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  • Superintendent's Message

    September 12, 2023

     

    Dear Kyrene Community,

    It is hard to believe that we are nearly midway through September and in the final stretch of the first quarter. Students have already mastered new skills, discovered new interests, and forged new friendships.

    This quarter, I had the opportunity to meet with each of my Superintendent councils: the Superintendent Advisory Council, Student Senate, Kyrene Business Alliance and the Parent Organization Roundtable. In each of these meetings, I am reminded of the shared vision we have to ensure each of our students is ready for the future.

  • Patriot Day in Kyrene School District

    Yesterday marked 22 years since the September 11 attacks. In reflection and remembrance, several Kyrene schools held assemblies yesterday morning to recognize first responders and military service members who have dedicated their lives to serving our country and our communities.

    Thousands of Americans lost their lives on September 11, and many more were forever changed. But that day brought hope as well. As shared in yesterday’s assembly at Kyrene Monte Vista:

    “Something remarkable happened that day and in the months and years that followed. The remarkable reaction that day was the unity, compassion, and strength that flowed through our country. Strangers held hands, cried together, and rushed to help each other. Citizens from every state in America gave whatever they could of their time, talents, and resources to help…In 2001, we promised that we would never forget. So, today, we remember the people who lost their lives on 9/11, and the families and friends who have been missing them ever since. We also honor our active and retired members of the military and would like to offer a huge thank you to our first responders – the people who are always there for us when we need help. We are grateful for you and for your service.” - Brenda Mulkey, Music Teacher 

    Kyrene has many veterans on our staff, and many service members and first responders among our families. Thank you to our community members who have chosen a life of service. As the mother of a Marine who is currently deployed and a firefighter, I also want to thank your families for the sacrifices they make as well. You set an incredible example for our Kyrene kids, and we are grateful to you all.

     

    Kyrene Values Educators

    Recognizing excellence in Kyrene is a long-standing tradition that has celebrated educators for seven years. Since the inception of the Kyrene Values Awards, over 700 employees have been honored. This school year, we asked Team Kyrene to submit peer nominations for the individuals who go above and beyond for our schools, students and staff. This week, we surprised and celebrated our first quarter awardees. You can find a full list of recipients on our website, and all nominees will be added soon.

    Thanks to our sponsor, CORE, Kyrene Values recipients will receive a certificate and a $100 Amazon gift card as a token of appreciation for their dedication to Kyrene.

  • Strategic Spotlight: Early Literacy in Kyrene

    I am very excited to be introducing a new quarterly video series this year, featuring the Kyrene School District Strategic Plan: Thrive! Ready for the Future.

    This in-depth series will show the strategic plan in action. This quarter, we are focusing on Early Literacy and our goal of having at least 85% of students at each grade level, in kindergarten through third grade, meeting end-of-year reading benchmarks by 2028. That’s a big goal, so where do we begin? Check out our first video centered on Early Literacy to find out!


    Sincerely,

    Laura Toenjes
    Superintendent

  • Night for Kyrene

    I had the pleasure of attending the Kyrene Foundation’s annual Night for Kyrene event over the weekend and was humbled by the outpouring of support for our Kyrene community. Between the silent auction and on-site donations alone, the Foundation received double the funding from years past. These dollars will directly benefit our students in a variety of ways, both inside and outside of the classroom.

    Thank you, to the Foundation for once again hosting a wonderful evening in support of Kyrene!
Last Modified on September 12, 2023