West Valley School Board Meetings: Key Dates and Essential Questions Every Taxpayer Should Consider
Lots of movement in local districts. Here's what's happening this October in West Valley education.
As we dive into this spooktacular month, we’re keeping track of vital developments in our local schools.
Here are a few notes about a few districts.
Agua Fria Union High School District: October 2, 2024
Millennium High School Master Plan and Construction Update
Second Reading of Policies - Anything approved on a second read usually becomes district policy. Agua Fria Union HSD is switching from AZ School Board Association policy services to the Arizona Trust. So each policy has to be reintroduced and approved. (I’ve covered this transition since late last year.) Topics in Wednesday night’s meeting cover Safety and Emergency Management, Board Authority to Employ, Open Enrollment, Online Instruction, Student Code of Conduct, Visitors, Nutrition, Promotion of Students, Graduation, etc.
New courses being proposed include culinary and vet assisting
“The Board may vote to go into executive session to discuss the Superintendent's assignment, duties, and goals and the allocation of performance based pay based upon goals.”
Buckeye Union High School District: October 7, 2024
The agenda is not posted, yet. However, we are expecting the second read on a number of policies.
Last month, we reported the Arizona School Boards Association is giving policy direction to its member schools to add Mental Health instruction in P.E. giving gym teachers authority to teach the subject. Liberty Elementary School District questioned the qualifications/certifications P.E. teachers would need to teach mental health. But, Buckeye Union HSD governing board members approved the first read on Policy IHA. We’ll report back if it’s on next week’s agenda.
Liberty Elementary School District: October 7th & 28th, 2024
Governing Board President Michael Todd resigned. Liberty ESD policy calls for the Vice President, in the absence of the President, to “reside over meetings and conduct meetings in accordance with Arizona law and policies of the District.” The current Liberty ESD Vice President is Bryan Parks.
Tolleson Union High School District: October 1, 2024 at 6pm
The PR and Marketing Department will give a presentation. Within the presentation, slide 8, it shows the district is considering advertising at Desert Sky Mall, at holiday movie screens in Harkins Theaters, and grocery cart ads at Frys, Safeway, and Alberton’s.
Also: October 7th, the district will post the list of proposed library book purchases which will be available online for public viewing.
Tolleson Elementary School District: October 9, 2024
Superintendent Dr. Hightower resigned in September. The Tolleson ESD met a day later, September 11th, to discuss a replacement. Here is her letter of resignation.
An anonymous list of concerns about developments in the Tolleson ESD was sent to me. I am following up with the district today. Watch for an update soon.
UPCOMING SCHOOL BOARD ELECTIONS
West Valley Families does NOT endorse candidates.
You can learn more about the candidates on your November ballot.
Maricopa County Candidate Statements can be found here. This is the Maricopa County Superintendent Steve Watson’s website. You can search by district and click in to each candidates’ profile to learn more.
Watson did not win his bid for re-eleciton. Running for his spot in November are Laura Metcalfe and Shelli Boggs. Ballotpedia has more info here.
SPEAK UP AT SCHOOL BOARD MEETINGS
Speaking at a public school board meeting is a great way to share your thoughts about decisions affecting students and the community. Here’s why it’s important and how to do it effectively:
Voice in Decision-Making: School boards make decisions on budgets, policies, and programs that directly impact students. Speaking up ensures your concerns and ideas are heard.
How to Speak Effectively
Know the Agenda: Check the meeting agenda in advance. Understanding the topics to be discussed can help you choose what to talk about.
Prepare Your Comments
Be Clear and Concise: Aim for 2-3 minutes. Focus on one key point or issue.
Use Facts and Examples: Support your points with specific examples or data. This adds credibility to your message.
Be Respectful: Always address board members politely, even if you disagree. Respectful dialogue fosters a positive atmosphere.
Practice Your Speech: Rehearse what you want to say. This helps you feel more confident and reduces nerves.
Arrive Early: Get to the meeting early to sign up to speak, if required. This also gives you a chance to familiarize yourself with the environment.
Follow Up: After speaking, consider following up with a written summary of your points or any additional information you think would be helpful.
Additional Tips
Stay on Topic: Stick to the agenda and avoid going off on tangents.
Listen: Pay attention to other speakers and board responses. This can inform your future comments.
Engage with Others: Connect with other parents or community members. Collaboration can amplify your voice.
By participating in school board meetings, you’re playing an essential role in shaping your school community. Your input matters!
MORE IMPORTANT EVENTS WE SEE BEING PROMOTED
Sharing as a courtesy.
