Sunnyside superintendent highlights new Barrio Nopal park, attendance gains and community donations; board honors two 40 Under 40 honorees
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Summary
Superintendent and board recognized community donations and attendance improvements and celebrated two Sunnyside representatives honored in a regional 40 Under 40 event.
Superintendent Gastelum opened his report by noting the district joined the city of Tucson for the recent grand opening of Barrio Nopal Park and splash pad, a new recreation space located across from Challenger Middle School and within walking distance of Alvaro Elementary.
"This park and splash pad is right across the street from Challenger Middle School and a short walk from Alvaro Elementary," Gastelum said, calling the investment an asset for students and families.
The superintendent reported that Sunnyside High School and many elementary schools have held student attendance at 90% or higher over the past three weeks, up from mid‑to‑high‑80s last year. He credited programs such as career and technical education, fine arts and clubs for helping keep students engaged.
The district also acknowledged recent community donations: First Precision Construction donated 40 backpacks and school supplies to the Opportunity Center at Los Ranchitos; Charlene Gutierrez and William G. Valenzuela's Pay It Forward Foundation donated supplies to Liberty Elementary; and Tucson Spectrum Dentistry and local artist Alex Valenzuela hosted back-to-school drives for Elvira Elementary.
Board President Quintero led a recognition of two Sunnyside honorees who were named to a regional "40 Under 40" list. The board invited Natalie Townsend and Matthew Coody from Sunnyside High School to the dais and praised their leadership.
