Iowa High School principal praises Elevate Ed's impact on student success

The Peoria Unified Governing Board meeting on May 29, 2025, focused on the impact of the Elevate AZ program and proposed changes to a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the initiative. The meeting highlighted the importance of graduation milestones and the district's commitment to preparing students for future success.

During the meeting, a principal from Ironwood High School emphasized the positive effects of the Elevate AZ program on students, particularly in connecting them with high-wage, high-demand jobs. The program has facilitated dual enrollment credits, internships, and job readiness training, significantly benefiting students who may not have access to such resources otherwise. The principal noted that the program has made a "massive impact" on the school, enhancing the educational experience and providing essential support for students' career readiness.

In addition to discussing the program's benefits, board members reviewed proposed changes to the MOU with Elevate AZ. Legal counsel provided insights into the modifications, which included strengthening non-discrimination clauses and adjusting the termination notice period from 90 days to 30 days. These changes aim to ensure equal educational opportunities and address concerns raised in previous meetings. The board expressed a commitment to monitoring the program's compliance with these new terms.

The discussions underscored the district's ongoing efforts to enhance educational outcomes and ensure that all students have access to valuable career preparation resources. The board's approval of the revised MOU is expected to further solidify the partnership with Elevate AZ, ultimately benefiting students across the district.