A Districtwide Commitment to Excellence: Special Programs and District Office Achievement Above All Honorees

The Glendale Union High School District Governing Board highlights the Achievement Above All honorees from its special programs and district office, celebrating individuals whose work strengthens systems of support across the district. These recipients reflect the impact of programs and services that expand access, support student success in unique ways, and ensure schools are equipped to meet the needs of every learner. Through their leadership, collaboration, and commitment to service, they play a vital role in advancing the district’s mission and supporting the success of the entire GUHSD community.

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Teacher Recipient: Michael Mannelly

Michael Mannelly brings nearly three decades of experience in education to his role at Next STEP, where he specializes in Special Education and Transition Services. A graduate of Apollo High School, he earned both his bachelor's degrees in Political Science and English and his master's degree in Special Education and Rehabilitation from the University of Arizona, along with additional post-graduate work toward administrative certification. His career has spanned a wide range of roles, including teaching, instructional leadership, and higher education, giving him a deep understanding of how to support students with different needs. This breadth of experience allows him to meet students where they are and guide them toward meaningful, independent futures.

At Next STEP, Mannelly plays a central role in preparing students for life beyond high school by helping them develop essential real-world skills. He supports individualized transition activities that range from everyday tasks like cooking to more complex goals such as applying for a job and building workplace readiness. His flexibility and problem-solving mindset enable him to adapt to each student's unique needs, often stepping into new challenges with a steady, positive approach. Outside the classroom, his background includes coaching and mentoring, as well as a variety of personal interests, such as hiking and traveling, all of which reflect his active and engaged approach to life and learning.

Mannelly is being recognized as an Achievement Above All recipient for his unwavering commitment to student growth and his belief in the power of education to change lives. He is known for building meaningful relationships with students, creating individualized pathways for success, and collaborating closely with staff to ensure each student is supported. His colleagues describe him as someone who approaches every challenge with determination and a solution-oriented mindset, always focused on what is best for students. Through his dedication, adaptability, and passion for helping students reach their full potential, Michael Mannelly exemplifies the spirit of Achievement Above All at Next STEP.

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Student Recipient: Aubrey Daugherty

Aubrey Daugherty, a senior at Northern Academy, is recognized for her steady determination and commitment to her education. Throughout her high school journey at Moon Valley, she has demonstrated resilience and focus, approaching each day with a quiet strength that reflects her dedication to personal growth. While she may not seek recognition, Aubrey consistently shows up ready to learn, building a strong foundation as she prepares to graduate and take the next step toward her future.

Aubrey has developed a strong passion for art and writing, using her creativity to express herself and further develop her skills. She enjoys drawing and spending time playing online games, interests that reflect both her imagination and attention to detail. Looking ahead, she plans to pursue a career in animation, turning her love of art into a professional pathway. Her commitment to her goals, combined with her consistent effort, highlights her focus on building a meaningful future.

Aubrey is being recognized as an Achievement Above All recipient for the quiet perseverance and integrity she brings to her work each day. She leads by example, demonstrating that success is built through consistency, resilience, and a willingness to keep moving forward despite challenges. Respected by both staff and peers, she serves as a role model for younger students and reflects the values of determination and growth that define Northern Academy. Through her strength of character and commitment to her future, Aubrey Daugherty exemplifies the spirit of Achievement Above All.

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Support Staff Recipient: Leticia Medina

Leticia “Letty” Medina serves as an instructional aide at the Online Learning Academy, where she has dedicated the past four years to supporting students and staff. With a strong sense of responsibility and care, she plays an important role in creating a positive and supportive learning environment. Known for her reliability and steady presence, Letty approaches her work with consistency and a deep commitment to helping students succeed. Her willingness to step in wherever needed reflects her dedication not only to her role but to the entire Online Learning Academy community.

She is known among colleagues for sharing homemade treats and celebrating staff birthdays, helping build a sense of connection and community. Her passion for baking, along with her love of spending time with family and traveling, reflects her warm and thoughtful nature. In addition, her past recognition as Employee of the Month in previous roles highlights a consistent work ethic and commitment to excellence that she continues to demonstrate today. Looking ahead, Letty hopes to further her education by taking college courses in education to expand her knowledge and continue supporting students in meaningful ways.

Letty is recognized as an Achievement Above All recipient because of the care, positivity, and dedication she brings to the Online Learning Academy each day. Colleagues describe her as dependable, kind-hearted, and someone who always puts others first, creating an environment where both students and staff feel supported and valued. Whether greeting students in the morning, offering encouragement throughout the day, or lifting morale through small acts of kindness, she consistently goes above and beyond. Through her strong work ethic, generosity, and commitment to her school community, Letty Medina exemplifies the spirit of Achievement Above All.

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Support Staff Recipient: Francisco Monarrez Jr.

Francisco “Moose” Monarrez Jr. serves as the videographer and parent/community liaison for the Glendale Union High School District, where he has spent more than two and a half years supporting schools and strengthening connections across the community. A proud graduate of Independence High School, Moose continued his education at Glendale Community College before earning his degree in Film Making Practices from Arizona State University as a first-generation college graduate. His journey reflects a strong sense of pride in his roots and a commitment to giving back to the district that helped shape him. Known for his consistency, professionalism, and collaborative approach, Moose plays a key role in telling the story of GUHSD through his work.

Moose’s passion for storytelling extends far beyond his role. He has contributed to award-winning district projects, helping earn recognition through the 2025 Arizona School Public Relations Association Award of Excellence for multimedia campaigns and video production. Outside of work, he continues to develop his craft through independent film projects. His creative pursuits are complemented by a wide range of personal interests, including running, dancing, and engaging with film and gaming. Looking ahead, Moose plans to attend graduate school, continue his filmmaking journey, and one day write and direct a feature film.

Moose is being recognized as an Achievement Above All recipient for the impact he makes both behind the scenes and within the community. Colleagues describe him as dependable, kind, and someone who can always be counted on to support others with care and intention. Through his work in storytelling and his support of families and staff, he helps strengthen communication, highlight student experiences, and bring the district’s mission to life. His quiet leadership, creativity, and genuine commitment to others have made him an invaluable part of the GUHSD community. Through his talent, humility, and dedication to service, Francisco “Moose” Monarrez Jr. exemplifies the spirit of Achievement Above All.

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Strengthening Support Across the District

Together, these Achievement Above All honorees represent the meaningful work happening across GUHSD’s special programs and district office. Through instruction, support, creativity, and service, each recipient contributes to building systems that strengthen the broader school community. Their efforts highlight the importance of meeting students where they are, creating opportunities for growth, and ensuring every learner is supported along their path. Collectively, they reflect the dedication and purpose that continue to move the Glendale Union High School District forward.