All Things Avondale Dec. 13, 2024

Our Governing Board is beginning the search process for our new superintendent and we are working with Arizona School Administrators (ASA) to conduct a nationwide search. ASA is looking for input from staff, families, and community members on leadership qualities desired in a superintendent. ASA and our Governing Board will use your feedback during the applicant screening and interviewing processes.

If you have not yet completed a survey, we encourage you to do so by clicking this link: Superintendent Search Survey. The deadline to complete the survey is January 10.

Our Governing Board, administration, and entire district extend heartfelt gratitude to Ms. Amy Lowe and Dr. Derek Etheridge for their dedicated service on our Governing Board. Ms. Lowe contributed eight years of exceptional leadership, while Dr. Etheridge brought valuable insights during his year of service. Both have been passionate advocates for education and have shown unwavering care for our students. Their commitment to our students, staff, families, and community is appreciated, and they will be greatly missed.

Ms. Lowe's and Dr. Etheridge's terms expire in December, and two new Board members will be welcomed in January!

Last week, the district introduced the 15 Days of December video series, which shines a spotlight on some of the district’s Aces—the amazing adults who help shape the lives of students. Each day, a special individual is highlighted, showcasing their impact on students.

This week, the celebration continues, with video highlights for Days 6-10 provided below. Enjoy the 2024 15 Days of December!

There's still time to support Avondale ESD in the 2025 Best of the Desert Awards by nominating us for the Community Choice Awards! We've been honored with this award for the past two years, and with your help, we will earn this again.

Please note a preschool category has been added. Nominate Avondale ESD in the following categories:

Kids & Education

• Child Care

• School - Public

• Preschool

Top Employers

• Place to Work

Nomination Details:

Top five nominees in each category will advance to February voting. Set a daily calendar reminder to nominate Avondale ESD through December 23!

This week, the Governing Board honored our December award recipients from the Human Resources Department and Michael Anderson School! Honorees include the following:

District Office/Human Resources Department

Classified Staff: Kendyl Johnson, District Receptionist

Michael Anderson School

Classified Staff: Cammile Lewis, Interventionist, and Maritza Covarrubias, Paraprofessional

Certified Staff: Cindy Crews, School Counselor

Lattie Coor School recently provided 100 families from Lattie Coor, Eliseo C. Felix, Avondale Middle, and Michael Anderson schools with free iPads and hosted a digital literacy training for parents. The initiative was conducted in partnership with Valley of the Sun United Way and the Institute of Digital Inclusion Acceleration (IDIA). Its primary goal was to equip families with essential technology and internet safety skills, enabling them to navigate the digital world confidently and responsibly.

The comprehensive training session focused on practical strategies to protect online privacy and develop safe digital habits. Participants gained valuable insights into safeguarding personal information and making informed decisions in our increasingly technology-driven society. By providing devices and educational resources, the program empowered families to embrace digital technologies with greater understanding and security.

Sixth graders from Michael Anderson School enjoyed an exciting field trip to Peoria Ice as a special incentive for having excellent attendance and good behavior. For many, it was their first time experiencing the thrill of ice skating. The trip offered students a chance to try something new, build confidence, and have fun with their peers. The unforgettable experience not only rewarded their hard work but also created lasting memories as they glided across the rink. As a culminating activity, students wrote an essay about their experience.

This week, the K-1 class at STAR Academy took center stage during their courtyard assembly, and they were nothing short of amazing! These young leaders confidently guided the campus in reciting the Kids at Hope pledge, filling the atmosphere with positivity and hope. It’s truly inspiring to see our youngest students stepping up with such heart and determination. Moments like these remind us that even the smallest voices can help build a brighter future!

Wildflower Accelerated Academy students demonstrated the Leader In Me 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, specifically Habit 3: Put First Things First, during their monthly awards assembly. These extraordinary young leaders were celebrated for their dedication and exceptional time management skills. By thoughtfully prioritizing what matters most, carefully planning each week, and maintaining unwavering commitment in critical moments of choice, these students have illustrated the true essence of personal success.

Their hard work and laser-focused determination serve as a reminder to the transformative power of personal development. These students aren't just learning - they're mastering the art of leadership, demonstrating what it means to take charge of their goals and make meaningful progress.

The enthusiasm and pride radiating from these students are contagious, proving that with the right mindset and strategies, anything is possible!

AESD is proud of our amazing teachers. Parents and guardians can nominate your outstanding teacher for Arizona's Family 3TV Silver Apple Award. Nominations are accepted through March 16, 2025. Winning teachers will receive a $1,000 prize and will be featured on 3TV! Simply download the Silver Apple Nomination Form, in 100 words or less share "Why This Teacher Is Special," get the principal's signature, and email it to apple@azfamily.com. For more information, visit azfamily.com/silverapple.