School Program Undergoes Change as Shaw Montessori Transition to Fee-Based System

The Phoenix Elementary District Governing Board convened on August 14, 2025, to discuss several key agenda items, including updates on preschool tuition, community engagement initiatives, and the approval of the guardrails monitoring report.

The meeting began with a discussion regarding the Shaw Montessori program for three-year-olds. It was clarified that the program transitioned from a half-day to a full-day format, and a grandfather clause was established to allow families already enrolled to continue without incurring tuition fees for the upcoming year. However, starting next year, all programming at Shaw will require a fee for service, specifically for the preschool program, while kindergarten through eighth grade will remain tuition-free.

The board then moved on to community engagement efforts, particularly the rollout of a community survey aimed at gathering feedback from families and community members. The survey will be implemented through roundtable discussions and QR codes available at various school sites. The district is collaborating with local community groups, including the City of Phoenix's choice neighborhood program, to promote these events and ensure broad participation. Refreshments will be provided, and gift cards will be raffled to encourage attendance.

The discussion also touched on the scheduling of these community meetings, with the first session set for next Thursday morning and a repeat session in the afternoon. The board emphasized the importance of reaching out to families and community members who may not currently be involved with the schools.

As the meeting progressed, the board addressed the approval of the guardrails monitoring report. This report outlines the district's goals and objectives, with members voting to affirm that the district is on the right track. The superintendent noted that the report serves as a predictive tool for assessing progress toward meeting established goals, including addressing barriers to enrollment and ensuring equitable transportation for students.

In conclusion, the meeting highlighted the district's commitment to engaging families and the community while ensuring transparency in its operations. The board's approval of the guardrails monitoring report marks a significant step in maintaining accountability and progress within the district. Further updates and follow-up actions are expected as the district continues to implement its initiatives.