Somers: Thank you for welcoming me to Peoria Unified community

I am pleased to introduce myself as the new superintendent of the award-winning Peoria Unified School District, and it is with great enthusiasm and a deep sense of responsibility that I step into this role.

Beginnings are always marked with change. Take your first day of school, for example. Each milestone marks the beginning of a new chapter. As I reflect on my own first day of school, I am reminded of the excitement, anticipation, and endless possibilities that come with new beginnings. It is this same energy and optimism that I bring to our district as I am eager to collaborate with our exceptional students, dedicated staff, supportive families and an involved community.

This year, we are focusing on “The Pursuit of Our Potential,” which aptly embodies our collective journey towards excellence. Helping us to reach our full potential as a school district are our people, progress, principles, and purpose. Each of these pillars represents a commitment to fostering an environment where every student, every day is prepared to shape tomorrow.

People: Our greatest asset is our people. From our passionate teachers and staff to our hardworking students and their families. Each member of our community plays a vital role in our success. We celebrate the contributions of our school leaders and staff, who work tirelessly to create conditions for learning and growth. I am committed to supporting our educators and ensuring they have the resources they need to inspire and educate our students.

Progress: Our students have achieved remarkable milestones, from bringing in more than $98 million in scholarships, winning state championships, earning a record number of Arizona State Art Seals, and spending countless hours doing community service. These achievements are a testament to the dedication of our students, their families and our staff.

Principles: Our core values guide us in everything we do. Integrity, collaboration, excellence and equity are at the heart of our mission. These principles not only shape our educational practices but also define who we are as a community.

Purpose: Understanding our fundamental “why” is crucial to our success. My purpose is clear: to provide a high-quality education that prepares our students for the future. I am committed to fostering a culture of collaboration, innovation, and continuous improvement.

Potential: Envisioning what is possible is essential to our growth. I believe in the limitless potential of our students. Together, we can create a shared vision for the future that includes meeting the diverse needs of our students, supporting our staff, and fostering a safe and supportive environment for all.

Throughout this journey, I am committed to fostering connection and engagement within our community. I invite you to join us in this pursuit, to reflect on your own purpose, and to envision what is possible for our community.

Thank you for welcoming me into your community. Together we can succeed and together we will succeed.