Elevating Excellence: High Hopes for the New School Year

Posted Date: 8/02/25 (6:00 PM)

With the first notes of the Wind Ensemble ringing through the CFHS Music Hall, Catalina Foothills School District officially kicked off the 2025–2026 school year this morning. Framed around the theme “Elevating Excellence,” the annual All-Staff Meeting brought together employees from all eight schools to reconnect, celebrate, and look ahead with purpose and optimism.
The event opened on a high note—literally—with performances by our talented musicians and student leaders, representing the district’s deep commitment to the arts. It concluded with the debut of High Hopes, a heartwarming video that captured CFSD’s aspirations and the incredible work happening across our schools.
A special part of the morning was dedicated to honoring staff members for their years of service. Employees marking 5, 10, 15, 20, and 25 years with the district were recognized with heartfelt applause. Those celebrating 30 and 35 years of service received touching tributes from their principals reflecting on their lasting impact in CFSD.
In remarks to the audience, CFSD Governing Board President Amy Krauss spoke to one of the district’s shared core values: fostering a sense of belonging. Her words reinforced that students who feel connected to their school communities are more likely to thrive both academically and personally.
As we prepare to welcome our students on Monday, today’s message was clear: excellence in CFSD isn’t just about outcomes—it’s about people. And together, we’re reaching new heights every year.

Valley View Early Learning Center teachers and staff members represented the excellence of PreK in our PreK-12 district.

Wind Ensemble and student leaders performed, led by director of bands Renee Shane-Boyd.

Employees were called up on stage to be recognized for reaching milestone years of service.

Dr. Denise Bartlett set the morning's theme of Elevating Excellence.

CFSD Governing Board President Amy Krauss reflected on the power of belonging in creating a thriving school community.

Executive Director of Curriculum and Assessment, Sheryl Castro, was recognized by Dr. Bartlett for her 30 years of service, which began as a high school Spanish teacher.

Andrea Davidson, principal of Sunrise Drive, gave heartfelt tributes to Elaine Uno and Adrienne Crawford.

Orange Grove principal Mark Rubin-Toles aimed for a 3 in his speech about English teacher Mr. Bindschadler. He ended up earning a rare and coveted 4!

After a late night hosting Back to School Night, CFHS showed up with energy and enthusiasm this morning.

OGMS lit up the room in spirit and style!

Band director Mr. Walavich and counselor Ms. Griffith represented the extraordinary expertise of ECMS.

Ventana Vista's multilingual teachers reminded us: "We Can!" in two languages.

Joy, wonder, and play—the CFSD pathway starts with the exceptional teachers at VVELC.

Nothing says “ready for a great year” like the bright smiles of our Manzanita team.

CFSD Governing Board President Amy Krauss, with members Tom Logue, Jacquelyn Davoli, and Gina Mehmert (not pictured) came together to help us launch a bright new school year.

Sunrise Drive brought their signature sunshine and smiles.

Flying high into the new year, Esperero brought their Eagle Pride in full force.

Canyon View teacher Ryan Bowman posed with his proud mom, Kathleen Bowman of Manzanita.

Canyon View showed up strong and ready for a great year ahead!

Supporting teachers, strengthening classrooms—that’s the power of our learning support specialists.

A powerhouse team from OGMS represented every corner of the curriculum.The CFHS World Languages team helped celebrate Sra. Castro's 30th anniversary in education at CFSD.