In a gathering marked by gratitude and celebration, the Tempe Union High School District Governing Board convened on September 17, 2025, to honor the dedication of educators and acknowledge the rich history of the land they occupy. The meeting began with a heartfelt land acknowledgment, recognizing the ancestral heritage of the Grama O'odham, Pima, and Pee Posh Maricopa peoples, emphasizing the importance of their stewardship over the land.

Superintendent Dr. Wilson took the stage to present the recipients of the Tempe Union High School Education Foundation's grants, a total of $35,000 awarded to 15 teachers and staff members. Each recipient was celebrated for their innovative classroom projects aimed at enhancing student learning experiences.

Among the awardees was Elena Rowich from Mountain Point High School, who received funding for a rocketry exploration project, and Stacy Forger from Desert Vista, who will use her grant to support genetic engineering studies. Other notable recipients included Melissa Gebare, who aims to boost ACT scores for Algebra 2 students, and Jane Chu, who is creating a sensory-friendly technology crafting space.

The evening highlighted the diverse range of projects, from robotics kits to a neurodiversity club, showcasing the district's commitment to fostering creativity and inclusivity in education. As the awards were presented, the board expressed deep appreciation for the educators' hard work and the positive impact these initiatives will have on students.

In closing, the meeting underscored the collaborative spirit of the Tempe Union High School District and its partners, leaving attendees inspired by the potential of these educational endeavors to enrich the lives of students and the community at large.