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Ambri: SEA optimistic about transition to Dr. Scott Menzel

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For nearly the past two months, SUSD teachers and school district administrators have been focused on ensuring students are able to continue their high-quality education that meets their parents’ expectations. While this period has had its share of challenges too numerous to mention, the Scottsdale Education Association is confident that objective is being achieved.

We are now starting to look ahead to make certain that the continuity between the current school year and the next school year scheduled to start in August takes place as smoothly as possible.

Following our recent conversation with Dr. Scott Menzel, SUSD’s new superintendent who officially begins his tenure July 1, our organization is optimistic about the transition.

Even though Dr. Menzel is quarantined in Michigan, he reached out to our group, SEA. He described his leadership style as inclusive and also how he prefers making decisions --- which includes getting the input of all stakeholders. He stressed the importance of evaluating outcomes by determining who may benefit as well as who may be burdened by a decision. He also said he is sensitive to the emotional health of students and staff based on the enormous stress created by the current situation. Like our organization, Dr. Menzel wants to work on minimizing those pressures.

From the perspective of SUSD teachers, we explained to Dr. Menzel that we feel strongly about teachers having a greater voice in the school district’s decision-making process. That would help the administration make more efficient decisions regarding policies and add more clarity to decisions that affect all employees.

Reducing teachers’ input in the past has created problems. After speaking to Dr. Menzel, we are hopeful that the voice of teachers begins playing a more prominent role.

Speaking for teachers and other employees of SUSD, we expect that under Dr. Menzel’s leadership real collaboration will be renewed with the administration and that will improve the school district’s responsiveness to students, teachers and the community.

Editor’s Note: Kris Ambri is the president of the Scottsdale Education Association and a teacher at Copper Ridge.