Business
LISA Launches Exciting New Initiative at Sedona Red Rock High School
The nonprofit organization Low-Income Student Aid (LISA) is set to expand its services to Sedona Red Rock High School following a vote by its nine-member board of directors on October 22.
Tom Swaninger, Superintendent of the Sedona-Oak Creek School District, praised LISA for its commitment to supporting families in the Verde Valley. “They have an excellent track record in assisting students and their families,” he noted. “This expansion is beneficial for our district and the community.”
Founded in 2017 at Oak Creek School in Cornville, LISA has rapidly grown, fulfilling 186 direct aid requests during the fiscal year 2024. The assistance covers various needs, including medical expenses and lunch debts, aimed at enhancing students’ overall well-being. Currently, LISA operates in several schools, such as Cottonwood Community School and Dr. Daniel Bright School, and also aids students attending Mingus Union High School and West Sedona School.
“We follow our students as they transition into high school, ensuring that support remains accessible to them,” stated Eric Wyles, LISA’s treasurer. He projects that the long-term costs for maintaining support at new campuses will range between $20,000 to $25,000 annually.
Swaninger and Wyles plan to finalize the expansion details soon, with discussions set for November 14. A new LISA aid committee will be established at SRRHS, comprising Principal Heather Isom and three additional staff members selected by her team.
Randy Hawley, President of the SOCSD Governing Board, highlighted the urgent need for such initiatives. “Many students come from low-income households, and any assistance they receive can make a significant difference,” he remarked. As of November 1, the SOCSD boasted an enrollment of 695 students, with 21 qualifying under the federal McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act.
LISA actively participated in community events, recently sponsoring the West Sedona School Parent-Teacher Association Wildcat Carnival on October 26. They provided 280 ride wristbands to all WSS students, reinforcing their commitment to local engagement.
Looking ahead, Wyles indicated plans for further expansion, contingent on fundraising efforts and community awareness. LISA is also upgrading its website for a more streamlined user experience, which will feature a consolidated aid request form across campuses. “We’ve gained valuable volunteers who will support our marketing and fundraising initiatives,” he shared. Upcoming projects include running concessions at the Queen Nation concert on November 30 at the Sedona Performing Arts Center.
For additional information about Low-Income Student Aid, visit oakcreeklisa.org.
