Scottsdale has a lot of incredible young talent, and it’s cultivated by a school system that is amongst the best in the state. But for so many kids who grow up in our city, they go away to college and carve their own path elsewhere afterward, taking their talents to new cities and states instead of reinserting their talents back … Read More
Guest Editorial: Arizona’s Teacher Shortage: Prop 123 Didn’t Solve the Problem
By John Coppotelli IV Teachers have the unique ability to change and shape young people’s minds. They are a vital part of ensuring that every generation has the necessary knowledge for their future endeavors. However, with costs on the rise everywhere and their salaries staying stagnant, teachers are becoming a lot scarcer, and classrooms are not getting filled. There are … Read More
Peoria and Its Leadership Again Creating Great Headlines
Peoria doesn’t typically get much coverage in this blog, although recently it’s been making more appearances as it rises up as the jewel of the west valley (you can read our coverage here). Last time we took notice it was some great new developments and more entertainment options going up there (combined with leadership’s spirit of saying Yes and being … Read More
Missteps by Scottsdale Unified: Is It Purposeful Subversion?
The Scottsdale Unified School District has had a good run recently. From largely avoiding the controversies that befell it a few years back to operating schools at levels that are gaining national recognition (read our full coverage here), it has been relatively smooth sailing recently…until now. A recent story potentially demonstrates an unforced error and a significant bump in the road, … Read More
More Good News for Scottsdale: Our Schools Are World Class
We love to tout Scottsdale on this blog, and there are many reasons why. We don’t have to tell you the reasons why it is such a popular national (and sometimes international) vacation destination. It has also become a burgeoning hotspot for jobs as well. And while we don’t often tout our educational system as one of the reasons why … Read More
Arizona Legislature Singing Kumbaya on Education…For Now
As this year’s legislative session kicks into full swing, one issue is front and center this year: education. And in a strange twist, Republicans and Democrats are actually somewhat united on this issue…for now. But as the fight for control of the legislature, which leans ever so perilously on the side of the Republicans, heats up this year these agreements … Read More
Better Days Coming for Scottsdale Teachers According to Task Force. Are They Substantive or Empty Promises?
Education has long been a hot-button issue in Arizona. While Democrats have long spoken about it as the minority party, it hit a critical mass in 2018 with the massive Red for Ed protests. Then-Governor Ducey’s political hand was forced, leading to significant increases in pay for teachers in the state. Once right near the bottom nationally in average teacher … Read More
AG Mayes and Governor Hobbs Have a New Target: AZ Schools Superintendent Tom Horne
Over the last few months, Governor Katie Hobbs and AZ Attorney General Kris Mayes have started to realize and actualize the power that they can wield together (you can read up on our coverage on Hobbs here and Mayes here). Most of this exploration has revolved around battles related to legislation, both real and potential, but rarely have they had … Read More
Major Wins for Local Schools as Scottsdale Unified and Paradise Valley School District Bond Overrides Pass
Last week’s elections were a relatively sleepy one; after all, with no real big name seats up for grabs, it was easy to not see any local results at all. But there were a few very important developments that will impact parents all across the Valley, including in Scottsdale. Specifically, bond overrides. Bond overrides are a mechanism to increase funding … Read More
Superintendent Menzel Named Superintendent of the Year from a Partisan Source, Reinforcing Battle Lines
Scottsdale Unified Superintendent Scott Menzel has had a relatively turbulent time leading the helm at SUSD. District meetings have had disruptions regarding COVID-related mitigation and content, and he has been the target of activists (you can read more about it all here). When you have plenty of enemies, it’s always good to have friends that have your back, and a … Read More