Celebrating Excellence: Sunnyslope High School’s Achievement Above All Honorees

The Glendale Union High School District Governing Board proudly presented the Achievement Above All award to five outstanding recipients, honoring their dedication, leadership, and lasting contributions to Sunnyslope High School. This award recognizes individuals and groups whose extraordinary commitment enriches school culture, inspires students, and strengthens Viking pride.

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Teacher Recipient: Chris Pixler

For more than thirty years, Chris Pixler has built a career centered on helping students grow, whether in the classroom, on the volleyball court, or in the counseling office. A Camelback High School graduate, she began her career teaching math and coaching at Independence High School before spending several years in Florida as both a teacher and counselor. Since returning to GUHSD in 2018, she has been a dedicated counselor at Sunnyslope High School, known for her energy, compassion, and unwavering belief in her students.

Her accolades reach beyond Sunnyslope. She was inducted into the Phoenix Union Sports Hall of Fame in 2019 and the Texas Tech University Athletic Hall of Fame in 2022 for her accomplishments as a standout volleyball player.

At Sunnyslope, Mrs. Pixler is celebrated for her transformational impact, which includes expanding AP programs, guiding students through prestigious scholarship opportunities, and managing hundreds of test administrations. Colleagues describe her as “genuine and encouraging, a counselor who listens deeply and believes wholeheartedly in every student’s potential.” Whether she is cheering on the freshman volleyball team or celebrating a student’s acceptance into a dream university, her influence is measured in the confidence, joy, and resilience she helps students discover in themselves.

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Student Recipient: Molly Lawrence

Molly Lawrence, a senior at Sunnyslope, has distinguished herself through academic excellence, athletic leadership, and advocacy. As a three-year varsity golfer and co-captain, she has led her team while maintaining a top 10% class ranking, balancing a rigorous schedule of AP and honors courses.

Molly has also used her voice beyond campus, sharing her story across the Phoenix Valley to raise awareness about cancer and mental health. Diagnosed in 2021, she balanced treatment with school and sports, modeling courage, optimism, and perseverance.

She is described as someone who lifts others. Molly is an athlete who encourages teammates, a student who exemplifies dedication, and a friend who reminds peers of the power of gratitude and hope. Molly’s legacy at Sunnyslope is one of strength, inspiration, and Viking pride.

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Student Group Recipient: Girls Basketball

  

Led by alumna and head coach Kristen Clyder, the Sunnyslope Girls Basketball program has redefined what it means to compete with heart, discipline, and unity. Over the last two seasons, the Vikings advanced to the Elite 8 in the Open Division of the state playoffs, proving they belong among Arizona’s best.

But their story is bigger than basketball. The team has represented Sunnyslope as the Phoenix Mercury’s Adopt-a-Team and volunteered with organizations such as Banner Medical and St. Mary’s Food Bank.

Players describe their program as a sisterhood where every athlete feels valued and supported. Whether singing the fight song midcourt after a big win or sharing meals after practice, the team has built a culture that extends far beyond the game. Their success is not just in rankings, but in the bonds, confidence, and pride they’ve created for Sunnyslope.

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Support Staff Recipient: Kristin Forsythe

Since joining Sunnyslope in 2018, Kristin Forsythe, Attendance Secretary, has become an indispensable part of the Viking community. A graduate of Cactus High School and Northern Arizona University, she combines her background in education with a natural gift for organization and patience to guide one of the busiest offices on campus. Each day, she manages the many complexities of attendance with efficiency, grace, and calm.

Whether navigating absences, coordinating senior parking, or supporting her colleagues, Kristin ensures that students and their families receive not only timely service but also genuine care. Her work is a steady reminder that attendance isn’t just about numbers; it’s about people, relationships, and keeping students connected to school.

What makes Mrs. Forsythe truly remarkable is her genuine presence. Colleagues describe her as a steady rock, someone whose kindness and professionalism set the tone for her office and influence the school as a whole. Her recognition reflects both her dedication to her role and the numerous small ways she strengthens the Viking community each day.

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Volunteer Recipient: Jason Schlesinger

For more than two decades, Jason Schlesinger has been a constant presence at Sunnyslope, giving his time, talents, and energy to support students and staff. From building homecoming floats year after year to helping with campus improvement projects, chaperoning proms, and lending a hand at games and events, Jason’s volunteer work has touched nearly every corner of the Sunnyslope community.

Beyond the variety of roles he takes on, Jason has spent countless hours teaching students practical skills, preserving traditions, and creating spaces where memories are made. His steady involvement has helped generations of Vikings experience the richness of high school life, both inside and outside the classroom.

What makes Jason’s service so impactful is the spirit in which he gives. He shows up with humility, patience, and a genuine love for the school. For him, volunteering is not about recognition but about ensuring others can share in the traditions and opportunities that make Sunnyslope special. His generosity stands as a lasting testament to how one person’s dedication can transform an entire community.

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Recognizing Dedication and Leadership

Through their remarkable efforts, these honorees define the spirit and character of Sunnyslope High School. Their commitment has inspired students, strengthened the community, and set a standard of excellence that will leave a lasting legacy in the Glendale Union High School District.