The Winslow Unified School District (WUSD) Governing Board recognized employees with awards that were presented to staff for their outstanding contributions and dedication.
Kasye Reynolds, a Bonnie Brennan paraprofessional, received the Classified Employee of the Month recognition for her dedication and positive attitude.
Felicia Breeze, a Jefferson Elementary School second grade teacher, was honored as the Certified Employee of the Month for her exceptional teaching responsibilities and individualized support for students.
Stephanie Lymer, the Winslow Junior High School secretary, was recognized as the Classified Employee of the Month for her efficient management and cheerful demeanor.
Karla Curley, a Bonnie Brennan Elementary School third grade teacher, was named the Certified Employee of the Month for her exemplary classroom management and commitment to high standards.
Special Education Director Nathan Lindaman, received the Administrator of the Quarter award for his exceptional support and recruitment efforts.
Shanae Canales was recognized as the Substitute of the Quarter for her outstanding performance as a reliable substitute teacher.
These individuals exemplify the commitment to excellence in education within the Winslow Unified School District.
The district’s business manager, Casey Hancock, also gave a presentation before the board’s last budget revision of the 2022-2023 school year. Hancock began by providing financial updates, stating, “From the adopted budget last July to the current revised budget, there was a decrease in our capital budget by $19,000, but the general budget limit was increased by $415,000.” Hancock further explained that this notable increase in funding is a result of the student population exceeding the district’s initial predictions by over 80 students since last July.
The board also voted on a set of policy initiatives to support at the Arizona School Board Association’s (ASBA) annual assembly that encompasses five key priorities, each representing a crucial aspect of the board’s vision for education.
First and foremost, the board is committed to securing adequate and equitable funding for district schools. It focuses on maximizing state funding to attract and retain talented teachers and staff. The second pillar revolves around preserving and strengthening local control. The board firmly believes in the importance of local autonomy in managing funds and programs. Improving outcomes for all students constitutes the third aspect. The board is dedicated to enhancing educational opportunities by increasing the compulsory attendance age and reforming English Language Learner models of instruction. Additionally, the board supports restoring eligibility and funding for career and technical education (CTE) programs, recognizing the value of work-based learning opportunities and promoting teaching as a respected profession.
The fourth priority focuses on addressing the unique needs of Arizona’s rural and remote schools. The board is committed to ensuring that these schools receive equitable consideration in education policy decisions. This includes investing in technology and reliable internet access for all students, as well as protecting rural and remote school districts from any inequitable impacts resulting from formula adjustments. By advocating for these measures, the board aims to create equal opportunities for success in all districts.
Finally, the Winslow school board places a strong emphasis on school safety and security. It believes that providing a safe learning environment is paramount to student well-being and success. As part of its agenda, the board advocates for funding to implement locally directed school safety programs and initiatives that prioritize student mental health and well-being. It also supports policies promoting social-emotional wellness as a critical component of improving school climate and safety.
In other business, the board in the absence of Dodie Montoya and Todd Wilcox:
* Approved the ratification list in the amount of $2.3 million and the expenditure budget.
* Accepted donation from Arizona Public Service Forestry for supplies for Bonnie Brennan’s Arbor Day project.
* Appointed Aimee Wilcox as Jefferson Elementary paraprofessional and Sean Jimmie as a warehouse coordinator.
* Approved the resignations from Taylor Welson, fourth grade teacher; Sarah Mazer, kindergarten teacher; Leander Reid, a student data technician; and paraprofessionals, Hannah Setalla and Sydney Baker.
* Approved the following volunteers for the respective sports: Jordan Payne, Eric Leonard, Devon Sawyer, BJ Little and Drew Luzier for football; Katrina Hernandez, Kristie Corum, and Alexa Gilbert for cheer/spiritline; Sam Hernandez for boys basketball; Wilbert Barton, BJ Little and Ermindy Hernandez for girls basketball; Brandon Sedillo for baseball; Mike Branson for softball; and Monika Legate for track.
* Approved the following individuals at Winslow High School for extra pay by the district: Brandon Guzman, Stacey Berg, Christopher Garrett, Chad Sullivan for football; Julie Thomas, Taura Rush, Robina Villanueva for volleyball; Janeen Barton, Wilbert Barton for cross country; Nicole Guzman, Jennifer Brown for cheer/spiritline; and Reese Chatwin for the swim team.
* Approved the following fundraiser requests: Popcorn Club, T-shirt fundraiser for $10; boys basketball, basketball camp for $40; Future Farmers of America, denim drive and student council’s water bottle sale $1-2.
* Adopted a new K-6th writing curriculum based on recommendations from the elementary school principals.
* Approved Johnny Martinez of Martinez Plumbing as a sole source provider.
* Approved 2023-2024 school year board calendar.
* Approved revision to student data technician job description.
* Approved updated bus agreement for the 23-24 school year.
The next meeting of the WUSD school board will be held at 6 p.m. on Wednesday, June 7, in the meeting room, located at 800 N. Apache Ave.
