Accreditation recommended for all 14 TUSD high schools
All 14 of TUSD's high schools received recommendations for accreditation.
AdvancED Arizona - the state organization that evaluates Arizona public schools - reviewed and assessed each school's compliance with seven standards of excellence: vision and purpose; governance and leadership; teaching and learning; documenting and using results; resource and support systems; stakeholder communications and relationships; and commitment to continuous improvement.
An evaluation team of 46 education professionals from across the state visited each high school, interviewed parents, students teachers, staff and administrators, reviewed policies and systems, and analyzed evidence to come up with its recommendations.
"We're seeing a rejuvenation and a refocus in the district," said the director of AdvancEd Arizona, Don Enz. "Teaching and learning are improving."
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The recommendations are a validation of the continued effort to make TUSD high schools successful, said Richard Gastellum, interim assistant superintendent in charge of high schools.
The recommendations will be reported to AdvancEd's state council for review and for a final determination on accreditation. The process will take about a month.
Holaway Elementary wins $2,000 in books for library
Holaway Elementary School was one of 20 schools across the country to win $2,000 in books for its library.
Holaway, 3500 N. Cherry Ave., was the only school in the state to receive the honor from Capstone, a publisher of children's books and digital products and services.
More than 560 schools nationwide entered the contest. The school is in the Amphi school district.
"In a time when budgets are extremely tight, we know every little bit helps," said Matt Keller, Capstone's chief marketing officer.
County's Sports Hall of Fame honors Desert View senior
Sadiya Buta, a Somali refugee who is a senior at Desert View High School, was recently honored at the Pima County Sports Hall of Fame.
Buta received the Charley Thornton Award at the hall of fame's 22nd annual induction banquet.
She was recognized for her academic and athletic achievements in tennis after living here four years.
UHS is named a standout in career, college prep
University High School was named one of the most successful schools in Arizona for preparing students for college and careers.
The 2011 National Center for Educational Achievement Higher Performing Schools List identifies those elementary, middle and high schools in Arizona that have consistently outperformed their peers with similar student populations over a three-year period.
Of the 13 schools that made the list, University High was the only one from the Tucson area.
NCEA identified the schools based on one or both of two measures: consistent improvement in student achievement from previous years (growth); and/or absolute student achievement.
Compiled by Alexis Huicochea and Carmen Duarte. Contact Huicochea at ahuicochea@azstarnet.com or 573-4175.
