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Superintendent outlines safety grant, facility needs and staffing gaps
Summary
Superintendent Peter Dwyer briefed the board on a federal School Violence Prevention grant, aging classroom A/C units and upcoming kindergarten vacancies; he said the district will seek funding and expand recruiting to fill teaching openings.
At the Sept. 25 meeting, Peter Dwyer summarized the superintendent’s report, noting recent student recognition and several operational priorities.
Dwyer said 19 students received "Rockstar" awards and 17 attended the ceremony to accept them. He described a federal COPS/DOJ School Violence Prevention Program grant the district received, saying the funds are meant for upgrading entry doors and gates and installing automatic lockdown features; staff are also considering classroom-entry technologies to improve safety. Dwyer said the district used a grant writer to help secure the award.
On facilities, Dwyer said many classroom-level A/C units are aging and will need replacement. The district is working with a consultant to apply to the School Facilities Department for funding to replace units as needed.
Dwyer also told the board both kindergarten teachers plan to leave at the end of the school year—one retiring and one moving out of state—creating a staffing concern for 2025. He said the University of Arizona’s teacher-preparation program is currently struggling to supply candidates, so the district will recruit in Phoenix and surrounding areas and may hire earlier to provide training this school year.
Finally, Dwyer reported the Champions afterschool program is stable with nine enrolled students and said the program director will attend school events to boost enrollment.
