West Valley School Districts: Key Updates and Events Happening This Week

As new school board members assume their roles, West Valley districts address critical issues, including hiring superintendents and updating student wellness policies.

AGUA FRIA UNION HIGH SCHOOL DISTRICT

Jan 15, 2025 - Organizational/Regular Board Meeting

Agua Fria Union High School District kicks off its meeting with Oath of Office for Re-Elected and New Governing Board Members Kristen Acton, Corby Naylor and Sarah Silk.

In the Consent Agenda: 19 staff and admin are requesting taxpayer-funded travel.

AVONDALE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL DISTRICT

Jan 14, 2025 - Special Governing Board Meeting Avondale Elementary School District

The Avondale Elementary School District is hiring a new superintendent. ‘Consultant from ASA will present the Governing Board with information regarding the applicant screening process and screening protocol for the position of District Superintendent.’ An Executive Session will be held to screen applicant submissions for the position of District Superintendent. “The Governing Board will discuss and may consider the selection of candidates for the position of District Superintendent who will be invited to interview with the Board.”

A member of the Avondale ESD community asked us to help drum up support for getting residents to the meeting. Please be sure to share!

BUCKEYE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL DISTRICT

Buckeye Elementary School District confirms new governing board member Joel John “officially started his term this past Monday, January 6th, 2025.”

For background on his appointment, check out this State 48 News article. Mr. John is one of the last-minute appointments made by former Maricopa County Superintendent Steve Watson in December 2024, during his final days in office.

BUCKEYE UNION HIGH SCHOOL DISTRICT

Jan 13, 2025 - GOVERNING BOARD MEETING

Buckeye Union High School District reviews a new Wellness Policy. The word “primary” is removed from goals for promoting student health and reducing childhood obesity. The word also is eliminated from evaluating the effectiveness of the wellness policy and engaging families/representatives of food authority in reviewing the policy. Most notably is the complete removal of the sunscreen provision.

In 2017, Dr. Aaron Mangold, Department of Dermatology at Mayo Clinic in Arizona, was honored by the American Society of Dermatologic Surgery with the Arizona State Patient Safety Hero Award for his work on sunscreen legislation. His efforts led to sun-protective laws in Arizona and regulations, especially as related to children and youth. HB2134 lifted a ban on children carrying and applying sunscreen in schools, camps and other government-operated facilities.

TOLLESON UNION HIGH SCHOOL DISTRICT

Jan 14, 2025 - GOVERNING BOARD REGULAR MEETING

In the Consent Agenda:

• Motion to approve the retention of a third-party investigator to conduct an investigation on a personnel matter.

• Motion to approve the authorization for the Superintendent to waive facility rental fees for the local AZ Youth Football League teams (Desert Devils) at all sites and authorize a per player fee of up to $175 to support our programs with a partnership with our local AZ Youth Football League Team (Desert Devils). Find out more about the Desert Devils in our State 48 News investigation here.

PEORIA UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT

At its January 9th governing board meeting, the board voted 4-1 electing Heather Rooks as Governing Board President for the 2025 calendar year.

Newly elected to the board this year are Janelle Bowles and Jeff Tobey.

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LIBERTY ELEMENTARY SCHOOL DISTRICT

In the Liberty Elementary School District, community members had discussed sickouts. A community member sent to me for publication a graphic showing a sick-out scheduled for students on February 3rd and for teachers on February 4th. Liberty ESD 25 Board President Bryan Parks commented on the graphic saying,

“This school year LESD had 12 Certified teacher resignations compared to 4 last year. 9 of those had to do with health issues and moving out of state.. In addition LESD 25 prefers to accept a resignation over termination for cause. Audit of 1900+ signatures were from educators across the country out of district, except a few handfuls from EMES parents. This year an aggressive discipline policy was adopted that is seeing amazing results for the safety of staff and students. Teachers and parents overall are praising this change. EMES is still having discipline issues with students, including a recent lawsuit. Parents are demanding their kids are safe and have improved proficiency.. Dr. Monroe/Dr. Mohorne are following the direction of the Board and community and are getting great results in trimester 1 this year. On a final note... All districts are seeing increased resignations due to health issues. This has nothing to do with the culture of the district. I expect to see continued resignations on this basis. This is very concerning and will continue to have a negative impact on all school districts across the country.”

Bryan Parks | January 11, 2025

Liberty ESD 25’s next meeting is Monday, January 13, 2025 at the Jerry Rovey District Facility for a Work Study Session beginning at 4:30 p.m., followed by the regular Governing Board Meeting at 5:30 p.m. They’ll elect a board president and vice president.

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Breaking: Liberty Elementary School District's Gifted Education Specialist Resigns

The resignation of a beloved teacher in the West Valley exposes the struggle to replace gifted educators amid costly certification requirements.

West Valley Families has learned of the resignation of longtime educator Connie Crowley, a Gifted Education Specialist and lead teacher for the MAG program in the Liberty Elementary School District. Her retirement leaves a critical gap in leadership and expertise for the district's gifted education program.

After 31 years of teaching in Arizona, including 21 at Liberty, Connie Crowley announces her retirement, reflecting on on an extensive career in gifted education, advocacy, and leadership. Crowley expresses pride in her contributions, concern for the future of the Multiage Gifted (MAG) program, and a continued commitment to supporting the district's mission to meet the needs of gifted students.

After 21 fulfilling years at Liberty and a total of 31 years of teaching in Arizona, I am announcing my retirement and resignation. My journey at Liberty began at Estrella Mountain Elementary as a 3rd grade gifted cluster teacher. Following an opening for a Multiage Gifted teacher, I transitioned to teaching 2nd through 6th grades in the Multiage Gifted class at Liberty Elementary and simultaneously served as the District Gifted Coordinator.

As the number of identified gifted students grew, the MAG class relocated to Westar Elementary, where I continued my role in supporting gifted education. During a challenging period for the district, I took a brief hiatus to serve on the school board. Upon my return after a year, I resumed my responsibilities as a gifted teacher and remained committed to advocating for gifted education.

My belief as an educator is that every child deserves the opportunity to be challenged and to learn something new each day. My own experiences as a gifted student, parent, and grandparent have fueled my passion for ensuring that the needs of gifted students are met in accordance with educational laws and mandates. I have actively advocated for gifted education at both the state level and in our nation's capital, emphasizing the importance of providing adequate identification and learning opportunities for this population.

I want to acknowledge the efforts of former board president Michael Todd, who, through his advocacy, has worked diligently to implement policies that support gifted learners. Upon my return to the classroom, we faced the challenge of finding another qualified teacher. Last year, in the absence of a suitable candidate, I expanded my teaching responsibilities to include 7th and 8th grades. This decision was driven by the needs of my students, who were prepared for high school-level math, and I am proud to report that they successfully completed Algebra 1 and are now engaged in honors Algebra 2 and Geometry, thanks to a partnership with the high school.

While I celebrate these accomplishments for my students and our district, I express concern for the future of the MAG program. The Liberty Mission emphasizes providing an environment where all students learn at a high level, while the Vision aspires to inspire lifelong learners and empower all students to reach their highest potential. Without properly certified teachers who are passionate about serving gifted students, the district will need to find alternatives for these students.

As a dedicated taxpayer and advocate for Liberty, I will continue to support the district’s commitment to creating the best environment for all students but specifically, gifted and talented learners. Thank you for the opportunity to serve and make a difference in the lives of so many students. I am honored to have served.

Connie Crowley | January 2025

Gifted teachers in Arizona are a rare breed, and the hunt for one just got tougher. Connie Crowley, a veteran in gifted education, told us she gave her notice early to give the district a head start in finding her replacement. But here’s the kicker: teachers in this field need a special endorsement—and they’re left footing the bill for it themselves.

West Valley Families will continue to follow this breaking story as we have learned a great deal in this late hour. Be sure to follow

State 48 News

, as well, as we learn more about Gifted Education in the state of Arizona.

Parents Raise Safety Concerns Over Lack of Pedestrian Bridges in Loop 303 Project

Arizona punts responsibility to Goodyear for tackling safety concerns about pedestrian infrastructure near the new high school.

Happy New Year! It’s 2025 and our first story covers growing pains in the West Valley’s Goodyear, Arizona.

On January 1st, West Valley Families shared a news story regarding construction on Loop 303 in Goodyear which is set to begin by fall 2025 and is expected to take about three years to complete.

PURPOSE OF LOOP 303 IN GOODYEAR

The Loop 303 extension in Goodyear will improve traffic flow, enhance regional connectivity, and support economic growth by providing faster, safer, and more efficient transportation options. This project will also prepare the area for future growth, reduce congestion on local roads, and attract new businesses.

A new high school, the sixth in the Agua Fria Union High School District, will be constructed just west of Loop 303 in Goodyear. The 55-acre Goodyear High School campus, located at the northwest corner of Cotton Lane and Van Buren, will open in phases due to funding limitations, with phase one set to welcome 400 freshmen students in Fall 2025.

In responses to our Facebook post about the project, a valid concern about this ADOT project.

Goodyear resident Alan Stark raises concerns about the lack of safe pedestrian infrastructure in the Loop 303 project, particularly for children living in the new low-income apartments at Cotton Lane and Van Buren. With the new high school being built on the west side of Cotton Lane, students will have to cross at the signalized intersection for highway on/off ramps, as ADOT has no plans to include pedestrian bridges or underpasses in the project. Criticism cities the dangerous conditions of similar crossings, like Estrella Parkway under I-10. Despite the project's significant investment in vehicle infrastructure, frustration looms over the absence of dedicated pedestrian safety measures.

LOOP 303 CONSTRUCTION STARTING FALL 2025

The Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) is set to begin construction on a new segment of Loop 303 in Goodyear, extending from Van Buren Street south to Maricopa County Highway 85 (MC 85). The project, currently in final design, will feature three freeway lanes in each direction between Van Buren Street and Lower Buckeye Road, and two lanes in each direction from Lower Buckeye Road to MC 85.

READ: New Loop 303 project among ADOT’s 2025 freeway highlights

New bridges will be constructed to carry the freeway over several cross streets and the Union Pacific Railroad. Construction is scheduled to commence by fall 2025 and is expected to last approximately three years. This extension aims to enhance traffic flow and connectivity in the Goodyear area.

BALL BACK IN GOODYEAR’S COURT

In response to the Goodyear resident’s concerns, the ADOT Public Information Office emphasized safety as a top priority and expressed openness to collaborating with Goodyear and the local school district on construction plans and work zone safety.

Safety is a top priority for ADOT. We are certainly open to working with Goodyear and the school district on aspects of construction plans and work zone safety. As part of our pre-project work, ADOT was provided with and reviewed the local traffic impact analysis for the future high school. Since the Loop 303 bridge over Van Buren Street is already in place, no significant changes or impacts to the sidewalks currently used by pedestrians are anticipated during or after construction. We also anticipate minimal impacts on traffic, including school buses, along Van Buren Street. The project will extend the freeway south (from Van Buren Street) to MC 85. Work is expected to begin by this fall. Goodyear would have jurisdiction to follow up with the Maricopa Association of Governments, the region's freeway planning agency, on features such as pedestrian bridges. -ADOT Public Information Office

ADOT says Goodyear may coordinate with the Maricopa Association of Governments on additional features like pedestrian bridges.

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West Valley Families has reached out to the City of Goodyear for comment on this concern. We will report back just as soon as we hear back from the City of Goodyear.

'We Don’t All Freak Out Like You’: Friction Escalates in District Board Meeting

Tensions flare at a West Valley school board meeting as a new member, voicing concerns over teacher feedback, is accused of 'freaking out.'

Months of turmoil in the Liberty Elementary School District hit a new level as tensions rose with a newly seated board member. Before the fireworks, one board member walked out, cutting their tenure short mid-meeting, while 19 parents, teachers, and students vented frustration at the superintendent and governing board.

The quote of the night? 'We don't all freak out like you.'

During a discussion on Strategic Plan KPIs - Key Performing Indicators, new board member Kellie Zimmerman expressed frustration, raising concerns that the KPIs prioritize teacher perception over evaluating the actual programs. This sparked tension, with Board Vice President Kris Kenyon responding with the pointed remark, “We don’t all freak out like you.”

The superintendent clarified that the “perception” of a supportive climate, as measured by surveys, is reflected in the data. Specifically, the report states an improvement goal to enhance the perception of a supportive climate and culture at both district and building levels, with the current 2023-2024 survey showing 59% of respondents agreeing or strongly agreeing.

Board Member Walks Out: A Dramatic Exit Cuts Tenure Short

Earlier in the meeting, Liberty Elementary School District board member Paul Bixler delivered a passionate closing statement before leaving the meeting midway, opting not to stay until its conclusion.

Board member Bixler endured a controversial tenure, having previously faced a recall effort, though the petitioners did not secure enough signatures to proceed. Notably, on January 25, 2022, Bixler reportedly spoke before the Arizona House Education Committee in opposition to House Bill 2161, which sought to extend parental rights.

Bixler was a vocal advocate for policies allowing children ages five and older to intermingle in sports, including shared access to bathrooms, changing rooms, and common areas.

Unopposed and elected to the Liberty Elementary School District governing board in 2020, Bixler ran for re-election in 2024. However, in a field of five candidates vying for three seats, Bixler finished fifth.

Community Rallies as Teacher’s Future Hangs by a Thread

The highlight of the meeting was the overwhelming turnout of community members rallying behind the Estrella Mountain Elementary School principal. Concerned speakers addressed fears that Superintendent Dr. Monroe may not renew her contract. One speaker passionately shared her gratitude for enrolling her children at the school, despite regretting the need to relocate to Goodyear, Arizona, just to access the quality education.

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Calls for Board President’s Resignation Over Controversial Comments

A Liberty Elementary School District parent publicly demanded the resignation of Governing Board President Bryan Parks after leaked audio revealed him downplaying the assault of former student Kayleigh Kozak, as reported by State 48 News. The recordings sparked outrage, with critics accusing Parks of dismissing the gravity of the incident that led Kozak to become a champion for survivor protections, including Kayleigh’s Law. For more on Kozak's lawsuit against the district and her fight for justice, read here.

Advocate Kayleigh Kozak Files Explosive Lawsuit Against Liberty Elementary School District for Past Abuse by Soccer Coach

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THE MORE YOU KNOW

The Liberty Elementary School District Governing Board entered executive session, pausing the video feed for 2 hours, 16 minutes, and 25 seconds, to discuss the superintendent's evaluation (Governing Board Policy CBI, CBI-E) and consult legal counsel under A.R.S. § 38-431.03(A)(3). Upon returning to the regular meeting, new board member Kellie Zimmerman requested an agenda item for the next meeting to seek legal advice regarding the non-renewal of administrators.

This request follows the last board meeting, where the board amended the superintendent’s contract, paving the way for a $37,000 raise. The move aligns with a 15-year-old Arizona law that allows school superintendents to cash in on performance bonuses of up to 20% of their base salary.

READ: Cracking Down on Excess: Arizona Lawmakers Target Lavish School Spending and Bloated Bonuses in 2025 Reforms

West Valley Families’ partner, State 48 News, is diving deep into this story. Don’t miss out—subscribe to their Substack for hard-hitting, ongoing coverage.

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West Valley School District Sued by Champion of Kayleigh's Law

An exclusive report by State 48 News.

West Valley Families is a contributor to the newly launched State 48 News. In a newly published investigative report, a leaked audio tape of a West Valley school board member discussing a bombshell lawsuit against the Liberty Elementary School District.

State 48 News Exclusive: Advocate Kayleigh Kozak Files Explosive Lawsuit Against Liberty Elementary School District for Past Abuse by Soccer Coach

State 48 News has your first look at the lawsuit continuing Kayleigh Kozak’s fight to close gaps in Arizona’s victims’ rights laws.

Read the story here.

Kayleigh Kozac - Photo via LinkedIn