Public School Highlights – Unveiling March 2025 Insights

Glendale Union High School District Selects New Superintendent Finalists

The Glendale Union High School District (GUHSD) Governing Board has announced two finalists in its search for the new superintendent: Matthew Belden and Dr. Gareth Diaz Zehrbach. This decision follows the upcoming retirement of Brian Capistran, who has served for 30 years, effective June 2025.

To facilitate community engagement, GUHSD organized a Community Forum in mid-February, where faculty, staff, and local residents could interact with the candidates. Each finalist was then interviewed formally by the governing board.

In an update from GUHSD, it was confirmed that Matthew Belden has been selected as the new superintendent, with his term starting July 1.

Community Relations Achieves Excellence

GUHSD’s Community Relations department received two Awards of Excellence from the Arizona School Public Relations Association (ASPRA). These accolades were for the Multimedia Marketing Campaign during Future Freshman Night and a Graduation Promo Video Series, showcasing the district’s commitment to effective communication.

Sunnyslope High School Athletics Shine

This year, Sunnyslope High School’s athletic teams have made strong showings, with all winter sports teams qualifying for postseason competitions. Residents are encouraged to come out and support the Vikings as they pursue playoff success.

Washington High School Students Take ACT

In February, around 300 students at Washington High School (WHS) participated in the American College Testing (ACT) exam. This event provides students with valuable test-taking experience ahead of their state examinations.

Pom Team Success at Competitions

Washington High School’s Pom team recently earned a “Gold” ranking at the Duel in the Desert competition on January 25. They then competed at the USA Nationals in mid-February, with results pending at press time.

Madison School District’s Recognition and Events

The Madison School District Governing Board has been awarded the Lou Ella Kleinz Excellence in Governance Award by the Arizona School Boards Association (ASBA). Board President Christine Thompson expressed pride in the award, emphasizing the board’s mission to support educational outcomes.

Additionally, the district will host job fairs on March 19 and April 7, where potential employees can learn about various open positions, including teaching roles, custodians, and program staff.

On March 7, the district will partner with Vitalant for a blood drive from 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. at their office, offering participants a chance to win prizes.

Osborn School District Highlights

Clarendon Elementary School principal Jeff Martin has been awarded the Milken Educator Award for 2024, recognizing his strong leadership and contributions to education. The award is accompanied by a $25,000 cash prize and future mentoring opportunities.

In a communication to families, Superintendent Michael Robert addressed recent immigration enforcement issues, reaffirming the district’s commitment to protecting student rights regardless of immigration status.

Phoenix Union High School District Hosts Leadership Event

On February 14, students from Phoenix Union High School District participated in the 24th Annual African American Leadership and Legislative Youth Day at the Arizona Capitol, showcasing their commitment to civic engagement.

Meanwhile, the PXU Governing Board declared all its sites as “safe zones” for students, ensuring that no student information can be disclosed without parental consent, further promoting a secure educational environment.

New Leadership at Phoenix Coding Academy

James Williams has been appointed the new principal for the Phoenix Coding Academy starting in the 2025-26 school year. Williams, who previously served in various leadership roles within the district, aims to enhance the school’s focus on technology and innovation.

Washington Elementary School District Offers Kindergarten Readiness Program

The Washington Elementary School District is set to launch its free Jumpstart program for incoming kindergartners this summer, running from May 27 to June 19. The program will help children transition smoothly into kindergarten.

Additionally, WESD will host job fairs for prospective teachers, offering competitive salaries and benefits for those joining the district. Upcoming fairs are scheduled for March 1 and March 29.

Congratulations are in order for Elyas T., an eighth grader from Sunnyslope School, who won the district’s spelling bee and advanced to the Regional Spelling Bee.