All Things Avondale Feb. 28, 2025
Weekly AESD Update
Celebrating School Social Worker Week
Next week, we celebrate National School Social Work Week, a time to recognize and appreciate the profound impact our school social workers have on our community. These dedicated professionals provide emotional support, guidance, and resources that help our students thrive both academically and personally.
Whether collaborating with community agencies or organizing family engagement opportunities, our social workers are always there with compassionate hearts and expert advice. Let’s take a moment to thank them for the invaluable difference they make in the lives of our students and families every day!
School and Community Awards
This week, the Governing Board honored our February award recipients from our Maintenance and Operations Department, Lattie Coor School, Eliseo C. Felix School, and Avondale Middle School! Honorees include the following:
2024-2025 Dr. Cathy Stafford Passion & Commitment Recipients
Maintenance and Operations Employees: Robert Preston, Maintenance Department, and Cindy Harvey, Transportation Department
LATTIE COOR AWARDS
2024-2025 Dr. Cathy Stafford Passion & Commitment Recipients
Lattie Coor Classified Employee: Mathew Tudor
Lattie Coor Certified Staff: Aliine Valle
2024-2025 Community Partnership
Lattie Coor Community Partner: Officer Manuel Rios, City of Avondale Police Department
Lattie Coor Student Artist: Melanie C., Kindergarten
ELISEO C. FELIX SCHOOL
2024-2025 Dr. Cathy Stafford Passion & Commitment Recipients
Eliseo C. Felix Classified Employee: Kaitlin Nau
Eliseo C. Felix Certified Employee: Ana Marie Catamco
2024-2025 Community Partnership
Eliseo C. Felix Community Partner: Chief Jeff Mercy, City of Goodyear Police Department
Eliseo C. Felix Student Artist: Phoenix M., 5th Grade
AVONDALE MIDDLE SCHOOL AWARDS
2024-2025 Dr. Cathy Stafford Passion & Commitment Recipients
Avondale Middle Classified Employee: Brenda Banderas
Avondale Middle Certified Employee: Hope Bendele
2024-2025 Community Partnership
Avondale Middle Community Partner: Isaac Morales & Juan Ortiz, Flag Football Coaches
Avondale Middle Student Artist: Adelina Munoz, 7th Grade
KIDS AT HOPE STUDENTS OF THE YEAR
Lattie Coor Kid at Hope: Allen H., 1st Grade
Eliseo C. Felix Kid at Hope: Damian S., 4th Grade
Avondale Middle Kid at Hope: Quymiah S., 8th Grade
Athletic Celebrations
We recently celebrated our winter sports season and recognized the all-conference players and team champions in cross country, girls basketball, flag football, and cheer. Congratulations to all of our athletes!
Cross Country All-Conference Players
- Aeris M. and Isaiah M., Centerra Mirage
- Addison R. and Ben W., Copper Trails
- Kaiyden W. and Josue M., Desert Star
- Ruby O. and Christian M., Desert Thunder
- Nicole A. and Vicente E., Michael Anderson
- Jade B. and Kemp P., Wildflower
Girls Basketball All-Conference Players
- Kenai G., Avondale Middle
- Makayla G., Centerra Mirage
- Juliauna F., Copper Trails
- Hope L., Desert Star
- Auria E., Desert Thunder
- Dalay M., Michael Anderson
- Amalia B., Wildflower
Flag Football All-Conference Players
- Eduardo C., Avondale Middle
- Tre G., Centerra Mirage
- Cade L., Copper Trails
- Lilly D., Desert Star
- Preston B., Desert Thunder
- Isai G., Michael Anderson
- Jeremiah D., Wildflower
Cheer All-Conference Players
- Keemely P., Avondale Middle
- Ariana L., Centerra Mirage
- Payton H., Copper Trails
- Aubree R., Desert Star
- Gisele J., Desert Thunder
- Jordyn C., Wildflower
Winter Sports Team Champions
Congratulations to the following team champions:
Cross Country Team Champion
Michael Anderson School
Girls Basketball Team Champion
Copper Trails School
Flag Football Team Champion & Cheer
Desert Thunder
Around Our District
Public Schools Week Highlights
Melani, Jose and Kimberly
"I've heard great things about this school district! The front desk staff at Michael Anderson are incredibly friendly and helpful. I enrolled my kids in January, and while they were initially a little nervous about the change, by the end of the first week, they were already happy and settling in. I truly feel that my kids are in a safe and supportive environment here!" (Michael Anderson School)
The Padilla Family
"The most important thing for me was to look for an area with quality schools, where my children would be safe, have a good education, and excellent teachers. That is why I moved to the Avondale district area. I love its quality and commitment to its students." (Desert Thunder School)
Jairden and Laylah
Latoya and Elajha
"Teachers and staff are excellent with the children!" (Lattie Coor School)
Sophia
"The most important thing for me was to look for an area with quality schools where my children would be safe, get a good education, and have excellent teachers. That is why I moved to the Avondale District area. I love its quality and commitment to its students." (Desert Thunder)
Thaddeus
"For a better education." (Desert Thunder)
"This school has the most excellent teachers and they have patience with all the children. The Principal, Mr. O, and the front office staff have patience, know how to communicate with students and parents, and treat everyone with dignity and respect. My grandson, Julian, has learned so much and is striving for the future because of this school. I wouldn't have it any other way! Thank you LATTIE COOR SCHOOL!"
Avondale ESD Staff Brings the Heat at Volleyball Tournament!
Our staff enjoyed some well-deserved fun at our annual Wellness Program Staff Volleyball Tournament. The Avondale ESD colleagues displayed impressive teamwork as they bumped, set, and spiked their way through matches. A special congratulations to our winners...Desert Thunder School for taking 1st place, and Michael Anderson School for securing 2nd place!
A Journey of Growth and Determination
Our outstanding fourth graders at Centerra Mirage STEM Academy are truly raising the bar with their innovative thinking, remarkable perseverance, and insatiable curiosity. These young scholars demonstrate daily what it means to embrace growth, learning, and determination.
In their recent academic pursuits, students have been tackling addition of fractions in mathematics, developing story structures for the book they are reading in English Language Arts, and honing their problem-solving skills in science.
Their enthusiasm and dedication across all subject areas exemplify the spirit of academic excellence. We couldn't be prouder of these bright young minds as they continue to explore, question, and grow!
Enjoying The Fruits Of Their Labor
The Copper Trails Gardening Club had a fantastic time expanding their knowledge with the students from AAEC FFA (Future Farmers of America). Together, they engaged in hands-on activities that allowed everyone to learn new gardening techniques and skills. This collaboration provided an exciting opportunity for both groups to share ideas, learn from each other, and grow their passion for agriculture.
This event marks the beginning of what we hope will be a fruitful partnership between our two schools. By working together, students can gain valuable insights into sustainable farming, gardening, and the importance of environmental stewardship. We look forward to many more opportunities for growth and learning in the future.
Supporting Student Success
Eliseo C. Felix received a generous donation from one of their community partners, the Moose Lodge. Their support plays a crucial role in providing our students with the resources they need to thrive. The donated snacks are being distributed to students attending after-school tutoring, helping them stay energized and focused as they continue their academic journey. Acts of kindness like this make a meaningful impact on our students' well-being and success. We are grateful for the Moose Lodge’s ongoing support and the difference it makes in our students’ lives.
Healthy Habits
Lattie Coor School prioritizes healthy habits to help our students thrive. They believe that making good choices every day is key to success. Nutritious snacks not only supports their physical health, but also helps keep their minds sharp and energized for learning. We love seeing our students embrace healthy choices and feel strong and ready to take on the day!
Fun-Filled Field Trip
Michael Anderson School's sixth graders had a fantastic time on their incentive field trip, celebrating their excellent behavior throughout the third quarter! The day began with plenty of fun at the park, where students enjoyed outdoor activities and time with friends. It was a great way to kick off the day and let the students unwind and have some fun after their hard work.
The trip wrapped up with an exciting bowling session, adding a perfect ending to a day full of excitement. This field trip was a well-earned reward for their positive behavior and dedication. We are proud of their efforts and look forward to seeing them continue to shine in the classroom!
STAR Students Explore Nature
Our little learners at STAR Academy have been diving into the wonders of nature this week, and they’re loving every minute of it! They've been actively exploring the fascinating world of plant cycles by planting their very own radishes. From seeds to sprouts, they’re witnessing the magic of growth unfold right before their eyes. It’s so exciting to see their curiosity grow along with their plants, and we can’t wait to watch these radishes bloom!
Calling All Incoming Kindergarteners
Enroll Now for Kindergarten 2025
Do you have a child turning five years old by August 31? Now is the time to enroll for kindergarten for fall 2025! We hope to see you at one of our schools' kindergarten registration events! Please contact any AESD school for more information on registration or call 623-772-5000.
No worries if you missed the event, you can enroll online at www.chooseaesd.org/registration or anytime the school offices are open. Don't miss out...secure your kindergarten spot today!
College Scholarships Available for Former AESD Students
Avondale-Goodyear Education Foundation Accepting Applications for College Scholarships
The Avondale-Goodyear Education Foundation is a non-profit foundation that provides support for college scholarships and recognition programs that honor the excellent work of our staff. The Foundation offers annual college scholarships to students who have promoted from eighth grade from any one of our schools, graduated from high school (Spring 2025), and have been accepted to a university, junior college or vocational/technical/health-related program. The deadline for applying is Friday, March 21. Simply click the link below for more information and to apply.
Time is Running Out to Nominate Your Child's Teacher
Nominate Your Child's Teacher for the Silver Apple Award
AESD is proud of our amazing teachers. Parents and guardians can nominate your outstanding teacher for Arizona's Family 3TV Silver Apple Award. Nominations are accepted through March 16, 2025. Winning teachers will receive a $1,000 prize and will be featured on 3TV! Simply download the Silver Apple Nomination Form, in 100 words or less share "Why This Teacher Is Special," get the principal's signature, and email it to apple@azfamily.com. For more information, visit azfamily.com/silverapple.