September 2019 Superintendent Letter to Families

Dear SUSD Families:

The first days of school are now behind us, as we move quickly to the promise of cooler fall weather. In this first quarter of the year, many wonderful outcomes have already been achieved.

First, we’ve completed the last of our projects from the 2016 bond package, the replacement of old modular buildings with new and updated permanent classroom space. Second, the implementation of a brand new social studies adoption in grades 6-12 is underway, including the deployment of new resources and corresponding professional development. Third, the new Wrightson Ridge K-8 School is fully operational, opening this fall with approximately 750 students, and all grades, including the middle school levels.

Furthermore, we’ve received the College Board AP data back from last spring. Over 700 exams were administered, an all-time high! This supports our intentional organizational efforts to raise academic rigor, increase access to these programs, and provide 21st Century learning experiences for all students.

We are continuing our professional preparation partnership with the University of Arizona. The iCats site at Sahuarita Intermediate School is operating once again, and about twenty (20) future teachers are receiving their professional training on all of our campuses. We are also part of a large National Science Foundation (NSF) study with the University of Arizona, specifically to study classroom variables associated with positive cultures in the prevention of bullying and peer victimization. We’re also moving forward with action steps toward a possible solar energy program this year.

The fall sports and fine arts seasons are well underway and our athletic, cheer, flag, and band teams are representing us with excellence. I’d also be remiss if I did not mention the amazing success of our own Walden Grove HS PAC Dance Team, achieving its fourth straight viral homecoming dance video, with its Marvel-themed presentation. 

As you can see, there is much excitement happening around our campuses. And, the secret to our success continues to be the shared community commitment to working together as a team to make our schools and community the best that they can be.

Together, we will continue to make a difference!

 

Sincerely,

Valenzuela signature
Manuel O. Valenzuela, Ed. D.
Superintendent