Phoenix Union celebrates summer successes with new programs and student achievements

The PXU Governing Board meeting on August 1, 2024, showcased significant achievements and preparations for the upcoming school year, highlighting the district's commitment to student success and staff development.

During the meeting, the board celebrated the successful summer program, which welcomed 1,300 incoming freshmen and saw nearly 200 students graduate. Special recognition was given to Michaela Jackson for her management of summer school and to the operations teams who worked diligently to prepare classrooms despite challenging weather conditions.

The meeting also emphasized the importance of safety, with district and campus safety teams engaging in three days of training to discuss effective practices and improvements for the new school year. The board expressed confidence in the safety teams' readiness to support students.

As the new school year approaches, freshmen orientation sessions have begun, helping new students acclimate to their campuses. The board acknowledged the efforts of freshman house coordinators and student leaders in making these experiences welcoming and enjoyable.

In addition to supporting new students, the district is committed to professional development for its staff. New certified employees participated in an induction program, while classified staff also received training to prepare for the school year. Notably, two weekend training sessions, the Varsity Coaches Academy and the PXU Tech Fest, attracted high attendance, indicating strong staff engagement in professional growth.

The meeting culminated in a spirited convocation event attended by 3,500 staff members, celebrating student performances and recognizing campus achievements. Awards were presented for academic achievement and school culture, with Alhambra High School winning the coveted spirit stick for their creative presentation.

The board also honored outstanding employees, including Yosika Ruth as the certified employee of the year and Doctor Timothy Gooding as the administrator of the year. The meeting concluded with a tribute to First Sergeant Noah Tincher for his service and a call to support North High School graduate Abdulhamid Nur as he competes in the upcoming Summer Olympics.

Overall, the meeting underscored the district's dedication to fostering a supportive and engaging educational environment for both students and staff as they prepare for the new school year.