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Honors, Awards and Special Programs
Honors, Awards and Special Programs
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Arizona College Prep - Oakland Campus - (2018-2019) All four ACP Oakland VEX robotics teams participated in the first annual Chandler Invitational VEX Tournament on Friday and Saturday, December 14 and 15 at Payne Junior High. Eighteen teams competed from Willis, Payne, ACP Erie, Casteel, Knox, and Bogle junior highs. Students spent two hours on Friday night at Payne so that all teams could engage in skills (driving and programming tests). These skill activities accumulate points that are added to their overall performance stats and compared to other teams around the world. They did great, and their confidence in their driving and programming skills increased. Saturday went well with teams 7830A and 7830K staying 1st and 2nd for the first half of the tournament. Our team 7830P won the Sportsmanship award for helping the Payne team with their robot. Team 7830A won the Design award for their robot design and engineering notebook. 
Chandler Traditional Academy - Independence Campus - (2018-2019) Congratulations to Audrey Askins, Eric Bell and Alexa Gonzales who were named Teacher of the Year, Volunteer of the Year and 6th Grade Student of the Year for CTA Independence.
Chandler Traditional Academy - Independence Campus - (2018-2019) Congratulations to Kairui Dai, CTA Independence 3rd grader, who was selected as one of 12 winners in the 14th Annual Valley Metro Cool Transit STUFF 3rd Grade Art Contest. Over 370 students entered from 36 schools across the Valley. Valley Metro Cool Transit STUFF Art Contest website
Chandler Traditional Academy - Independence Campus - (2018-2019) Congratulations to 6th grader Katie Wong, CTA Independence's Peace Poster Winner awarded by the Sun Lakes Rotary Club.
Chandler Traditional Academy - Independence Campus - (2018-2019) Congratulations to Rocky Engle, winner of CTA Independence's 2018 Spelling Bee.
Elite Performance Academy - (2018-2019) Students and staff at CTA Humphrey/Elite Performance Academy wrote letters to their peers at Ponderosa and Paradise Elementary Schools in Paradise, California. They wrote words of encouragement to the students and staff following the devastating Camp Fire which heavily damaged Ponderosa Elementary and completely destroyed Paradise Elementary. Thank you to staff member Aimee Hendrickson for coordinating.
Sanborn Elementary - (2018-2019) Sanborn Robotics team won the award for Best Research Project at the FLL (FIRST LEGO League) Robotics Regional at ASU Polytechnic on December 8. They received high scores for problem identification, problem analysis, as well as reviewing and improving existing solutions! A large part of this competition are the CORE Values which focus students on working as a team, valuing every students' input, building upon one another's thinking and gracious professionalism.
Tarwater Elementary - (2018-2019) Congratulations to 6th grader Victoria Miller for being selected as the Sun Lakes Lions International Peace Poster Contest winner for Tarwater Elementary. Tori was honored by the Lions at the Sun Lakes Country Club. Tori's poster speaks volumes as to how she perceives the need for peace in our world.
Arizona College Prep - Erie Campus - (2018-2019) ACP Erie's "Mobius Sustainability" team is a group of seniors committed to finding solutions for proper disposal of e-wastes. The team recently met with the Chandler Vice Mayor, Rene Lopez, and Chandler Public Works and Utility Director, Mr. John Knudson to work out ways to assist the City of Chandler with e-waste collection and proper recycling. They also plan to collect e-waste from different locations around Chandler, so that the public won't have to go far to dispose of their e-waste. This is just another way that ACP Erie Knights are making a difference in the City of Chandler.
Basha Elementary - (2018-2019) Congratulations to Basha students Alyssa Ensley, Spelling Bee Winner, and Sanaya Gupta, 1st Runner-up!
Basha High - (2018-2019) The Basha High School FFA (Future Farmers of America) team is going to Nationals again! Please join me in congratulating our FFA Floriculture team which took 1st place in the state, and the winners of the following individual awards: Samantha Bouvier - 1st Place Individual; Elizabeth Kaye - 3rd Place Individual; Lauren Myers - 4th Place Individual; and Olivia Lawrence - 5th Place Individual. CTE Programs
Basha High - (2018-2019) The Basha High School FFA (Future Farmers of America) team is going to Nationals again! Please join me in congratulating our FFA Wildlife team which took 1st place in the state, and the winners of the following individual awards: Erin Allison; Maisy Racine - 1st Place Individual; Emily Yu - 3rd Place Individual; Mikayla Manygoats - 4th Place Individual. CTE Programs
Basha High - (2018-2019) The Basha High School FFA (Future Farmers of America) team is going to Nationals again! Please join me in congratulating our FFA Creed Speaking team which made the Final Four in the state, and the winner of the following individual award: Madeline Filardi - 3rd Place Individual. CTE Programs
Casteel High - (2018-2019) Students from Casteel High School donated 2,560 Sweet Treats for Veterans in November. Deliveries were made to more than 11 organizations.
Chandler High - (2018-2019) One hundred Chandler High dancers and 10 backstage crew performed for 180 San Marcos and Hartford Sylvia Encinas kindergarten students in at the Chandler Center for the Arts last week. All involved had a great time!
Chandler High - (2018-2019) Mykah Anderson, Chandler High junior, was named AZCentral's Week 2 Girls Basketball Top Performer. Mykah had 46 points, including eight 3-pointers, last week in Chandler's win over Mountain Ridge High School. AZcentral Sports Awards Girls Athlete of the Week
Chandler High - (2018-2019) Chandler High Varsity Cheer took 1st place this weekend at the USA Spirit competition in the Advanced Varsity Large Co-Ed division. They also earned a bid to USA Spirit Nationals and will be traveling to Anaheim, CA in late February.
Chandler High - (2018-2019) Mayesa Khan and Griffin Eckstein achieved 2nd place and 3rd place in Novice LD at the Arizona Speech and Debate Coaches Association Division I Winter Trophy Tournament at ASU.
Chandler High - (2018-2019) Congratulations to Jordyn De La Torre who has been selected to represent Chandler High School at this year's HOBY (Hugh O'Brian Youth) Leadership conference. HOBY State Leadership Seminars are for sophomore students who want to develop their leadership talents and become stronger leaders in their communities. Hugh O'Brian Youth Leadership - HOBY website
Chandler High - (2018-2019) Chandler High School Girls Wrestling competed at the Skyline Coyote Open this weekend and came away winners. CHS's girls left the tourney as nine medalists, one Champion, two runners-up, and one Outstanding Wrestler.
Chandler High - (2018-2019) Stefana Jelacic, Chandler High School junior, was named Outstanding Wrestler at the Skyline Coyote Open.
Chandler High - (2018-2019) Zach Espalin and Nathaniel Deasey competed in the Skyline Coyote Open and won their weight divisions.
Chandler Traditional Academy - Goodman Campus - (2018-2019) CTA Goodman held its annual Western Week, where students learned square dancing and line dancing. CTA Goodman Facebook: Goodman cowboys and cowgirls had a rootin' tootin' time!
Chandler Traditional Academy - Humphrey Campus - (2018-2019) Students and staff at CTA Humphrey/Elite Performance Academy wrote letters to their peers at Ponderosa and Paradise Elementary Schools in Paradise, California. They wrote words of encouragement to the students and staff following the devastating Camp Fire which heavily damaged Ponderosa Elementary and completely destroyed Paradise Elementary. Thank you to staff member Aimee Hendrickson for coordinating.
Haley Elementary - (2018-2019) Haley 6th grade student Lillie Scott shines on the field and in the classroom! She was featured in an article written about her in In The Zona. In the Zona article: Haley Sixth Grader, Lillie, shines on the field and in the classroom
Hartford Sylvia Encinas Elementary - (2018-2019) Katlyn Saltzstein's second grade class is participating in random acts of kindness every day this month.
Ryan Elementary - (2018-2019) Four classrooms at Ryan Elementary are participating in a Tower Garden STEM project. Erica Marsh's class was the first to start planting, and has already harvested lettuce and spinach twice.
Sanborn Elementary - (2018-2019) Students and staff at Sanborn wrote letters to their peers at Ponderosa and Paradise Elementary Schools in Paradise, California. They wrote words of encouragement to the students and staff following the devastating Camp Fire which heavily damaged Ponderosa Elementary and completely destroyed Paradise Elementary. Thank you to staff member Aimee Hendrickson for coordinating.
Santan Elementary - (2018-2019) Every December, Santan Elementary fifth grade gives back to the community through Project Cuddle-Up. Fifth grade students donate supplies to create tied fleece blankets to be donated to Paz de Cristo, an interfaith community outreach program. Approximately 100 students, 20 parents, and 4 teachers participated in this year's Project Cuddle-Up on November 30. The 71 blankets that this year's fifth-grade students created will be distributed by Paz de Cristo to individuals in need this winter season.
Basha Elementary - (2018-2019) The Arizona Cardinals visited Basha Elementary for a Milk and Cookies event with 5th graders as part of a literacy program sponsored by Albertson, Safeway, and the Cardinals.
Basha Elementary - (2018-2019) Basha Elementary held a toy drive to support students at Hartford Sylvia Encinas Elementary.
Chandler Traditional Academy - Independence Campus - (2018-2019) Parent comment: "Dr. Frank Hendricsen and Ms. Everson,Thank you for your kind words, welcoming nature and smooth transition mid-year for our sweet second grader! It has been a fabulous experience from the front office staff support to communication with Ms. Everson all the way to the student council president offering a tour to our daughter on day 1! You guys are the best, and your attention to detail and customer service is impressive!!"
Hamilton High - (2018-2019) After a national audition process this summer, Hamilton senior Zachary Killmer was one of six valley students chosen to participate in a Master Class at the Berklee City Music Summit November 4-7 in Nashville, Tennessee as the drummer for the jazz ensemble, and coached by Jeff Coffin, saxophonist for the Dave Matthews Band. Phoenix Conservatory of Music website: Six Valley Students Chosen To Perform In National Masterclass
San Marcos Elementary - (2018-2019) We held a Family Feast to celebrate all the students and families at San Marcos. Parents, families, friends and community members were invited to join our students at lunchtime for a Fall/Winter feast.
Auxier Elementary - (2018-2019) Auxier teacher Barbara Dethlefsen was named the Sun Lakes Rotary teacher of the month for September and was recognized at an awards luncheon in November. She received a framed certificate and a $100 personal award from the Sun Lakes Rotary and an additional $100 to be used in the classroom from Trust Bank.
Basha High - (2018-2019) Gila River Native American students from Basha High attended a campus tour and a cultural speaker series hosted by the American Indian Student Support Services at Arizona State University for Native American Heritage month. Students were also able to tour the School of Earth and Space Exploration which included a private tour of the meteorite vault in the Center of Meteorite Studies.
Casteel High - (2018-2019) Casteel students wrote 1,825 letters to deployed U.S. military members who are unable to make it home for the holidays.
Chandler High - (2018-2019) Gila River Native American students from Chandler High attended a campus tour and a cultural speaker series hosted by the American Indian Student Support Services at Arizona State University for Native American Heritage month. Students were also able to tour the School of Earth and Space Exploration which included a private tour of the meteorite vault in the Center of Meteorite Studies.
Chandler High - (2018-2019) For the second year in a row, the Chandler High Treblemakers, under the direction of Lori Lyford, performed at the State Capitol for the Governor's tree lighting ceremony. 12 News: Chandler High School Treblemakers sing at Arizona Capitol Christmas tree lighting (Video)
Chandler High - (2018-2019) The American Association of Teachers of German (AATG) recognized Chandler High School's German teacher, Melanie Mello, with the Goethe Institut / AATG Certificate of Merit for her outstanding contributions to the teaching and learning of German in the United States.
Chief Hill Academy - (2018-2019) The Hill Learning Academy student council volunteered at the St. Mary's Food Bank in Phoenix.
Conley Elementary - (2018-2019) Conley students joined with the Chandler-Gilbert YMCA to create 50 Thanksgiving baskets for families in need.
Galveston Elementary - (2018-2019) First graders at Galveston Elementary culminated a 3 week study of sun and light including learning about shadows, temperature, and shade. The students practiced the engineering process by trying to solve a problem of cooling off on the playground. The students were challenged to create a model of a shade structure. They worked in teams of 2 and planned, built, and tested the structures.
Hamilton High - (2018-2019) Gila River Native American students from Hamilton High attended a campus tour and a cultural speaker series hosted by the American Indian Student Support Services at Arizona State University for Native American Heritage month. Students were also able to tour the School of Earth and Space Exploration which included a private tour of the meteorite vault in the Center of Meteorite Studies.
Hancock Elementary - (2018-2019) Hancock Elementary kindergarten students in Laura Lopez' class celebrated being thankful and grateful!
Jacobson Elementary - (2018-2019) The Jacobson Elementary spiritline, under the direction of Mrs. Michelle Merillat, entertained everyone in the City of Chandler Parade of Lights on Saturday, December 1. The spiritline includes 40 students in grades 2-6 during the 2nd quarter. The students had been working tirelessly over the last month to prepare for this event, and their hard work sure did show! They danced down the street to fun holiday songs as well as performed their school chants and cheers for everyone.
Perry High - (2018-2019) Perry High gives every student who registers for an AP test a hydro flask sticker. Strive for a 5!
Perry High - (2018-2019) Gila River Native American students from Perry High attended a campus tour and a cultural speaker series hosted by the American Indian Student Support Services at Arizona State University for Native American Heritage month. Students were also able to tour the School of Earth and Space Exploration which included a private tour of the meteorite vault in the Center of Meteorite Studies.
Sanborn Elementary - (2018-2019) Congratulations to Sanborn students Estrella Arellano and Angel Sanchez who were honored as Scruffy's Tuffys for being excellent examples of the 6 pillars of character on the Sanborn Campus.
Chandler High School - (2018-2019) Chandler High defeated Perry, 65-28, Saturday night to capture its third straight 6A state football championship. The Wolves dominated on offense and defense. DeCarlos Brooks finished with 334 yards rushing on 33 carries and 6 touchdowns. Senior Jacob Conover became the first Arizona quarterback to lead a team to three state titles at the biggest level. Congratulations to Coach Aguano, his staff, the team, fans, band, JROTC, cheer, sports med, and parents for an incredible season and great win! 
Carlson Elementary - (2018-2019) The Carlson Orchestra led by Mrs. Barney, along with other CUSD schools, marched in the Gilbert Days Parade showcasing their musical talents.
Casteel High - (2018-2019) Congratulations to the Casteel High School Colt Marching Band, 3rd Place - Bronze Medal winners at the ABODA (Arizona Band and Orchestra Directors Association) State Marching Band Championships on November 17.
Chandler High - (2018-2019) Chandler High Student Council hosted a pep rally and lunchtime tailgate parties to hype students up for the State Championship game.
Chandler Unified School District - (2018-2019) Meg Gianesello, retired CUSD Executive Director of Educational Programs, was honored as the 2019 Association for Career and Technical Education National Administrator of the Year on Wednesday, December 5 in San Antonio, Texas. This award recognizes administrators who have made significant contribution toward innovative, unique and effective CTE (Career and Technical Education) programs.
Conley Elementary - (2018-2019) Conley put on a heartwarming Veteran's Day program to honor Veterans in our school's community. Third grade sang, Student Council leaders read reflections, Chandler High ROTC led the presentation of the colors, a former Conley student led The National Anthem, and Dr. Walter's brother gave a moving address about his time in the military. Photo of Dr. Howard K. Conley and his wife Hazel, and the Student Council leaders behind the remembrance candle.
Perry High - (2018-2019) Shout out to Perry High Students, Grant Williams, Nivea Krishnan and Sean-David Ta! They created an awesome video, Live Golden for teens, by teens. This goes LIVE on #AZTV7 #DailyMix on December 13, between 8 - 9 a.m. on Channel 7.
Arizona College Prep - Oakland Campus - (2018-2019) Oakland robotics team 7830A won the Middle School Excellence Award at their first competition Saturday, November 17, 2018, qualifying them for the state championship in February. Way to go, ACP-O Noble Knights!
Chandler Traditional Academy - Humphrey Campus - (2018-2019) CTA Humphrey kindergarten through third grade students were recognized for their outstanding participation and leadership in Junior Achievement.
Basha High - (2018-2019) Basha High Air Force Junior ROTC raised $900 for Honor Flight Arizona. In just 30 days, they raised money utilizing a "mining for silver" campaign where cadets donated nickels, dimes and quarters to accumulate the amount needed to send an Arizona World War II or Korean War veteran to Washington, D.C. as part of the Honor Flight program. This program enables these individuals to see their memorials in Washington, D.C. at NO cost to the veteran. Honor Flight Arizona website
Hull Elementary - (2018-2019) These Hull students were the winners of the PTO Cash for COWS fundraiser contest. They rode in style in a party bus to have ice cream at Dairy Queen with Principal Bromich!
Santan Elementary - (2018-2019) Santan Elementary's Running Club members had more energy and inspiration at one of their practices... Coaches Brian Navarro and Aaron Sloan dressed up as a turkey and chicken for the occasion, "gobbling up" extra smiles and better running times!
Chandler Online Academy - (2018-2019) Congratulations to Kenadie Cooper who signed to play NCAA Division I Women's Ice Hockey at St. Anselm College in New Hampshire for the 2019-2020 school year.
Hamilton High - (2018-2019) Congratulations to Ellen Napolitano, winner of the Jerome McDonough Award for the best student-written play in the state. Playworks - Arizona Thespians: Jerome McDonough Award
Knox Gifted Academy - (2018-2019) Congratulations to Maxwell Crandall, winner of the STEAM Scarecrow Contest!
Ryan Elementary - (2018-2019) Ryan Elementary students and staff sponsored a hygiene drive to benefit St. Vincent de Paul in Chandler.
Ryan Elementary - (2018-2019) Ryan Elementary students and staff donated enough items to send 16 care packages to troops stationed in Afghanistan. Photo of: Ryan 3rd grade teacher Mrs. Golisch and the 16 care packages filled with items donated by Ryan students and staff. Mrs. Golisch's husband is currently stationed in Afghanistan.
Ryan Elementary - (2018-2019) Ryan Elementary 6th grade students raised enough money to buy 42 turkeys to donate to St. Vincent de Paul.
Sanborn Elementary - (2018-2019) Sanborn music teacher Mary Davis was named the Sun Lakes Rotary Teacher of the Month for November and was recognized at an awards luncheon. She received a framed certificate and a $100 personal award from the Sun Lakes Rotary, plus an additional $100 to be used in the classroom from Trust Bank.
Weinberg Elementary - (2018-2019) Weinberg 1st grade teacher, Jessica Johnson, was nominated for the Sun Lakes Rotary Club Teacher of the Month. Congratulations, Jessica!
Basha High - (2018-2019) Senior Carson Abercrombie has a passion for the Pit Bull breed. He is trying to make the public aware that they should give them a chance as they truly can be a lovable member of the family. This was his senior project, held on our campus.
Chandler High - (2018-2019) Chandler's girls cross country team finished second at State this year! Individually, CHS Seniors finished the meet strong; Morgan Foster took 2nd place overall with a time of 18:04 in the 5000 Meter Run, Mihajla Milovanovic finished 11th, and Becca Taylor finished 12th. Leonela Lizarraga and Brooke Eversden, both underclassmen, also ran great times. This team has finished in 1st or 2nd place at State in each of the last four years. Morgan and Mihajla will continue their cross country careers at Stanford and Loyola - Chicago in the fall.
Chandler High - (2018-2019) Congratulations to Decarlos Brooks, Jacob Conover, and Brayden Liebrock who earned Ed Doherty Nomination Medallions for outstanding performances during the 2018 football season.
Chandler High - (2018-2019) The Chandler High community donated goods for the Chandler Care Center's Thanksgiving Family Assistance Day. Student Council delivered a small bus and two trucks full of donations to the Care Center on Thursday, November 15. On Friday, StuCo showed up at the Care Center with 51 turkeys. CHS's Wrestlers also helped distribute donations at Saturday's event. Chandler High School is proud to be part of such a caring community!
Chandler High - (2018-2019) The Chandler High Academic Decathlon team competed at the Hamilton Invitational tournament. Students gave speeches, were interviewed, wrote essays, and took tests in seven subject areas relating to our theme of the 1960s. They did a great job representing CHS!
Chandler High - (2018-2019) Lisette Meza Reyes took 1st place in the Teach FACS Skill Demonstration at the Family, Career and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA) National Cluster. Lisette did an outstanding job of making people aware of the need for strong leaders going into the education field.
Chandler Unified School District - (2018-2019) Thanks to the work of more than 217 volunteers, the Chandler CARE Center provided the makings for a Thanksgiving dinner hundreds of families who turned out Saturday morning, November 17 for Thanksgiving Family Assistance Day. Frozen turkeys, potatoes, stuffing, fruit, vegetables, soup, cereal, and other items donated by our community were provided to Chandler families. Thank you to the many schools, sites, and clubs from within the district that provided support to the CARE Center. Without that support and assistance, this day would not have been possible!
Hamilton High - (2018-2019) Hamilton hosted 204 students from 12 East Valley schools at our 6th Annual Invitational Tournament. Results: 1st place - Hamilton. Individual medalists: Nidhi Athreya, Jake Nance, Archana Ram, Megan Ridgway, Jasmine Sun, Sarah Zhang, Aris Zhu, Benjamin Tung, Jennalynn Fung, Emma Keegan, Nikki Lajom, Zuzia Stechly, Navaneeth Unnikrishnan, Melina Chabolla, Emily Jefferson and Tyler Thornton. All told, 102 adult volunteers came together to provide these kids with a fantastic experience.
Hamilton High - (2018-2019) Esther Bateson, Chris Chew, Dee Ladd, and Julianne Haddad at Hamilton High sponsor a club called We Dine Together. The club aims to make sure no Hamilton High student eats alone. So far this year, more than 60 freshman were approached eating alone, and the vast majority now have friends, are involved in school clubs and activities, and feel welcomed. Hamilton High We Dine Together Club website
Jacobson Elementary - (2018-2019) Despite being his first year ever in cross country, Jacobson student Tristan Solomon ran his heart out and placed among the top 30 runners in the Junior Olympic Regional Cross Country Championships on November 17, qualifying him to compete for the national championship in Reno, Nevada. Tristan's 5th place finish out of 89 other 8U boys from 4 different states solidified his spot and earned him a full travel scholarship to compete in Reno. On December 9, he will race the fastest kids in the country for a chance to become a Junior Olympic All American! Good luck, Tristan!
Jacobson Elementary - (2018-2019) Happy Diwali! Jann Johnson's first graders at Jacobson Elementary celebrated the Indian holiday of Diwali during the week of November 12! They learned about the victory of good over evil and how light triumphs over darkness. The students created paper diyas (oil lamps), used sidewalk chalk to design their own rangolis (artwork usually made with colored rice/sawdust), and tasted traditional Diwali sweets. It was an experience we hope they remember for a long time!
Knox Gifted Academy - (2018-2019) Congratulations to Knox Gifted Academy student Puranjay Madupu, the 2018 Arizona Counting Bee Winner!
Knox Gifted Academy - (2018-2019) Congratulations to Myles Maki, Daniel Yan, Tristan Jia, Joshua Jim, Venkat Yerneni, Kasyap Avancha, Nicholas Karpcarahaly and Dylan Bagley, members of the Best of Phoenix 1st Place K-3 Chess Team!
Perry High - (2018-2019) Congratulations to Perry High School junior Kalli Fama who won the Div. I state championship in the 100 freestyle and was runner-up in the 200 freestyle in November.
Weinberg Elementary - (2018-2019) Mrs. Ryskamp's class worked on a unit regarding different holiday traditions. They talked about piñatas, and the students made their own piñata using tissue paper. They also watched a video of children breaking piñatas and singing traditional holiday songs.
Weinberg Elementary - (2018-2019) Weinberg Elementary student, Braidi Glascock, was nominated as Gilbert Student of the Month and was recognized by Gilbert Mayor Jenn Daniels. Braidi is an outstanding Wrangler, and we are so proud of him.
Weinberg Elementary - (2018-2019) Weinberg's Girl Scout Troop 1248 volunteered at the Chandler CARE center where 400 families were served Thanksgiving meals. We're so proud of our Wranglers!
Riggs Elementary - (2018-2019) Congratulations to Riggs Elementary 5th grader Kassandra Schmidt in Ms. Weiand's class who was named Gilbert Citizen of the Month.
Ryan Elementary - (2018-2019) Congratulations to Alex Adams, first place winner in the district Peace Poster Contest sponsored by the Sun Lakes Lion Club. Lions Club International - Peace Poster Contest
Ryan Elementary - (2018-2019) Ryan Elementary held a Veterans Day Picnic in November hosting over 350 guests.
Arizona College Prep - Oakland Campus - (2018-2019) Hartford Tutoring Club students walk over to Hartford Sylvia Encinas Elementary (about 1/2 mile) after a long day at junior high to tutor elementary kids. The students at Hartford get so excited to see their buddies. The kindergartners are especially adorable! They are excited to practice and read with their ACPO tutor. When we leave, there are hugs and smiles and "See you next week!" We are so grateful to have this opportunity to work with the younger kids.
Chandler Traditional Academy - Freedom Campus - (2018-2019) CTA Freedom is proud to be an A-rated school! The Falcon Family has worked hard to provide consistent intervention and appropriate academic challenges to maintain rigor and meet student needs. We appreciate the team effort of our staff, students, and families!
Chandler Traditional Academy - Goodman Campus - (2018-2019) CTA Goodman held an annual Veterans Day breakfast and assembly to show our appreciation and thankfulness to our veterans for their service.
Conley Elementary - (2018-2019) School Wide Book Fair: Conley Elementary had a book fair at Barnes and Noble. Students in grade 3 performed Veterans Day songs on the patio, while teachers in all grades read to students in the children's section.
Conley Elementary - (2018-2019) Mrs. Oetjen, our media specialist, held an art contest with the theme, Kindness Creates Community. Students who entered had their artwork displayed at the Barnes and Noble Book Fair on November 13, 2018. The artwork was voted on that night and the winners won prizes.
Conley Elementary - (2018-2019) School-wide Assembly - A Salute to Our Veterans: Conley honored veterans by hosting a school-wide assembly for the community. Our third graders sang songs under the direction of Mrs. Koury. Dr. Walter's brother, Richard, who served in the Army was our guest speaker. Members from our community came to the assembly to be honored and participate in this assembly.
Galveston Elementary - (2018-2019) Congratulations to our Galveston 6th grade girls who participated in the Intel / Hermanas 2018 event at Chandler-Gilbert Community College on November 9, which focused on science and engineering. CGCC Hermanas Conference Event website
Arizona College Prep - Erie Campus - (2018-2019) The Erie Alchemists is a new, innovative group at ACP Erie. These freshman students are working to create awareness about the problem of VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds) in the environment and creating reusable organic air fresheners as a potential solution. They completed their first test by making pumpkin-scented air fresheners for Halloween and distributing them to all the ACP Erie teachers and staff. They presented their idea to Vice Mayor Rene Lopez and City of Chandler Public Works and Utilities Director John Knudson to spread their cause.
Chandler Traditional Academy - Independence Campus - (2018-2019) Students and staff all wore blue on National Juvenile Diabetes Foundation Day and donated a dollar to go towards finding a cure.
Arizona College Prep - Erie Campus - (2018-2019) Arizona College Prep - Erie had a deep run into the state volleyball playoffs in its first year competing at the 3A level. The Knights upset No. 1 Snowflake in the semifinals to advance to the championship game where they were ultimately defeated by Northwest Christian.
Arizona College Prep - Erie Campus - (2018-2019) In girls volleyball, ACP Erie was named 3A Metro East Region Champions and were the AIA 3A state runner up.
Arizona College Prep - Erie Campus - (2018-2019) Congratulations to ACP Erie coach Melanie Underwood who was named the Coach of the Year for the Division II East Valley Section.
Basha Elementary - (2018-2019) Congratulations to Basha Elementary which was nationally recognized for Amplify Burst®:Reading accomplishments achieved during the 2017-18 school year.
Basha Elementary - (2018-2019) Mrs. Campbell's 3rd grade class made cards and sent Treats for Troops to the unit of one of the student's dads. They made great cards for all 33 of the soldiers and sent the package to arrive for Veterans Day. Soldiers' Angels Treats for Troops website
Basha Elementary - (2018-2019) Thank you, Sun Lakes Rotary, for gifting Basha Elementary 3rd graders with dictionaries at our October assembly.
Casteel High - (2018-2019) On Saturday November 10, Casteel earned state runner-up in boys cross country at the Cave Creek Golf Course, placing only behind Flagstaff. Sophomore Dayton Carlson led the way for the Colts.
Casteel High - (2018-2019) Congratulations to Casteel High band director Drew Eary who was recognized in AZCentral's Who's Next: 21 educators shaping Arizona's Next generation. AZCentral.com - Who's Next: 21 educators shaping Arizona's next generation
Casteel High - (2018-2019) The Casteel High School chamber orchestra, under the direction of Paula Jones, was selected by the Arizona Band and Orchestra Directors Association (ABODA) to perform at the 2019 Arizona Music Educators Association State in-service convention at the Mesa Convention Center. Only one school orchestra is chosen for this honor each year.
Chandler High - (2018-2019) Eight Chandler High band members were invited to play with the United States Army Field Band on November 11 at the Chandler Center for the Arts. What an honor!
Chandler High - (2018-2019) The 200 Medley Relay of Sarah Quintana, Abby Taylor, Haley Morton, and Sasha Gesner finished 3rd at the State Swim Meet.
Chandler High - (2018-2019) Destiny Kling finished 2nd in the 200 IM at the State Swim Meet and holds a new school record.
Chandler High - (2018-2019) Lucas Kelly finished 3rd in the 100 Butterfly at the State Swim Meet.
Chandler High - (2018-2019) Members of Chander High's Student Council attended the Arizona Association of Student Councils (AASC) President and Advisor Luncheon last Thursday, November 8. Students were able to network with other student councils and be inspired to be leaders on their campus.
Chandler High - (2018-2019) On Saturday, November 10, in Division I girls cross country at the Cave Creek Golf Course, Chandler, behind second place runner Morgan Foster, was state runner-up, finishing behind champion Xavier.
Chandler Traditional Academy - Freedom Campus - (2018-2019) CTA Freedom 3rd graders performed patriotic and American folk songs in the Veteran's Day concert on November 6th.
Chandler Unified School District - (2018-2019) The Chandler Education Foundation's Cash for Classrooms campaign was once again a huge success thanks to the generosity of CUSD staff and families. More than $72,000 in grants were awarded to 35 schools. The CEF "Woo Hoo Patrol" celebration took place Tuesday as 113 grants were awarded to teachers and schools. Grant recipients received balloons, big checks, certificates and ribbons. Chandler Education Foundation - Cash for Classrooms website
Chandler Unified School District - (2018-2019) The Arizona School Public Relations Association recognized CUSD with ASPRAtions* awards at the annual Superintendents Luncheon on Friday. The community relations department, under the direction of Terry Locke, received the highest honor, a Copper Medallion for the district's overall public relations program. They also received an award for the senior highlights social media campaign, and Earnest Robinson, CUSD video specialist, received an award for his photography. Additionally, the Chandler Chamber of Commerce received an ASPRAtions* award in the category of "Individual, Business, Foundation or Civic/Community Organization for Contributions to Public Education," and Jim Bishop received an award in the category of "Advocacy and Political Contributions to Public Education." Jim is the chair of the Yes for Chandler Students committee that advocated for support of bond elections and overrides for CUSD schools. 2018 ASPRA*tion Award Winners website
Chief Hill Academy - (2018-2019) Alma Bonillo, Dave Constance, Jen Chandler, Michelle Swope, and Kelly Castillo promote College Day at the Hill ICAN campus. Every other Thursday, they promote colleges and talk about the opportunities out there for students.
Hamilton High - (2018-2019) Hamilton's boys golf team finished Division I state runner-up to Brophy, Alexander Yu and Mahanth Chirravui cracked the Top 10 for the Huskies to earn AllState.
Hamilton High - (2018-2019) The Hamilton High academic decathlon students are gearing up for an excellent year. Twenty-two members of the Husky AcDec team competed at Seton High School in a preliminary scrimmage. The results predict another strong year. Of 63 possible awards spanning seven subject areas, Hamilton decathletes won 41. This without the full team in attendance. The first comprehensive competition will take place at Hamilton High Friday and Saturday, November 16 - 17. Hamilton Academic Decathlon website
Hancock Elementary - (2018-2019) Hancock Elementary sixth graders tested the movement of thermal energy in models they built of residential homes by taking thermal images with an iPad and digital temperature readings of their homes when placed over a heat source. Now, they will be challenged to reduce the loss of energy by improving their models with insulation.
Jacobson Elementary - (2018-2019) The second annual Jacobson English Language Development potluck/picnic was held on November 2. More than 150 people and 48 feet of foods were served from countries all over the world.
Jacobson Elementary - (2018-2019) At Jacobson, we CELEBRATE Superstar Students who come to school everyday! Coming to school each day is important. Learning spirals from day to day, week to week, and from year to year. Which means coming to school daily, is very important for each student. We need and want our students to be here so they can listen, think, create and celebrate everyday.
Jacobson Elementary - (2018-2019) Piper Schneider, a 3rd grader in Ms. Monaco's class, won the Maricopa County Justice Museum's calendar contest. The challenge was "What Freedom, Justice and the Law Mean to You: Celebrating 90 Years of the Old Courthouse." Her artwork will be printed on the Justice Museum and Learning Center calendar cover next year. Way to go, Piper!
Jacobson Elementary - (2018-2019) Ms. Ireland's Investigators helped their kindergarten buddies with the Alpha Arch learning letters and their sounds. Each class is paired with a reading buddy class where the older students work with their younger peers to encourage a love of reading.
Knox Gifted Academy - (2018-2019) Staff from Knox Gifted Academy traveled to Washington D.C. during the week of November 5 to be recognized as a National U.S. Blue Ribbon School. Pictured: Allison Davis, Jennifer Nusbaum, Michael Buist, Deepa Iyer, and Principal Lynn Weed.
Sanborn Elementary - (2018-2019) Sanborn Elementary students Danica Escalera, Samantha Santos, Nevaeh Valenica-Miller, Jalissa Cabral, Allison Padilla, Alina Amaya, Estrella Arellano and Ernestina Angulo Torres attended and participated in the Hermanas Conference at Chandler-Gilbert Community College on November 9. The workshop is designed to increase the number of under-represented and female students choosing to go to college, inspiring them to pursue engineering and/or science education and to envision future careers in a technical field. CGCC Hermanas Conference Event website
Arizona College Prep - Erie Campus - (2018-2019) Congratulations to Arizona College Preparatory National Hispanic Scholars, Nicole Carmiol, Evelyn Jimenez, Sierra LeVoy and Jonah Melo. The National Hispanic Recognition Program recognizes 5,000 academically outstanding high school students for their PSAT/NMSQT scores taken during their junior year. Thank you to the College Board National Hispanic Recognition Program for recognizing the exceptional excellence in our students. National Hispanic Recognition Program
Basha Elementary - (2018-2019) Basha counselor, Edie Lovell, and students attended the Hermanas Convention for Latina Girls sponsored by Chandler-Gilbert Community College (CGCC). Basha Elementary School 6th grade girls participate in Las Hermanas workshop at CGCC. CGCC Hermanas Conference Event website
Chief Hill Academy - (2018-2019) Our staff and students worked so hard 1st quarter, and the students earned 607 1/2 credits toward graduation!
Hancock Elementary - (2018-2019) Congratulation to Ms. Gray who received a grant for new library books from the Chandler Education Foundation. This diversity book project was titled, We are all Different We are all the Same. Chandler Education Foundation - Cash for Classrooms website
Hancock Elementary - (2018-2019) Congratulation to our 5th grade team for being awarded a grant from the Chandler Education Foundation. The grant will provide STEM (Science Technology Engineering and Math) materials and activities for our students at Science Camp. Chandler Education Foundation - Cash for Classrooms website
Tarwater Elementary - (2018-2019) Technology teacher, Jamie Droeg, is bringing 3-D printing to Tarwater! Mrs. Droeg was awarded a school-wide Chandler Education (CEF) Foundation Cash for Classrooms grant which will help fund the purchase of a MakerBot Mini 3-D printer. Mrs. Droeg is furthering her technology expertise by receiving certification through the MakerBot Certification Program. Well done, Mrs. Droeg! Chandler Education Foundation - Cash for Classrooms website
Tarwater Elementary - (2018-2019) Tarwater kindergarten teacher Jamie Ezolt has a new friend in Hollywood -- actor, Mark Duplass! Mark Duplass is one of several celebrities taking on Instagram's #10Featured Teachers Celebrity Challenge. Mrs. Ezolt explained to Duplass that her classroom is full of children eager to learn, yet providing relevant, hands-on STEM activities is a financial challenge. Duplass took on the challenge and now, Mrs. Ezolt is receiving packages full of much-needed supplies. Mrs. Ezolt sums up her kindergarten class' experiences with this: "They're (students) talking about it, they're building it, they're making it and they're learning on the trials and fails that come with it. " STEM is alive in Jamie Ezolt's kindergarten classroom! AZCentral.com - Chandler kindergarten teacher chosen in #10FeaturedTeachers celebrity challenge
Tarwater Elementary - (2018-2019) Tarwater teachers received four Chandler Education Foundation (CEF) Cash for Classrooms grants: Jamie Ezolt and Kim Johannsen for their We have a Mystery to Solve project; Anne Jones and Jim Chiang for their All Aboard! Bring on the STEAM! project; Ying Shao for her Chinese Language Olympics project; and 3rd Grade Team Nikole Bohn, Mike Wittreich, Mark Morris, Kailie Fisher, Grace, McCourt and Ying Shao for their Author's Tea project. Thank you, CEF, for helping us do great things for kids! Chandler Education Foundation - Cash for Classrooms website
Carlson Elementary - (2018-2019) Carlson Elementary fourth grade teacher, Julie Malizia, was awarded the Silver Apple from Channel 3 for her outstanding teaching. She also received a $500 check from the Arizona Dairy Council. A student in her class, Ava Parks, nominated her. AZFamily.com Silver Apple Award website
Frye Elementary - (2018-2019) Congratulations to Frye 2nd grade teacher Mrs. Jilek-Reyes who won a 2018 Fiesta Bowl Wishes for Teachers grant for $5,000 to bring laptops and flexible seating to her classroom! Fiesta Bowl Charities Wishes for Teachers website
Frye Elementary - (2018-2019) Congratulations to Mr. Meyer, Mr. Millidge, Ms. Rinebarger, Mrs. Herrig and the 2nd Grade Team who were chosen for CEF (Chandler Education Foundation) grants! Chandler Education Foundation - Cash for Classrooms website
Frye Elementary - (2018-2019) Congratulations to these Frye student leaders were chosen for their fine examples of the 7 Habits. Leader in Me website
Carlson Elementary - (2018-2019) Mrs. Lynch's and Ms. Denardis' kindergarten classes received a visit from the Chandler Education Foundation (CEF) Woo Hoo Patrol awarding them over $700.00 to purchase science station/kit supplies. Chandler Education Foundation - Cash for Classrooms website
Haley Elementary - (2018-2019) Congratulations to Haley Elementary teacher Randi Bell who received a $500 check for her grant application for flexible seating from the Chandler Education Foundation (CEF) Cash for Classrooms campaign. Chandler Education Foundation - Cash for Classrooms website
Hancock Elementary - (2018-2019) Third grade teacher Mrs. Meghan Bovard welcomed her father, Sergeant Gregg Girard, who spoke to students about his time in the Vietnam War. Students gained an appreciation and understanding of Veterans Day.
Hull Elementary - (2018-2019) Congratulations to Hull Elementary 1st, 2nd and 6th grade teachers, CATS teachers Mike Doutrich and Kierstin Yamashita, and Tech teacher Brenda Gerson who were all award recipients of Chandler Education Foundation Cash for Classrooms grants! Chandler Education Foundation - Cash for Classrooms website
San Marcos Elementary - (2018-2019) Congratulations to San Marcos Counselor Jennine Ballew who won a Chandler Education Foundation (CEF) Cash for Classrooms grant to help launch her Peace Corners at San Marcos to promote positive interactions among students.
Andersen Elementary - (2018-2019) Andersen Elementary students were excited to welcome the Crayola experience to Chandler last week. The new Crayola store is opening up in Chandler mall next summer.
Basha High - (2018-2019) Basha High honors science research student Nikita Bharati, under the direction of Michael McKelvy, won third place in the 2018 Algae Biomass Young Researcher Award for outstanding research in algae biology at the Algae Biomass Summit 2018 in Woodlands, Texas last month. To put this in context, the other winners in algae biology research were from Duke University (1st Place - a graduate student) and Los Alamos National Laboratory (2nd Place - a post-baccalaureate researcher). ABO Announces Six Winners Of The Young Algae Researcher Awards At The 2018 Algae Biomass Summit
Casteel High - (2018-2019) The first Annual Diversity Day at Casteel High, sponsored by the Casteel French Honors Society, was a huge success. The day included foreign exchange students from Germany/Norway, Spain, Chile, and Switzerland dispelling myths and stereotypes about their country. They also discussed the stereotypes they had about the U.S. prior to coming here and what they found that was different. Casteel choirs performed multicultural songs in Spanish, Latin, African, and Japanese to name a few. The importance of diversity in today's culture and the importance of voting was also highlighted. Casteel High Diversity Day Photo Album
Chandler High - (2018-2019) Isha Paode, Andres Gonzalez-Bonillas and Dennis Velasco organized Chandler High's 11th annual World Language Expo, a celebration of cultures, as part of their IB CAS (International Baccalaureate - Creatvity, Action, Service) project. Chandler High World Language Expo photo album
Chandler High - (2018-2019) Netawn Marsoobian, Chandler High School senior, will be recognized at the American Indian Excellence in Leadership Banquet as a recipient of the KJ Bowen Scholarship Award. Arizona American Indian Excellence in Leadership Awards website
Chandler High - (2018-2019) Ty Templeton, Chandler High senior, shot -2 at the two-day State Golf Tournament at the Omni Tucson National Golf Course, to place 5th in State.
Chandler High - (2018-2019) Chandler High math students won the Excellence in Mathematics Competition on Friday, November 2 at Chandler-Gilbert Community College.
Chandler High - (2018-2019) Scruffy the Wolf recognized Isabella and Julianna, student leaders from San Marcos Elementary and future Wolves, to be part of his Scruffy's Tuffys.
Chandler High - (2018-2019) The Chandler Wolves defeated Boulder Creek 64-14 in the first round of the State Playoffs.
Chandler High - (2018-2019) The Chandler High School Dance department donated $500.00 worth of turkeys to the Chandler CARE Center.
Chandler High - (2018-2019) Chandler High has been named a Lead2Feed Certified School. Thirty-six schools in the U.S. received this honor in September for their goal-oriented community service and leadership. This award would not be possible without the hard work of Chandler High's FCCLA (Family, Career and Community Leaders of America).
Chandler Unified School District - (2018-2019) Social and emotional learning leaders from districts in the area, including Director of Counseling and Social Services Brenda Ramos of Chandler Unified, presented a discussion and panel on the topics of suicide prevention and social services at the East Valley School Consortium meeting Monday, October 29 hosted by Chandler Unified. Executive Director of Educational Programs Ken James facilitated the discussion. Alexis Schreiber of Casteel High School sang the National Anthem.
Elite Performance Academy - (2018-2019) Maci Evans, Jade Peregrinof and Emma Schultz, in Amy Hoffman's class at Elite Performance Academy, were among 28 students from CUSD honored in the Poetry and Poster contest at the Week Without Violence event on October 6 at the Mesa Community College Performing Arts Center.
Navarrete Elementary - (2018-2019) Navarrete fourth graders worked on animal classification and dissected squids working to locate and name different parts.
Payne Junior High - (2018-2019) Congratulations to Lindsie Spengler, Payne Junior High English teacher, who was recognized in AZCentral's Who's Next: 21 educators shaping Arizona's Next generation. AZCentral.com - Who's Next: 21 educators shaping Arizona's next generation
Perry High - (2018-2019) Perry High students Caden Christopherson (Golf) and Matea Suan (Volleyball & Beach) were named as Wendy's High School Heisman winners. They now compete for the state Heisman and a $500 scholarship.
Perry High - (2018-2019) Perry High girls soccer coach, John Roberts, was awarded the U.S. Coaches Arizona Large Schools Coach of the Year.
San Marcos Elementary - (2018-2019) Chandler High's Scruffy recognized two San Marcos students, 4th Grader Isabella Minjarez Chacon and 6th Grader Julianna Ortiz, for demonstrating the 6 pillars of Chandler High School: Trustworthiness, Respect, Responsibly, Fairness, Caring and Citizenship.
Shumway Leadership Academy - (2018-2019) Third grade English language students at Shumway Leadership Academy served as leaders for the Kindergarten English language development class to meet their goals in listening, speaking, and writing. They assisted in providing an authentic and messy hands on experience to further their understanding of adjectives, noun and prepositional phrases.
Shumway Leadership Academy - (2018-2019) The Chandler Fire Department visited Shumway Leadership Academy preschool classes during community helper's week. The students learned about fire safety and the role of emergency services in our city.
Basha High - (2018-2019) The Basha Band Regiment competed in the 2018 Arizona State Marching Band Festival, Division II on November 3 and won a position to play at the ABODA (Arizona Band and Orchestra Director's Association) State Marching Band Championships at ASU on Saturday, November 17. Basha High Band Media website
Chandler Traditional Academy - Freedom Campus - (2018-2019) CTA Freedom held a storybook pumpkin painting contest. Winners: Best of fourth - Lexi Richtsteig and Makenzie Weatherford; Best of fifth - Sawyer Hauk; Best of sixth - Mia O'Campo; and Best Overall - Emma Kennedy. Great job, Falcons! Impressive creativity!
Chandler Traditional Academy - Liberty Campus - (2018-2019) CTA Liberty celebrated Día de los Muertos by honoring beloved deceased ancestors and friends with "Ofrendas."
Hamilton High - (2018-2019) Hamilton Theatre Department SWEPT the 2018 State Playworks Competition earning all three of the top spots in the state!
Arizona College Prep - Erie Campus - (2018-2019) Mrs. Rachna Nath, ACP-Erie science teacher, was selected to be part of the Research Teachers Conference in Washington D.C. This is a conference held by Society for Science and the Public who runs Intel ISEF, Regeneron Talent Search and other science events nationally. Groups of teachers nationally pool their ideas and resources at the conference. Mrs. Nath also got a chance to meet with Senator Jeff Flake's office and also with Arizona State Representative Andy Biggs to pitch the incredible work being done at CUSD and ACP Erie.
Casteel High - (2018-2019) Ella Christensen, 7th grader at Casteel HIgh School, met her year goal by qualifying for the Junior National Finals Rodeo held in Las Vegas, Nevada in December. She not only qualified but also won her division at the qualifier held in Las Vegas this last September 2. This is a huge accomplishment and she will be competing against 70 of the best youth barrel racers from around the world. She also qualified and will be competing in the Xtreme 1d finals held in Salina, Utah on October 20 where she will be competing against some of the best Barrel racers in the country. Ella was also featured on Channel 15's segment "Small Stars."
Chandler Traditional Academy - Humphrey Campus - (2018-2019) Students who participated in the cookie dough fundraiser celebrated with Principal Hickey and Silly String!
Bogle Junior High - (2018-2019) Accelerated Reader (AR) "millionaires" Arun Chebrolu, Harper Floyd, Nikasha Kapadia, Ava McPhail, Mara McPhail, Maxwell Porter, Ben Sywarungsamun and Nayeli Munoz Parra read more than one million words in AR in one quarter. Ava read more than two million!
Bogle Junior High - (2018-2019) Bogle Junior High 7th grade flag football won their first East Valley Conference championship for football in Bogle's history!
Bogle Junior High - (2018-2019) Bogle Junior High choir students participated in the Diamondbacks Choir Night and sang the National Anthem at the game.
Bogle Junior High - (2018-2019) Congratulations to Bogle students Gabriella Stone, Moorea Neimeier, Annie Do, Aiden Vogt, Nikasha Kapadia, Claire Smith, Ty Stinson, Daniel Kwak, and Tyler Nguyen who had perfect scores on last spring's ACT ASPIRE test.
Bogle Junior High - (2018-2019) Bogle Junior High's National Junior Honor Society held a water drive for IHelp and Matthew's Crossing Food Bank.
Bogle Junior High - (2018-2019) The whole Bogle community collected non-perishable food and hygiene items for the Chandler Care Center in August.
Chandler High - (2018-2019) The Chandler Wolves defeated the Hamilton Huskies 49-7 Friday night, October 26, to once again win the Battle for Arizona Avenue as part of Rivalry Week.
Chandler High - (2018-2019) Congratulations to Jake De La Torre who received the Rival's Scholar Athlete Award in October 2018.
Chandler High - (2018-2019) Congratulations to DeCarlos Brooks who was named the Great American Rivalry Series MVP.
Chandler High - (2018-2019) Fox 10's Cory McCloskey was live from our courtyard on October 26 to kick off the Battle for Arizona Ave football game against Hamilton. The pep rally included band and cheer performances, shout-outs to athletes and performers competing at State, chants, a StuCo game, and awesome emceeing from CHS's own Mr. Sasha Hunter. Blue Bell Creameries also announced free ice cream for all students and staff in honor of Ms. Amy Komitzky, AZ Top 10 Teacher of the Year.
Chandler High - (2018-2019) Mr. JJ Chandler, CHS Assistant Principal, was honored by the CUSD Governing Board for heroic efforts involving a student crisis situation off campus. He is pictured with Chandler Fire representatives Jessica Westmiller and Scott Jaeger.
Chandler High - (2018-2019) Congratulations to Chandler High Coach Matt Lincoln who was named the Girls Cross Country Coach of the Year.
Chandler High - (2018-2019) The Chandler High Wolf Pack Marching Band took 3rd place out of 40 bands at the Northern Arizona University ABODA (Arizona Band and Orchestra Director's Association) Festival. Chandler High took second place out of all Arizona bands, including large bands.
Chandler High - (2018-2019) Morgan Foster, Mihajla Milovanovic, Becca Taylor, Gabriel Garcia and Ava Potts were named to the All-CUSD Cross Country Team.
Chandler High - (2018-2019) Congratulations to Javan Ah Quin, Chandler High senior and member of the varsity football team, who was awarded the Battle for Arizona Ave Service above Self Scholarship.
Chandler High - (2018-2019) Chandler High AVID (Advancement Via Individual Determination) students hosted Parent Night and gave their families a taste of what the college prep program is all about through modeling college projects, tutorials, scholarship and FAFSA information, and more.
Chandler Traditional Academy - Liberty Campus - (2018-2019) Students and families exceeded their goal in raising money in the CTA Liberty Sweet-a-thon. In celebration, students were given the honor of silly stringing both Dr. Bader (principal) and Mrs. Lerma (dean of students).
Andersen Elementary - (2018-2019) Congratulations to Andersen teacher Jessica Rudloff who was surprised Thursday, October 25 with a 2018 Fiesta Bowl Wishes for Teachers grant. Her wish is to purchase iPads for her classroom. Fiesta Bowl Charities Wishes for Teachers website
Arizona College Prep - Erie Campus - (2018-2019) Congratulations to ACP Erie teacher Joycelyn Craft who was surprised Thursday, October 25 with a 2018 Fiesta Bowl Wishes for Teachers grant. Her wish is to purchase wish is to purchase a set of 30 CX calculators with charging stations and a Vernier CBR 2 (Calculator-Based Ranger ™) Sonic Motion detector. Fiesta Bowl Charities Wishes for Teachers website
Basha High - (2018-2019) Basha High School was recognized as 1 of 6 certified Lead2Feed schools in Arizona! Lead2Feed is a Student Leadership Program that encourages high school students to refine leadership skills by completing a service project around a community need involving a public nonprofit. Only 36 schools from across the U.S. earned the Lead2Feed Certified School honor in recognition for their inspiring community service work and impressive demonstrations of leadership. Lead2Feed Student Leadership Program
Carlson Elementary - (2018-2019) Carlson Elementary fifth graders, under the guidance of volunteers from Sun Lakes Rotary Club and students from ASU, assembled a balloon motor and added to the chassis they built last week. Next, they will test their engines and make adjustments to see how far their car will go. (Materials donated by GM and SAE).
Casteel High - (2018-2019) Congratulations to Casteel High teacher Cami Clausen who was surprised Thursday, October 25 with a 2018 Fiesta Bowl Wishes for Teachers grant. Cami Clausen's wish is to take her concert choir to New York City to perform at Carnegie Hall. This choir was invited to perform but does not have all the funds to travel. This wish will fund the students to perform in April of 2019. Fiesta Bowl Charities Wishes for Teachers website
Chandler High - (2018-2019) Congratulations to Chandler High teacher Janice Koury who was surprised Thursday, October 25 with a 2018 Fiesta Bowl Wishes for Teachers grant. Her wish is to purchase wish is to purchase flexible seating and new worktables. Fiesta Bowl Charities Wishes for Teachers website
Chandler Traditional Academy - Humphrey Campus - (2018-2019) Principal Hickey wins a Ben's Bell for his acts of kindness. Ben's Bells website
Chandler Unified School District - (2018-2019) Superintendent Dr. Camille Casteel meets with student leaders throughout the school year to develop their leadership skills. During the week of October 22, the Student Advisory Council discussed how to market their schools.
Chandler Unified School District - (2018-2019) Congratulations to eight CUSD teachers who were surprised Thursday, October 25 with 2018 Fiesta Bowl Wishes for Teachers grants. Chandler High Koury's wish is to purchase flexible seating and new worktables. Casteel High School: Cami Clausen's wish is to take her concert choir, invited to perform at Carnegie Hall, to New York City in April 2019. Arizona College Prep - Erie: Joycelyn Craft's wish is to purchase a set of 30 CX calculators with charging stations and a Vernier CBR 2 Motion detector. Frye Elementary: Kandace Jilek's wish is to create a comfortable and fun learning environment by purchasing flexible seating options for her class. Fulton Elementary: Sarah McGinnis' wish is to purchase tablets. Andersen Elementary: Jessica Rudloff's wish is to purchase iPads. Hartford Sylvia Encinas Elementary: Kym Vierthaler's wish is to provide field trips and guest speakers for the children. Weinberg Elementary: Nasreen Wahid's wish is to purchase iPads. Fiesta Bowl Charities Wishes for Teachers website
Chandler Unified School District - (2018-2019) Four CUSD Elementary physical eduation teachers, Kelly Saadi (Santan Elementary), Amanda Dannenfeldt (Jacobson Elementary), Jill Burnley (Galveston Elementary) and Jennifer Traficano (Tarwater Elementary), presented at the Arizona Health and Physical Education State Convention the week of October 22. Their session was titled CUSD PE TEACHERS are OPEN to Fitness!
Fulton Elementary - (2018-2019) Congratulations to Fulton teacher Sarah McGinnis who was surprised Thursday, November 25 with a 2018 Fiesta Bowl Wishes for Teachers grant. Sarah's wish is to purchase tablets for use in her class.
Galveston Elementary - (2018-2019) Congratulations to Galveston Elementary PE teacher Jill Burnley who was one of four CUSD teachers who presented at the Arizona Health and Physical Education State Convention during the week of October 22. Their session was titled "CUSD PE TEACHERS are OPEN to Fitness!"
Hartford Sylvia Encinas Elementary - (2018-2019) Congratulations to Hartford Sylvia Encinas teacher Kym Vierthaler who was surprised Thursday, October 25 with a 2018 Fiesta Bowl Wishes for Teachers grant. Mrs. Vierthaler's wish is to provide field trips and guest speakers for the children. Fiesta Bowl Charities Wishes for Teachers website
Jacobson Elementary - (2018-2019) Congratulations to Jacobson Elementary PE teacher Amanda Dannenfeldt who was one of four CUSD teachers who presented at the Arizona Health and Physical Education State Convention during the week of October 22. Their session was titled CUSD PE TEACHERS are OPEN to Fitness!
Perry High - (2018-2019) The Perry High girls badminton team won its second athletic team championship when the team defeated Corona del Sol, 5-2, Thursday, October 25. Congratulations!
Santan Elementary - (2018-2019) Congratulations to Santan Elementary PE teacher Kelly Saadi who was one of four CUSD teachers who presented at the Arizona Health and Physical Education State Convention during the week of October 22. Their session was titled "CUSD PE TEACHERS are OPEN to Fitness!"
Tarwater Elementary - (2018-2019) Congratulations to Tarwater Elementary PE teacher Jennifer Traficano who was one of four CUSD teachers who presented at the Arizona Health and Physical Education State Convention during the week of October 22. Their session was titled "CUSD PE TEACHERS are OPEN to Fitness!"
Weinberg Elementary - (2018-2019) Students from Mrs. Zylstra (4th grade) and Mrs. Van De Beuken's (1st grade) classes had so much fun with their buddy classes! They did a STEM project to launch candy pumpkins using only popsicle sticks and rubber bands. Their ideas were very creative and successful!
Weinberg Elementary - (2018-2019) Congratulations to Weinberg Elementary teacher Nasreen Wahid who was one of four CUSD teachers who presented at the Arizona Health and Physical Education State Convention during the week of October 22. Their session was titled "CUSD PE TEACHERS are OPEN to Fitness!"
Chandler Traditional Academy - Humphrey Campus - (2018-2019) CTA Humphrey's annual "Kindergarten Nursery Rhyme" parade was a huge success!
Chandler Traditional Academy - Humphrey Campus - (2018-2019) Mrs. Strong teaches about the importance of community.
Hamilton High - (2018-2019) Congratulations to Jolade Adebekun, Neil Bhardwaja, Michaela Chen, Alyssa Crawford, Samihan Dani, Jeena Davidson, Dheeti Deliwala, Jonathan Dwiyono, Ruby Gao, Chaelin Jung, Angela Kan, Mindy Long, Aatmik Mallya, Anna McCarson, Shivam Mohite, Jacob Nance, Deirdre Nelsen, Nicholas Ngo, Rohan Nishtala, Emma Pudoka, Gordon Robertson, Sanjana Sarkar, Sonakshi Sharma, Abigail Thornton, Gavin Vogt, Christian Vuand Grace Zhang who have been named Semifinalists in the 2019 National Merit Scholarship Competition based off of their 2017 PSAT/NMSQT scores. Each year, About 1.6 million students in some 22,000 high schools enter the National Merit Scholarship competition annually when they take the Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT) in October. Semifinalists are the highest-scoring program entrants in each state and represent the top 0.5% percent of the state's senior students. National Merit ® Scholarship Program
Casteel High - (2018-2019) Four members of our Junior High Science Olympiad team competed at the first invitational of the season, held in Tucson on October 20. They won every event they competed in during the weekend. They brought home 13 ribbons including first place in Circuit Lab, Meteorology, and Road Scholar! It was a fantastic start to competition season, even though the whole team could not attend.
Weinberg Elementary - (2018-2019) Mr. Ball's 6th graders were given the challenge of building a geodesic dome using struts made from rolled-up newspaper and determining the strength-to-weight ratio of the resulting dome. They tested their design by stacking textbooks on their domes to see how much weight they could support.
Weinberg Elementary - (2018-2019) During the week of October 25, kindergarten celebrated the 50th day of school by dressing up in 50s style clothing. Thanks to our fabulous kindergarten team for putting this together. (Pictured left to right: Mrs. Perea, Mrs. Murphy, Miss Burrell, Ms. Willey and Mrs. Pingel.)
Weinberg Elementary - (2018-2019) Weinberg 4th graders took a fun and educational field trip to the Sonoran Desert Museum.
Chandler Traditional Academy - Freedom Campus - (2018-2019) Student council president, Megan, attended a meeting with Chandler Unified School District superintendent, Dr. Casteel, to represent CTA Freedom.
Fulton Elementary - (2018-2019) Fulton Elementary School received the Lifesaver Award from the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society for supporting 10 families through our fundraising efforts. Fulton also received a Top Fundraising School Award, taking 4th place out of 568 other schools in the state! Way to go, Fulton students and families! Our efforts make a difference!
Carlson Elementary - (2018-2019) A World In Motion STEM Program is pleased to partner with our 5th grade each Friday to plan, build, and test jet toy balloon cars. Volunteers from GM and ASU are on hand each Friday to assist and mentor our Carlson scientists. A World In Motion Website - SAE International
Chandler Traditional Academy - Freedom Campus - (2018-2019) CTA Freedom's student council organized Red Ribbon week spirit days to encourage students to make healthy, drug-free life choices. Students dressed in spirit wear while learning about making healthy choices at school and home. The theme pictured, "Travel Back in Time" was popular among both staff and students, who were seen around campus in their 50s, 60s, 70s and 80s wear.
Basha High - (2018-2019) Congratulations to Sophia Mirda, Aarjav Pandya and Alexander Skyriotis who have been named Semifinalists in the 2019 National Merit Scholarship Competition based off of their 2017 PSAT/NMSQT scores. Each year, About 1.6 million students in some 22,000 high schools enter the National Merit Scholarship competition annually when they take the Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT) in October. Semifinalists are the highest-scoring program entrants in each state and represent the top 0.5% percent of the state's senior students. National Merit ® Scholarship Program
Bogle Junior High - (2018-2019) P.E. Teacher of the Year hails from Bogle! Arizona Health and Physical Education named Travis Anderson of Bogle Junior High the 2018 Adapted Physical Education Teacher of the Year. He will be honored at an awards dinner on October 23rd.
Casteel High - (2018-2019) Casteel High special education teacher Michelle Capriotti has been selected for a national teaching fellowship from Understood.org. Over the next year, she'll collaborate with teachers across the country to create free tools and resources to support students with dyslexia, ADHD, autism and other learning differences.
Casteel High - (2018-2019) Congratulations to Carleigh Kendall and Christian York who have been named Semifinalists in the 2019 National Merit Scholarship Competition based off of their 2017 PSAT/NMSQT scores. Each year, About 1.6 million students in some 22,000 high schools enter the National Merit Scholarship competition annually when they take the Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT) in October. Semifinalists are the highest-scoring program entrants in each state and represent the top 0.5% percent of the state's senior students. National Merit ® Scholarship Program
Chandler High - (2018-2019) Congratulations to Lydia Durrett, Kimberley Mar, Kale McFadden and Isha Paode who have been named Semifinalists in the 2019 National Merit Scholarship Competition based off of their 2017 PSAT/NMSQT scores. Each year, About 1.6 million students in some 22,000 high schools enter the National Merit Scholarship competition annually when they take the Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT) in October. Semifinalists are the highest-scoring program entrants in each state and represent the top 0.5% percent of the state's senior students. National Merit ® Scholarship Program
Chandler High - (2018-2019) Kaipo Magsayo and Jessalynn Macias were named 2018 Chandler High School Homecoming King and Queen.
Chandler High - (2018-2019) Homecoming 2018 was a great success! Dave Shapiro was named the 2018 Hall of Fame Inductee, and Deneen Rogers and Lyn Stinnett, Class of 1958, were introduced as our Homecoming Parade Grand Marshals.
Chandler High - (2018-2019) The Lady Wolves Golf team qualified for the Division I Golf State Championship in Tucson on Oct. 29-30.
Chandler High - (2018-2019) Ty Templeton, CHS Senior, qualified as an individual for the Division I Golf State Championship in Tucson on Oct. 29-30.
Chandler High - (2018-2019) IB (International Baccalaureate) students volunteered at Project C.U.R.E. in Tempe. They enjoyed the opportunity to learn about how this organization works to provide much-needed medical supplies around the world. Project C.U.R.E. website
Chandler Traditional Academy - Humphrey Campus - (2018-2019) Congratulations to Kathleen Ferri, K-3 ED teacher at CTA Humphrey, who was selected as a KNIX Teacher of the Month.
Chandler Traditional Academy - Independence Campus - (2018-2019) Principal Dr. Frank Hendricesen was recognized at the Capitol over break for his NAESP (National Association of Elementary School Principals) National Distinguished Principal status.
Chandler Unified School District - (2018-2019) Arizona school letter grades were announced over fall break. Chandler Schools received 26 A's, 12 B's and 4 C's. Notably, Chandler Traditional Academy - Goodman, Tarwater Elementary and Weinberg Elementary jumped from a C to an A. Overall, 20 schools improved their letter grade from last year. Congratulations, students and staff!
Chandler Unified School District - (2018-2019) Meg Gianesello, retired CUSD Executive Director of Educational Programs, was named by the Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) as the 2018 ACTE Region V Administrator of the Year. This award recognizes administrative CTE professionals at the school, district, county, state or federal level who have demonstrated leadership in ensuring teacher and student success and have made significant contributions toward innovative, unique and effective career and technical education programs. Meg retired in May of this year. ACTE Announces Arizona Retired Executive Director of Educational Programs as National Award Finalist
Chandler Unified School District - (2018-2019) CUSD had 42 National Merit semifinalists. We wish them luck in becoming National Merit Scholars. They are among 16,000 semifinalists nationwide out of more than 1.6 million students. In May, 7,500 finalists will be chosen to win the scholarship. Semifinalists are the highest-scoring program entrants in each state and represent the top 0.5% percent of the state's senior students. National Merit ® Scholarship Program
Hancock Elementary - (2018-2019) Hancock's sixth graders in Hannah Burkardt's reading class became "doctors" for a day during text feature surgery. Luckily, every surgical team was successful! (Future doctors of America in training!)
Hull Elementary - (2018-2019) The Arizona Diamondbacks presented students at Hull with a Buddy Bench. Thank you, Diamondbacks!
Knox Gifted Academy - (2018-2019) Knox Gifted Academy was one of 349 schools nationwide (one of only 5 schools in Arizona) to be recognized as a 2018 National Blue Ribbon School. A group from the school will travel to Washington, D.C. in November to be honored at the Capitol. National Blue Ribbon Schools Program Awards website
Perry High - (2018-2019) The Perry High freshman cheer team provided community service at United Food Bank on the last day of fall break.
Perry High - (2018-2019) Congratulations to Grant Williams, Casey Kim, Michael Jones and Marcus Behling who have been named Semifinalists in the 2019 National Merit Scholarship Competition based off of their 2017 PSAT/NMSQT scores. Each year, About 1.6 million students in some 22,000 high schools enter the National Merit Scholarship competition annually when they take the Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT) in October. Semifinalists are the highest-scoring program entrants in each state and represent the top 0.5% percent of the state's senior students. National Merit ® Scholarship Program
Riggs Elementary - (2018-2019) Congratulations to Enoch Follett, 4th Grader in Ms. Agostini's class, Gilbert Citizen of the Month for October 2018.
San Marcos Elementary - (2018-2019) Congratulations to San Marcos Bears with PERFECT attendance in Quarter 1. Our San Marcos Perfect Attendance students celebrated their achievement with Bahama Bucks and a dance party!
Hamilton High - (2018-2019) Four Hamilton High students were selected to participate in the AMEA (Arizona Music Educators Association) All-State Festival for all four years of high school. This tremendous honor was accomplished by Kenzie Murphy (choir), Elyssa Travis (french horn), Grace Wodarcyk (violin) and Rose Wodarcyk (viola). All four of these young ladies have gone on to major in music (performance or education) in their respective colleges or universities.
Knox Gifted Academy - (2018-2019) Congratulations to Reegan Ankenbauer, Jacob Tobias, and Ari Guzek, Week Without Violence Peace Poster Poetry Contest winners.
Bologna Elementary - (2018-2019) Our students enjoyed a visit from Gary the Hiker and his Desert Friends. They used magic to teach us about the water cycle and how to save water by changing some of our habits. We also learned about how to be responsible hikers, ground water, the water shed, and water purification.
Chandler High - (2018-2019) Kameron Dawson, Andres Gonzalez-Bonillas, Alexis Correa, Omar Vargas, and Kale McFadden scored in the top 2.5% among Hispanic and Latino PSAT/NMSQT test takers in our region and have been accepted into the National Hispanic Recognition Program.
Chandler High - (2018-2019) Kayla King, CHS Freshman, has been named to the Chandler Center for the Arts Youth Advisory Council! As part of the council, Kayla will focus on Arts Appreciation, Community Service and Leadership Skills in order to become an advocate for the arts and a well-rounded community leader.
Chandler High - (2018-2019) The Wolf Pack Marching Band won 1st place for Division II at the Mountain Ridge Arizona Marching Band Association (AzMBA) Festival as well as the Arizona Band and Orchestra Directors Association (ABODA) Invitational at Williams Field High School. They won Special Caption Awards in General Effect, Music, Visual, and Percussion.
Chandler High - (2018-2019) The Chandler High Choirs took the Chandler Center for the Arts main stage as part of the Barbershop Go for the Gold Extravaganza with the Scottsdale Chorus.
Casteel High - (2018-2019) Congratulations to Casteel High 8th Grade Flag Football, 2018-2019 East Valley Champions!
Casteel High - (2018-2019) Congratulations to Casteel High 8th Grade Girls Volleyball, the 2018-2019 East Valley Champions!
Casteel High - (2018-2019) Congratulations to Casteel High 7th Grade Baseball, the 2018-2019 East Valley Champions!
Weinberg Elementary - (2018-2019) Weinberg first grade students performed songs about bedtime in a special musical performance arranged by Mrs. Douglas, first grade teacher, and Ms. Kenney, our music teacher.
