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Articles from December 2024

Desert Meadows’ JP Ketcham Named Exemplary Principal by County Superintendent

award graphicCongratulations to Desert Meadows’ JP Ketcham who was named an Exemplary Principal by the Officer of the Maricopa County Superintendent.

The leadership award is presented to principals who intentionally and strategically nurture school cultures where teacher and student voices set and realize the school’s vision. Principals awarded the Exemplary Principal award intrinsically value the opinions, experiences, and preferences of those they lead and consistently leverage those perspectives in decision-making. As a result of these safe and supportive environments, the students achieve academically and emotionally, and the teachers remain in the profession.

Nominees go through a rigorous five-phase process which includes teacher surveys, candidate interviews, and a committee site visit before they are selected to be an Exemplary Principal.

Maricopa County Superintendent Steve Watson surprised Ketcham during a staff meeting where he presented the award.

Watch the video of the surprise announcement.

See the photos taken of this special award being presented.

 

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LEAP Into High School April 30

All middle school Laveen students are invited to attend our LEAP into High School event.

This year’s event will be held April 30 from 5:00 p.m. -7:00 p.m. at Rogers Ranch School, 6735 S. 47th Ave.

Participants will be able to meet with representatives from area high schools to learn more about their programs and offerings.

Visit www.LaveenSchools.org/LEAP for a list of participating high schools.

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Laveen’s Celebration of Art is April 25

Join us for the inaugural district art show on Thursday, April 25 from 4:30 -6:30 p.m. at the Laveen Education Center, 5001 W. Dobbins.

Laveen’s Celebration of Art will feature student art from across all Laveen schools and grade levels. Stop by throughout the evening to see the amazing work our students have created.

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Exceptional Service Award Winners Recognized

Congratulations to the 2023-24 Exceptional Service Award winners! The Exceptional Service Award is the district’s highest honor for classified staff members.

  • Gonzalo Sanchez – Bus Driver – Transportation
  • Gabriel Cabrera Solis – Groundskeeper – Support Services 
  • Veronica Soto– Receptionist – Laveen Education Center
  • Tehani SmithRegistrar – Estrella Foothills
  • Sarahi BalanzarComputer Technician – M.C. Cash
  • Cynthia BritoHealth Associate – Rogers Ranch 
  • Sandra BautistaSecretary – Laveen Elementary 
  • David GarciaPlant Manager – Paseo Pointe
  • Jerlyn DeesInstructional Associate – Cheatham 
  • Araceli JimenezCafeteria ManagerChild Nutrition (Desert Meadows)
  • Jesusita MartinezKids Club Specialist – Desert Meadows
  • Angel RichmondInstructional Associate – Trailside Point
  • Stephanie CarreonPlant Manager – Vista Del Sur

These individuals display the following attributes:

  • Strong attendance and dependability
  • High quality and quantity of work
  • Excel at working harmoniously with others
  • Expert in their job responsibilities
  • Regularly show initiative and creatively solve problems
  • Provide excellent customer service

Their commitment to our students, staff and community is greatly appreciated.

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Laveen’s Kids Club is Now Enrolling for 2024-2025 Before/After School Program

Laveen’s Kids Club is now enrolling students in before/ after school care. This licensed program offers carefully planned, well-supervised activities for children in grades kindergarten through sixth.

Kids Club staff guides participants through group games, team sports, hands-on science activities, arts and crafts, music, drama, plus many other activities from which your child may choose. Each day includes quiet time for homework assistance and encouragement, plus a nutritious snack.

Program hours vary by school site. Learn more at www.LaveenSchools.org/kids-club.

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