              |
           |
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Education reporter Teri Carnicelli (right photo) and the North Central News received a news media "Award of Merit" for their coverage of education in their monthly newsletter.
SHS Life Guides Program Named Outstanding K-12 ProgramApril 2006 - The Sunnyslope High School Life Guides Program has been selected as the outstanding K-12 program to win the "Pathways to Higher Education Award" by the Arizona Commission for Postsecondary Education.
Life Guide students from Sunnyslope High School work one-on-one with elementary students, assist in classrooms, and act as role models to show the younger students that "big kids" do stay in school and value education. In one example of the Life Guides in action, students under the director of veteran teacher Terri Fields worked on a promotion of literacy project. The teenagers wrote and created a book, illustrated the pages and then read their book to elementary students. The popular project was a win-win for both groups of students.
Sunnyslope High Selected as 2006 Model School
April 2006 - Sunnyslope High School has been selected as one of 27 model high schools nationwide to participate in an initiative sponsored by the Council of Chief State School Officers, Washington, D.C., and the International Center for Leadership in Education, Rexford, NY. The project, "Models, Networks and Policies to Support and Sustain Rigor and Relevance for All Students," is gathering information on how outstanding high schools provide all students with a rigorous and relevant education. The high schools will share their successful practices with more then 6,000 educators at the 14th annual Model Schools Conference in Kissimmee, Florida, on June 25-28. Principal John Croteau will make the Sunnyslope presentation at the Conference. Criteria for selection as a model high school includes a learning environment that promotes high achievement, use of data to make instructional decisions, a rigorous and relevant curriculum, personalized instruction, increased student learning time and parent and community involvement. Sunnyslope High School will also join the 600 schools in the International Center's Successful Practices Network. Through the Network, the professional staff of Sunnyslope can exchange best instructional practices, successful methodologies and peer support with other member schools. Case studies will be prepared by the International Center on each high school to serve as a resource for educators and policymakers. Visit www.LeaderEd.com for details.
Students Receive VASA Art RecognitionApril 2006 - Several district students from Apollo High School and Washington High participated in the Visual Art Student Award (VASA) show at the West Valley Art Museum in Surprise recently. The student artwork was diplayed for public viewing and judged in the show.
Receiving cash recognition for their works were: Cristina Drotar, Danielle Fowler, Jorge Ibarra, Kyle Harrison and Thomas Lesar.
Art teachers are Barbara Dahlstedt at Apollo and Karen Bell-Zinn at Washington.
Schroeder Selected for AIAAA Distinguished Service Award
March 2006 - GUHSD athletic assistant Robbin Schroeder has been selected to receive the Arizona Interscholastic Athletic Administrators Association (AIAAA) Distinguished Service Award - outside the field of athletic administration. The award is presented in recognition of her special accomplishments and contributions to athletic administration at the local, state and national levels during her 22 years of district employment. Schroeder is the only Arizona nominee submitted for the National Award of the same name. She was nominated by her current supervisor, Jim Threadgill, Assistant Superintendent of Operations/Athletics who wrote in the nomination: "She has a unique historical perspective of the 4A Conference having served with 9 conference presidents and, as such, has provided a high level of stability during each year's transition. It is not unusual for Robbin to receive phone requests for athletic direction or policy from schools throughout the state and even the AIA on a daily basis. Robbin is a true professional whose strengths are honesty, integrity and loyalty. She has earned the respect of all who have worked with her." Robbin Schroeder will receive her award and be honored September 10-12, 2006 at the Annual State Athletic Directors Conference in Prescott.
Congressional Art Honors for Apollo StudentsMarch 2006 - On March 20, 2006 Rep. Ed Pastor announced that two Apollo High School students have been selected as winners in the 2006 Congressional Art Contest for District 4.
|
 |
 |
Representative Ed Pastor, D-Arizona, hosts the art competiton for students residing in his district.
Glendale High Student Named National Scholarship Finalist
 |
March 2006 - Senior Bobbie Wilson of Glendale High School has met all requirements to qualify as a Finalist in the competition for Achievement Scholarship awards to be offered to outstanding Black American students in 2006.
Wilson was among the more than 130,000 students to enter the annual National Achievement Program competition in which 4,600 participants receive recognition and some 800 win.
The Program is an academic competition in which only Black American high school students participate.
Annual Student Art Exhibition - March 2-30
Six Students Compete as Finalists in National Merit Scholarship Competition
March 2006 - Glendale Union is pleased to announce that all six of this year's semi-finalists have advanced to finalist standing in the National Merit Scholarship Competition.
Vincent Leonard from Glendale High; Denise Gray and John Rogers, Moon Valley High; Alexandra Clarke, Sunnyslope High; Colin Penrose, Thunderbird High, and Zechariah McElrath of Washington High School have been named National Merit Scholarship finalists. These students have an academic record of high performance in all 4 years of high school and have each been recommended by their principal to compete in this year's competition for one of the three types of scholarships awarded: National Merit $2,500 Scholarships, corporate-sponsored scholarships, and college-sponsored scholarships.
For further details on these scholarships, visit: http://www.nationalmerit.org
All-Weather Track Yields Bit of Greenway History
March 2006 - As Greenway High School prepared for their first track meet on the new all-weather track, those in attendance for the ribbon cutting ceremony took a trip down memory lane to recognize some of the individuals who had been instrumental in the development and success of the school's Track and Field Program:
Left to right are track coaches: Mike Brown, Tony Helm, Clyde
Volz, Rob Roberson,
Scott Giddings, Robbie Robinson and Wendall Sheets.
Coach Wendall Sheets, started the program in 1973 as first head coach, setting the foundation for its future.
Robbie Robinson, Head Boys Coach from 1975 to 1981, currently serving as Greenway's jump coach.
Scott Giddings is the only distance coach Greenway has ever known and current Head Girls Coach since 1966. His Lady Demon Squads have won the Region Championships 5 of the last 10 years.
 |
Rob Roberson, current Athletic Director at Sunnyslope, coached at Greenway in the late 70's/early 80's.
Clyde Volz arrived at Greenway as Head Boys Coach in 1983 after a successful career at Sunnyslope.
Tony Helm, a Greenway counselor was coach of the Girls team from 1992 - 1994.
Mike Brown currently serves as Boys coach and has been instrumental in the success of Greenway hurdlers and sprinters in recent years.
Greenway to Host Sports Card Show - March 18
March 2006 - Greenway High School will host a Sports Card Show at the school on March 18 featuring several Hall of Fame players who will be available for autographs. Admission is $1. The show will run from 10:00 a.m. to 4: 00 p.m. Nearly 65 tables will be set up in the show.
Hall of Fame guests will be:
- 12:00 - 1:00 Phoenix Suns Eddie House and James Jones
- 1:00 - 3:00 Brett Sagerhagen - 2-time Cy Young winner and 1985 World Series MVP
- 1:00 - 3:00 Jim Abbott - winning pitcher on the 1988 Team USA that beat Japan for the 1st U.S. Gold Medal in Olympic Baseball. Abbott pitched a no-hitter for the Yankees on 4-8-89. His accomplishments, not just in sports, but in life have made him a hero to anyone with a disability - he was born without a right hand.
- 2:00 - 3:30 Minnie Minoso - 7-time baseball All Star, 3-time gold glove of Chicago White Sox and Raja Bell from the Phoenix Suns.
Tickets will be needed to get autographs and can be obtained by contacting Jeff Thalblum at 623-587-9766. Phoenix Suns autographs are $15; Saberhagen & Abbott autographs are $20.
March is National Athletic Training Month
 |
March 2006 - Congratulations to the GUHSD Athletic
Trainers during National Athletic
Training Month:
• Tia Bowling, Apollo
• Jerry Cross, Cortez
• Mike Hilditch, Glendale
• Ron Kordonowy, Greenway
• Darren Couts, Independence
• Junita Payne, Moon Valley
• Mark Espinoza, Sunnyslope
• Ryan Wolff, Thunderbird
• Kim Rodgers, Washington
National Athletic Trainer's Association
Independence Students Rewarded for Good Grades and Attendance
March 2006 - The 11th annual P3 celebration was held to recognize 566 students for academic excellence and perfect attendance for the fall semester. Specially designed T-shirts were given to the students who earned grades of B or better. Students had the opportunity to receive one of several donated door prizes from local businesses.
 |
 |
 |
The P3 team, made up of teachers, staff and students, coordinated the assembly for students.
Staff Celebrates 25 Years
 |
March 2006 - Governing Board members, administrators, and principals congratulated 26 staff members for their career longevity and thanked them for their dedicated service to the district at a dinner in their honor on March 1.
Photos dating back to 1980 and 1981 were provided to the 25-year staffers along with personalized caricatures depicting highlights of their lives and careers.
Honorees include: Walter Phillips, Apollo; Jennifer Johnson, District; Marcy Ducca, Kris Willis, Glendale; Lea Anne Alvarez, Darrell Barrett, Jeanne Genung, Julie Stockwell, Greenway; Rosie Andrade, Corby Archer, Marita Callaway, Phyllis Gendreau, Karen Haskell, Sandra Roberson, Independence, Julie Harvey, Deborah Hoff, Art Smith, Moon Valley; Trudee Ely, Susan Hodge-Parker, Teresa Peters, Northern Annex; Joey McAuley, Sunnyslope; Steve Gurule, Scott Kay, Thunderbird; David Blood, Salvatore Rizzo and Virginia Rodriguez, Washington.
 |
 |
 |
GHS Grad Saluted for Community Service by Ford
Edsel B. Ford II presents David Kimmerle the portrait Ford
Motor Company commissioned
for his 2006 Salute To Dealers award February 10 in Orlando,
Florida.
February 2006 - Edsel B. Ford II and Ford Motor Company recently honored David Kimmerle of Sanderson Ford in Glendale as part of its 2006 Salute to Dealers program for his outstanding commitment to the community and those who live in it.
David Kimmerle is the only automobile dealer in Arizona and one of just nine Ford Motor Company dealers - across all eight brands - to receive this award.
Kimmerle, a graduate of Glendale High School, is passionate about young people and supports opportunities for local youth. He has been a loyal district supporter and an instrumental partner in the Best Buddies program within the Glendale Union High School District.
New Media Center Opens at Independence
February 2006 - A ribbon cutting ceremony was held at Independence High School to celebrate the completion of the school's new media center and classroom complex.
Principal Mark Farison hosted the ribbon cutting. He was joined in cutting the ceremonial ribbon by (see photo, above): Glendale City Council member Joyce Clark; IHS student body president Domini Mayberry, GUHSD superintendent Vernon Jacobs; Governing Board members Vicki Johnson and Kevin Clayborn; Glendale Union Education Association President Mary Pat Eul; IHS teacher Linda Parrott; McCarthy Construction Project Engineer Pam Culbertson; A.R.T. Architect Eve Eppard and McCarthy Construction Vice President of Education Services Rob Langhoff.
 |
Both McCarthy Construction and Architectural Resource Team (A.R.T.) are currently working on similar projects at other schools in the district. Joyce Clark is City of Glendale Councilmember from the Yucca District which includes Independence High School.
The new building, nearly 27,000 square feet, was made possible due to the support of district voters in passing the GUHSD bond override in 2003. The building will house a large open library with an attached 64-computer lab and space for media and science classes. The science wing is expansive enough to accomodate for growth.
Journalism Teacher Receives Columbia Scholastic Press Award
 |
|
Peggy Gregory |
February 2006 - Teacher Peggy Gregory of Greenway High School has been selected to receive the James F. Paschal Award of the Columbia Scholastic Press Advisers Association for 2006 (on the unanimous recommendation of the Honors and Awards Committee of the Columbia Scholastic Press Advisers Association).
The Paschal Award will be presented to Gregory on Friday, March 17, 2006, in the Rotunda of Low Library on the Columbia University Campus. She and a guest is invited to attend the Awards Luncheon.
Peggy Gregory has also received the Gold Key of the Columbia Scholastic Press Association for 2006 from the same committee.
The Columbia Scholastic Press Association is a program of the Graduate school of Journalism at Columbia University in the City of New York. Their web address is www.columbia.edu/cu/cspa.
Peggy currently teaches journalism and is a teacher mentor at Greenway High School.
About the awards: The Paschal Award, first given in 1987, is named for Professor James F. Paschal of the University of Oklahoma in Norman, in honor of his service to both CSPAA and to the Oklahoma Interscholastic Press Association.
The Gold Key was first presented publicly in 1930 and has been awarded to distinguished faculty advisers, professional journalists and others in public life who have supported the student press. It is the Assoication's highest honor for a person.
Arizona Cardinals Football Player Thanked for Support
December 2005 - Arizona cardinals football player Anquan Boldin
holds the personalized jersey
he received from Winnie Moore on behalf of Independence High
School for his numerous
contributions and support of athletic and academic programs
at the school.
GUHSD Joins with Glendale Police to Share Toys for Tots
December 2005 - Four GUHSD locations joined with the U.S. Marine Corps in cooperation with Lieutenant Frank Balkcom of the Glendale Police Department and former governing board member Ian Hugh to participate in the 2005 U.S. Marine Corps Toys for Tots holiday collection campaign.
Apollo principal Brian Capistran, former governing board member
Ian Hugh, Glendale police
officers, and U.S. Marines join AHS student council members
in the Toys for Tots holiday
campaign. Toys were collected at four GUHSD locations: Apollo,
Glendale, Independence
and the District Office
Staff and students at Apollo, Glendale, Independence and the District Office donated new toys during the month of December which were picked up by Marine Corp representatives and GPD officers for distribution. The toys were then distributed to needy children of the community just prior to Christmas.
Project SHARP Math Program Receives ASBA Honors
 |
December 2005 - The Arizona School Boards Association selected the GUHSD Project S.H.A.R.P. math program for a Golden Bell Runner-up award. District Math Coordinator Cory Shinkle, Project S.H.A.R.P field trip coordinator Marilynn Steffen, and Associate Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction Warren Jacobson accepted the award at a December banquet. Program coordinator Suzanne Somers was unable to attend.
Project S.H.A.R.P., which stands for Summer High School Algebra Readiness Program, has provided its incoming ninth grade participants an expanded opportunity in mathematics that has delivered impressive results. Overall, students who successfully completed the course had higher grades at the end of the first semester than those who did not enroll in the program. A collaboration of teachers from Glendale Union, Washington Elementary and Glendale Elementary school districts worked together using cooperative learning, team teaching, games, activities and field trips to shape the minds of the incoming freshmen.
Students who participate in Project S.H.A.R.P. have a much higher success rate in high school algebra. The Project impacts students' math ability, and teachers value the well-defined objectives, teaching strategies, student-teacher ratios and the ability to collaborate with colleagues.
Coach Boie Honored by Jefferson
 |
|
John Boie |
November 2005 - NBA entertainment was on the Moon Valley High School campus the day after Thanksgiving. Their purpose was to gather sound bites and interview Coach John Boie for a video clip of Moon Valley graduate and NBA All-Star Richard Jefferson. The story, Mentors of NBA Players, will air at a later date on 'NBA Inside Stuff' with Ahmad Rashad.
Jefferson, who was in town for the Mets vs. Suns game, attended the filming and visited with the boys basketball team who were present for practice. After the film crew finished taping, Richard invited the boys and Coach Boie to join him outside. Once outside, Richard Jefferson presented Coach Boie, his mentor and high school basketball coach, with the keys to a brand new Toyota Sequoia sport utility vehicle.
Lippert to Represent Arizona as Assistant Principal of the Year
 |
|
Carol Lippert |
November 2005 - Carol Lippert has been named Arizona Assistant Principal of the Year by Arizona School Administrators (ASA). She will be honored at the annual Assistant Principal's Forum and Awards Banquet in Washington, D.C. on April 28 & 29, 2006.
Nominations for the award were submitted by her school principal, Dr. Linda Rosness; Language Arts Department Chair Deborah Hoff; fellow Assistant Principal Susan Hertneky and District Superintendent Vernon Jacobs, each of whom commented on her committment to students, putting them and their interests first.
As Arizona's representative, Lippert becomes eligible for the National Assistant Principal of the Year award sponsored by the National Association of Secondary School Principals and Virco, and the prize award of $5,000.
A native of Arizona, Lippert earned a BA in secondary education, majoring in Biology from the University of Arizona. She received her Masters in Educational Administraton from Northern Arizona University. She began her career with the district in 2000 as a science teacher at Thunderbird High School, and became Assistant Principal at THS on 2002. Carol Lippert joined the MVHS faculty in 2004 where she continues to serve as the Assistant Principal for Student Services.
GUHSD Earns "Award of Excellence in Special Education"
 |
November 2005 - The GUHSD Transitions Program at Northern Annex received the "Excellence in Special Education Award" from the Arizona Department of Education at the Director's Institute this year.
GUHSD Special Education Director June McCulley explains, "This program is so successful because the Transition teachers believe that students with emotional or behavioral disabilities can meet the requirements of our curriculum in a smaller setting. The teachers meet every morning before school starts and discuss individual student needs and develop a plan for dealing with those needs. Everyone is on the same page, working together for the student. It is a very committed and competent staff."
An upcoming issue of the ADE SPECIAL EDition newsletter will feature a profile of program facilitator Denise Scafone. Scafone oversees the Transitions and Homebound services provided to students with emotional and behavioral learning disabilities at the 10 classroom campus referred to as the Northern Annex.
Denise Scafone was the first teacher in the developing Transitions program under the guidance of psychologist June McCulley, and social worker Jackie Nelson. Nelson was facilitator of programs at Northern Annex prior to moving to the district office as Guidance and Support Services Coordinator.
Transitions teachers are: Paul Bojanac, Brett Eklund, Trudee Ely, Patrick Ferrel, Kathy Gindt, Todd Ockenfels, Patrick Wilson, Dan Jones, Tanisha Lawrence, Colby Mills.
Program Aides are: Ira Lazenby, Robert Johnson, Nathan Lange, Lorena Ochoa, Curtis Ogland, Robin Kornegay, Joseph Meyers, Cindy James, Erin Reilly, Randy Huizar.
Job Coach is Stephanie Dunlap-Daye.
THS Students Selected to Film Documentary
November 2005 - Thunderbird High seniors Grant Cushman and Justin Yngelmo have been selected to film a documentary on Teenagers and Peer Pressure in Ennis, Ireland during Spring Break 2006, as part of the Phoenix Sister Cities Youth Ambassadors Program. This past summer they both spent three weeks overseas as part of the program.
Grant and Justin were chosen as youth ambassadors for the project partly because of their passion for film which has now spanned most of their high school careers. They are both founding members of HBD Productions and Thunderbird High School Film Club and have been making short independent films as well as school video announcements, and commercials for upcoming special events for the last three years. Grant is the Student Body president at Thunderbird and Justin is the Student Body vice-president. They are both members of the National Honor Society and the Thunderbird Tennis team.
Former Graduate Supports School
 |
November 2005 - NBA player Richard Jefferson recently expressed support for Moon Valley High School through a generous donation of sports equipment and clothing, valued at nearly $31,000.
Jefferson, a graduate of Moon Valley, has kept in contact with MVHS staff, including his former basketball coach John Boie, throughout the years. He has been a strong supporter of the basketball program, the school and the district.
This year, Richard Jefferson agreed to serve as a 'poster child' for the district program that highlights many successful graduates. His image and a personal reflecting is printed on posters that hang throughout the district as reminders to students that a good high school education is the foundation to a successful future.
Aspiring Teachers Learn About Alternative Certification
 |
|
Dr. Johnson reviews the Alternative Certification program. |
November 2005 - Dr. Jennifer Johnson hosted a meeting at Sunnyslope High School for aspiring high school teachers. The meeting provided candidates with details on the Alternative Path to Secondary Certification program that is sponsored by the Arizona Department of Education.
 |
|
Marguerite Hinojosa received her certifcation through this program and shares her point of view about changing her career into teaching. |
After a welcome from district Superintendent Vernon Jacobs, Patty Hardy from the Arizona Department of Education explained the purpose of the program and the ADE requirements for this certification.
Independence High School Principal Mark Farison shared the principal's perspective of this new program with the audience.
ELL teacher Marguerite Hinojosa is certified through this program. She explained how she was able to change her career of more than 10 years as producer of the Good Morning Arizona program on Channel 3 TV into the teaching profession, by completing the alternative certification process.
If you are interested in a career teaching at a high school and would like more information pertaining to alternative certification program, visit our Employment page.
NFL Player Donates $10,000 to Independence
 |
November 2005 - Anquan Boldin, wide receiver for the Arizona Cardinals, visited Independence High School on November 15 to make a generous donation of $10,000 to purchase new equipment and sports items for the school's football program.
"This is a school that I just fell in love with," commented Boldin. "I actually held a camp here over the summer and Coach Moore was so helpful. He got his whole team to come out and help with my camp and ever since then I've been in contact with the football team and the basketball team."
"He has come out to lift with the guys and he has really taken a special interest in our kids," shared Independence Head Football Coach Kelley Moore. "He's been on the sidelines for a couple of games and it has really been a morale booster for our program."
Boldin donated $5,000 out of his own pocket and that figure was matched with a grant from the NFL's Youth Football Fund.
Read more on this topic at: http://www.preppublications.com/issues/2005/11/06.shtml
GUHSD Reports Student Achievement Success
November 2005 - Parents and students attended the annual student achievement report to the governing board on November 2 at Apollo High School, where information from each curriculum area was presented. Included in the program was AIMS testing, student test results, and program successes from the 2004-2005 school year.
 |
 |
 |
Curriculum Coordinators, Read 180 teachers, and the Associate Superintendent for Curriculum & Instruction spoke to the group about the continuous improvement district students are experiencing on the AIMS tests. Emphasizing the importance of reading in all subject areas, Associate Superintendent Warren Jacobson provided the audience with several sample readings and explained the unique features in each reading and how it pertains to the new Read 180 program the district has implemented at all nine schools. Students from actual Read 180 classes provided videotaped testimonials about how the new program has helped them read better and understand more of what they read. The featured students were present at the dinner event and were introduced to the governing board and the audience.
 |
 |
 |
Connecting with Graduates
 |
|
Glendale High graduates Jake Long with |
November 2005 - Superintendent Vernon Jacobs presented John F. Long with a poster that features the successful developer and home builder.
The poster is a thank you for Long's offer to serve as a 'poster child' for the district's campaign that highlights successful graduates as living testimonials to the benefits of having a great high school education as a foundation to a lifetime of success.
Both John F and his son Jake are graduates of Glendale High
School.
Dual District Teacher Job Fair
November 2005 - Interested teaching candidates, mark your calendars for our Teacher Job Fair coming March 25, 2006.
Westcor Endorses Partnership with Metrocenter Academy
November 2005 - President Vicki Johnson presented a Certificate of Appreciation to Michael Fisher, Property Manager of Metrocenter Mall for Westcor's continuing support of educational achivement in the Glendale Union High School District.
Westcor recently purchased the mall property and with that transfer of ownership reaffirmed support of the district's Metrocenter Academy which operates within the mall.
Cortez Student Wins Veterans Day Award
 |
November 2005 - Cortez High School student Nicole Gallagher received notification from the Carl T. Hayden Veterans Affairs Medical Center that she won first place in the annual State Veterans Day Essay contest. More than 459 entries were submitted from across the state.
Veterans Affairs committee representative Carole Ann Suarez presented Nicole with a $200 savings bond and balloons at her school. Suarez informed Nicole that she will be riding on a float in the November 11th Veterans Day Parade. November 9th Nicole participated in an essay reading with Phoenix Mayor Phil Gordan.
Nicole's essay, which was about her grandfather, is published
in the Veterans Day Parade program that is handed out along
the parade route.
50th Anniversary Event a Huge Success
 |
|
Students, families, alumni and former staff watch history in the making. |
November 2005 - A 50 year rededication celebration was held on November 3 & 4 in conjunction with the homecoming football game at Washington High School this year.
 |
|
Mayor Phil Gordon |
Graduates, current and former staff, local dignataries along with students and their families were invited to share in the festivities. For the Homecoming parade, homecoming kings and queens dating back to 1955 rode in convertible cars from the same year they earned their crowns.
Commemorative bricks and T-shirts were sold as fundraisers for the event. Log onto www.whsrams.com for more details.
 |
|
Featured speakers at the |
Washington High School wishes to thank the following people for being part of the 50th Anniversary Rededication event:
• Pat McMahon,
TV/radio personality
• WHS Vocal
Ensemble and Jim DeBusk, music director
• Phoenix Mayor
Phil Gordon
• Claude Mattox,
District 5 City Council member
• David Lujan,
AZ House of Representatives from District 15
• Joe Cole,
senior class president 1955-56
• Saja AlJabiri,
student body president 2005-06
• Virginia
Gibney, WHS principal
• Vernon Jacobs,
GUHSD Superintendent
A special thank you to the committee members who worked many hours to make the event a success.
Visit our Alumni & Grads page
for more information.
Thunderbird NJROTC Unit Conducts Fall Leadership Training
October 2005 - For the second year in a row, the Thunderbird High School Navy JROTC Unit conducted its highly successful Basic Leadership Training (BLT) Camp at Prescott Pines Camp in Prescott, Arizona over the Fall Break, 10 to 14 October.
The 28 cadets, instructors and chaperones departed Thunderbird High School on Monday and returned Friday. The selected Naval Science students participated in classes on naval history, customs, and traditions as well as instruction on the benefits of being physically fit, proper military bearing and appearance, the dangers of drug abuse, and basic rules of living healthy. The cadets also received instruction on teamwork and basic leadership. The most popular activity was the "challenge course" where the cadets had to exercise critical thinking skills and team-building behaviors to successfully accomplish a number of tests. The schedule also included over six hours of marching drill exercises, an evening campfire and flag retirement ceremony, playing team sports, and a hike to the top of a local lookout point.
Eleven cadets passed the academic and military requirements and earned their Navy Certificate of Completion and Mini-Boot Camp Ribbon. Additionally, the following cadets were recognized for significant achievements:
- Superior Overall Cadet Achievement: Cadet Marisol Bautista
- Leadership Award: Cadet Rebecca E. Pedersen
- Academic Achievement Award: Cadet Robert B. Nogas
- Drill Achievement Award: Cadet Travis J. Montalvo
- Military Achievement Award: Cadet Marisol Bautista
- Followership Award: Cadet Taylor J. Gatewood
Special recognition is extended to Senior Cadet James R. Ruebhausen who served as the BLT Cadet Officer-in-Charge for the week of training.
The NJROTC Program at Thunderbird H.S. is managed by instructors Lieutenant Ron Maul and Chief Warrant Officer Chris Houston.
2005 Marching Band Festival
November 2005 - GUHSD Band Directors cordially invite you to the District Marching Band Festival Monday, November 7, 2005 7:00 in the evening at the Glendale Community College Football Stadium 6000 West Olive Avenue, Glendale. Admission is free.
Eighteen Pennsylvania School Superintendents To Visit District
October 2005 - Eighteen Superintendents from Lancaster-Lebanon, Pennsylvania will spend the day with GUHSD administrators on November 1, 2005. They are visiting the district to look at how Glendale Union is using data to analyze program effectiveness and Glendale Union's teacher induction/mentor program as recommended by education consultant, Dr. Mike Schmoker.
Dr. Mike Schmoker, author of How to Produce Results, Practical strategies from dramatically improved schools, features GUHSD in his book. Dr. Schmoker is a consultant for the Lancaster-Lebanon Intermediate District* and has encouraged the district to meet with GUHSD leadership for details on successful implementation of continual improvement through data driven results.
Our visitors will see an overview of the GUHSD learning system, presented by the Associate Superintendent of Curriculum & Instruction, Warren Jacobson. From there district staff will present the process of collection and distribution of school data analysis, procedures for sharing data at schools, expectations for teachers, and the impact on continuous academic improvement. Later, the district's Nationally recognized Teacher Mentoring Program will be presented by lead mentor, Cristi Davis.
After lunch, the superintendents will be given a tour of four of the districts schools; Glendale High School, Greenway High School, Moon Valley High School and Sunnyslope High School. They will observe academic programs and others like READ 180, Title 1 programs and Career and Technical Education, that are contributing to the success the district still holds today.
*Background: Lancaster-Lebanon Intermediate Unit 13
(IU 13), one of 29 intermediate units across Pennsylvania,
is a regional educational agency whose mission is to assist
local school districts to enhance educational opportunities
by providing quality, cost-effective services. It serves the
22 school districts in Lancaster and Lebanon counties as well
as students in nonpublic schools, preschoolers, and adult
learners.
MV's DisneyHand Teacher and Principal Attend Disney's Professional Development Institute in Orlando
 |
|
DisneyHand teacher Veronica Carlson (left) and
school principal Dr. Linda Rosnes |
October 2005 - Math teacher and DisneyHand honoree Veronica Carlson and school principal Dr. Linda Rosness will attend Disney's Professional Development Institute in Orlando, Florida October 17-22.
Along with other 2005 Disney teacher honorees, they will learn both theory and practice, share their expertise with other teachers and principals from across the country, learn specifictools for collaboration, leadership and coaching, and develop an action plan to implement what they have learned when they return home.
Terry Wick, vice president of Disney Worldwide Outreach states,
"The heart of the Disney Teacher Awards is helping great
teachers become even better, and helping them improve and
share their gifts with their schools, school district and
beyond."
 |
More on the Disney Professional Development Institute.
For details on the Disney Teacher Awards visit www.disneyhand.com
National Academic Champions Honored
October 2005 - Six students from our district can now be counted among an elite group of high school scholars. These students, selected as National Merit Semifinalists, were accompanied by their parents at a governing board meeting where they were honored for their academic accomplishments.
Associate Superintendent Warren Jacobson presented the students for governing board recognition stating, "These students represent the top 1.2% of the very best and brightest students in the entire country. They are our nation's academic champions."
Honorees are:
- Vincent Leonard, Glendale
- Denise Gray, Moon Valley
- John Rogers, Moon Valley (not pictured)
- Alexandra Clarke, Sunnyslope
- Colin Penrose, Thunderbird
- Zechariah McElrath, Washington
 |
 |
 |
Vincent Leonard (center left) with Board President Vicki Johnson, (center right) and family members. |
Denise Gray shakes hands with board member David Braswell. |
Alexandra Clarke and mom on left with board member James Kraft. |
 |
 |
||
Board member Steve Burke, Colin Penrose and parents. |
Zechariah McElrath flanked by board member Kevin Clayborn on the left and his parents on the right. |
Program Background: More than 1.3 million juniors in over 21,000 high schools in the USA entered the 2005 National Merit Program by taking the Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test. Nearly 16,000 students from the pool of 1.3 million were designated as National Merit Semi-Finalists. These students have earned the right to continue in the 2006 national competition for approximately 8,000 Merit Scholarships worth approximately $32 million.
Parent Association Raises $28,000 in THS Golf Tournament
September 2005 - The 2nd annual Thunderbird High School Golf Classic grossed nearly $28,000, far exceeding original expectations. A full field of golfers and a wonderful array of auction items made for a great time for everyone involved in the fundraising event.
Parent organizer Paige Lewis complimented staff involvement stating, "GUHSD schools and THS administration and staff couldn't have been more supportive! Several retiree staff members also came out to play in the event."
The Chief Parent Association at Thunderbird High School sponsored the Golf Classic on Sunday, September 25th at Moon Valley Country Club. This fundraising event will benefit the group's scholarship program, supplement teacher programming needs, and help fund equipment for the new Media Center which is being built.
Annual Bond Update Meeting Held in New Facility
September 2005 - District administrators held a bond project update meeting in the new facility at Washington High School. Community members were able to tour Washington's newest state-of-the-art media and counseling center.
Assistant Superintendent for Operations, Jim Threadgill thanked contractors and district staff for their work to date on the 80 million dollar bond improvements, and provided the group with an overview of the projects that are still underway.
Members of the Special Elections Citizens Committee were again congratulated on their efforts in getting the 2003 bond measure passed.
 |
 |
 |
TV Chef Donates Time and Talents to Teaching Teens
 |
|
Chef Chris shares cooking tips with students. |
September 2005 - Teacher Annette Reiley arranged for a unique opportunity for students at Independence High School. She invited Chef Chris, weekly correspondent for ABC 15's Sonoran Living Live television show, to teach an enrichment cooking class for students during their fall intersession.
Taking time from his busy schedule, Chef Chris started the class with a demo on how to prepare: Green Chile Rice Pilaf, Orange and Jicama Salad, Creamy Tomatillo Chicken, Cheesy Chile Corn Bread and Churros. Members of the football team, special education students and others then broke into groups of 4-5 to create the same dishes under the chef's guidance. The students then dined on their creations - there were quite a few "yum yums."
 |
Chef Chris is a Jacksonville, Florida native. Former newspaper editor turned chef; he attended L'Academie de Cuisine in Washington DC, worked as a private chef and then managed the cooking school's non-professional training program. Currently he is the executive chef for Kitchen Classics, teaches at Sur La Table in Kierland Commons, writes for AZ Food and Lifestyles magazine and is a weekly correspondent for ABC 15's Sonoran Living Live.
When asked why he does this, he responded by saying "The
reason I do this is because it is important to give back.
Phoenix has been very good to me and I like to return the
favor by donating my time and talents to great groups like
Independence High School. I enjoy helping teens discover an
appreciation for creating a great meal. Besides, they always
give back to me by sharing their excitement at the successful
completion of a recipe. We all go home satisfied and happy."
Extraordinary
Fine Arts Opportunities Engage Students
September 2005 - 'The Arts' are a part of life for many students at Glendale Union.
Whether students choose band, choir, dance, drama, photography, 3D-design or art - they can express themselves through the comprehensive fine arts program in our schools.
Participation in a fine arts program is required for a GUHSD advanced diploma, and has been shown to improve student academic performance, improve attendance, and impart skills required of our students for the 21st-century workforce.
The arts programs enable students to say, see and do what
has been forgotten, unexplored or trapped in their own minds.
Glendale High Receives $25,000 Donation
 |
|
Operation QT President Mildred Norman and Executive Director Jack Kensler show student artwork entitled "Thanks". |
September 2005 - The mission is to provide funding for after-school programs in economically deprived areas. The goal is to reduce idle time for children and increase youth hope for the future.
Operation QT (Quality Time) is helping build futures and fulfilling its mission through its generous donation of $25,000 to Glendale High School. This is the 2nd year for such funding which will be used to operate a local night school and summer school program for GHS students.
Although the district runs a night and summer school program at another school, the cost is prohibitive for some GHS students to attend. The GHS program will help students who are behind in credits by offering district aligned coursework which helps students meet their graduation requirements. The donation funds salaries for teachers, instructional aides, a student tutor and some supplies.
At the September 7 governing board meeting, Board President
Vicki Johnson presented Mildred Norman and Jack Kensler, of
Operation QT, with a piece of artwork done by Glendale student,
Janelle Hansen; along with a Certificate of Appreciation for
their support of Glendale High students.
Helping Hurricane Victims - A Priority for GUHSD Students
 |
September 2005 - Across the district students are responding to the recent Gulf Coast hurricane with assistance. They see the power of contributing and realize they can and do make a difference. Here is a sampling of what our students and staff are doing to raise money for the American Red Cross or Salvation Army.
Apollo High School has adopted a motto "A dollar-a-day for five days" with a school-wide goal of raising $10,000.
Cortez High School is having penny wars and placing loose change containers at various campus locations.
 |
Glendale High School has earmarked the proceeds of their annual large rummage sale to go to support the victims of Hurricane Katrina.
Greenway High School played "It's a Small World" over and over on their PA system periodically throughout the day until students or staff paid to have it stopped, generating more than $5300 at last count.
Independence High School has organized a home room competition to raise $2,000 with math students calculating the percentage brought in from each class/period.
 |
Moon Valley High School is playing the 90's song "Um Bop" off and on throughout the day until someone pays to have it stopped. The program goal is to raise $2,000.
Sunnyslope High School students are donating by "giving up" their soda and or candy money to help Katrina victims.
Thunderbird High School has small groups working on campus to provide car washes and other fund raising opportunities for students and staff to donate.
Washington High School's Interact Club (the largest in the world) is collecting personal hygiene items for 'relief kits' and are writing messages of hope to the Gulf Coast survivors.
Student Nomination Brings Recognition to Melanie Droz
 |
|
Ashley Michelle Lawson reads her nomination letter. |
September 2005 - Sunnyslope senior Ashley Michelle Lawson admired her teacher so much that she decided to nominate her for recognition.
In her letter of nomination, Ashley wrote, "Melanie Droz is not only a great teacher, but an admirable friend. She is the newspaper advisor and also manages four junior English classes. Ms. Droz is enthusiastic and always there for the newspaper staff...she creates a fair environment. I see her as my role model in every aspect."
Newspaper advisor and Language Arts teacher Melanie Droz was selected as "Teacher of the Week" by KNIX radio and Fulton Homes. She will be featured on the 'Tim and Willy' radio segment at KNIX 102.5 FM on September 16 between 6 and 7 a.m.
Her photo and the student's letter will also appear on the
Teacher of the Week page at www.knixcountry.com
District Holds Annual Back-to-School Event
1108 education professionals attend
 |
|
Mark Scharenbroich |
August 2005 - Teachers and aides from all nine high schools were welcomed to the 2005-2006 school year at the annual Back to School Celebration held at the Glendale Civic Center. More than 1100 staff members attended.
Several speakers addressed the group of teachers, among them were: Board President Vicki Johnson; G.U.E.A. President Mary Pat Eul, and district Superintendent Vernon Jacobs. Keynote speaker for the event was motivaitonal speaker Mark Scharenbroich.
Emmy Award winning platform speaker Mark Scharenbroich entertained the audience with motivational education stories. In his remarks to the group he highlighted what he believes makes Glendale Union different. "You have long-term leadership that believes in teachers, believes in educators and believes in kids." He continued, "As Superintedent Jacobs said 4 years ago when we took the job of superintendent, 'You must connect with kids. If kids are connected to their schools, their friends, their educators, their academics will follow.'"
 |
 |
 |
District Superintendent Vernon Jacobs addressed the group and shared recent district successes. He applauded the group for an "outstanding job on district wide student achievement," stating last year's results showed more than 81% of the students were proficient.
 |
 |
 |
 |
Jacobs congratulated teachers for connecting with kids and cited high AIMS attendance of 99.4% as an example. He said, "Look at what you did - you cause things to happen. Successes like this confirm that you have high expectations. We have the best at Glendale Union!"
We thank these generous community businesses for their support of our district by donating door prizes for the event: McCarthy Construction, Westcor, Loew's Ventana Canyon Resort, Valle Luna Restaurant, Bill Johnson's Big Apple, and Macayos's Restaurant.
GUHSD Welcomes 87 New Teachers
August
2005 - On August 1st the district welcomed 87 new teachers
to the GUHSD family. Former students, new Arizona residents
and business professionals choosing a career in teaching,
joined our teaching staff.
School
principals highlighted the educational backgrounds and interests
of each of their new teachers as they introduced the staff
to the Superintendent and Governing Board.
Assistant Superintendent of Human Relations, Dr. Jennifer Johnson, recognized new teachers who were graduates of our district, who had English Language Learner endorsements, who had their Master's Degrees and those who had their Doctorates.
The event was held in the newly renovated cafeteria at Independence High School.
 |
 |
 |
Summer School Graduation Features Renowned Trumpeter
July
2005 - Students graduating from the district this summer
were treated to a performance by nationally known trumpeter, Dr.
Jesse McGuire.
Dr. McGuire has performed in front of millions of people during his career, some of whom include: President Bush, former President Bill Clinton and former President Ronald Reagan. In Arizona he is known for having played the National Anthem for game seven of the 2001 Baseball World Series.
When
invited to speak at the graduation by Summer School Principal
Erik Johnson, Dr. McGuire quickly agreed to perform at no
charge. He said he was moved by the fact these 57 students
went the extra mile to earn a high school diploma.
During
his speech to the graduates, Dr. McGuire reflected on his
humble background, the obstacles he overcame, and encouraged
the students to reach for what they want in life, as he did,
and never give up trying and learning.
After the graduation ceremony students and families posed
for photos with Dr. McGuire.
Golf Tournament to Benefit Thunderbird High
June 2005 - The Chief Parent Association at Thunderbird High School is sponsoring the 2nd Annual Thunderbird High School Golf Classic on Sunday, September 25th at Moon Valley Country Club at 1 P.M. This fundraising event will benefit the group's scholarship program, supplement teacher programming needs, and help fund equipment for a new Media Center. The scramble format offers fun for all levels of play!
Our inaugural event last year was a great success! The Moon Valley community helped us raise more than $14,000 for Thunderbird High - in spite of the rain! Thank you all!
You may have noticed all the demolition work that has occurred on campus. Construction will soon begin on a brand new, state-of-the-art Media Center. The Chief Parent Association has earmarked over $10,000 to purchase materials and equipment not allotted for in the school's budget. As you can imagine, it's very expensive. We need your help again this year - come out and have a great time AND help Thunderbird high School!
Your $125 ($100 if you are a MVCC golf member) entry fee includes play and a post-tournament no-host bar "Happy Hour and Awards Ceremony" with delicious hors d'oeuvres! A Putting Competition, Hole-in-One contest, and Closest to the Pin and Longest Drive games add to the excitement! A Raffle and Silent Auction for many great prizes will complete the day's activities.
There are opportunities for Hole Sponsorships and your donation of services and/or goods is greatly appreciated! Please contact Paige Lewis at 602-510-4504 or Debbie Sloan at 602-793-1176 for more information.
|
|
||
 |
Glendale Union High School District #205
|
Website problems? Contact the Webmaster
|