The Maricopa County Board of Supervisors is implementing new procedures at its regular public meetings starting tomorrow. The new procedures are among several recommendations from a recently completed Threat Assessment conducted jointly by multiple security agencies in response to an increase in disruptive behavior at board meetings."Board members and county leadership take the safety of all staff and guests extremely seriously," stated Chairman Jack Sellers, District 1. Sellers also expressed concern over recent incidents of disruptive behavior, stating, “What happened...
PHOENIX – State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tom Horne addressed the critical issue of the teacher shortage in Arizona during his recent State of Education speech. Horne described the situation as a "potential catastrophe" that demands immediate attention. He highlighted the alarming statistics, stating, "Currently, we have 60,000 teachers in our classrooms. 8,000 of them are leaving each year."In response to the pressing need for more educators, Horne outlined various initiatives aimed at improving academic outcomes and workforce development. He expressed concern...
PHOENIX – State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tom Horne has expressed his intention to appeal a recent ruling by a Maricopa County Superior Court judge, which dismissed a lawsuit aimed at upholding Arizona's constitutional requirement for English language instruction in schools. The ruling, while not delving into the core issues of the case, highlighted a procedural gap in initiating such legal action.Horne, in response to the ruling, warned of potential severe repercussions for school board members who do not adhere to the law, stating, "The districts that opposed...
PVSchools has announced that the K-12 Social Studies Resources Committee will convene a meeting on March 18, 2024, from 4:00 to 6:00 PM at the Paradise Valley District Office - District Training Center - South. The meeting, as per the open meeting law, will be open to the public but without the right to participate in discussions.The notification issued by PVSchools stated, "In accordance with A.R.S. §15-721 and pursuant to A.R.S. §38-431.02, notice is hereby given to the members of the general public that PVSchools will hold an open public meeting." The detailed agenda...
The talented theatre and dance students of the North Valley Arts Academies (NVAA) recently had an incredible opportunity to show off their skills in a professional rock concert called "A Musical Tribute to Women Who Rock." The concert was a collaboration with the Paradise Valley Community College (PVCC) Faculty Rock Band, and needless to say, the students rocked it.During the opening reception, NVAA and NVAA Coordinator Leanne Slater were honored to have PVCC Interim President Dr. Jana Schwartz and Fine and Performing Arts Division Chair Dr. Chris Scinto speak about the...
Arizona State Rep. Matt Gress (R-Phoenix), the chairman of the Joint Legislative Audit Committee, said he is “deeply concerned about the lack of compliance” with school district financial reporting to the auditor general.
North Canyon High School recently made headlines as they launched their inaugural season of girls' flag football. Dr. Bales, a supporter of women in sports, was present at the event to cheer on the female student-athletes. As stated by Dr. Bales, "Dr. Bales takes a trip to North Canyon High School to cheer on the inaugural season of girls' flag football."In addition to the athletic achievements, North Canyon High School also emphasizes academic excellence through the International Baccalaureate (IB) program. Students at the school are encouraged to immerse themselves in...
The Maricopa County Air Quality Department (MCAQD) has highlighted the impact of improper weed removal on air quality in Maricopa County as residents gear up for the warmer months. According to MCAQD, the improper removal of weeds releases significant amounts of dust into the air, contributing to higher dust levels during spring and summer. MCAQD Director, Philip McNeely, stressed the importance of proper weed removal to reduce dust pollution and promote cleaner air for all residents.In a statement, Philip McNeely emphasized, "The distinct climate and topography of the...
Phoenix, Ariz. (March 6, 2024) – A new report has highlighted the robust economic health and prudent financial management of Maricopa County, Arizona."Maricopa County continues to lead the country in growth and financial responsibility," stated Chairman Jack Sellers of the Maricopa County Board of Supervisors, District 1. "I am proud that we are able to make prudent financial decisions and govern with foresight and integrity."According to the report, in June 2023, Maricopa County demonstrated a lower unemployment rate of 3.9% compared to the state average of 4.4%,...
The Maricopa County Board of Supervisors is seeking applicants for appointment to the position of Highland Justice Precinct Constable. Luke Palmer, who previously held the position, resigned effective February 27th, 2024."The vacancy will be filled by the Maricopa County Board of Supervisors. By law, the appointee must be a Republican, like Palmer, live in the Highland Justice Precinct, and be a registered Arizona voter. The appointee will fill the position through the remainder of the term," stated the announcement.The Highland Justice Precinct covers the Gilbert area...
State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tom Horne has raised concerns over the lack of reporting on Holocaust instruction in Arizona schools. According to Horne, only 43 percent of the approximately 750 Arizona districts and charter schools have affirmed that they are teaching about the Holocaust and other genocides as mandated by state law.Horne is pushing for the passage of legislation, specifically HB 2779, which would strengthen the existing requirement for Holocaust education in schools. He emphasized the importance of this bill, stating, "This bill would require...
Shadow Mountain High School is gearing up for an exciting event as they prepare to host the Ron Smith Classic Track & Field Invitational for the sixth consecutive year. A representative from the school expressed their enthusiasm, stating, "We are beyond thrilled to announce that Shadow Mountain has been hosting the Ron Smith Classic Track & Field Invitational for the past six years, and this year is no exception!"The Ron Smith Classic has grown to become a significant event in the community, with Shadow Mountain High School being commended for their inclusive approach....
PVSchools has recently expressed its enthusiasm for promoting the importance of reading among students, emphasizing the profound impact that books can have on young minds. In a statement, the school district highlighted the transformative power of reading, stating, "Reading is an inspiring and fulfilling activity that can open up new worlds for students."The benefits of reading were underscored, with an emphasis on the valuable role it plays in shaping students' passions, guiding them towards meaningful decisions, and enhancing various cognitive skills. The district...