Inspiring Excellence

Casa Grande Union High School District | April 2024

Dear CGUHSD Learning Community,

We are entering my favorite time of the school year, the final countdown for the 2023-24 school year. The students have completed their state testing schedule for this year, and we are happy with their efforts on these assessments.

Recently, our Governing Board met to make some critical decisions about the safety of all students, staff, and guests.

Weapon Detection Systems:

In May 2023, 919 parents/guardians took a survey in which 91% voted to install weapon detection systems. Two hundred three staff members completed the survey, and 62% supported having these systems on campus. Students were less enthusiastic, with 60% of the 364 who responded opposed to the systems. These surveys were before the two weapon incidents on our campuses this year. Our board places the maximum value on the safety of each of our learning community members. They have decided to have weapon detection systems on our campuses when we return to school in July. We will provide much more information as we get closer to the start of the school year.

Random Drug Testing for Athletes:

I also shared our proposed new Athletic Handbook for the 2024-25 school year with our Governing Board. The proposal outlines our expectations for inspiring excellence for our athletes. We also have proposed random drug testing for athletes next year as a solid statement to our athletes that doing drugs does not maximize their athletic potential. The board will vote on the Athletic Handbook at our May 13 meeting.

Teacher Appreciation Week will be May 6-10. We are very grateful for the dedication of our hard-working educators. I hope you will join me in reaching out to the teachers who made a difference in the lives of our students this year. It does take a village to raise and educate young adults today. I have been an educator for 32 years, and the challenges have never been greater. Your gestures of appreciation for their efforts are part of the fuel that keeps our educators coming back each year.

Have a great month of April. Stay safe and strong.

Jeff Lavender