Inspiring Excellence
Casa Grande Union High School District | October 2022
Battle Spotlight
Staff Members of the Month: Making a Difference
A few qualities that are incorporated in exceptional teachers include, but not limited to, organizational skills, love of their job, humility, resilience, and love of challenge. The opportunities for student success are vast. It is important that we provide students access to quality teachers & staff, quality instructional strategies, quality facilities, love, support, and guidance. These are the staff members who are making a difference in our school district.
Inspiring Excellence Coaches: ESS/ELD/504
In the summer of the 2022/23 school year, Dr. Battle and the leadership team sought to improve the scores for all lower learners which included our ESS (Exceptional Student Services), ELD (English Language Development), and 504 (Rehabilitation Act, Section 504) students. Dr. Battle hired 13 Inspiring Excellence Coaches (IEC) for each site to support all core and elective classes. These IECs are in the general education classes working with students who need extra assistance to be successful in their educational environment. The IECs assist with individual instruction, small group work, classroom management, social emotional needs, and student understanding which allows our teachers to create a positive learning environment. The first nine weeks of data has shown a decrease in D’s and F’s within our ESS/ELD/504 student population compared to this time last year. The IECs continue to contribute to the growing positive support of student effort within the classroom that has increased grades, self-confidence, and self-esteem. Dr. Battle acknowledges the accomplishment with students’ academic achievement from our students and will be increasing the number of Inspiring Excellence Coaches at each site. Our current IECs are Martha Aguirre, Serina Felix, Monica Fiori, Andrew Gerken, Devon Green, Marcela Hernandez, Kylei Iseman, Deborah Kakar, Brad Kepler, Jessica Leary, Katrina McCaul, Andrea Ortega, Claudia Ortiz, Deja Oswald, Alma Parra, LaResa Parra, Michelle Perez, Shannon Pulliam, Jennifer Russell, Jennifer Salcido, Chezney Silguero, Donald Smith, Ann-Marie Wittner, and Anita Youmara. Thank you for your dedication!
CTE Student of the Month
Career & Technical Education (CTE)
Over 1,600 students are enrolled in thirteen (13) Career & Technical Education (CTE) programs throughout the Casa Grande Union High School District (CGUHSD). Each month, a different CTE program nominates a deserving student for this honor.
Stagecraft/Technical Theatre: Willow McLaughlin
Willow McLaughlin of Vista Grande High School (VGHS) was recognized Tuesday, September 27, as the Casa Grande Union High School District’s Career & Technical Education (CTE) Student of the Month at the district’s Governing Board meeting. Willow was nominated by her CTE Stagecraft/Technical Theatre teacher, Mr. Doug Harding. “Willow has demonstrated leadership skills far above the expectations for a new second-year student. She has taken the lead on all projects and pursues them relentlessly until the job is done. Her attention to detail, along with her excellent communication skills (both with instructor and classmates), has made Willow an indispensable member of the Stagecraft program.” Willow’s parent is Loretta Lucas of Sells, Arizona.
Rotary Students of the Month
Rotary Club of Casa Grande
During the months of September through May, two high school students are selected by the school’s administration based on each student's academic standing, extracurricular activities, community involvement, leadership, and service to others.
Past Rotary Students of the Month > CGUHS
Past Rotary Students of the Month > VGHS
CGUHS: Luis Alba
Luis Alba of Casa Grande Union High School (CGUHS) was recognized Tuesday, September 27, as the Casa Grande Union High School District’s CGUHS Rotary Club of Casa Grande Student of the Month during the district’s Governing Board meeting. Luis was recognized for his accomplishments and activities: honors classes, summer school, being ahead on multiple credits, graduating early in December 2022, JROTC (1-Yr), employment, and community service. He is exploring his options for after graduation including college, trade school, or following in the footsteps of his brother into the military. Luis’ parents are Juan Alba and Nelda Alba.
VGHS: Viktor Wittner
Viktor Wittner of Vista Grande High School (VGHS) was recognized Tuesday, September 27, as the Casa Grande Union High School District’s VGHS Rotary Club of Casa Grande Student of the Month during the district’s Governing Board meeting. Viktor was recognized for his accomplishments and activities: 4.6 GPA, AP Scholar with Distinction Award, Student Council (Vice President), Junior Class (Treasurer), AP Club (President), Vista Student Ambassador, National Honor Society, SAAC, Link Crew, Math Club, employment, and volunteer. He plans to attend a 4-year university and major in Engineering. Viktor’s parents are Frank & Ann-Marie Wittner.
Greatest of the Grande
Vote daily, until Sunday, October 2, for your favorite person or school. The 1st Place winners will be announced November 16 at a special event.
Vote for your favorite person or public school!
September 12-October 2
1st Place winners announced November 16 at a special event.
People Category
PRINCIPAL
Vance Danzy, Vista Grande High School
People Category
TEACHER
David Carter, Casa Grande Union High School
Lisa Demarest, Casa Grande Union High School
Shopping & Services Category
PUBLIC SCHOOL
Casa Grande Union High School
Vista Grande High School
Give Me 5 Friday
Each week, Jennifer Kortsen, Public Relations Officer, interviews a staff members and posts it on social media. Check it out on the district’s Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, YouTube Channel, and website!
- Ernesto Razo, CGUHS Mathematics (09/23/2022)
- Benjamin Dague, CGUHS Guitar/Chorus (09/16/22)
- Crystal Danzy, INOVA Headmaster/Principal (09/09/22)
- Vance Danzy, VGHS Principal (09/02/22)
- Dominic Woodard, CGUHS PE/Health (08/26/22)
- Nathan Scheeler, VGHS Social Studies (08/19/22)
- Mark Luna, CGUHS Football (08/12/22)
- Casey Farnsworth, CGUHS CTE Agriscience (08/05/22)
- Christi Saucedo, VGHS Social Studies (07/29/22)
District In-Service Day
District In-Service Day was held on Friday, September 16.
Biz Outlook Luncheon
Future Voices Association (FVA), founded by Chuck Wright, invited students to attend the Biz Outlook Luncheon on Friday, September 16. FVA is an organization that aims to cultivate future leaders. These impressive students introduced themselves to leaders and business people of Casa Grande and did a fine job representing their community. Pictured [L-R]: Ella Barth (CGUHS), Nic Toscano (VGHS), Chuck Wright, Gus Huber (VGHS), Lisa Miller (CGUHSD CTE Director), Victoria Guilky (Mission Heights), Gloria Cervantes (Mission Heights), and Hannah Hartman (CGUHS).
National Day of Service
National Day of Service at CG Mountain was led by Mr. Scott McEuen and Randy Robbins on Saturday, September 10. Thank you to all who came out to help clean up trash and restore the trails including Vista Grande’s Student Council (Nathan Scheeler, advisor), Key Club (Mia Khan, advisor), and National Honor Society (Luis Hernandez, advisor). The football teams and cheer squads from both Casa Grande Union and Vista Grande will repaint the CG on the mountain in the fall.
CAP- 131 Squadron, Charlie Flight Club
Dr. Battle, Superintendent, was invited to and attended the Civil Air Patrol - Red Flag Competition in Eloy on Saturday, September 24. It was quite awesome! The students were able to fly planes in a virtual setting and strategically determine how to hit targets against other teams whose goals were to defend the targets. The leadership from Mr. Cassalata and Mr. Smothers could not have been more positive. There are many Air Force officers from the area and the state who volunteer their time to build talent and skills in students who desire to fly and also serve our country in a variety of ways. The adults uphold quality characteristics of service, respect for self and others, leadership, and a host of other attributes we want to see in cadets. Vista Grande has approximately 15 students who are a part of this club. Given interest, we are hopeful that many students will want to participate from all schools. The leadership encourages schools to start in middle school/9th grade to build talent, interest, commitment, and student leadership.
Near Space Research Team
The CGUHS Near Space Research Team is part of a NASA Space Grant funded project: Neal Allado (Programmer), Ella Barth (Electrical Systems), Evan Centeno (Systems Integration), Angel Gonzalez (Power Management), Jonathan Lawson (Programmer), Danika Liebhart (Designer), Melody Limon (Designer), Elijah Ramirez (Fabrication), and Elias Razo (CAD SolidWorks). The Arizona Space Grant Consortium sponsors several projects for undergraduate and graduate students at institutions of higher learning around the state. CGUHS is the only high school in Arizona that participates in this project. The project the team is participating in is called ASCEND (Aerospace STEM Challenges to Educate New Discoverers). Students are tasked to “Design and build small payloads for launch from high-altitude weather balloons. Teams measure various atmospheric parameters as a function of altitude up to about 100,000 feet and some obtain a series of timed images of the Earth throughout the balloon's ascent to characterize surface features, cloud structure, and the Earth's curvature.” The CGUHS team has two previous launches. They presented the results of their two flights in a breakout session at the Arizona Space Symposium held in Tucson last April. They were also able to sit in on presentations by Arizona undergraduate and graduate students and learn of their projects and the work they had done as recipients of a NASA Space Grant. Team members are currently updating their designs and working to build, program, and test an instrument payload for a high-altitude balloon launch scheduled for mid-November. Their goal is to use ultraviolet, O2, and O3 sensors to detect the ozone layer as their payload rises into the stratosphere and to track their payload using GPS and altitude sensors. They will also gather data on temperature, pressure, and humidity throughout the flight. The Cougars are advised by John Morris, CTE Engineering/CTE Software & App Design/Mathematics teacher.
FFA Summit Series Leadership Conference
On Friday, September 16, Casa Grande FFA members attended the Arizona FFA Summit Series Leadership Conference held in Tucson, Arizona. Members developed a personal plan of involvement within the FFA, identified their personal leadership qualities, learned how to build and maintain positive relationships, and so much more. These are the types of experiences members receive that prepare them to become the next generation of leaders who will change the world. The FFA members look forward to finding ways they can make a difference in our chapter, home, and community to serve one another. Everyone had a great time and made new friends along the way. The Cougars are advised by Casey Farnsworth, CTE Agriscience teacher.
Marching Band
The CGUHS Marching Band (Pride of Casa Grande) finished in first place and received awards for Outstanding Music, Outstanding General Effect, Outstanding Visual Performance, and Outstanding Percussion at the Millennium Marching Festival on Saturday, September 24. Pictured [L-R] Aaron Aguirre Jr. and Curtis Maroney (Drum Majors). The Cougars are instructed by Martin Hebda, Fine Arts teacher.
Freshman Class Meeting
The VGHS Freshman Class met on Thursday, September 8. They are advised by Clarisse Macaraig, English teacher.
Student Council Fundraiser
The VGHS Student Council sponsored a fundraiser, Soak-A-Senior, on Friday, September 23. During lunchtime, students could pay $1 for a water bucket or $2 for a water and ice bucket to dump on a senior. Special guests included Terrance Green, Mathematics teacher, and Kolby Tapia, Mathematics teacher, who volunteered as well. Proceeds will be used for decorations, candy, and props for the student sections at sporting events. The Spartans are advised by Nathan Scheeler, Social Studies teacher.
Biology
In Mrs. Brady's Biology classes at Casa Grande Union High School, students are learning about diabetes and how the body processes sugar and carbohydrates. Students studied and then made models of the cell and the organelles within it. In the final part of the project, students will make a video using their models to explain how the cells in the pancreas make and release insulin in response to higher-than-normal blood sugar levels.
English 11: Presentation of Literature Circles
Mrs. Mavil Murillo’s (CGUHS) English 11 students took turns presenting their literature circles to the class. A literature circle is a small group discussion, usually between four and six students, in which every student has a role related to a book/story. Literature circles allow students to talk about literary pieces with their peers, set clear expectations, give every student a role, create routine, use timers, and have individual accountability. Through these conversations, students learn critical speaking and listening skills, and to use each other as resources. They also build community, deepen their understanding of the text, recognize that reading is fun, and become independent learners. As a result, the class was able to discuss the text in many ways.
English 10
During the 9th week of CGUHS English 10 classes, Mr. Jeoffrey G. Guillen engaged his students with a culminating activity for Quarter 1 called, “Self-Made Short Story”. The goal of this activity was to let the students apply all the elements of short story and fiction signposts learned in this quarter. One week of drafting, revising, and peer & teacher reviewing was done before the students had fully finalized their short stories. After checking the finalized self-made short stories, Mr. Guillen chose the best short story writers in each class. The winners read their self-made short stories to the class. Then, the students were asked to share their insights about their short stories, specifically on the importance of short story in honing creative writing skills.
English Class
Ms. Seprina Packard's CGUHS English class took a fun break from their studies to participate in an old-fashioned foot race with their teacher.
Spanish Classes: Hispanic Heritage Month
Mrs. Norma Machelor's (CGUHS) Spanish classes are celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month.
Arizona State University (ASU) Admissions Letter
Dear CGUHSD Students and Families,
Congratulations to the 240 CGUHSD students from the Class of 2023 who will be offered admission to Arizona State University (ASU), even though they have not applied yet. The goal of this project is to make sure students are aware they have university admission as an option, especially those who think it is not a possibility for them. ASU letters will be going out to qualified students in the next week or two.
Sincerely,
Casa Grande Union High School District Leadership
VGHS Counseling Department
CGUHS Newsletter
The CGUHS News newsletter is created by CGUHS Principal Brian Mabb and published weekly during the school year.
CGUHS Tutoring
VGHS Newsletter
The Weekly Dish newsletter is created by VGHS Principal Vance Danzy and published weekly during the school year.
VGHS News Video
VG News videos are created by the VGHS Student Council and posted weekly during the school year. The Spartans are advised by Nathan Scheeler, social studies teacher. Subscribe today!
VGHS Tutoring
INOVA Newsletter
The INOVA School Newsletter is created by INOVA Headmaster/Principal Crystal Danzy and published weekly during the school year.
INOVA Tutoring & Academia Support
INOVA Attendance
Free & Reduced-Price School Meals Application
*Assists with fees (athletic, academic, & college application) and discounts on internet services.
Children need healthy meals to learn. Casa Grande Union High School District offers healthy meals every school day. Breakfast costs $2.00; lunch costs $3.00. Your children may qualify for free meals or for reduced-price meals (see below). Reduced-price is $0.30 for breakfast and $0.40 for lunch.
Questions?
Tammy Darang
520-316-3360 ext. 4146
Arizona Education Tax Credit
Contribute to student programs and activities in our district, and you’ll be paid back with a DOLLAR-FOR-DOLLAR TAX CREDIT to help guarantee that our students experience all that high school has to offer. To learn more, visit www.cguhsd.org/doTaxCredit.aspx.
Superintendent's Challenge
The CGUHSD Superintendent, Dr. Anna Battle, has a community service challenge for all CGUHSD students:
-Earn 50 hours or more per year in community service by your senior year (200 hours total in 4 years) and receive a Superintendent's Challenge honor cord and certificate.
-Complete 200 hours of community service in one school year (with hours beginning June 1 until the deadline) and receive a varsity letter.
-The deadline for seniors is April 9 and underclassmen is May 4.
Many local businesses, libraries, after-school programs, and organizations need volunteers. Call them and see if you can volunteer. There is a formal community service log that needs completed to verify your hours. For more information, visit the district website at cguhsd.org (click “Families” then “Superintendent’s Challenge” at the top menu) or www.cguhsd.org/doSuperChallenge.aspx.
VFW Voice of Democracy Competition
Since 1947, the Voice of Democracy has been the Veterans of Foreign Wars’ (VFW’s) premier scholarship program. Each year, nearly 80,000 high school students compete for more than $2 million in scholarships and incentives. Students compete by writing and recording an audio essay on an annual patriotic theme. This year’s theme is, “Why Is The Veteran Important?” The Voice of Democracy is open to students in grades 9-12 by the October 31, 2022, deadline who are enrolled in a public private or parochial high school or home study program in the United States, its territories and possessions; or dependents of U.S. military or civilian personnel in overseas schools.
VFW Teacher Award
All current certified/licensed teachers in grades K-12 are eligible. Previous national VFW winners are ineligible. Nominations can be submitted by themselves, fellow teachers, supervisors, family members, or other interested individuals. The deadline is October 31, 2022.
Career Opportunities
Upcoming Events
Sept 28 = Student Early Release @ 1:05 PM
Sept 29 = Student Early Release @ 1:05 PM
Sept 29 = Parent/Teacher Conferences @ 2:30-7:00 PM
Sept 30 = Student/Teacher Early Release @ 1:05 PM
Oct 1 = FAFSA® Form Becomes Available October 1 - Apply Early!
Oct 3-14 = Fall Break (No School)
Oct 17 = CGUHS Site Council @ 5:30 PM
Oct 21 = FFA Steak Fry @ CGUHS @ 4:00-6:30 PM
Oct 29 = VGHS Homecoming Dance @ TBA
Nov 1 = Governing Board Meeting @ 5:30/6:30 PM
Nov 5 = CGUHS Homecoming Dance @ TBA
Nov 8 = VGHS Site Council @ 4:30 PM
Nov 11 = Veterans Day (No School/Offices Closed)
Nov 23-25 = Thanksgiving Holiday (No School/Offices Closed)
Early Release @ 1:05 PM (Sept 28-30)
Wednesday, September 28 (Students)
Thursday, September 29 (Students)
Friday, September 30 (Students/Teachers)
FAFSA® Form Available October 1
Each year, the U.S. Department of Education rewards over $120 billion in federal grants, loans, and work-study funds to more than 13 million students. The FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) is the only way to apply for federal, state, and college aid. It is completely free and it typically takes ONLY 30 minutes to complete. Students may submit their FAFSA starting October 1st of their senior year. Many schools offer money on a first-come-first-serve basis, so the sooner one applies, the better. For more information on Financial Aid, visit your high school's webpage (CGUHS or VGHS).
Fall Break (Oct 3-14)
October 3-14
No School/Offices Open for Appointments Only
VGHS Homecoming Dance (Oct 29)
The VGHS Homecoming Dance will be held on Saturday, October 29. Tickets may be purchased at the Bookstore ($25=Single) and ($35=Couples). Single tickets are available at the door ($35=Single). Couple tickets will not be sold at the door. Watch announcements for location and times.
CGUHS Site Council (Oct 17)
Site Council is an excellent way for you to be involved in our school. Come learn about our academic initiatives, school activities, and more. Site Council is a group of teachers, parents, classified employees, and students who work with the principal to develop, review, and evaluate school improvement programs and budgets. Site Council meets once a month (generally, the 2nd Monday of the month) at 5:30 p.m. in the CGUHS Library. The next meeting is Monday, October 17 (moved to this date due to Fall Break), in the CGUHS Library at 5:30 p.m.
FFA Steak Fry (Oct 21)
Join us on Friday, October 21, from 4:00-6:30 p.m. On the menu is sirloin steak, beans, potato salad, tortilla with salsa, cookie, and drink. Sit down like the good ol’ days and catch up with friends or, if you’d rather stop by and take it to go, swing by the drive thru option. The cost is $15 per plate. Tickets are available from FFA members. Proceeds benefit the Casa Grande FFA Chapter members which allows them to attend leadership conferences, competitions, receive scholarships, and so much more. Thank you for your support! The Cougars are advised by Casey Farnsworth, CTE Agriscience teacher.
Governing Board Meeting (Nov 1)
Special Governing Board Meeting @ 5:30 PM
Regular Governing Board Meeting @ 6:30 PM
District Office Board Room, 1st Floor
CGUHS Homecoming Dance (Nov 5)
The CGUHS Homecoming Dance “ A Haunted Homecoming” will be held on Saturday, November 5. Tickets may be purchased at the Bookstore for $20 after Fall Break. Festivities include Satyr Entertainment (DJ), haunted house, and food trucks! Watch announcements for location and times.
VGHS Site Council (Nov 8)
Site Council is a group of community members, parents, students, VGHS administration, and VGHS staff who typically meet on the second Tuesday of each month, with the exceptions of October (Fall Break) and March (Spring Break), at 4:30 p.m. in the Vista Grande Conference Room. To join the Site Council, email Mr. Vance Danzy, Principal, at vdanzy@cguhsd.org or call 520-876-9400 ext. 4101. The next meeting is Tuesday, November 8 (none in October due to Fall Break), in the Vista Grande Conference Room at 4:30 p.m.
PACE: Coming 2023/24!
PowerSchool App
The PowerSchool App is available for download on Android and Apple devices with the district code of QJDT. Your username and password are the same as you use to access the web-based PowerSchool portal.
District Code = QJDT
District/School Apps
AnonymousTips.com
Please help keep our campuses safe by reporting potential concerns to your high school. If you would like to make an anonymous report, you may use AnonymousTips.com. AnonymousTips.com provides a completely anonymous email capability for people to send leads and tips to schools, local police departments, and other law enforcement agencies. This system is independent of any district or government, so informers can be confident they are protected from being identified. The sender will be able to visit AnonymousTips.com site, find the agency they want to notify, and send the information.
CONNECT WITH US
Inspiring Excellence Newsletter
The Inspiring Excellence newsletter is created by Marilyn Twehous, Social Media Specialist, and published monthly during the school year. Submit articles to mtwehous@cguhsd.org.
Casa Grande Union High School District
Casa Grande, AZ 85122
520-316-3360 Phone
520-316-3352 Fax
Email: contact@cguhsd.org
Website: https://www.cguhsd.org/Default.aspx
Location: 1362 North Casa Grande Avenue, Casa Grande, AZ, USA
Phone: 520-316-3360
Facebook: facebook.com/CGUHSDistrict
Twitter: @CGUHSD_82