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westvalleyview.com | July 18, 2018
Treasures 4 Teachers moves into Goodyear Ballpark By Katherine Decker
GUNNING .......... 2 LESD continues successes
RUNYAN ............. 3 Canyon View coming soon
MORRIS .............. 6 New Union Elementary supt.
When Barbara Blalock visited a second-grade classroom in the early 2000s, she saw something that troubled her: a student trading a shoe for a pencil. The teacher explained that she did not have enough pencils and by using this method, she knew the students would return pencils. That inspired her to start the nonprofit Treasures 4 Teachers, which is hosting a pop-up shop at Goodyear Ballpark that offers school material, resources and training for Arizona educators. Founded in 2004, the “creative reuse center” works with community businesses, nonprofit agencies and individuals to collect new and reusable resources for teachers. “Teaching is the one profession that teaches all others,” Blalock said. “Where would we be if we didn’t have a teacher to educate and inspire us?” The organization grew from a two-car garage to a 12,000-square-foot warehouse full of resources in Tempe. “Treasures 4 Teachers has always been available to educators all over the state, but we often hear that many cannot access the supplies they need because of the long commute” Blalock said. The city of Goodyear has offered a 2,000-square-foot retail space at the Goodyear Ballpark Team Shop, 1933 Ballpark Way, through August 1 for the pop-up resource center. “As mayor of Goodyear, I am proud to
Treasures 4 Teachers Executive Director Barbara Blalock and T4T Pop Up Shop Manager Andrea Ellingboe support teachers with low-cost and free supplies for their classrooms. (Photo courtesy Treasures 4 Teachers)
support our teachers and provide them with the resources they need,” Goodyear Mayor Georgia Lord said. “We’ve partnered with the local schools on programs like Building Blocks and school safety. This is just another way the city can lend a hand to help these individuals who are committed to teaching our children.” Law firm Steptoe & Johnson LLP, a longtime supporter of T4T, donated the membership fee for the first 500 teachers who visited the shop with proof of educator status. The membership allows
teachers unlimited shopping. The cost to enter is $10. The fee may also be applied toward the purchase of a full annual membership, which is normally $35, at T4T. The organization hopes to open a permanent West Valley spot soon. “At T4T, we want people to understand we all take a part in making sure our students are educated,” said Andrea Ellingboe, T4T director. “We are a community coming together to support students. Everyone knows what’s available and nobody has to scavenge for a pencil.”
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WEST VALLEY VIEW NEWS | JULY 18, 2018
Community support bolsters education By Jodi Gunning Litchfield Elementary School District superintendent This time last year I was Litchfield Elementary School District’s newly appointed superintendent, focusing on the maintenance and operations override that would fund pay increases to attract and retain talented teachers and staff. Especially in the face of a teacher shortage, we must guard against interruption of excellence in education. Our students and community had much at stake, so I was overjoyed when our stakeholders approved the override. Shortly thereafter, the state of Arizona unexpectedly increased education funding, and today we are thankful to be in the unique position of offering teachers and staff some of the highest pay increases that Arizona educators have seen in more than a decade. Thanks to this demonstration of local and statewide support, the governing board approved historic teacher and staff pay increases ranging from 5 percent to 18 percent, depending on
Lynkoln Farling reads to her mom, Charity, who is the Western Sky Middle School office manager. Eight-year-old Lynkoln is going into the fourth grade. (Photo by Nicholas Lyle Photography)
position, experience and performance. Teachers and staff are profoundly grateful for this generous display
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of respect that directly influenced Litchfield’s impressive teacher retention rate of 82 percent. That’s a staggering number of teachers who chose to recommit to the district, especially considering the Morrison Institute for Public Policy study that asserts 42 percent of Arizona teachers hired in 2013 left the profession within three years. On the heels of this historic incentive and as we ramp up for the first day of
school on August 6, our team of 1,300 is eager to welcome more than 11,000 students to 15 schools in four cities (Avondale, Buckeye, Goodyear and Litchfield Park). They are bolstered by local voters and state leaders who sent a thrilling reminder that we live in a place that values public education and the professionals who develop tomorrow’s workforce. When it comes to academic achievement, Litchfield district has long been a statewide leader. The district has not one but two National Blue Ribbon Schools, including Palm Valley Elementary in 2017. It also has nine schools that have been named A+ Schools of Excellence, including Verrado Elementary and Verrado Middle schools in 2017. National board-certified teachers abound in Litchfield, as well as award-winning academic and enrichment programs. Fiscally conservative strategies consistently position us among the lowest administrative costs in Arizona. Litchfield sets the bar high when it comes to special education services, strong parent organizations, and farmto-table food options in state-of-theart kitchens. We give children a wellrounded education in a caring school family, and our governing board and district leaders partner as responsible stewards of public funds. In return, we offer our community strong schools that protect home values, attract new business to our growing region, and enhance our overall quality of life. Indeed, my first year has been a rewarding challenge and I remain grateful for the opportunity to serve. On behalf of Litchfield’s talented and passionate staff, we thank the community for its consistent support, and pledge our commitment to student achievement and overall excellence. Jodi Gunning is superintendent of the Litchfield Elementary School District. (Photo courtesy Litchfield Elementary School District)
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WEST VALLEY VIEW NEWS | JULY 18, 2018
Agua Fria welcomes new high school, thanks supporters
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By Dennis Runyan
Agua Fria Union High School District superintendent The Agua Fria Union High School District is opening the school house doors for its 63rd year of operation during the 201819 school year. Serving more than 8,000 students in grades 9 through 12, the district has Agua Fria Union High School District will open its newest high school, View, for the 2018-19 school year. (Photo courtesy Agua Fria been continu- Canyon Union High School District) ously expanding in the West Valley for 20 years. This program, International Baccalaureate fall, the district welcomes its fifth high Diploma and Ag Sciences to name just school, Canyon View High School. a few. Through our relationship with The new comprehensive public high WestMec, the district offers 24 career school will welcome 450 freshmen to pathway certified programs in various classes starting this August. Other high technical and professional fields. schools in the district include Agua Thanks to the generous support of Fria High School, Millennium High local communities including Avondale, school, Desert Edge High School and Goodyear and Buckeye, taxpayers in the Verrado High School. The district also district have been supportive in passing houses blended curriculum supports two overrides in the past 10 years, and for each high school and some online two bonds since 2012. This level of learning supports through Coldwater business and community support has Academy, which assists approximately allowed the schools to upgrade their 400 students coming from their home available learning technology, provide campuses. quality campus resources, and to help Each school offers accredited courses support competitive teacher salaries. in the core areas of math, science, As we work toward the future the Agua language arts and social sciences. The Fria Union District remains committed core classes also include advanced to their partnerships with the University placement and some dual enrollment of Arizona, Arizona State University, opportunities with EMCC. In addition, Northern Arizona and Grand Canyon each campus has signature programs University for development of a highlike the Air Force Junior Cadet quality future workforce for Arizona.
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www. westvalleyview .com The latest breaking news and top local stories in the West Valley!
AGUA FRIA Ready AGUA FRIA AllStudents StudentsCollege and Career College and CareerReady All 4UNION BACK TO SCHOOLDISTRICT HIGH SCHOOL DISTRICT UNION HIGH SCHOOL
Verrado High School Verrado High School Millennium High School Millennium High School 623.932.7500 623.932.7500 20050 West Indian School Rd. 20050 West Indian School Rd. 14802 West Wigwam Blvd.VIEW 14802 West Wigwam Blvd. | JULY 18, 2018 WEST VALLEY NEWS Verrado High School Verrado High School Desert Edge High School Goodyear, AZ 85395 Desert Edge High School Goodyear, AZ 85395 Buckeye, AZ 85396 Buckeye, AZ 85396 Millennium High School Millennium High School 20050 West Indian School Rd. Agua Fria High School 20050 West Indian School Rd. Agua Fria High School 15778 West Yuma Road 15778 West Yuma Road 623.932.7201 623.932.7201 530 East Riley Drive 530 East Riley Drive 623.932.7400 14802 West Wigwam Blvd. 623.932.7400 14802 West Wigwam Blvd. 623.932.7301 623.932.7301
Liberty Elementary teacher Buckeye, AZ 85396 Buckeye, AZ 85396 623.932.7400 623.932.7400 Canyon View High School Canyon View High School Agua Fria Union High Schools have been serving the west valley since 1955. wins presidential award Agua Fria Union High Schools have been serving the west valley since 1955. All Students College and Career Ready All Students College and Career Ready 6024 N. Perryville Road, 6024 N. Perryville Road,
AGUA FRIA AGUA FRIA
AllStudents StudentsCollege and Career College and CareerReady Ready All
Goodyear, AZ 85338 Goodyear, AZ 85338
Avondale, AZ 85323 Avondale, AZ 85323 623.932.7500 623.932.7500 623.932.7301 623.932.7301
Goodyear, AZ 85395 Goodyear, AZ 85395 Verrado High School Verrado High School 623.932.7201 623.932.7201 Desert Edge High School Desert Edge High School Millennium High School 20050 West Indian School Rd. Millennium High School 20050 West Indian School Rd. 15778 West Yuma Road 15778 West Yuma Road 14802 West Wigwam Blvd. 14802 West Wigwam Blvd. Goodyear, AZ 85338 Goodyear, AZ 85338 Buckeye, AZ 85396 Buckeye, AZ 85396 Canyon View High School Canyon View High School Verrado High School Agua Fria Union High Schools have been serving the west valley since 1955. 623.932.7500 Verrado High School Agua Fria Union High Schools have been serving the west valley since 1955. 623.932.7500 By Lauren Serrato Goodyear, AZ 85395 Goodyear, AZ 85395 UNION HIGH SCHOOL DISTRICT Waddell, Arizona 85355 623.932.7400 UNION HIGH SCHOOL DISTRICT Waddell, Arizona 85355 623.932.7400 We are proud to announce the opening of our fiAh high school, Canyon View. This “High Tech 623.932.7201 We are proud to announce the opening of our fiAh high school, Canyon 623.932.7201 View. This “High Tech 20050 West Indian School Rd. 20050 West Indian School Rd. 6024 N. Perryville Road, 6024 N. Perryville Road,
UNION HIGH SCHOOL DISTRICT UNION HIGH SCHOOL DISTRICT
AGUAFRIA FRIA AGUA
Students College and Career Ready AllAll Students College and Career Ready
Millennium High School Millennium High School 14802 West Wigwam Blvd. 14802 West Wigwam Blvd. Goodyear, AZ 85395 Goodyear, AZ 85395 Verrado High School Verrado High School 623.932.7201 623.932.7201
623.932.7600 623.932.7600 Buckeye, AZ 85396 Buckeye, AZ 85396 School” isa avirtual virtual learning environment where students willbe be prepared for the“High ever changing School” isproud learning environment students will prepared for the ever changing Waddell, Arizona 85355 Waddell, Arizona 85355 We areproud announce the openingofofwhere ourfiAh fiAh highschool, school, Canyon View.This This “High Tech We are totoannounce the opening our high Canyon View. Tech Canyon View High School Canyon View High School Agua Fria Union High Schools have been serving the west valley since 1955. Agua Fria Union High Schools have been serving the west valley since 1955. 623.932.7400 623.932.7400 20050 West Indian School Rd. 20050 West Indian School Rd. careers 623.932.7600 careers of the future. 623.932.7600 School” isa avirtual virtuallearning learningenvironment environmentwhere wherestudents studentswill willbebeprepared for prepared for theever changing ever changing School” isof the future. the 6024 N. Perryville Road, 6024 N. Perryville Road, Buckeye, AZ 85396 Verrado HSigh School Buckeye, AZ 85396 Verrado High chool Coldwater Academy Coldwater Academy Canyon View is now enrolling freshman for the fall 2018. Canyon View is now enrolling freshman for the fall 2018. 20050 West Indian School Rd. Waddell, Arizona 85355 20050 West Indian School Rd. Waddell, Arizona 85355 careers of the future. Weare areproud proud announcethe theopening opening ourfiAh fiAhhigh highschool, school, CanyonView. View.This This “High Tech 623.932.7400 careers of the future. We totoannounce ofofour Canyon “High Tech 623.932.7400 Canyon View High School Canyon View High School Agua Fria Union High Schools have been serving the west valley since 1955. Agua Fria Union High Schools have been serving the west valley since 1955. Buckeye, AZ 85396 Buckeye, AZ 85396 750 E. Riley Dr. 750 E. Riley Dr. 623.932.7600 Coldwater Academy 623.932.7600 Coldwater Academy 623.932.7400 School”is isa virtual a virtuallearning learningenvironment environment wherestudents studentswill will prepared forthe theever changing ever changing 623.932.7400 School” where bebeprepared for 6024 N. Perryville Road, 6024 N. Perryville Road, Canyon View is now enrolling freshman for the fall 2018. Canyon View is now enrolling freshman for the fall 2018. Canyon View High School Canyon View High School Avondale,AZAZ85323 85323 Agua Fria Union High Schools have been serving the west valley since 1955! Avondale, Agua Fria Union High Schools have been serving the west valley since 1955! 750 E. Riley Dr. 750 E. Riley Dr. careers of the future. Agua Fria Union School District has five comprehensive high schools offering rich academics Waddell, Arizona 85355 careers of the future. Agua Fria Union School District has five comprehensive high schools offering rich academics Waddell, Arizona 85355 Canyon View High School Agua Fria Union High Schools have been serving the west valley since 1955. Canyon View High School We areproud proud announce theopening openingofofour ourfiAh fiAhhigh highschool, school,Canyon CanyonView. View.This This“High “High Tech Agua Fria Union High Schools have been serving the west valley since 1955. We are totoannounce the Tech 6024 N. Perryville Road, 6024 N. Perryville Road, 6024 N. Perryville Road, 6024 N. Perryville Road, 623.932.7106 Coldwater Academy 623.932.7106 We are proud to announce the opening of our fifth high school, Canyon Coldwater Academy We are proud to announce the opening offiAh our fifth high school, Canyon 623.932.7600 Avondale, 85323 Canyon View is now enrolling freshman for the fall 2018. Waddell, rizona 85355 623.932.7600 Avondale, AZAZ85323 Canyon View is now enrolling freshman for the fall 2018. Waddell, rizona 85355 We are to announce the opening our fiAh high school, Canyon View. This “High Tech School” is a InternaOonal Baccalaureate, Advance Placement courses and dual enrollment. virtual learning environment where students will beprepared for prepared for theever changing ever changing We are proud to announce theare opening of of our high Canyon View. This “High Tech School” is aproud virtual learning environment where students will be the Waddell, Arizona 8A5355 Waddell, Arizona 8A5355 including, InternaOonal Baccalaureate, Advance Placement courses and dual enrollment. proud to announce the opening ofschool, our fiAh high school, Canyon View. This “High Tech including, Agua Fria Union School District has five comprehensive high schools offering rich academics WeWe are proud to announce the opening of our fiAh high school, Canyon View. This “High Tech Agua Fria Union School District has five comprehensive high schools offering rich academics 750 E. Riley Dr. 750 E. Riley Dr. View. This “High Tech School” is a virtual learning environment where stu623.932.7600 623.932.7600 View. 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The district also provides opportuniOes for students to parOcipate in a mulOtude of programs: The district also provides opportuniOes for students to mulOtude of programs: Agua Fria Union School District has five comprehensive high schools offering rich academics Coldwater Academy Coldwater Academy Agua Fria Union School District has five comprehensive high schools offering rich academics Coldwater Academy Coldwater Academy Canyon View is now enrolling freshman for the fall 2018. Canyon View is now enrolling freshman for the fall 2018. Canyon View is now enrolling freshman for the fall 2018. Canyon View is now enrolling freshman for the fall 2018. Coldwater Academy 623.932.7106 Coldwater Academy 750 E. Riley Dr. Canyon View is now enrolling freshman for the fall 2018. 623.932.7106 750 E. Riley Dr. Canyon View is now enrolling freshman for the fall 2018. Canyon View now enrolling freshmen the 2018. Canyon View is is now enrolling freshmen forfor the fallfall 2018. ENROLLNOW NOW ENROLL 750 E. Riley Dr. 750 E. Riley Dr. including, InternaOonal Baccalaureate, Advance Placement courses and dual enrollment. Avondale, AZ 85323ofof including, InternaOonal Baccalaureate, Advance Placement courses and dual enrollment. 750 E. Riley Dr. The district also provides opportuniOes for students to parOcipate in a mulOtude programs: Avondale, AZ 85323 750 E. Riley Dr. The district also provides opportuniOes for students to parOcipate in a mulOtude programs: Agua Fria Union School District has five comprehensive high schools offering rich academics Agua Fria Union School District has five comprehensive high schools offering rich academics Coldwater Academy is a non-‐tradiOonal program serving Junior and Senior students of Agua 623.932.7106 Coldwater Academy is a non-‐tradiOonal program serving Junior and Senior students of Agua 623.932.7106 Agua Fria Union High School District has five comprehensive high schools Avondale, 85323 Avondale, 85323 Avondale, Agua Fria Union High School District has five comprehensive high schools including, InternaOonal Baccalaureate, Advance Placement courses and dual enrollment. AZAZ 85323 Avondale, AZAZ 85323 including, InternaOonal Baccalaureate, Advance Placement courses and dual enrollment. ENROLLNOW NOW Agua Fria Union School District has five comprehensive high schools offering rich academics ENROLL Agua Fria Union School District has five comprehensive high schools offering rich academics Agua Fria Union School District has five comprehensive high schools offering rich academics Agua Fria Union School District has five comprehensive high schools offering rich academics The district also provides opportuniOes for students to parOcipate in a mulOtudeofofprograms: programs: The district also provides opportuniOes for students to parOcipate in a mulOtude 623.932.7106 623.932.7106 The district also provides opportuniOes for students to parOcipate in a mulOtude of programs: The district also provides opportuniOes for students to parOcipate in a mulOtude of programs: offering rich academics including, International Baccalaureate, 623.932.7106 Fria Union High School District. offering richInternaOonal Baccalaureate, Advance Placement courses and dual enrollment. academics including, International Baccalaureate, 623.932.7106 Coldwater Academy is a non-‐tradiOonal program serving Junior and Senior students of Agua Fria Union High School District. Coldwater Academy is a non-‐tradiOonal program serving Junior and Senior students of Agua including, InternaOonal Baccalaureate, Advance Placement courses and dual enrollment. including, ENROLL NOW ENROLLNOW NOW ENROLL NOW ENROLL including,InternaOonal Baccalaureate, Advance Placement courses and dual enrollment. InternaOonal Baccalaureate, Advance Placement courses and dual enrollment. including, Academy is a non-‐tradiOonal program serving Junior and Senior students of Agua Coldwater Academy is a non-‐tradiOonal program serving Junior and Senior students of Agua Advance Placement courses and dual enrollment. Advance Placement courses and dual enrollment. 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The district also provides opportunities for students participate The district also provides opportunities for students toto participate inin a a programs: School starts School starts Aug. 6 Coldwater Academy isNa$onally a non-‐tradiOonal program serving Junior and Senior students of Agua for Freshman Aug. 6 Coldwater Academy is a non-‐tradiOonal program serving Junior and Senior students of Agua Na$onally Recognized Career and Technical Educa$on programs: Aug. 6 for Freshman Aug. 6 Na$onally Recognized Career and Technical Educa$on for Freshman Na$onally Recognized Career Technical Educa$on programs: ENROLL NOW Recognized Career andand Technical Educa$on programs: ENROLL NOW School starts School starts multitude of programs: multitude of programs: Computer Programming only Air Force Junior ROTC th Fria Union High School District. Computer Programming only Air Force Junior ROTC th Fria Union High School District. Coldwater Academy is a non-‐tradiOonal program serving Junior and Senior students of Agua Coldwater Academy is a non-‐tradiOonal program serving Junior and Senior students of Agua Aug. 6 for Freshman Aug. 6 Na$onally Recognized Career andTechnical Technical Educa$on programs: School starts Computer Programming only for Freshman Air Force Junior ROTC Na$onally Recognized Career Educa$on programs: Computer Programming only Air Force Junior ROTC Public Safety and th th for Freshman Graphic Design LawLaw andand Public Safety Graphic Design School starts Aug. 6 Aug. 6 for Freshman Na$onally Recognized Career andTechnical Technical Educa$on programs: Na$onally Recognized Career and Educa$on programs: Fria Union High School District. Coldwater Academy aConstrucOon non-traditional program serving Junior and Fria Union High School District. Coldwater Academy is is aConstrucOon non-traditional program serving Junior and Interior Design Interior Design thstudents for a ll Aug 7 th for a ll s tudents Aug 7 Aug. 6 for Freshman for Freshman School starts only Aug. 6 Na$onally Recognized Career and Technical Educa$on programs: Computer Programming only Air Force Junior ROTC Na$onally Recognized Career and Technical Educa$on programs: Law andPublic Public Safety Computer Programming Air Force Junior ROTC Graphic Design Law and Safety Graphic Design Healthcare Sports Medicine Healthcare Sports Medicine Computer Programming only Air Force Junior ROTC School starts Computer Programming only Air Force Junior ROTC Senior students Agua Fria Union High School District. Senior students ofof Agua Fria Union High School District. Agua Fria High School Agua Fria High School Culinary Film & BroadcasOng (Photo courtesy Computer Programming Culinary ArtsArts only Philippe Nobile Photography) Air Force Junior ROTC Film & BroadcasOng Computer Programming only Air Force Junior ROTC th th for Freshman thth Law and Public Safety Graphic Design Law and Public Safety Graphic Design ConstrucOon Interior Design ConstrucOon Law and Public Safety Interior Design Graphic Design Computer Maintenance and Repair MarkeOng Law and Public Safety Graphic Design Computer Maintenance and Repair MarkeOng Aug. 6 Aug. 6 for Freshman 530 East Riley Drive 530 East Riley Drive for all students Aug 7 for Law and Public Safety Nationally Recognized Career and Technical Education programs: Graphic Design all students Aug 7 Law and Public Safety Graphic Design Animal Science Television ProducOon Animal Science Television ProducOon th th th ConstrucOon th th Interior Design ConstrucOon Interior Design ConstrucOon ConstrucOon th a for Interior Design Interior Design Liberty Elementary School ConstrucOon Developing passion for math Interior Design ConstrucOon Computer Programming Interior Design Healthcare Avondale, AZ 85323 Sports Medicine Air Force Junior ROTC Computer Programming only Healthcare Avondale, AZ 85323 Agriculture Sports Medicine Air Force Junior ROTC Pre-‐Engineering only Aug 7 for a ll s tudents Agriculture Aug 7 a ll s tudents Pre-‐ Engineering Aug 7 for all students Aug 7 for all students Aug 7 for for all studentsis Aug 7 all students Business Management Sports Teaching Professions Business Management Teaching Professions Healthcare Sports Medicine Healthcare Medicine an agricultural school. Last school can be hard, but Liberty Elementary Healthcare Sports Medicine Healthcare Sports Medicine 623.932.7301 623.932.7301 Law and Public Saftey Graphic Design Healthcare Sports Medicine Law and Public Saftey Graphic Design Healthcare Sports Medicine Culinary Arts Film & BroadcasOng Culinary Arts Film & BroadcasOng Culinary Arts Film & BroadcasOng Culinary Arts Film & BroadcasOng year, Roubison’s class completed School third-grade teacher Penny Steller fine arts programs Culinary Arts Film & BroadcasOng Steller fine arts programs Culinary Arts Film & BroadcasOng ConstrucOon Interior Design th th for all students ConstrucOon Interior Design Culinary Arts Film & BroadcasOng Aug 7 Culinary Arts Film & BroadcasOng Computer Maintenance and Repair MarkeOng Aug 7 for aall sgardening tudents project to help learn Computer Maintenance and Repair MarkeOng Computer Maintenance and Repair MarkeOng Computer Maintenance and Repair MarkeOng Roubison approaches the subject with Computer Maintenance and Repair Desert Edge High School MarkeOng Computer Maintenance and Repair Desert Edge High School MarkeOng Healthcare Sports Medicine State championship athle$c programs Healthcare Sports Medicine State championship athle$c programs Animal Science Television ProducOon Animal Science Television ProducOon ComputerMaintenance Maintenanceand Repair and Repair MarkeOng Computer equivalent fractions. “With activities enthusiasm. MarkeOng Animal Science Television ProducOon Animal Science Television ProducOon 15778 West Yuma Road Animal Science Agriculture Television ProducOon 15778 West Yuma Road Pre-‐Engineering Animal Science Agriculture Television ProducOon Pre-‐Engineering Culinary Arts Film BroadcasOng Culinary Arts Film && BroadcasOng like this it allows me to not just tell Roubison recently received the Animal Science Television ProducOon Animal Science ProducOon Business Management Teaching Professions Business Management Professions Agriculture Pre-‐Engineering Goodyear, AZ 85338 Agriculture Pre-‐Engineering Goodyear, AZ 85338 Agriculture Pre-‐ ETelevision ngineering Agriculture Pre-‐Engineering MarkeOng Computer Maintenance and Repair MarkeOng Teaching Computer Maintenance and Repair Presidential Award of Excellence in them or show them how to do it, but Agriculture Pre-‐ E ngineering 623.932.7500 Agriculture Pre-‐ E ngineering 623.932.7500 Business Management Teaching Professions Business Management Business Management Teaching Professions Teaching Professions Animal Science Business Management Television Production Teaching Professions Animal Science Television Production Mathematics and Science Teaching. have them use the material in a real-life Steller fine arts programs Steller fine arts programs BusinessManagement Management TeachingProfessions ProfessionsThis prestigious award is the highest situation. It’s not just a made-up math Business Teaching Agriculture Pre-Engineering Agriculture Pre-Engineering Millennium High School Millennium High School honor a K-12 teacher can receive from question from the book. They actually State championship athle$c programs State championship athle$c programs Steller fine arts programs Steller fine arts programs siness Management Bu Teaching Professions siness Management Bu Teaching Professions ady dy Steller fine Steller fine arts programs arts programs 14802 West Wigwam Blvd. apply their knowledge to a situation 14802 West Wigwam Blvd. the U.S. government. th th
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Goodyear, AZ 85395 Statechampionship championshipathle$c athle$cprograms programsGoodyear, AZ 85395 State
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Statechampionship championshipathle$c athle$cprograms programs State Verrado High School Agua Fria High School Verrado High School Agua Fria High School 530 East Riley Dr. 530 East Riley Dr. Avondale, AZ 85323 Avondale, AZ 85323 623.932.7301 623.932.7301
20050 West Indian School Rd. 20050 West Indian School Rd. Buckeye, AZ 85396 Buckeye, AZ 85396 623.932.7400 623.932.7400
Desert Edge High School Desert Edge High School valley since 1955. alley since 1955.
Canyon View High School Canyon View High School 6024 N. Perryville Rd. 6024 N. Perryville Rd. Waddell, Arizona 85355 Waddell, Arizona 85355 623.932.7600 623.932.7600
Millennium High School Millennium High School 14802 West Wigwam Blvd. 14802 West Wigwam Blvd. Goodyear, AZ 85395 Goodyear, AZ 85395 igh schools offering rich academics h schools offering rich academics 623.932.7201 623.932.7201 nt courses and dual enrollment.
Coldwater Academy Coldwater Academy 750 E. Riley Dr. 750 E. Riley Dr. Avondale, AZ 85323 Avondale, AZ 85323 623.932.7106 623.932.7106
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ENROLLNOW NOW ENROLL
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ENROLL NOW ENROLL NOW Buckeye, AZ 85396 Buckeye, AZ 85396 623.932.7400 623.932.7400
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Canyon View High School Canyon View High School
Aug.7th 7th forallallstudents students Aug. for School starts School starts th th for Freshman Aug. 6 for Freshman Aug. 6
“It is an honor, an absolute honor to be recognized,” she said. “Teachers work really hard and it’s really nice to be recognized for that. With the award comes a sense of responsibility. Responsibilities to make sure I am sharing my knowledge and experience with my colleagues and the parents, and of course the students.” Along with the award, Roubison won a trip to Washington, D.C., for the award ceremony and was presented with $10,000 from the National Science Foundation. She will use some of the money to further her teaching skills. As a teacher, Roubison hopes to inspire her students to develop a passion for learning, similar to her own. However, she does acknowledge that teaching mathematics can be tough as it is sometimes a tricky subject for children to understand and apply. To help her kids learn, Roubison uses real-life scenarios.
like gardening,” Roubison said. As a 28-year educator, Roubison advises current and aspiring math teachers to create an environment that allows students to be eager to learn subjects. “I would say that for math teachers teaching young students, let them use what they learn to figure things out. Guide them, have the kids compare strategies,” Roubison said. “Don’t be afraid to get in there and let it be messy and exciting. I would encourage teachers to study and know their math standards, not just the test questions. Dig in and really know your standards.” Roubison said her award is a testament on how hard Roubison works to help her students learn. “I can’t express how grateful I am to have received the award. It really is about furthering kids learning and teaching them to understand numbers and the way they work and its flexibility,” Roubison said.
WEST VALLEY VIEW NEWS | JULY 18, 2018
Avondale retiree passes on work ethic with scholarships
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By Christina Fuoco-Karasinski
Growing up in Avondale, Manny Murillo was encouraged to have a strong work ethic and stay in school. The wise words came from his parents, who were migrant workers who picked cotton in West Valley fields. “They said, ‘Get your education and you’ll do well,’” Murillo said. “So, I did.” The semiretired teacher has passed on that sage advice to West Valley students by offering $500 scholarships to students with funds in their bank accounts. The recent winners of the Manny Murillo Scholarship for Employed Students were Jesus Castillo, Shamelia Ingram, Natalie Wallace, Peter Kieve, Francisco Hernandez, Priscilla Arroyo, Christopher Gutierrez, Alejandra Espenya Flores, Joshua Reading, Dayshia Stratton, Maritza Gamez, Dorian Haney, Cinthia Marinelarena and Jaleesha Kirkendall. “The kids all gave me thankyou notes, and they expressed their appreciation,” Murillo said. “It made me cry, really. They got the message behind being financially responsible. The kids have learned to save and they’re getting rewarded for planning ahead.” For the next round of scholarships, he is hoping to double the number of scholarships. Forms can be obtained by contacting Murillo at mannymurillo@ cox.net. He will be working with Agua Fria Union High School District and Superintendent Dennis Runyan. Murillo substitute teaches in the
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Francisco Hernandez receives a scholarship from Manny Murillo, thanks to the Agua Fria High School alum. (Photos courtesy Manny Murillo)
district and plans to present his project to the governing board. “I’ve been in education all my life,” he said. “Because I was fortunate in my financial dealings, I put $15,000 of my own money into this nonprofit project. The project is this: Seniors who are on track to graduate who have a part-time job will receive assistance from me.”
Natalie Wallace was one of the winners of the Manny Murillo Scholarship for Employed Students. The scholarship’s namesake gives the award to her here.
Murillo earned a Bachelor of Arts in secondary education and a master’s in administrative/leadership. His resume also includes teaching and administrative work at area elementary, middle and high schools. He taught conflict resolution, peer mediation, multicultural diversity, bullying prevention seminars, English and
Spanish language development, career exploration, proactive employment marketing skills and how to succeed in higher education. “With these students, I want to help them plan,” he said. “I want them to talk to me and learn how to live a debtfree life. I want them to learn, earn and budget and make a plan for life.”
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WEST VALLEY VIEW NEWS | JULY 18, 2018
Morris is new superintendent of Union Elementary By Lynette Carrington
Tolleson’s Union Elementary School District has a new superintendent in second generation Arizonan Kristine Morris. Recently the interim principal at Phoenix Collegiate Academy, Morris is excited to lead the district in focused educational endeavors. “I’m excited to be part of this Union community,” Morris said. “It’s a wonderful combination of city and country that is in the middle of dairy farms and farmland, which is the old Arizona. But we’re in the suburbs right by Tolleson so we’re city at the same time. It’s thrilling to be part of the Arizona past and future and help guide these kids to achieving their greatest potential.” Morris earned a bachelor’s degree in education from ASU, and followed that with a Master of Education in educational leadership from NAU. She continued doctoral studies at ASU. The former teacher, principal and district office administrator brings a wide range of experiences to her new position. Prior to her run at Phoenix Collegiate Academy, Morris worked as chief deputy superintendent for Maricopa Educational Service Agency for eight
Kristine Morris commutes from Tempe to the Union Elementary School District offices each day and is dedicated to improving schools in the district. (Photo courtesy Union Elementary School District)
years. “There was a gap while I sought a superintendency in state and those don’t pop up too often,” Morris explained. “I chose to jump back into a school, so I could make sure I knew what was happening. That way, I could effectively support my principals and
students when I ultimately got the superintendent position.” Morris researched Union Elementary School District before her employment. “It’s always hard from the outside to get the inner workings, but you really don’t learn all about it until you’re immersed in the system,” Morris added. She has identified areas that need attention. “First and foremost, like many other districts throughout the state, is the need to hire quality teachers,” she said. “I’m excited we have great candidates, but we’re a small district and had many vacancies, so that is first on my list to get those positions filled.” She will wear many hats as she fulfills her responsibilities as superintendent. “I’m responsible for carrying out the policies the board adopts,” Morris said. “Part of that is ensuring effective operations at the schools, making sure we have safe schools and making sure we have quality staff that are ensuring that our kids learn.” The #RedforEd movement has been an important development, too. “That really helped us this year in our recruitment,” Morris said. “It was important to retain our quality teachers
here and not have to hire quite as many new teachers. But, when we’re attracting new people, it gives us something to be competitive with.” She particularly enjoyed seeing educators and the community come together to show they value education. She has long-range plans for the district. “I definitely want to improve student learning and achievement in our district,” Morris said. “We are making progress, but we’re not there, yet. We’re hopeful one of our schools that was recently labeled a ‘D’ will improve to a ‘C’ this year. My goal is that they are all higher than that. I want us to be above average at all three of our schools.” She has lived in Tempe since her college years, but has worked in the West Valley for many years, including time in the Cartwright School and Pendergast Elementary districts. “It’s not bad,” Morris explained of the commute. “I’m close to the university and it’s all freeway going the opposite of traffic. I’ve commuted to the West Valley almost my whole career.” In her time away from work, she enjoys baking, cooking and seeing movies with her husband.
5 ways to squash back-to-school stress By Family Features
Heading back to school is exciting for kids and parents, but with all the thrill and anticipation, there can be quite a bit of stress. Parents can approach the impending school year with a positive attitude. These tricks can minimize stress and give kids extra confidence when heading into the classroom. Lifestyle expert and mother of two, Jeannette Kaplun recommends these tips:
Start adjusting bedtimes before school starts
It’s common for bedtime rules to be broken in the summer. However,
an abrupt transition to early mornings can lead to stress and irritability. The National Sleep Foundation recommends implementing earlier bedtimes two weeks before school starts and setting the alarm a bit earlier each morning for a smooth transition to the first day of school.
Curb the summer slide
Screen time isn’t just for passing time; leverage technology to keep the reading skills your kids learned in the classroom sharp all summer long. A device like the Fire Kids Edition tablet from Amazon is built from the ground up for kids with a two-year worry-free guarantee, a kid-proof case and a oneyear subscription to Amazon FreeTime Unlimited, giving kids access to 15,000 kid-friendly books, videos,
educational apps and games. Parental controls like Learn First encourage learning before playtime and allow you to set screen time limits to help get kids back into a routine for the school year. Additionally, STEM toys and games can keep math and science top of mind during the summer months and help kids excel during the school year.
Dress for success
There’s a reason grownups tend to dress up for special events – when you look good, you feel good. Give kids that same boost by helping them choose a special, comfortable outfit for the first day of school. Shopping for clothes gives kids the opportunity to express individuality, so have fun with it. For added stress relief, lay out the complete ensemble the night before
and have the kids try it on to head off any concerns. If the routine works, try making it part of your nightly routine for stress-free mornings throughout the school year.
Simplify the shopping experience
Every back-to-school season comes with classroom supply lists and new wardrobe needs. A one-stop shop retailer like Amazon lets parents and kids complete their shopping on their own schedule, and its back-to-school store offers deals and a wide selection, making it easy to find everything from must-have items like binders, backpacks and shoes to fun gear such as glitter glue, donut erasers and emoji
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WEST VALLEY VIEW NEWS | JULY 18, 2018
Stewart named principal of Dos Rios Elementary School
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By Lynette Carrington
New Dos Rios Elementary School principal Jonathan Stewart is bringing a breadth of experiences and insight to his position. Born and raised in Cochabamba, Bolivia, Stewart moved to the United States and subsequently served 13 years in the Air Force in Louisiana. “I went into education after 13 years in the Air Force and I’ve been in Arizona for eight years,” Stewart said. “I taught young airmen in the military as I became a noncommissioned officer and I’ve always enjoyed teaching.” Stewart earned a master’s in liberal arts with a focus on Latin American literature from Louisiana State University. He earned a second master’s degree from Grand Canyon University in education and leadership. He always loves to see the look on people’s faces when he speaks Spanish and then English with a slight Southern accent. Stewart describes himself as a people person. “I love people and I want people
Stress...continued from page 6 stickers that allow kids to express their personalities. “Back-to-school shopping doesn’t have to cause anxiety,” Kaplun said. “By shopping online at Amazon from your phone, tablet or computer, you can buy everything you need without having to find a parking spot, tracking down a sales associate to help you find your child’s size or standing in line to pay, saving you precious time. Plus, Prime members receive unlimited, free two-day shipping on more than 100 million items all-year long.”
Share the excitement
It’s perfectly normal for parents and kids to feel anxious about the new school year. Instead of revealing your own apprehension, share your favorite memories from your time in your child’s upcoming grade. Ask your kids what they’re most excited for and what they’re a little nervous about and come up with solutions together. Get a jump start on your stress-free transition back to school with more tips and resources at amazon.com/ backtoschool.
New Dos Rios Elementary School principal Jonathan Stewart was born in Cochabamba, Bolivia. He moved to the United States and served 13 years in the U.A. Air Force. (Photo courtesy Union Elementary School District)
when they’re around me to feel accepted and respected,” he explained. “I love seeing that in little kids.” Prior to Dos Rios, Stewart was three
blocks away, at Sierra Linda High School in the Tolleson Union High School District. “Dos Rios is a feeder school for my previous district,” Stewart explained. His decision to shift gears and move to another school was simple. “I certainly love working with the older students,” Stewart said. “When we see them come into ninth grade, so many of them are behind. I’ve always wanted to have a chance to catch them a little earlier and make a difference to those students.” Stewart has identified the most immediate challenges at Dos Rios. “It’s definitely building relationships and not just in the school with the teachers and other educators, but in the community.” he said. “There’s a little bit of a separation between the community and the school and I’m trying to bring that together.” He proposes to make the school more inviting to the students, so they want to go to school. That will ultimately pique parents’ interest.
“You can’t push students to school. It has to be a pull,” Stewart continued. “I use the analogy of basketball. If you have a kid who is good at basketball, you don’t have to drag them to the court to play. They’ll want to go because they can win. We want to give our students a win and as soon as possible.” He has set goals for the school. “We want to increase growth at all levels,” he explained. “The way we’re going to do that is to start with the ‘why.’ Too often, we start with the ‘what.’ We need to know what our ‘whys’ are. I need to know my ‘whys’ and teachers need to know their ‘whys’ and communicate that to the students. Taking the stance of ‘Well that’s the way we do things,’ doesn’t work. We need to have purpose for everything that we’re doing. We need to be very deliberate in our processes and make sure they’re necessary and doing what we want them to do. A plus B needs to equal academic achievement.”
BACK TO SCHOOL 2018 - 2019 School Year Information First day of school is Thursday August 2, 2018 Meet the Teacher July 31, 2018 Union Elementary 4pm - 6pm Dos Rios Elementary 5pm - 7pm Hurley Ranch Elementary 5pm - 7pm
ENROLL TODAY! Union Elementary School District #62 South of Buckeye Rd (MC 85), between 83rd Avenue and 99th Avenue. Dos Rios Elementary, 2150 S 87th Avenue – K-8th grade (623) 474-7000 Between Buckeye and Lower Buckeye, 83rd Avenue and 91st Avenue. All 8th graders south of lower Buckeye, between 83 rd Avenue and 99th Ave. Hurley Ranch Elementary, 8950 W Illini Dr – 3rd-8th grade (623) 478-5100 South of Lower Buckeye, between 83rd Avenue and 99th Avenue Union Elementary, 3834 S 91st Ave – PreK- 2nd grade (623) 478-5000 South of Lower Buckeye, between 83rd Avenue and 99th Avenue Visit www.unionesd.org/transportation/bus routes for more info on 2018-2019 bus stops Contact our school sites and enroll today! Union Elementary School District No. 62 3834 S. 91st Ave. Tolleson, AZ 85353 Phone (623) 478-5005 www.unionesd.org
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WEST VALLEY VIEW NEWS | JULY 18, 2018
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