school every day.

Due to the increase in rigor of state standards, it is more important than ever that students are in school so they have ample opportunity to learn. Because new skills build on skills already acquired, students are more successful on tests when they have consistent classroom attendance.

April Testing Dates to Remember:

AIMS, Dual Purpose Assessment (DPA) and Terranova will be administered April 7-18.

To view testing calendars, please visit: www.susd.org/district/assess/index.cfm.

Read Across America

3/07/2008

Daniel Winnick of the Phoenix Coyotes
made a special visit and read a book
to several primary classes at
Anasazi Elementary School.

Scottsdale Unified School District students are honoring a literary legend. Along with The National Education Association, students and teachers are saluting Dr. Seuss as part of Read Across America Week.

In celebration, members of the community visited several classrooms at SUSD schools to read stories to the students. At many elementary schools, students and teachers dressed up as literary characters to get into the spirit. This year marks the 51st anniversary of "The Cat in the Hat."

Quest for the Best!

3/06/2008

Would you like to work for Arizona’s Most Excelling School District? If you are about to graduate or are already an experienced teacher, simply stop by Scottsdale Unified School District’s booth at the Great Arizona Teach-In Career Fair for more information about a rewarding career with SUSD.

The Great Arizona Teach-In is from 10 a.m.- 3 p.m., Saturday, March 15th, at the Phoenix Civic Plaza, 111 N. 3rd St., Phoenix 85004. For more information about the Great Arizona Teach-In, please visit: www.teachinaz.com/ecf.html

Kids Club District Recess Camp

3/06/2008

What are your children doing on March 21 - District Recess? Kids Club will have camps at Hopi Elementary School and Cheyenne Traditional School on March 21. Camp hours are from 6:30 a.m.-6 p.m. The cost is $40. Children must bring their own lunch, three drinks and two snacks. For more information, please view the flyer

“Spring into Action"

3/07/2008

Spring Break means more time to be physically active and healthy… but it can also mean more time to sit around surfing the Internet, watching TV and playing video games.

Did you know? American children spend about five hours a day in front of various screen media for entertainment, including television, video games, and the Web. This means that over the course of a year they spend more time in front of a screen than in school. Read more...

Boys and Girls Clubs Announce Youth of the Year Finalist

2/29/2008

The Boys and Girls Clubs of Greater Scottsdale has announced the eight finalists for the clubs' 2008 Youth of the Year, including three from Scottsdale high schools.

The finalists were selected based on the club's five core values: home and family, community service, scholastic achievement, moral character and service to the club.

SUSD's finalists for the club's highest honor are Allison Kueffner, Saguaro High School; Katie Loker, Desert Mountain High School; and Caitlin Peil, Coronado High School.

The winner will be announced March 29 at the Celebrate Youth Dinner and Auction at the Scottsdale Resort and Conference Center. The Celebrate Youth Dinner and Auction is sponsored by General Dynamics and Casino Arizona. The Arizona state finalist for Youth of the Year will be announced during the State Youth of the Year Breakfast scheduled for April 22 at the Hyatt Regency Phoenix.

Cocopah Students Build Futuristic City

2/22/2008

A team of Cocopah Middle School students has designed a city for the future. This week, Daniel Baele, Samuel Brebner and Kyle Koser, along with Gifted Specialist Jan Speisman, went to Washington, D.C. to present their designs at the Future Cities Competition.

The Future Cities Competition is a national team-based education program designed for 7th and 8th grade students. Working in teams of three, the students are required to create a city of the future.

The Cocopah team won the Arizona Future City Competition in January with an entry called Luz de la Vida, a city in northeastern Venezuela that uses bioluminescence principals to generate light.

Living History

2/22/2008

Students at Mohave Middle School can now get a first hand look at history.

The Scottsdale Exchange Club has donated a "Freedom Shrine" to the school. The Shrine consists of more than 30 high quality reproductions of American Historical documents mounted on fine wood.

The school recently held a dedication ceremony in the cafeteria, where the documents are displayed.

Thanks to everyone who made this wonderful donation possible.

House Representative Schapira Visits Hohokam

2/22/2008

Democrat House Representative David Schapira made a special visit to Hohokam Elementary School today.

Representative Schapira visited Nurse Allie Ernst, RN, BSN to discuss HB2673, and why the bill is a vital step in the success of students in Arizona schools. Representative Schapira is one of the sponsors of the bill. He also visited with Principal Chad Caudle and Dan Craddock, assistant principal, as well as the 5th and 6th grade gifted classes which are learning about legislation.

Starting in the 2009-2010 school year, HB2673 would require the governing board of schools/districts to assign at least one registered nurse (RN) on a full-time basis to each site in the district; require the governing board of schools/districts with fewer than 750 students to assign at least one RN to serve on a rotational basis to the sites in the district; and require that if the governing board decides to opt out of the requirements, they must hold a public meeting no later than November 1 of that school year and specify the reasons for opting out and then transmit a written explanation of the reasons to the Arizona Department of Education who will publish a list of these schools on their Web site. Additionally, Allie has been asked to testify at the reading of the bill On February 27.

Sunrise Rotary Shines Bright

2/15/2008

Many thanks to members of the Scottsdale Sunrise Rotary Club for their generous donations to Aztec Elementary School.

The Scottsdale Sunrise Rotary donated a vision screening machine for preschool age children. They also donated LEA vision symbols cards to be used for screening preschool and school age students.

Thank you, Sunrise Rotary!

Take Me Out to the Ballpark

2/8/2008

Today, students from across the Scottsdale Unified School District were treated to an afternoon of baseball excitement courtesy of the Scottsdale Charros.

The Charros held their annual baseball luncheon at Scottsdale Stadium.

Under a crystal blue sky, students enjoyed lunch donated by Julio G's and then hit the fields for some baseball skills training.

Former Major League players shared some trade secrets with the youth who represented Scottsdale's elementary, middle and high schools. Players included Ethan Blackaby, Milwaukee Braves; Byron Browne, Philadelphia Phillies; Rod Gaspar, San Diego Padres; Kevin Kobel, New York Mets; Jim McAndrew, New York Mets; Bo McLaughlin, Oakland Athletics; Ken Rudolph, Baltimore Orioles; Al Schmelz, New York Mets and Bart Zeller, St. Louis Cardinals.

Thank you, Charros, for a wonderful afternoon!

SUSD Hosts Regional II Spelling Bee

2/7/2008

Students from Valley public, private and charter schools will compete in the Region II Spelling Bee that will take place at 8 a.m. on February 11^th at the Scottsdale Community College Performing Arts Theater. Seven of those students will proudly represent Scottsdale Unified School District: Cassidee Kido, Cocopah Middle School; Christian Sulit, Hopi Elementary School; Jessica Sola, Supai Middle School; Ellen Sudarshan, Desert Canyon Elementary School; Alex Marinello, Kiva Elementary; Kalli Hopkins, Pueblo Elementary School; Adam Curwin, Cheyenne Elementary School and Karthik Nambiar, Desert Canyon Middle School.

Valley school districts take turns hosting the Regional II Spelling Bee. This year SUSD will host the Bee, and Superintendent Dr. John M. Baracy will present the welcoming remarks.

Charros Announce 2008 SUSD Teachers, Volunteers and Students of the Year

2/1/2008

This year’s outstanding Scottsdale Unified School District educators, volunteers and students have been announced for 2008. This week Principals at each SUSD school presented their winners with an awards letter from the Charros. The winning educators also received a balloon bouquet courtesy of Cactus Flowers. Founded in 1961 as a special activity organization of the Scottsdale Chamber of Commerce, the Scottsdale Charros consists of 40 Active members and more than 150 Life members dedicated to serving the community through the promotion and support of education, youth programs and economic development. For more than 40 years, the Charros have provided their time and financial support to athletic programs, parent teacher organizations and the faculty of each school in the Scottsdale Unified School District. The Charros annually award full scholarships to in-state universities to two Scottsdale high school seniors who are pursuing a degree in education. Read more in the February 1 ^st issue of Community Connection.

Scottsdale Unified School District Governing Board Appoints New General Legal Counsel

1/30/2008

The Scottsdale Unified School District (SUSD) Governing Board recently approved the appointment of Michelle G. Marshall as the new General Counsel of the District's Legal department.

After obtaining her Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Arizona, Ms. Marshall graduated from Stanford Law School. She comes to SUSD from the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission where she was a trial attorney. Her 12 years of experience also includes work as an associate at Fennemore Craig, P.C., a Phoenix law firm.

Ms. Marshall is a member of the Arizona Women Lawyers Association and the Arizona Black Bar.

Title I - SUSD Preschool Academy Round-up

1/25/2008

If you live within the District/school boundaries and your child will be four years-old by September 1, she/he may qualify for this early learning program.

The Preschool Academy program is offered at Hohokam, Tavan, Tonalea and Yavapai -Title 1 Elementary Schools. For dates and times, please view the flyer.

Scottsdale Named as One of the Best Communities for Young People

1/25/2008

For the third consecutive year, the City of Scottsdale is being honored for helping young people succeed, and the Scottsdale Unified School District is proud to be part of that recognition.

The City has been named one of the 100 Best Communities for Young People by America’s Promise – The Alliance for Youth. The quality of education in Scottsdale’s schools was cited as a key factor in the ranking. Read more in the January 25^th issue of Community Connection.

Arcadia Teacher Wins Outstanding Teacher of American History Award

1/25/2008

Heather Demmons, a teacher at Arcadia High School, has won the Outstanding Teacher of American History award for the state of Arizona. She was nominated by retired Arcadia teacher Paulette Lollar, a member of the local chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution. The national award winner will be announced in July.

Heather is an outstanding teacher who bristles at the thought that some consider history a boring subject. She brings great enthusiasm into her classroom and uses a variety of strategies to help students develop critical thinking skills which will serve them well the rest of their lives. Heather is also the sponsor of Club STAND (Students Taking Action Now - Darfur). STAND has raised more than $20,000 to provide relief to the displaced victims of the turmoil in Sudan.

Scottsdale All City Athletic Awards Banquet

1/25/2008

Scottsdale All City Athletic Awards Banquet is at 6 p.m. on Monday, January 28 at Chaparral Suites, 5001 N. Scottsdale Road.

This new, tri-annual banquet is a way for Scottsdale citizens and businesses to recognize and honor the accomplishments — both academic and athletic — of athletes within SUSD’s sports programs. More than 40 athletes will be honored and scholarships totaling several thousand dollars will be handed out by the Scottsdale Charros and Scottsdale Healthcare. Fall sports will be honored during this banquet. These sports include: football, swimming and diving, cross-country, badminton, golf and volleyball. Read more in the January 25^th issue of Community Connection.

1/25/2008

Sharing Healthy Experiences (s.h.e.) is a program designed to help young teens and parents survive and thrive in today’s environment. The s.h.e. Forum is from 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. on March 1st at Ingleside Middle School, 5402 E. Osborn Road, Phoenix. For more information, please view the flyer

. If you have any questions, please contact Katey McPherson

at 480-484-1114.

Foreign Language Immersion Program at Pueblo Elementary

1/18/2008

The Foreign Language Immersion (FLI) program at Pueblo Elementary School offers parents an opportunity for their child to learn a second language at a time when children learn languages best.

For the 2008-09 school year, the FLI program will be open to incoming students in kindergarten and first grade. English speaking students enrolled in this program, will spend half of the school day learning regular curriculum in Spanish and the other half learning in English. Students are taught the curriculum and will learn to speak, read and write in two languages.

Pueblo is currently accepting open enrollment applications for students who will be entering kindergarten and first grade in 2008-2009 for our Foreign Language Immersion Program. For more information about the Foreign Language Immersion Program, please visit www.susd.org/Pueblo/ or call Pueblo Elementary School at 480-484-3100.

Cocopah Student Wins SUSD Spelling Bee

1/18/2008

Congratulations to Cassidee Kido, a seventh grade student at Cocopah Middle School, who took home first place in Scottsdale Unified School District’s Spelling Bee.

Twenty-nine elementary and middle school students from across the District competed for the title of District champion. Family members gathered at Arcadia High School to cheer on the students.

Kido and Christian Sulit, a fourth grade student at Hopi Elementary School, were the final two spellers!

Kido was declared the winner after spelling the words derelict and pinnacle.

The top seven competitors from the bee move on to the Regional II Spelling Bee next month hosted by Scottsdale Unified School District. They are: Cassidee Kido, Cocopah Middle School; Christian Sulit, Hopi Elementary School; Jessica Sola, Supai Middle School; Ellen Sudarshan, Desert Canyon Elementary School; Alex Marinello, Kiva Elementary; Kalli Hopkins, Pueblo Elementary School; Adam Curwin, Cheyenne Elementary School; and Karthik Nambiar, Desert Canyon Middle School.

Hopi Goes Green

1/18/2008

Hopi Elementary School is going green! Everyone at Hopi was encouraged to participate in SRP's 2007 Change a Light program. Families agreed to switch regular incandescent light bulbs for Compact Fluorescent Light bulbs (CFL) and then entered a contest held by SRP. Hopi placed fourth in the challenge and earned $1,000 for the school! Even better than the financial gains that the top four schools earned, is the benefit to our environment. The competition resulted in pledges to change almost 177,000 bulbs to CFLs. This will have the following effect over the life of the bulbs - enough kilowatt hours will be saved to light 28,000 homes for a year, 78 million pounds of greenhouse gas emissions will not be produced and $5 million of energy costs will be saved! Thank you to everyone who participated in this valuable program.

In addition to the Change a Light competition, Hopi PTA has provided recycle containers for paper in every classroom. Hopi Student Council members collect the containers and dump them into the Hopi recycle bin located in the turn around once a month. All of this paper will now be recycled instead of heading to a landfill. Anyone can add their personal paper products to the large recycle bin at any time.

Copper Ridge Math & Science Academy Open House January 26^th

1/17/2008

Copper Ridge Math & Science Academy is hosting its 2008-2009 Open House for 9^th, 10^th and 11^th graders from 10 a.m.-12 p.m. on January 26^th at the school, 10101 E. Thompson Peak Parkway, Scottsdale 85255. For more information or to open enroll, please call 480-484-1560.

MLK Voices
Louis Gossett, Jr. visits Saguaro High School with powerful message

1/15/2008

On Monday, actor and activist Louis Gossett, Jr. addressed youth representing Valley school districts on the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Gossett spoke of responsibility and becoming role models for today's youth.

The school program, called “VOICES,” featured the national award winning Voices of Saguaro choir. Students were also given the opportunity to ask questions of Mr. Gossett during the assembly.

Gossett also founded the Eracism Foundation, which teaches tolerance and cultural awareness to youth to help rid the world of racism.

Special guest speaker Captain Clovis Jones, Jr., current president of the Archer–Ragsdale Arizona Chapter, Tuskegee Airmen, Inc. (TAI), current vice president of the Arizona Chapter of the Vietnam Helicopters Pilots Association, Inc. (VHPA), and a past president of The Organization of Black Airline Pilots, Inc. (OBAP), encouraged students to pursue their dreams with persistence. The dream he had of becoming a pilot at age four had a few detours along the way, but with persistence, he was finally able to make his dream a reality while attending Morehouse College in Atlanta.

SUSD Service Learning students from Arcadia, Chaparral, Coronado, Desert Mountain and Saguaro high schools, along with students from other area high schools including Basha High School in Chandler and Gateway Early College High School in Phoenix, were on hand for the celebration.

SUSD’s Super Spanish Spellers

1/11/2008

The Scottsdale Unified School District’s annual Torneo de Ortografía (Spanish Spelling Bee) is from 5-7 p.m. on January 17 at Mohave Middle School, 5520 N. 86th St., Scottsdale. More than 120 SUSD students who speak, or are learning to speak Spanish will participate in this year’s Torneo de Ortografía. The Translation and Interpretation department would like to say “Muchas Gracias” to Chris Sawyer, principal of Mohave, for hosting the competition. Good Luck and Buena Suerte to all of the participants!

Scottsdale Community Celebrates 3rd Annual Events to Honor Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

1/11/2008

On January 14, Community Celebrating Diversity (CCD), in collaboration with Scottsdale Unified School District, will celebrate its 8th annual “Youth Voices” program in honor of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. at 2 p.m. in the Auditorium at Saguaro High School, 6250 N. 82nd St.

This free event will feature Louis Gossett, Jr. who will address the Valley’s youth. As a respected African American actor, Gossett has earned an Emmy for Roots, an Oscar for An Officer and a Gentleman and a Golden Globe for The Josephine Baker Story. As an impassioned activist, Gossett believes in empowering others. Through the “Youth Voices” program, inspirational speakers share their life experiences of hate and prejudice and how they transitioned into a positive vision of acceptance. For event information, please call 480-484-6187. Read more...

Learn More About SUSD's Wellness Policy

1/11/2008

Did you know that SUSD has adopted a comprehensive Student Wellness Policy? The purpose of this policy is to provide school environments that promote and protect student's health, well-being, and ability to learn by supporting healthy eating and physical activity.

Areas covered in SUSD's Wellness Policy include:

Nutrition Guidelines
Nutrition Education
Physical Activity
Parent, Community and Staff Involvement
Other School-Based Activities
Evaluation

If you would like more information or have question about SUSD's Student Wellness Policy, please visit www.susd.org/district/wellness or contact Tori Trahan

, RN, health services coordinator. Read more...

Kindergarten Round-Ups

1/8/2008

Schools throughout the District will be hosting tours and open houses in preparation for enrolling children in Kindergarten for the 2008-2009 school year. Come visit us to meet teachers, principals and learn about great features offered by schools in the Scottsdale Unified School District.

For more information, please view the schedule for Kindergarten Round-Up

SUSD Governing Board Names President, Clerk

1/8/2008

At the January 8^th Governing Board meeting, the Board re-elected Karen Beckvar as President and Dr. Eric Meyer as Clerk for 2008.

Phoenix Suns Player Makes a Special Visit to Cheyenne

12/21/2007

Phoenix Suns Forward Shawn Marion visited Cheyenne Traditional School on Thursday to speak to the 6th graders. Sonija Chopra, a sixth grader, donated 20 pairs of athletic shoes to a contest/charity sponsored by KTAR Radio. The student who donated the most shoes won a surprise visit from Shawn at his/her school.

Schools, Offices Closed for Winter Break

12/21/2007

Scottsdale Unified schools and district offices will be closed December 24-January 4 for Winter Break. Have a safe and happy holiday!

Saguaro Wins Second Consecutive Class 4A Division I Football Title

12/10/2007

Saguaro High School won its second consecutive Class 4A Division I football title with a 23-21 victory over Tucson Canyon del Oro Saturday at the University of Phoenix Stadium in Glendale.

Congratulations to the Saguaro Sabercats football team and athletic staff! To view the the complete coverage, please view the Arizona Republic article

and the East Valley Tribune article

DMHS Student Wins 2007 Wendy’s HS Heisman Award

12/10/2007

Angela Duckworth, a student and swimmer at Desert Mountain High School, was one of two winners from a field of 32,000 nominees to land the 2007 Wendy’s High School Heisman Award on Friday night in New York City.

The award recognizes high school students who have an outstanding record of achievement in academics, athletics and community service. About 32,000 high school seniors applied for the award in a program that is now in its 14th year. Of those, 1,202 were named state finalists. Those were whittled down to 102 state winners, from which 12 finalists were chosen.

Angela won an all-expense-paid trip to New York City from December 7-9, where she received a gold medal presented by two-time Heisman Trophy winner Archie Griffin and a $100 Wendy’s gift card.

Arcadia Teacher Wins Science Award

12/7/2007

NAGT Southwestern Section
Chair Kaatje Kraft and Carol Tichio

The National Association of Geoscience Teachers announced that the 2007 Outstanding Earth Science Award for the Southwestern Region of the United States was awarded to Carol Tichio, a science teacher at Arcadia High School.

This award is given for exceptional contributions to the stimulation of interest in the Earth Sciences at the secondary level. Ms. Tichio has brought exciting “hands-on, minds-on” science to her students who are learning not just what Earth science is about, but how science is done.

Kids Club Winter Camp Available

12/4/2007

Winter Break Kids Club Camp will be held from December 26^th-28^th and January 2^nd-4^th at Cheyenne Traditional School, 11130 E. Cholla St. and Hopi Elementary School, 5110 E. Lafayette Blvd. Please remember that the Kids Club camp will be closed on Monday and Tuesday, December 24^th and 25^th and on Monday and Tuesday, December 31^st and January 1^st. The cost for the camp is $40 a day. Please pack a lunch, two snacks and three drinks each day for your child. For more information about the Winter Camp, please view the flyer or contact the Community Schools department at 480-484-8614 or 480-484-8616.

Super Kids - Super Sharing

11/30/2007

The Scottsdale Unified School District has teamed up with the National Football League to make a difference in the lives of children this Super Bowl season. The NFL is joining with the Arizona Cardinals, Super Bowl XLII Host Committee, the NFL Youth Education Town and local schools for a sports equipment and book donation project called Super Kids-Super Sharing.

Students bring their lightly used books and sports equipment to school and place those items in collection boxes. Those donations are then made available to children in need through the NFL Youth Education Town. Five SUSD schools will be among the recipient schools. View poster

A Helping Hand

11/21/2007

Service Learning students across the Scottsdale Unified School District spent this Thanksgiving week giving back to their community. Service Learning students delivered turkeys and all the trimmings to less fortunate families throughout the area. The holiday boxes are a result of weeks of food drives and fundraisers. In all, about 310 turkeys made their way into Phoenix and Scottsdale homes this year!

Open Enrollment Applications for 2008-2009 School Year Are Being Accepted December 3^rd- January 14^th

11/16/2007

Did you know that parents outside of the SUSD boundaries may enroll their child in a Scottsdale Unified School District school? SUSD will begin to accept Open Enrollment applications for 2008-2009 school year during the initial enrollment period of December 3, 2007- January 14, 2008.

Open Enrollment packets are available at all of our 33 schools and on our Web site at www.susd.org/district/administrativeservices/openenroll.cfm.

Here are just a few reasons why you should consider open enrollment for your children in one of Arizona’s Most Excelling School Districts:

Twenty-two "Excelling" schools.
More National Merit finalists than any other school district in Arizona.
SUSD students score higher than state averages on both AIMS and Terra Nova tests at all grade levels and in all content areas.
SAT scores for our college-bound students were above the state and national averages in both English and math.
Scottsdale Unified School District offers specialized programs such as:
- Aviation Science Program at Coronado High School
- Nursing Program at Saguaro High School
- Culinary Program at Chaparral High School
- Award-winning Media Communications Program at Arcadia High School
- International Baccalaureate Program at Desert Mountain High School
- Copper Ridge Math and Science Academy for 9th and 10th grade students
- Foreign Language Immersion Program for first graders at Pueblo Elementary School
- Seven middle schools with Enrichment Courses that ease the transition from elementary school to middle school and then from middle school to high school
- Twenty elementary schools that lay a strong educational foundation

Once accepted to an SUSD school through the Open Enrollment process, parents will not need to fill out another application for the remainder of their child’s public school career. Parents will need to provide their child's transportation to and from school. There are a limited number of our schools that are not accepting students through the Open Enrollment process because those schools are at full capacity. Please call the school in which you are interested to check Open Enrollment availability.

Your child’s special place to Excel is waiting in the Scottsdale Unified School District!

Help Scottsdale Unified Schools While Reducing Your State Tax Bill!

11/16/2007

'Twas the night before the New Year,
And all through the house,
Not a creature was stirring,
Not even the computer mouse.

Preparations are made to bring in the New Year,
When suddenly you remember
Tax credit time is here!

You run to your computer,
With a mad dash,
To make your tax credit contribution,
To SUSD with a flash.

Dollar for dollar, tax credit is applied each year,
Your donation costs you nothing but
Will bring our students, athletes and other programs great cheer.

So as the end of the year draws out of sight,
Remember, donate tax credit,
To help SUSD's future stay bright!

A win, win situation! Arizona law allows taxpayers to receive a tax credit of up to $200 for individual filers and up to $400 for married filers. You can claim the tax credit when filing your 2007 Arizona State Income Tax. The school must receive the funds by December 31, 2007.

To contribute online, please go to: http://payments.susd.org

Your tax credit donation can be used for:

Tutoring
Field trips
Overnight trips
Athletic programs

If you have additional questions, please contact the Scottsdale Unified School District at 480-484-6100, or the Arizona Department of Revenue at: www.azdor.gov/ResearchStats/Schooltaxcredit.htm

DON’T FORGET! Your Tax Credit Donations are due by December 31st!

Deliver to your school or the Education Center up until Friday, December 21st
Or mail and have Postmarked by December 31st
Or for your convenience, Contribute Online by midnight, December 31st

Thank you in advance for your support of our schools!

Editors Note: All schools and the Ed Center will be closed for Winter Break from December 22nd through January 6th. Happy Holidays!

SUSD Hosted Steroid Awareness Day Presentation at the Phoenician

11/15/2007

Scottsdale Unified School District hosted its first-ever Steroid Awareness Day Presentation this week at the Phoenician Resort. Special guests at the evening event included Don Hooton, president of the Taylor Hooton Foundation; Denise Garibaldi, Taylor Hooton Board of Advisors; and Ross Shimabuku, sports anchor at Channel 3, who emceed the event.

The Taylor Hooton Foundation is a non-profit organization founded in 2004 to raise awareness about the dangers of Performance Enhancing Drug (PED) use among the nation’s high schools. Read more in the November 16^th issue of Community Connection.

Scottsdale Leadership to Honor 2007 Spirit of Community Leadership Award Winners

11/16/2007

Scottsdale Leadership, Inc., a nonprofit leadership program serving Scottsdale and the surrounding community for more than 20 years, has announced the 2007 Spirit of Community Leadership Award winners and three finalists for the Youth Leadership Award. Two of the finalist are Scottsdale Unified School District students. Read more in the November 16^th issue of Community Connection.

Chaparral Wins 3rd State Championship of the Fall Season

11/16/2007

On November 10^th at Perry High School, Chaparral High School won its third volleyball championship in the past four years by defeating Cactus Shadows in the 4A 1 State Championship game. Congratulations to Coach Crowley and varsity team members: Chelsea Sasso, Meghan Nehf, Cat Highmark, Cara Sherlock, Megan Abraham, Sarah Kuperman, Skyler Butcher, Katie Budolfson, Abbey Withey, Meredith Ellinger, CeCe Twitty and Jane Steffens.

Chaparral's Badminton and Boy’s Golf teams also recently won state championships.

DMHS Student Selected as 2007 Wendy’s HS Heisman Award Finalist

11/9/2007

Angela Duckworth, a student at Desert Mountain High School, has been selected as one of 12 national finalists for the 2007 Wendy’s High School Heisman Award.

The award recognizes high school students who have an outstanding record of achievement in academics, athletics and community service. About 32,000 high school seniors applied for the award in a program that is now in its 14th year. Of those, 1,202 were named state finalists. Those were whittled down to 102 state winners, from which 12 finalists were chosen.

Angela won an all-expense-paid trip to New York City from December 7-9 , where she will receive a gold medal presented by two-time Heisman Trophy winner Archie Griffin and a $100 Wendy’s gift card.

SUSD Hosts Steroid Awareness Workshop

11/9/2007

Scottsdale Unified School District (SUSD) is hosting the first-ever Steroid Awareness Day Workshop on Wednesday, November 14 at 7 p.m. at The Phoenician, 6000 E. Camelback Road, Scottsdale. Highlights include special guest speaker Don Hooton. This event is open to the public at no cost and no RSVP is required. Read more...

City of Scottsdale Veterans Day Celebration

11/9/2007

Brigadier General Thomas Browning (Retired, United States Air Force) will be the keynote speaker at this year’s Veteran's Day event on Friday, November 9th. The program is being commemorated two days before the official Veterans Day, November 11th, because the park where the event is being held cannot accommodate weekend crowds along with the significant number of people who attend this event.

The program will be at McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park, southeast corner of Indian Bend and Scottsdale roads. At 3 p.m., General Dynamics will provide refreshments, and the 108th Army National Guard Band will play patriotic music. The official part of the program begins at 3:30 p.m. with the presentation of colors and the playing of the National Anthem.

Service Learning student Alexa Vogtritter, a junior at Chaparral High School, is a guest speaker at this year's Scottsdale Veterans Day program. Alexa will be speaking about service and support for our Veterans. Read more...

Thank You SUSD Community

11/7/2007

Thank you, Scottsdale Unified School District community, for approving both the Maintenance and Operations (M&O) Override and Capital Override! Your support allows Scottsdale Unified School District to continue providing the best possible education for our students.

"We want to thank our community members for their support of both overrides on Tuesday. Our children are the beneficiaries of our community's support. We pledge to continue to work diligently to earn the trust of our community and develop quality programs for our children to reach our goal of 33 excelling schools," said Superintendent Dr. John M. Baracy.

The M&O Renewal Override:

In existence since 1989
Funds 179 teaching positions
Reduces class sizes
Funds specialized programs including music and fine arts

The Capital Override is 100 percent EXCELLING SCHOOL focused:

87.2% of the funds will be used for classroom related items including school furniture and equipment, library materials, classroom instruction materials, fine arts equipment, playground improvements and athletic equipment.
12.8% of the funds will be spent on technology for network support.

Copper Ridge Math & Science Academy Open House November 17^th

11/2/2007

Copper Ridge Math & Science Academy is hosting its 2008-2009 Open House for 9^th, 10^th and 11^th graders from 9-11 a.m. on November 17^th at the school, 10101 E. Thompson Peak Parkway, Scottsdale 85255. For more information or to open enroll, please call 480-484-1560.

SUSD Students Help California Fire Victims

11/2/2007

Service Learning students from Saguaro High School are working on a project to make blankets for those affected by the recent California wildfires. Through the help of the Salvation Army, these blankets will be distributed to families who have lost their homes and personal belongings. The goal is to give a sense of hope to the victims and to let them know that people are concerned about this devastating tragedy in California. A blanket represents a sense of comfort and security these displaced families truly need at this time.

Service Learning students at Arcadia High School are collecting fire ribbon donations. The money will be used to buy grocery store gift cards. Students also are collecting clothing. On November 5th they will partner with a local quilt shop to make pillowcases, pillows and simple blankets.

Cochise Elementary School is conducting a collection drive to help victims of the San Diego Fires. They will collect diapers, baby food, gently used clothing, new socks/undergarments, pet food, water bottles, non-perishable foods (except canned goods), batteries, children’s games, toys, art supplies, books, toiletries, electronic gadgets and headphones.

Coronado JAG Students Chosen for Washington, D.C. Trip

11/2/2007

Eleven Coronado High School Jobs for Arizona Graduates (JAG) students applied to the state for a free trip to the JAG National Student Leadership Conference in Washington, D.C. in December. Of those 11, three students went through an extensive application and interview procedure with the board members of state JAG and all three were chosen.

The students, Melina Guerrero, Lizzeth Alvarez, and Scott Breckenridge, will accompany Tina Mortenson, JAG teacher, on the trip. They will have a chance to tour national monuments and the Smithsonian museum, meet top political and business leaders and participate in workshops with JAG students from around the country. Only 12 Arizona students were chosen for this honor.

Chaparral Badminton, Golf Teams Win Championships

11/2/2007

Chaparral High School's Badminton team won the 4A State Championship last week. The Firebirds swept top-seeded and defending state champion Sunnyslope High School 5-0 in the championships. The team is coached by Carrie Davis.

Also, the Boy’s Golf team won the 4A Region Championship. The team is coached by Richard Peterson.

Arcadia Girls' Swim and Dive Team Wins 4AII State Championships

10/26/2007

Arcadia High School's Girls' Swimming and Diving team earned its second consecutive 1^st place title at the 4AII State swim championships on October 20^th and 21^st at ASU. Lindsey Stevens was named 4AII girl outstanding swimmer of the meet.

The Boys Swim team had outstanding performances and earned 2^nd place, only 67 points behind Flagstaff. Michael Zoldos was named 4AII outstanding boy swimmer of the meet.

Arcadia dominated overall in the number of state champions in many individual events as well as in relays.

Students celebrate “Make A Difference Day” on Saturday Oct. 27
Scottsdale Unified Service Learning students meet real community needs by volunteering

10/26/2007

Twenty-five Scottsdale Unified School District Service Learning students will spend this weekend helping the members of their community in various service activities for “Make A Difference Day.”

Saturday, October 27 is “Make A Difference Day,” a national day of helping others created by USA WEEKEND Magazine. This annual event takes place on the fourth Saturday of every October.

For Make a Difference Day, senior citizens at the The City of Scottsdale Granite Reef Senior Center signed up to have a teen volunteer visit them for the afternoon. Volunteers will spend time with them and help do things around their apartments. Some seniors have teen volunteers vacuum, dust, talk, read and write letters.

More information about the Service Learning Program is available on the SUSD Web site at: www.susd.org/district/servicelearning/.

Facts about Staph - MRSA

10/25/2007

MRSA (Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus) has been around for many years, but has recently received considerable attention in the media. Scottsdale Unified School District (SUSD) wants parents and the community to be informed about the facts surrounding this health concern.

Our schools practice sanitary procedures that ensure a safe environment for all of our students. Should you have any questions, please contact your school nurse or see the resources below.

Additional information about MRSA can be found at:

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Questions and Answers about Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) in Schools
Arizona Department of Health Services: Information on MRSA
Arizona Department of Health Services Letter
Newsday article: No Need to Run Scared; Staph is an Old Bug

The following District letter

went home with all students today.

Arcadia High School Community Tour

10/17/2007

"Come See our Progress" from 4-6 p.m. on Thursday, October 25th. The continuous student-led tours will start in the Arcadia High School office, 4703 E. Indian School Road, Phoenix. You are invited to come and tour the beautiful new buildings at Arcadia High School. Come view the plans for the new gym and circle conference room, which should be completed by August 2008. If you have any questions, please call Arcadia's office 480-484-6300.

22 SUSD Schools Rated Excelling by ADE

10/15/2007

Scottsdale Unified School District is leading the way in Arizona education as 22 of its 33 schools received the state’s highest ranking.

Twenty-two schools received the Excelling label, five are ranked Highly Performing, three are Performing Plus and three are Performing.

The Department of Education ranks schools as Excelling, Highly Performing, Performing Plus, Performing, Under Performing and Failing. Ratings are based on student performance on state tests and graduation and dropout rates. Just last month it was announced that 32 of Scottsdale’s 33 schools also made academic “Adequate Yearly Progress” under the No Child Left Behind Act.

Excelling Schools: Anasazi, Aztec, Cherokee, Cheyenne Traditional, Cochise, Copper Ridge, Desert Canyon, Hopi, Kiva, Laguna, Pima, Sequoya and Zuni Elementary Schools; Cocopah, Copper Ridge, Desert Canyon, Mohave and Mountainside Middle Schools; Arcadia, Chaparral, Desert Mountain and Saguaro High Schools.

Highly Performing Schools: Pueblo, Tavan and Tonalea Elementary Schools, Arcadia Neighborhood Learning Center and Ingleside Middle School.

Performing Plus Schools: Hohokam and Navajo Elementary Schools and Coronado High School.

Performing Schools: Yavapai Elementary School, Supai Middle School, Sierra Vista Academy* (6-8) and Sierra Vista Academy* (High School).

*Sierra Vista Academy has earned the highest Education label possible for alternative schools which is "Performing".

Changes to AIMS Exam Beginning in 2009

10/12/2007

There will be some significant changes to the Arizona's Instrument to Measure Standards (AIMS) Tuition Waiver that the State of Arizona grants students who exceed the standard on AIMS.

Beginning with students graduating in 2009, only AIMS results from the sophomore or junior year will be used to determine eligibility for the AIMS Honors Tuition Waiver. That means that students must exceed the standard during their sophomore or junior year; students will no longer be allowed to use the AIMS test results from their senior year to become eligible for the AIMS waiver.

AIMS Augmentation will no longer be available for students graduating after December 31, 2007. Students graduating January 1, 2008 and beyond will be required to pass the AIMS test without the use of AIMS Augmentation. Special education and 504 students are still eligible for waivers of the graduation requirement according to State statute.

Online Evening Classes Available

10/12/2007

Scottsdale Unified School District is now offering evening courses through Pinnacle Online Education and Community Schools. Pinnacle Online Education is a pilot program this year. It is specifically for students in need of course credit recovery, not those seeking enrichment opportunities. These classes will begin on October 22nd.

Only Guidance Counselors can register a student for online courses and must sign the registration form. A copy of the student’s current transcript must be attached to the registration when it is returned to the Community Schools department. The fee is $250 per class per session.

Students must attend the first day of class in order to register properly and get access information.
Students must take Midterms and Finals in the computer labs during open hours. No exceptions.
Classes are based on a six-week schedule, but extensions are available.
Student Code of Conduct and Technology Usage agreements are in effect anytime a student is on campus, including in computer labs after school.
Students can take a maximum of four credits of SUSD online classes (.5 credit each) in this program.

For more information, please view the Community Schools Web page at: www.susd.org/district/communityschools/index.cfm#evening.

Mohave Students' Signatures on Next Space Shuttle Mission

10/12/2007

Mohave Middle School was selected as a "NASA Signature in Space School." They were given a banner designed by Lockheed Martin for students to sign. This was part of a week-long program that included guest speakers from the aerospace industry and a "Rocket Day" sponsored by Honeywell. For Rocket Day, students from Mohave's Comprehensive Gifted Program, along with students enrolled in Mohave's Astronomy Exploratory Club, signed the banner.

After it was signed, this banner was returned to NASA. It will be flown aboard the upcoming STS 120 Discovery Shuttle mission. After the mission, the banner will be returned to Mohave with an official seal showing that it has flown in space. It will also bear the autographs of the Discovery shuttle crew. The launch is scheduled for October 23, 2007.

Education Day for Scottsdale Area Association of REALTORS®

10/5/2007

Scottsdale Area Association of REALTORS® held its annual Education Day with Scottsdale Unified School District on October 4th. During the event, 20 REALTORS toured the new Coronado High School, Sierra Vista Academy and Hopi Elementary School. While at Hopi, the REALTORS® viewed a Smart Board demonstration and played Are You Smarter than a 5^th Grader with the school's student government 5^th grade students. The 5^th graders won by one point. The REALTORS® are looking forward to a rematch next year.

Charros' Future Teacher Scholarship ~ Applications Due by October 31^st

9/28/2007

Each year the Scottsdale Charros award four-year scholarships to an in-state university to two SUSD high school seniors who want to pursue a career in education. This prestigious Future Teacher Scholarship includes full tuition and fees, housing, food, books, a stipend for living expenses and a one-time computer purchase.

The Charros have been awarding these scholarships annually since 1999, and there are currently nine students attending university on this scholarship. To learn more about the program, please visit the Scottsdale Charros Web site

. Every year, the Charros provide applications, posters and other promotional materials to the SUSD high schools for distribution by the Guidance Counselors. However, some seniors are still unaware of this exceptional opportunity.

Applications for the Charros' Future Teacher Scholarship are due by October 31. For more information, please view the scholarship application.

Flags Donated to Title I Schools

9/28/2007

The National Independent Flag Dealers Association held its annual convention in Scottsdale this week. They donated seven U.S. flags to Scottsdale Unified School District's Title I schools to help educate children and the state about the Made in the USA campaign for U.S. made flags. A special thank you goes to the National Independent Flag Dealers Association for its generous donation!

Yavapai Students Have Fun with Math

9/28/2007

Counting Comet (Principal Wendy Cohen) and Dr. Math Flash (Superintendent Dr. John M. Baracy) made a special visit to Yavapai Elementary School on Wednesday to kick off the Math Achievement Club by Rodel (MACRo) to 1st, 2nd and 3rd graders. Read more in the September 28 issue of Community Connection.

Workforce Development Committee Tours Tonalea and Coronado

9/24/2007

Members of the Scottsdale Area Chamber of Commerce Workforce Development Committee boarded a Scottsdale Unified School District yellow school bus for a field trip to Tonalea Elementary School and Coronado High School on Friday morning in lieu of their regular business meeting. The group, which has 40 members, was interested in seeing the difference between an original school and a newly constructed school within the District.

Both Lesa Friend, principal at Tonalea, and John Biera, principal at Coronado, gave the group a tour of their campuses. After the tours Mrs. Friend and Mr. Biera answered questions asked by the Workforce Development Committee members.

SUSD appreciates the Chamber's interest in education and the status of our facilities.

Ingleside Receives $100,000 Cafeteria Restyle

9/20/2007

Ingleside is one of seven schools in the country and and the only school in Arizona to receive a make-over through the Dairy Council of Arizona's $100,000 Ultimate School Restyle program. The goal is to have this cafeteria serve as a model for Scottsdale Unified School District (SUSD). This group effort should help promote SUSD's wellness program by encouraging healthy eating including the daily requirement of dairy products. This will be done by making dairy products appealing and readily-available in schools as well as through educational programs.

Ingleside students and staff now have many upgrades in their cafeteria. Additionally, the Dairy Council will be conducting a study that measures the results of the restyle by monitoring milk consumption among students at the school.

Ingleside Middle School was selected over many competitors based on the age of the building, student enrollment, its location in a major media market and other factors.

SUSD thanks the Dairy Council of Arizona for its donation and efforts to educate our students about healthy eating habits.

Lin Sue Cooney Visits Kiva

9/20/2007

Kiva Elementary School had a special visitor for Jumpstart’s Read for the Record on Thursday. Lin Sue Cooney, Channel 12 news anchor, read The Story of Ferdinand to students. Read more in the September 21 issue of Community Connection.

Constitution Commemoration Day

8/24/2007

Scottsdale Unified School District students, faculty and administrators celebrated the signing of our Constitution at the Constitution Commemoration Day Celebration on Monday, September 17.

Events at the celebration included a pageant of flags by the Luke Air Force Base Honor Guard, a patriotic concert by the 36th Army Band, 2007 STAAR Night Cast, a poster contest for all K-12 students, a Constitution quiz for all K-12 students and a special visit by Uncle Sam and James and Dolly Madison. In addition, prizes were awarded to all poster contest winners. The posters were displayed at the event and in selected library lobbies. Constitution quiz winners were entered in a drawing to win a trip to Washington, D.C.

The Constitution Commemoration Committee announced its poster and essay contest winners. Read more for list a SUSD winners!

The annual celebration is sponsored by the Scottsdale Area Association of REALTORS®.

34 SUSD Students Named as Semifinalists in the 2008 National Merit® Scholarship Program

9/14/2007

Semifinalists in the 53rd annual National Merit Scholarship Program were announced Wednesday by officials of National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC). These academically talented high school seniors have an opportunity to continue in the competition for some 8,200 Merit Scholarship® awards, worth $34 million, that will be offered next spring. To be considered for a Merit Scholarship award, Semifinalists must advance to the Finalist level of the competition by fulfilling several requirements. About 90 percent of the Semifinalists are expected to attain Finalist standing, and approximately half of the Finalists will be selected as Merit Scholarship winners, earning the Merit Scholar® title. Read more in the September 14 issue of Community Connection.

32 SUSD Schools Make AYP

9/12/2007

Last week, The Arizona Department of Education (ADE) released Adequate Yearly Progress (AYP) determinations for all public schools in order to comply with the No Child Left Behind (NCLB) Act. Scottsdale Unified School District (SUSD) is pleased to announce that 32 of its 33 schools made AYP.

In order for a school to make AYP, a school must:

Demonstrate progress toward meeting the goal of 100 percent proficiency on state standards; this goal must be met by 2013-2014.
Assess 95 percent of students.
Meet a 70.5 percent graduation rate (high schools) or a 90 percent attendance rate (elementary schools).

Schools are evaluated based on the performance of the entire school as well as subgroups within the school by grade level and content area. NCLB requires that the following subgroups be evaluated for AYP: major ethnic groups, students' economic status, special education students and English Language Learners. If a school passesall three measures for all groups evaluated, it is deemed to have made AYP. Failure to meet any one indicator will result in the school failing to make AYP.

Scottsdale Officials Honored at Governing Board Meeting

9/12/2007

At the September 11^th Governing Board meeting, Service Learning students honored Mayor Mary Manross, Police Chief Alan Rodbell and Fire Chief Willie McDonald for their volunteer work in the community. Read more in the September 14 issue of Community Connection.

Remembering 9/11

9/12/2007

Students and staff marked the sixth anniversary of the tragic September 11th attacks with special assemblies.

Many students gathered together to show their patriotism and to say a few words in honor of those that lost their lives. Read more in the September 14 issue of Community Connection.

CRMSA Partners with the Mayo Clinic

9/14/2007

Copper Ridge Math and Science Academy (CRMSA) is pleased and excited to announce a partnership with the world-renowned Mayo Clinic. This partnership includes offering training to CRMSA students and teachers, providing guest lectures and advising prospective medical students. Potential lecture topics may include career choices, state of the art medical technology, personal hygiene and university selection. The Mayo Clinic has been invited to several CRMSA Advisory Board meetings where discussions took place.

SUSD Earns $230,000 Rebate from APS Solutions for Business Program
District Will Also Save $149,000 a Year on Energy Bills

8/29/2007

Scottsdale Unified School District (SUSD) received a check for nearly $230,000 at the August 28th Governing Board meeting.

"This is a large amount of money and we're thrilled to receive it, but there are lots of other positives about this story, too," said Dr. David Peterson, SUSD assistant superintendent.

SUSD earned the rebate for recently-implemented energy efficiency projects throughout the District; this is done through the Arizona Public Service (APS) "Solutions for Business" Program. APS Program Manager Wayne Dobberpuhl said, "This is the second largest rebate earned so far by an APS customer participating in the APS Solutions for Business Program; it is the largest earned by a school district." He added that schools have been the largest participant in this APS program. Read more...

Bus Vandalism Update — Community Urged to Call Silent Witness with Leads

8/31/2007

On August 24^th, 79 of our school buses were vandalized at the SUSD Apache Bus Yard. The vandals broke all of the bus windshields and some additional windows and mirrors. Last April, buses at this same site were also vandalized in the same way.

We need your help! If you have any information about the vandalism, please call Silent Witness at 480-WITNESS (480-948-6377). There is a reward of $4,000 if the tip leads to the arrest of those responsible for the bus vandalism.

SUSD Receives Grants for AIMS Intervention/Dropout Prevention and Science Partnership

8/31/2007

Scottsdale Unified School District (SUSD) was recently awarded a new grant for Arizona's Instrument to Measure Standards (AIMS) Intervention and Dropout Prevention in the amount of $160,000. The award is for a one year period, and the District may reapply for funding annually for an additional two years. The grant will fund Project C.O.R.E. at Coronado High School, a freshman transition program for at-risk students.

Additionally, SUSD was awarded the Mathematics and Science Partnership Grant for K-6 Science Literacy in the amount of $376,107.39. The District is partnering with the Maricopa County Community College District (MCCCD) and a consortium of three other school districts (Fowler, Murphy and Dysart) for a year long professional development grant which is a spin off of our involvement with the Communications in Science Inquiry Project (CISIP) Grant that Supai Middle School is participating in this year for Science Literacy in Middle and High School programs.

SUSD Partners with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Arizona

8/24/2007

Scottsdale Unified School District is entering into a partnership development with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Arizona. Clothing bins will be placed at most schools starting the week of September 8th, and will be in place through the end of September. Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Arizona will pay each school $0.043 per pound of cloth collected and will give away $100 each month to the top-producing school.

Coronado Students Participate in College-prep Program

8/24/2007

Coronado High School seniors Luz Elena Fernandez, Sandra Zegarra, Lizzeth Alvarez, Araceli Guerrero, Lulia Rod, Alex Prado and Paulina Estrada were selected to participate in the Aguila Youth Leadership Institute.

Aguila Youth Leadership Institute is a college-prep program that targets high-achieving Latino students interested in attending college. Participants will learn how to research colleges, apply for admission, secure financial aid and scholarships and also learn the study skills that will help them survive in college. Parents commit to four bilingual training sessions that aim to equip them with the tools to help their kids succeed.

Participants gather monthly at Phoenix's Burton Barr Central Library for seminars and guest speakers, including guidance counselors, college professors, university recruiters, Latino leaders and teens who tell success stories.

Additionally, 10 Coronado juniors will participate in a Symposium hosted by Aguila Youth Leadership Institute at the Phoenix School of Law on Saturday, August 25. The students were nominated by their teachers and counselors as Latino/Latina students who have demonstrated the desire and potential to attend college. At this seminar, students learn why they should attend college, how to prepare for college, how to finance college and how to stay strong in college.

Bus Transportation Routes – Normal on Monday

8/24/2007

Bus repairs are underway! After 79 buses were vandalized early Friday morning at the Apache Bus Yard, SUSD’s Transportation team reacted quickly, working to replace all of the broken windshields and windows. They expect buses to be operational by Saturday and the entire fleet to be back in service on Monday morning. All SUSD buses will be servicing their regular routes at their normal times.

None of the sports and/or extracurricular activities scheduled for this weekend will be affected by this situation.

A letter was sent home to parents. To read more…

We want to thank our teachers, bus drivers, office staff, principals, administrators and especially our community for their superb efforts today. Thanks to everyone working together, absences were in the normal range and students didn't have to miss a day of learning. See you on Monday!

SUSD Buses Vandalized; Routes Affected

8/24/2007

Buses at one Scottsdale Unified School District (SUSD) bus yard were vandalized during the night. However, school will be in session today.

Bus routes affected include all elementary, middle and high schools for the Arcadia, Coronado and Saguaro complexes which include the following schools:

Arcadia complex: Arcadia HS, Ingleside MS, ANLC, Hopi ES and Tavan ES

Saguaro complex: Saguaro HS, Desert Canyon MS, Mohave MS, Desert Canyon ES, Kiva ES, Navajo ES and Pueblo ES

Coronado complex: Coronado HS, Supai MS, Sierra Vista Academy, Hohokam ES, Pima ES, Tonalea ES and Yavapai ES

Again, school will be in session today. We need the assistance of our community, so we are encouraging parents to drop their students off this morning and to pick them up after school. We also encourage parents and students to carpool.

Hopi's Special Visitor

8/22/2007

Councilman Greg Stanton made a special appearance at Hopi Elementary School on Tuesday. He read Officer Buckle and Gloria, written by Peggy Rathmann, to students in Laura Spackeen's and Hillary Hong's first grade classes.

Welcome Back!

8/13/2007

School bells rang Monday morning welcoming new and returning students, principals, assistant principals, teachers and support staff back to school.

Students at Chaparral and Saguaro high schools students were especially excited to receive their first glimpse of the new campuses.

Everyone is looking forward to another successful school year!

Attention Yavapai Parents and Guardians

8/13/2007

For Tuesday, August 14th, Yavapai Elementary School is scheduled for a normal school day. The situation with the cooling system has been addressed.

Thank you to our students, parents and staff yesterday for their patience and understanding. Your safety and comfort are always our top priority.

Yavapai and SUSD Administration

START SMART Walk 2007

8/10/2007

Scottsdale Mayor Manross, Paradise Valley Mayor Winkler, Congressman Harry Mitchell, city officials including council members, fire and police, members of the Scottsdale Charros and Dial CEO Brad Casper joined teachers, administrators, staff and Governing Board members from Scottsdale Unified School District (SUSD) to distribute door hangers to remind everyone that school starts on Monday, August 13th. SUSD employees and VIPs wore matching white T-shirts while delivering this important message. Residents they spoke with were happy to see SUSD out again this year.

Thanks to everyone who participated in the START SMART Walk. See you Monday for the first day of school!

SUSD and Scottsdale PD Remind Everyone About School Zone Safety

New online video illustrates the importance of slowing down and more
8/08/2007

The Scottsdale Police Department (SPD) teamed up with Scottsdale Unified School District (SUSD) staff and students to create a video

that illustrates the importance of slowing down in school zones.

START SMART August 13th!

8/07/2007

SUSD Welcomes Eight New Principals

8/07/2007

Scottsdale Unified School District (SUSD) is happy to welcome eight new principals this school year. The new principals’ assignments include six elementary schools, one middle school and one high school. Read more...

High School Orientation Dates

7/25/2007

High school orientation dates for Arcadia, Chaparral, Coronado, Desert Mountain and Saguaro are available. During the grade level assigned orientation, students will be able to obtain a student ID card, locker, books, schedules and parking permit (if applicable). For your child's school orientation dates and other important information, please view the schedule

Online Registration Available for SUSD High School Students

7/26/2007

Online registration is available for high school students who were registered in a Scottsdale Unified School District (SUSD) school at the end of last year. “This is the second year for this online registration process, but we’ve improved it in several ways,” said Kevin Price, Internal Auditor for SUSD. One of the major improvements was the payment process. Another improvement was utilizing customer feedback to make the process more user-friendly.

Families will be able to use the online registration process for the next few days, though the cut-off date for online registration varies according to each school.

Before you log on, make sure you have a few important pieces of information. To register online you will need to know the student's name, birthday and school ID number. Once you have this information handy, you can access the online registration system by visiting http://register.susd.org.

Registering online allows the user to input or update a number of items from the comfort of home including the student and parent contact information and medical record information. In addition, the user can also order yearbooks, buy parking passes, pay for student activity cards and pay class fees (when applicable).

Paying online also helps students avoid long lines. The student needs to print the receipt once the online registration process is complete and bring that receipt to pick up the items at school. Check with your school to find out when the student needs to go to school to pick up the items.

Remember to START SMART-school starts on Monday, August 13, 2007!

SUSD Outperforms the State on AIMS Tests

7/19/2007

This week, the Arizona Department of Education released the Arizona's Instrument to Measure Standards (AIMS) results from the 2006-2007 school year.

Once again, Scottsdale Unified School District outperformed the State in all content areas at all grade levels. The District's performance ranged from 7 percent (7th grade writing) to 19 percent (6th grade math) higher than the State's. Additionally, some individual schools scored exceptionally high on the test. At Cheyenne Traditional School, and Cochise and Copper Ridge elementary schools, achieved 100 percent of students met or exceeded the standard in writing (3rd, 4th and 6th grades). Many of SUSD's campuses had above 90 percent meeting or exceeding the standards in reading, writing and math.

At Pima and Tavan elementary schools, there were increases in performance of as much as 29 to 42 percent in writing.

District trends include a large increase in performance in 3rd and 5th grade writing.

To view the results, please visit www.susd.org/district/assess/testresults.cfm.

Open Enrollment Applications Still Being Accepted

7/19/2007

Did you know that parents outside of the SUSD boundaries may enroll their child in a Scottsdale Unified School District school? SUSD accepts Open Enrollment applications throughout the year.

Open Enrollment packets are available at all of our 33 schools, on our Web site at http://www.susd.org/district/administrativeservices/openenroll.cfm and in the lobby of the Education Center (SUSD District office located at 44th St. and Indianola just south of Indian School Road).

Here are just a few reasons why you should consider open enrollment for your children in Arizona’s Most Excelling School District:

Twenty-one “Excelling” schools.
More National Merit finalists than any other school district in Arizona.
SUSD students scores higher than state averages on both AIMS and Terra Nova tests at all grade levels and in all content areas.
SAT scores for our college-bound students were above the state and national averages in both English and math.
Scottsdale Unified School District offers specialized programs such as:
- Aviation Science Program at Coronado High School
- Nursing Program at Saguaro High School
- Culinary Program at Chaparral High School
- Award-winning Media Communications Program at Arcadia High School
- International Baccalaureate Program at Desert Mountain High School
- Copper Ridge Math and Science Academy for 9th and 10th grade students
- Foreign Language Immersion Program for first graders at Pueblo Elementary School
- Seven middle schools with Enrichment Courses that ease the transition from elementary school to middle school and then from middle school to high school
- Twenty elementary schools that lay a strong educational foundation

Once accepted to an SUSD school through the Open Enrollment process, parents will not need to fill out another application for the remainder of their child's public school career. Parents will need to provide their child's transportation to and from school. There are a limited number of our schools that are not accepting students through the Open Enrollment process because those schools are at full capacity. Please call the school in which you are interested in to check Open Enrollment availability.

Your child's special place to Excel is waiting in the Scottsdale Unified School District!

Back to School Checklist

7/19/2007

With only one week of summer vacation left, parents are getting their children geared up for the 2007-2008 school year by scheduling immunizations, eye exams and physicals and purchasing school supplies. With such busy schedules, it is easy to forget what day school actually starts – Monday, August 13th.

Click on the following links for more information about:

Calendar	District Newsletter
Immunizations	Schools Home Page
Boundary Maps	Registration
Start and Release Times	Open Enrollment
Kids Club After School Child Care

If you have any additional questions, please call the District office at 480-484-6100.

Three Principals Win Award

7/19/2007

On June 26, the Leading Change Institute and Tom Horne, superintendent of the Arizona Department of Education, recognized Margaret Serna, principal at Tavan Elementary School; Jeff Quisberg, principal at Anasazi Elementary School; and Anne-Marie Woolsey, principal at Arcadia High School, as outstanding instructional leaders based on achievement profiles, superintendent’s recommendation, survey feedback from constituents and a site visit by an AZ LEADS³team. They are in an exemplary group, representing the top 2 percent of principals in the State of Arizona. Read more in Community Connection.

Cool Off with SUSD at Mighty Mud Mania

7/19/2007

Getting dirty was never this much fun! For 32 years, the City of Scottsdale has been hosting the Mighty Mud Mania for Valley children. This year, Scottsdale Unified School District will have an informational booth at the Mighty Mud Mania event to remind parents to START SMART - August 13 and to answer questions about the District, schools, specialized programs and open enrollment.

Mighty Mud Mania Information: Date: Friday, July 27 Place: Chaparral Park, 5401 N. Hayden Road, Scottsdale
Activities: Age groups for the original Mighty Mud obstacle course are: 7-8, 9-10, 11- 12, 13-17. For children 6 and younger, there is a mini mud course and puddle pools for the tiny tots (Shirts and Shoes must be worn).
Registration: Begins at 8 a.m. at Chaparral Park. Children must be present to register, and a signed permission slip is required. Participation is free, but participants are asked to bring a non-perishable food item to benefit the Vista del Camino Food Bank. Permission slip, questions and answers and map
Volunteer: Get muddy or just help out, there many volunteer opportunities. If you wish to volunteer, please contact Terry Erickson at 480-312-2771.

For more information about the Mighty Mud Mania, please visit www.scottsdaleaz.gov/parks/mmm.asp

Clif McKenzie to Coach IAAF World Youth Track & Field in Czech Republic

7/3/2007

Clif McKenzie, executive director of exceptional customer experiences, was selected to represent the United States as the head coach for the 2007 International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF) World Youth Track & Field Championships, which will take place from July 11-15, 2007 in Ostrava, Czech Republic.

Fifteen hundred youth athletes will represent 189 countries from around the world. McKenzie will coach 32 elite high school athletes from states which include Arizona, California, Georgia, Iowa, Pennsylvania, Texas and Virginia.

“I’m honored, as a former elite runner, to have the opportunity to lead the U.S. team, and it is a great privilege to be selected as the head coach of the team,” said McKenzie.

In 2005, McKenzie was the assistant coach for the IAAF World Youth Track & Field Championships held in Marrakech, Morocco.

McKenzie has been coaching track and field for many years. Long after being an elite athlete, he still competes at a top level. McKenzie is the president of the United States Track & Field of Arizona. In addition, he is the owner of a track club – Arizona Elite and coaches 30 youths.

McKenzie was an All American at Arizona State University and was also inducted to the Arizona State university Hall of Fame and the Wall of Fame at the University of Pennsylvania where the team he was on broke the collegiate record for the 1600 meter relay. He has served on four United States teams as a runner in the 400 meter. McKenzie was honored by being an Olympic Torch Bearer representing Arizona. McKenzie earned a Bachelors of Arts in education, a Masters in administration from Arizona State University and a Superintendent’s Certificate from the University of Phoenix.

Cherokee Teacher Wins Award

7/3/2007

Bronwyn Milhaven, a teacher at Cherokee Elementary, won the Carol Gray Award for outstanding success in education. The Carol Gray Award is presented to special education teachers who contribute to the lives of children with autism/Asperger's Syndrome above and beyond the necessary, reaching out to help the impossible become possible. Carol Gray, for whom the award is named, is one of the outstanding special education teachers in America, who has dedicated more than 25 years of her life to children with autism and developed programs that are in use all over the world.

Milhaven also received a $300 check from Future Horizons, the world leader in autism and Asperger's resources.

The Autism Society of America's (ASA) 2007 National Conference will be held July 11-14 at the Westin Kierland Resort and Spa in Phoenix. The theme, Together a Brighter Tomorrow, reflects that it takes the perspectives of all those affected by autism — individuals, families, professionals and friends — to achieve success. During this conference, ASA will bring together experts from various disciplines with creative ideas and energy to address the diverse challenges individuals with autism and their families face. For more information on the conference, please visit www.autism-society.org

Laguna Selected as National Schools of Character Promising Practices

7/3/2007

Laguna Elementary School recently received an award for promising Practices in the National Schools of Character component of the Character Education Partnership (CEP). The school's program, Operation Eagle, will serve as a model for others to possibly replicate and integrate into their character education initiatives. Laguna will be presented an award at the CEP National Forum on Character Counts. The school’s practices will be listed in the 2007 National Schools Character book and feature Laguna’s practices on the CEP Web site, www.character.org

.

Every year, CEP names 10 public and private schools and districts (K-12) as National Schools of Character (NSOC) for their outstanding work in character education. Winning schools and districts receive a $20,000 award, half of which is used for outreach to other schools and districts.

The CEP National Forum on Character Education will be held November 1-3 at the Hyatt Regency in Arlington, Va.

Singapore Educators Visit Scottsdale

7/3/2007

Cecilia Ng, principal of Lianhua Primary School, and Shanthi Govindan, principal of East Coast Primary School, made a special visit to Scottsdale Unified School District and to Arizona State University 's Sky Song last week.

Those who met with the educators were Cathy Rivera, executive director of elementary schools and excelling teaching & learning; John Francois, principal at Cochise Elementary School; Dr. Michael Helminski, principal at Kiva Elementary School; Dr. Gregory Reid, principal at Sequoya Elementary School; and Clif McKenzie, executive director of exceptional customer experiences. During the meeting, SUSD representatives answered many interesting questions about the challenges of being an “excelling” school district and what SUSD does to help lower achieving schools.

Ng and Govindan will attend the Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development (ASCD) conference in Utah.

Mountainside NJHS Students Win National History Day Contest

7/3/2007

Mackenzie Hagan and Mitali Kini, eighth grade students at Mountainside Middle School, won third place for their group exhibit about the Hoover Dam at the National History Day contest held at the University of Maryland on June 10-14. In April, the girls won first place in the Arizona state contest which advanced them to the National event.

The theme for this year’s contest was Triumph and Tragedy in History. Mackenzie and Mitali built a model of the dam, brought artifacts, created a DVD with an interview with Lee Timwell, the last surviving person who worked on the dam, and created a tri-fold informational board for the competition. All entries were judged on the following criteria: historical quality, clarity of presentation, adherence to theme and evaluation forms and teacher rubrics. The team received bronze medals and $250.

Mackenzie is the president of the National Junior Honor Society (NJHS), Mitali is vice president of the organization, and their NJHS advisor is Lois Sugar, gifted specialist at Mountainside. This project was part of the NJHS coursework. Mackenzie and Mitali went to Boulder City, Colo. to interview Mr. Timwell, toured the Hoover Dam and museum and spent hours researching the archives at the Arizona State Capital. Their efforts were well-rewarded. Congratulations!

For more information about National History Day, please visit: www.nhd.org/index.htm.