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Spotlight Podcast

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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. 

Episodes

CTE MONTH: Nursing at Saguaro

CTE Month continues as we’re joined by Victoria Pacheco, CTE and Nursing Services Coordinator at Saguaro High School, along with Saguaro senior Ella Matz. Together they give us an inside look at the CTE Nursing Services program at Saguaro High School, a hands-on and immersive pathway that prepares students for real-world health care careers. From industry certifications to clinical experiences and everything in between, Victoria and Ella share how this program opens doors for students and helps shape the next generation of health care professionals.

CTE MONTH: Finance at Chaparral

CTE Month continues as we shine a spotlight on the Finance CTE program at Chaparral High School. In this episode, we’re joined by teacher Mason Renfer and student Cannon Rierson to explore how the program prepares students to confidently manage their own finances and navigate the business world.

From personal finance and investing to economics and the impact of global companies, students build real-world skills in money management, credit, and smart spending. The conversation also highlights how participation in DECA helps students take their learning to the next level through competition and leadership experiences.

Tune in to learn how Chaparral’s Finance CTE program is preparing students for success in college, careers, and beyond.

CTE MONTH: Biotechnology at Saguaro

The latest episode of the SUSD Spotlight podcast is live, and we’re kicking off CTE Month with a spotlight on the Biotechnology CTE program at Saguaro High School.

Teacher Liz Bond and student Jacob Smith join us to share what it’s like to learn science through hands-on, real world lab experiences.

From DNA extraction and advanced biotech techniques to earning college credit and working toward an industry-recognized credential, this signature program is preparing students for college, careers, and exciting opportunities in a fast growing field.

SAB: Students Interviewing Students

In this student-led edition of the SUSD Spotlight podcast, members of the Student Advisory Board (SAB) share how they serve their school communities, collaborate with district leadership, and help shape the student experience across SUSD.

Hosted by SAB President Fiona Riley, a senior from Saguaro High School, this episode also features President-Elect Matthew Lair, a junior from Desert Mountain High School, and Aashni Sahai, a junior from Saguaro High School. 

Tune in for thoughtful conversation, real problem-solving, and powerful student perspectives you won’t want to miss.

Youth Advocacy for Animals

In this episode of the SUSD Spotlight Podcast, we’re joined by Scottsdale Online Learning student Jordan Sucato and principal Nick Noonan. Jordan is the founder of Laws for Paws LLC, a youth-led nonprofit that raises awareness about the malpractice and mistreatment of animals nationwide. 

Last year, her organization raised $18,000 for animal welfare in Maricopa County. She also authored legislation to ban the sale of animal-tested cosmetics in Arizona, partnering with Senator John Kavanagh and the Animal Defense League to bring the bill to life. 

Jordan is also a recipient of PETA’s Hero to Animals Award and was named Student of the Month by the Arizona Board of Education earlier this school year.

Mohave Middle School Math and Science Academy

In this episode of the SUSD Spotlight Podcast, we’re joined by Paul Ferrero and Michael Twilling to talk about the Mohave Middle School Math and Science Academy.

The program is designed to ignite a passion for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics in our students. This specialized program combines rigorous academics with real-world problem-solving to challenge students and prepare them for high school and beyond.

It is also a recipient of the 2025–26 SUSD Innovation Startup Grants, which will help fund essential tools and materials to support hands-on, interdisciplinary STEM projects that engage all learners as the project expands the school's Innovation Center into a school-wide hub where students design, build, and collaborate across subjects.

2025 State Champion Chaparral Girls Golf
In this episode of the SUSD Spotlight Podcast, we’re celebrating an incredible accomplishment in our district athletics as we sit down with members of the 2025 State Champion Chaparral High School girls golf team. Joining us are standout players Isabel Helgemoe and Maryn Decreamer, whose performances, leadership, and dedication helped secure the state title and continue Chaparral’s tradition of excellence. We’ll talk about the journey to the championship, the teamwork behind their success, and what's next. 
Thriving with Type 1 Diabetes

In this episode of the SUSD Spotlight Podcast, we’re joined by Cherokee Elementary student Logan Treadwell and her mom, Bobbi, to share a journey that has touched countless lives in our community.

Since her Type 1 diabetes diagnosis, Logan has become a passionate advocate, educator, and source of inspiration for everyone affected by the disease. Together, Logan and Bobbi reflect on the challenges and triumphs that have shaped their path, and highlight Logan’s remarkable accomplishments, including her role as a keynote speaker at this year’s Breakthrough T1D Gala.  

DMHS Student Shapes New Law

In this episode of the SUSD Spotlight Podcast, we’re highlighting the substantial impact of Desert Mountain High School junior Siddhanth Gupta.

He successfully spearheaded the passage of an ordinance prohibiting the use of electronic cigarettes and vaping devices in public areas.

The ordinance was unanimously adopted by the Scottsdale City Council after more than a year of collaboration with council members, city staff, and leading public health organizations (including the American Cancer Society, the American Heart Association, and the American Lung Association).

SUSD Education Expo 2025

In this episode of the SUSD Spotlight Podcast, we’re joined by Assistant Superintendent for Educational Services Lea Mitchell to talk about the second annual SUSD Education Expo, taking place on Wednesday, November 5 from 5:00 pm - 8:00 pm at Saguaro High School!

Learn how the Expo offers families from across the district and the Valley a one-stop opportunity to explore all SUSD schools and their specialized programs in a single location!

What We Cover:

  • 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.

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