Mesa Public Schools updates teacher evaluations and honors passed educators

The Mesa Unified District Governing Board convened on June 10, 2025, to address several key issues impacting the educational landscape of the community. The meeting highlighted significant changes in teacher evaluations, personnel updates, and the introduction of new school leadership, all of which are poised to influence the district's educational quality and community engagement.

A central topic of discussion was the revision of the teacher evaluation handbook. Kelly Berg, the outgoing president of the Mesa Education Association, emphasized the need for alignment with current practices, noting that the updated handbook will ensure all continuing status teachers are evaluated on the same 22 competencies. This change aims to create a fairer evaluation process, particularly in light of recent staff reductions where 42 teachers and counselors were affected. Berg expressed hope that the new evaluation system would prevent further layoffs in the upcoming year, fostering a more stable environment for educators.

The board also recognized the contributions of two educators who passed away, Jesse Pomona and Nicole Delgado, both of whom dedicated decades to serving students in the Mesa community. Their legacies were honored during the meeting, reflecting the district's commitment to acknowledging the impact of its staff on student lives.

In personnel updates, the board welcomed two new interim principals: Melissa Munoz at Highland Arts Elementary and Jennifer Radakovich at Sousa Elementary. Both leaders expressed gratitude for the opportunity and shared their commitment to fostering strong academic environments. Munoz highlighted the importance of community and mentorship in her journey, while Radakovich, a product of Mesa Public Schools herself, conveyed excitement about contributing to the district's mission of prioritizing student needs.

The meeting concluded with a streamlined consent agenda, which was approved without discussion, indicating a collaborative approach among board members. The decisions made during this meeting reflect the district's ongoing efforts to enhance educational standards and community involvement, setting a positive tone for the upcoming school year. As the district moves forward, the implications of these changes will be closely watched by educators, parents, and students alike.