Sunnyside District partners with U of A and Pima to enhance student pathways

The Governing Board Meeting held on March 4, 2025, focused on the establishment of a collaborative partnership between the Sunnyside Unified School District, the University of Arizona, and Pima Community College. Superintendent Gastell and President Quintero opened the meeting by discussing the "Try School Project Beyond the Stage," which aims to ensure that every student is prepared for college and community engagement upon graduation.

The meeting highlighted the ongoing efforts to enhance educational pathways for students in Tucson, where the partnership seeks to bridge the gap between high school, community college, and university education. Superintendent Gastell emphasized the importance of creating a seamless transition for students, noting that many students may not initially attend the University of Arizona but could benefit from Pima's diverse programs, which include 186 offerings that cater to various career paths.

A significant point of discussion was the formation of a working group comprising representatives from the three institutions, aimed at developing strategies to improve student readiness for post-secondary education. The group has set a goal to increase the percentage of students enrolling in post-secondary programs from the current 46% to the state target of 60%. This initiative is expected to have a substantial economic impact on the state.

The partnership has already seen tangible commitments, with the University of Arizona providing a full-time staff member dedicated to Sunnyside and Pima Community College establishing a new position to support students directly within the district. This collaborative approach is designed to enhance student awareness of available opportunities and to facilitate smoother transitions into higher education or the workforce.

The meeting also addressed the need for improved communication and understanding among the institutions involved. By sharing resources and insights, the partners aim to create a comprehensive knowledge base that will guide students from middle school through their first year of college. This includes initiatives like dual enrollment programs, which currently serve over a thousand students, allowing them to earn college credits while still in high school.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the commitment of the Sunnyside Unified School District, the University of Arizona, and Pima Community College to work together in fostering a supportive educational environment that prepares students for future success. The collaborative efforts are expected to evolve continuously, incorporating feedback from students and alumni to enhance the educational experience and outcomes for all involved.