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Kellis: DUSD celebrates 100 years of excellence

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Although the school year began remotely for the first time in history, it is somehow novel that we are also celebrating the Dysart Unified School District Centennial year.

Our 100th Anniversary year is being redefined by global events. Some even wonder how much the typical school day will permanently change.

Dysart was first established as Dysart Public Schools on July 16, 1920, as a one-room schoolhouse on land  donated by Nathaniel Martin Dysart.

The first high school, Dysart High School, opened in 1962 to accommodate growth, and in 1977, the Dysart Unified School District was officially established as a consolidated K-12 system.

Starting in 2001, hypergrowth in the West Valley catapulted expansion of the district to its size today, serving over 24,000 preschool through high school students at 20 K-8 schools, four high schools, a preschool and one alternative program. 

As we reminisce, please bear with me as I go down memory lane for a little bit.

In 1965 my father, Raymond S. Kellis, was principal of Dysart High School. I remember when Luke Air Force Base was separated by miles of citrus groves. As a native of Arizona, specifically the West Valley, I raised my children in the Dysart school district and I continue to live here today. 

My family history, combined with the rich legacy of the district is why I am so passionate about building upon the foundation of Dysart’s past 100 years, and setting a positive course for the next 100 years.

How well we prepare students today matters more than anyone can imagine. Dysart is proud to provide an extraordinary learning experience for every student that walks through our doors. We will not be selective, and we will not discriminate. Dysart educates all children.

With a 94% success rate, Dysart schools graduate thousands of high school seniors each year who are ready for college and our local workforce. I watch with pride as these extraordinary youth go on to successful futures in college and careers.

Indeed, the next 100 years are in good hands. Thank you for allowing Dysart to continue serving the northwest valley community.

A strong school district is a strong community.

Editor’s Note: Quinn Kellis is the DUSD superintendent.