Kesic: Supporting Jacobs, Beasley and Hassler for real change in SUSD

This year’s SUSD governing board election is crucial for the future of our district, and I want to share why your vote matters.

As a parent with children in Scottsdale Unified for 11 years and a former employee for eight of those years, I’ve seen firsthand the highs and lows of this district. I loved my role, surrounded by supportive colleagues and wonderful students. But over time, I grew increasingly concerned about the direction of the district — both in terms of academic standards and the treatment of staff. Ultimately, I made the difficult decision to leave.

Now, more than ever, we need board members who are genuinely committed to listening to parents, students and staff. That’s why I am fully behind Gretchen Jacobs, Jeanne Beasley and Drew Hassler for the Scottsdale Unified School Board. These candidates understand the issues that matter most, from declining enrollment to the need for better academic focus. They are ready to face the challenges head-on and bring much-needed change to SUSD.

If you haven’t already, I encourage you to attend or watch the governing board meetings. It’s eye-opening to see how resources are often allocated to programs that don’t even reach our classrooms. Jacobs, Beasley and Hassler have engaged with and are supported by parents, teachers and taxpayers and are prepared to take action.

Our district doesn’t need more hashtag slogans or performative gestures. We need leadership that will reinvigorate SUSD, grow our enrollment and prioritize both staff retention and student success. My family, friends and neighbors will be voting for Jacobs, Beasley and Hassler this November because we believe they are the change SUSD needs to thrive once again. Let’s put SUSD back on the path toward academic excellence, because that’s what our community deserves.

Reader reactions, pro or con, are welcomed at AzOpinions@iniusa.org.