Spotlight Podcast
SUSD Spotlight Podcast
SUSD is full of stars and each week we will “Spotlight” those people and programs making a difference.
This exciting venture is dedicated to bringing you inspiring human interest stories, celebrating the successes of our incredible students and staff, highlighting thriving community partnerships, and showcasing the lasting impact of our alumni.
"Spotlight" aims to capture the essence of the Scottsdale Unified School District, by sharing the stories that make our community unique.
Here's what you can expect from "Spotlight":
- Human Interest Stories:
Dive into compelling narratives that showcase the resilience, determination, and achievements of individuals within our district.
- Staff and Student Success:
Hear firsthand accounts of the accomplishments and milestones reached by our outstanding staff and students, both in and outside the classroom.
- Community Partnerships:
Explore dynamic collaborations that strengthen our ties with the community, fostering an environment where everyone plays a role in the success of our students.
- Legacy of Success:
Learn about the journeys of our distinguished alumni who continue to make a positive impact in our community and the lives of current students.
Episodes
In this episode, Copper Ridge Principal Brittany Walker and Assistant Superintendent Lea Mitchell reveal how the Scottsdale Unified PreK-8 campus is rolling out an all honors curriculum for sixth and seventh graders, setting the stage for eighth grade the following year. They unpack the data-driven strategy behind the shift, share how WIN advisory periods, AVID practices, and a strong gifted-cluster model give every student the support they need, and explain why high expectations paired with high support drive achievement.
The conversation also spotlights the vibrant culture that makes Copper Ridge unique: a uniform school community, long-tenured teachers, and signature events like the annual Art and Garden Walk where student performers showcase band, strings, and choir alongside a campus garden cared for by fifth graders. Listeners will hear how the CRS Way (Character, Responsibility, Safety) guides everything from daily routines to big-picture goals, ensuring academics, wellness, and community spirit grow together at Copper Ridge School.
This episode of SUSD Spotlight steps inside the newly revamped Coronado Community Closet, where Counselor Arielle Schindler and School Resource Officer Michelle Mitchell describe how a room full of unsorted donation bags evolved into a free, student-run boutique open to every family in Scottsdale Unified. They explain the partnership with the Scottsdale Police Department Foundation, the hands-on involvement of students who designed the closet’s new logo and layout, and the ongoing remodel that now features dressing rooms, a checkout station, and brand-new flooring. Listeners will hear how the closet doubles as the district’s prom-wear hub, accepts everything from infant clothes to business attire, and even hosts visits from Captain, Coronado’s crisis canine, who helps create a welcoming atmosphere. The conversation highlights how dignity, community service, and real-world skills grow side by side when schools, students, and law enforcement work together.
In this episode of SUSD Spotlight, we learn about Kiva Elementary’s unique community and meaningful opportunities for students by chatting with Principal Matt Gromek and Kiva alum Trey Chappell of College X-ing. Listen to learn about the strong school culture and lasting relationships that helped inspired the Kiva to College scholarship, a program that supports Kiva alum on their path to higher education in high school. We also reflect on Kiva’s rebuild, its thriving community, and how students past and present are helping shape the school’s future.
In this episode of SUSD Spotlight, we talk all things Tavan Elementary with Principal Julie Ballard and third-grade teacher Tanner Bollman to explore how Innovation Grants are bringing hands-on, student-centered projects to life. From hydroponic gardens to a student-designed sound garden, we learn how creative learning environments are helping students grow, literally and figuratively. Julie and Tanner also share what makes Tavan such a unique and connected school community, how kindness and AVID practices shape their campus culture, and why innovation at Tavan is rooted in student voice and inclusive learning. Plus, we hear about hatching chicks, gifted offerings, and why teaching kindness remains a 20+ year tradition on campus.
Join us on location at Hohokam Elementary School for a special celebration of their prestigious 2025 Arizona Educational Foundation A+ School of Excellence designation. Principal Chuck Rantala reflects on his 12-year tenure at Hohokam, sharing insights into the school's journey to this remarkable achievement, while incoming Principal Maggie Finan discusses her vision for the future and continuing the school's tradition of excellence. Hear from students about what makes their school special. Featuring lively highlights from the celebration itself and heartfelt stories from educators who have inspired leadership and community spirit, this episode captures the pride and optimism at the heart of Hohokam's vibrant school community.
In this episode of SUSD Spotlight, we explore Core Knowledge Language Arts (CKLA), Scottsdale Unified School District’s new elementary literacy curriculum. Join Diane Murphy, Elementary Language Arts Curriculum Specialist, first-grade teacher Sheena Byerley (Sequoya Elementary), and fourth-grade teacher Rebecca Bentivegna (Echo Canyon School) as they share their experiences implementing CKLA. With engaging cross-curricular lessons on ancient civilizations and inventive thinking, hear how CKLA is reshaping literacy instruction in Scottsdale schools. Our guests discuss the science behind effective reading strategies, success stories, and practical tips for parents to support literacy at home
In this 50th episode of SUSD Spotlight, we sit down with Cocopah Middle School’s Principal Joe Olney and Assistant Principal Kristina Ambri to explore what makes Cocopah a standout in the Chaparral Learning Community. From its vibrant student culture to its recent recognition as a Blue Zones Project Approved School, Cocopah is leading the way in student wellness, sustainability, and community connection. This duo shares how Cocopah has become a hub of connection, growth, and student leadership. Hear how the school’s recent Blue Zones recognition is just one example of its commitment to whole-child wellness, and why they believe Cocopah truly has something for everyone.
In this special on-location episode of SUSD Spotlight, Dr. Paula Slamowitz invites us to Ingleside Middle School to speak with students about two standout programs: Forensic Science and Video Production! Recorded inside the student-run INN Studio, this episode gives some Ingleside middle schoolers the mic, literally, as they share how these hands-on electives are helping them explore storytelling, science, and real-world problem solving. Hear how students are gaining confidence, collaborating on news broadcasts, and applying investigative thinking, all before high school!
In this episode of SUSD Spotlight, we feature Redfield Elementary and meet 5th grader and BizTown Mayor Matthias Brentano. Principal Amanda Rand joins us to share how Redfield’s long-standing partnership with Junior Achievement’s BizTown prepares students with real-world skills in economics, entrepreneurship, and civic responsibility. Together, they walk us through what it takes to become the Mayor of BizTown, the impact of Redfield’s Comprehensive Gifted Program, and how the school fosters leadership through programs like PALS and student council. It’s a celebration of hands-on learning, inclusive community, and the incredible potential of SUSD students.
In this episode of SUSD Spotlight, we’re joined by Arcadia High School CTE teacher Shelley Alfieri-Brown and junior Easton Pagano to explore the dynamic engineering and coding pathways available to students. Shelley shares how she’s transformed the program over just a few years, offering real-world learning through hands-on projects, field trips, and industry certifications. Easton gives us a student’s perspective on why these courses have been the most engaging part of his high school experience, how engineering and coding connect to his career goals, and why he thinks Arcadia stands out among schools.