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Inspiring Excellence

Casa Grande Union High School District | December 2024

InspiringExcellenceCasa Grande Union High School District | December 2024
Superintendent Jeff Lavender

Happy Holidays and New Year!


As we stand on the threshold of 2025, brimming with anticipation for our upcoming graduation of 931 enthusiastic students in May, I feel compelled to share a powerful technique introduced by one of my esteemed motivational speakers and authors, Jon Gordon. Renowned for his best-selling books, my favorite is "The Energy Bus," where he compellingly demonstrates the transformative impact of adopting a positive mindset instead of succumbing to negativity.


Mr. Gordon champions an inspiring concept known as the one-word challenge, which serves as an alternative to the traditional New Year resolutions. This challenge invites individuals to choose a single word that encapsulates their aspirations and desires for the year ahead, infusing it with meaning, passion, and purpose as we venture into 2025.


For our graduating seniors, I would like to propose the word "FINISH." This word carries significant weight, especially at this pivotal moment in their lives. While there will be ample opportunities to celebrate their achievements and reflect on their journey through K-12 education, it is crucial for them to embrace the spirit of FINISHING STRONG as they embark on the next chapter—be in college, vocational training, or the pursuit of rewarding careers. Let this word serve as a rallying cry for determination and perseverance as they progress toward a promising future.


The word I have chosen to embody our purpose in 2025 is ACCOUNTABILITY. Together with our Governing Board, we have passionately adopted a bold and transformative mission and vision: to ensure that every student in the Casa Grande Union High School District graduates equipped and ready for college and/or a successful career. Achieving this ambitious vision depends on our unwavering accountability for the results we deliver. As the leader of this initiative, I fully embrace my responsibility to our learning community, committed to ensuring we fulfill this mission effectively. I encourage open dialogue, so please contact me whenever you feel we are falling short in our Commitment to Excellence or not adequately supporting your family. Your feedback is vital as we work together to create a brighter future for all students.


Studies indicate that the most successful students and exemplary citizens possess a variety of common traits. Among these, one of the most impactful is the practice of open and honest communication at home regarding aspirations and career planning. I strongly encourage families to collaborate and utilize the one-word challenge as a valuable communication tool. This innovative approach can spark meaningful discussions and align family members on their goals. For further insights, you can explore additional resources on Jon Gordon's website, which offers guidance on fostering effective communication and goal-setting within families.


https://jongordon.com/newsletters/one-word-challenge-for-2024/


Thank you for choosing to join our vibrant learning community. I extend my heartfelt wishes to all CGUHSD families for a wonderful, safe, and enjoyable season. May 2025 bring you joy, growth, and countless memorable moments.


Jeff Lavender

CGUHS Construction Technologies

Maxamus Wagner

VGHS Early Childhood Education

Diego Jimenez

Casa Grande Union High School

Ian Wilkie

Vista Grande High School

Eltorna Gant

PACE Student of the Month

Darnese Norman

Celebrate Local DECA Programs

Purchase Ad

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service

January 20, 2025

Safeway Grand Reopening

Generous Donations

Transition Services

Raffle Winner

AP Scholars Recognized

Yard Signs

Chamber of Commerce Bowl Trophy

Flag Football

Community Interviews

We Want You!

CTE Automotive Technologies

Cougar Garage

CTE Early Childhood Education

CTE/CAVIT Showcase

CTE FCCLA Early Childhood Education

Family Literature Event

CTE JROTC Marine Corps

Guest Speaker

Flag Football Girls

Playoff Win

Flag Football Girls

Semi Finals

National Honor Society

Toy Drive

Pinal Prep Performers of the Week

Football & Flag Football

Casa Grande Alliance Food Bank

Spartan Donations

Counseling Department

FAFSA Friday

Pinal Prep Performers of the Week

Football

Suicide Awareness Walk

Thank You

Thespian Society Presents

Winter Wonderland

Site Council

1st Tuesday @ 4:30 PM

Link: Join the Meeting Now

Meeting ID: 247 819 130 925

Passcode: cSYWfz

Dec. 11 = Early Release

Dec. 18 = Early Release

Dec. 19-20 = CGUHS/VGHS Semester Exams

Dec. 19-20 = CGUHS/VGHS Early Release @ 12:30 PM

Dec. 19-20 = PACE Semester Showcase

Dec. 19-20 = PACE Early Release @ 12:05 PM

Dec. 20 = 1st Semester Ends

Dec. 23-27 = Winter Break = No School/Offices Closed

Dec. 30-31 = Winter Break = No School/Offices Closed/Appointments Only

Jan. 01 = Winter Break = No School/Offices Closed

Jan. 02-03 = Winter Break = No School/Offices Closed/Appointments Only

Jan. 06 = Professional Development Day = No School

Jan. 07 = School Resumes

Jan. 13 = 100th Day

Jan. 16 = Open House

Jan. 20 = Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday (No School/Offices Closed)

Governing Board

Regular Monthly Meetings

2nd Monday of Month (*typically)

*unless there is a conflict & approved by Board

More Information

Casa Grande Union High School District

1362 N Casa Grande Ave

Casa Grande, AZ 85122

520-316-3360 Phone

520-316-3352 Fax

contact@cguhsd.org Email
cguhsd.org Website

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mtwehous@cguhsd.org

Casa Grande Union High School District (CGUHSD)
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