The Tempe Union High School District (TUHSD) held a Study Session and Governing Board Meeting on July 12, 2023, where several key topics were discussed, including staff recognitions and updates on the Summer Education Academy.

The meeting commenced with a notable recognition of two staff members, Kelly Richmond and Gary Holland, who recently achieved the Certified Administrator of School Finance and Operations (SFO) certification from the Association for School Business Officials International (ASBO). This certification is awarded to individuals who meet rigorous requirements, including extensive work experience, education, and passing a comprehensive exam. Both Richmond and Holland were commended for their dedication and hard work, with Richmond being highlighted for her pivotal role in the payroll department and Holland for his contributions alongside the business assistant superintendent.

Richmond expressed gratitude for the support she received during her certification journey, acknowledging the mentorship from colleagues. Holland also shared insights into the demanding nature of the certification process, which included a 15-month commitment and extensive coursework.

Following the staff recognitions, the meeting shifted focus to the Summer Education Academy (SEA). The administrative team, including key coordinators and principals, was acknowledged for their efforts in running the program, which served a significant number of students over four weeks. The board expressed eagerness to hear about the positive outcomes from the academy, emphasizing the dedication of the staff involved.

The meeting concluded with a strong emphasis on the importance of teamwork and support within the district, highlighting the positive impact on students' educational experiences. The board plans to continue recognizing the contributions of staff and discussing the results of the Summer Education Academy in future meetings.