When I was on the SUSD Governing Board, I had the opportunity to speak at a gathering along with the U.S. Assistant Secretary of Education. I made a promise, that SUSD would do its best to educate every child that came through our doors to the best of our abilities, Special Education, English Language Learners and our AP students.
A great school district needs stability and commitment to keep this promise. When you look at this diverse group of students, can you imagine what it takes to help every student reach their maximum potential? We don’t exclude students to make our test scores look better.
With that said Scottsdale Unified has a 93% graduation rate for the class of 2022, compared to 77% statewide and 82% in Maricopa County (source: Education Forward). The graduating class also earned $83.8 million in athletic and academic scholarships. One student was named a U.S. Presidential Scholar, and eight students received National Merit scholarships.
You have a choice this fall.
We have three business/education professionals applying for the job of Governing Board. They understand governance and the job of the Governing Board, which does not involve the micromanagement of the superintendent and administration. It does involve the hiring of the superintendent, then supporting the students, all students.
Matt Pittinsky is a proud SUSD parent. He has developed several education technology startups. He taught at ASU.
Donna Lewis, in her 40-year career, has been a teacher, principal and administrator. In 2021, she was named Arizona’s Superintendent of the Year and is currently a professor of educational leadership.
Mike Sharkey has twin daughters that graduated from Chaparral High School. He continues to mentor their robotics team. Mike has worked as an entrepreneur in the tech industry. He serves as the executive director of Data and Analysis at ASU.
These are my choices for the SUSD Governing Board; professional, qualified and caring.
Reader reactions, pro or con, are welcomed at AzOpinions@iniusa.org.
