The Weekly Update #4
April 26th, 2024
Dear Team FUSD,
As we strive to make Flagstaff Unified School District the absolute best place to work and learn, your voice is an invaluable asset. We understand that a critical part of achieving this goal is ensuring we continuously gather your perceptions and input. This valuable feedback allows us to not only identify areas for improvement but also celebrate the successes we've achieved together.
Whether you participate in surveys, serve on district committees, or share your thoughts at school and department listening circles, your contributions directly impact the positive direction of our district. By expressing your honest feedback, you empower us to better support you and, in turn, create an exceptional learning environment for our students. Thank you for your continued dedication to FUSD!
Sincerely,
Michael A. Penca
Superintendent
As we gear up for another round of our annual engagement survey, I want to take a moment to stress the importance of your participation. Your feedback plays a crucial role in shaping our workplace culture and driving positive change within the organization.
For the past eight years, we have entrusted the National Business Research Institute (NBRI) as our third-party vendor to conduct these surveys. Their commitment to confidentiality ensures that your responses remain anonymous and are securely held. Only de-identified data is shared with us, guaranteeing your privacy and encouraging candid feedback.
Your authentic responses are invaluable. They provide us with insights into what is working well and where we have opportunities for improvement. Whether it's recognizing areas of strength or addressing areas that need attention, your input directly influences our actions and initiatives moving forward.
It's important to note that this survey is not just a formality; it's a powerful tool for driving positive change. Your perspectives help us better understand the experiences of our employees and create a more supportive and inclusive workplace for everyone.
So, I encourage each and every one of you to take the time to complete the upcoming engagement survey. Your voice matters, and your feedback is instrumental in shaping the future of our company. Together, we can continue to foster a culture where every employee feels valued, heard, and empowered. Please be on the lookout for an email from flagstaffusd@nbriresearch.com in the coming weeks to engage in the 2023-2024 Culture and Climate Survey.
Thank you for your commitment to making FUSD a great place to work.
Dawn Anderson
Director of Human Resources
We are excited to highlight and share the essential role of the VOICE Committee within our organization. At its core, the VOICE Committee stands as a beacon of inclusivity and empowerment, providing a platform for every district employee to be heard and potentially influence the direction of our collective journey, irrespective of job title, experience, or background.
The purpose of the VOICE Committee is simple yet profound: to ensure that every member of our team has a voice, and that voice matters. Whether you're a seasoned veteran or a newcomer, a custodian or a classroom teacher, your perspective is invaluable in shaping the fabric of our organization. By fostering open communication and active participation, the VOICE Committee empowers individuals to contribute their ideas, share their concerns, and collaborate on initiatives that drive positive change.
In essence, the VOICE Committee serves as a conduit for dialogue and engagement, bridging the gap between leadership and the broader workforce. Through regular meetings, feedback sessions, and inclusive initiatives, the committee strives to create an environment where every voice is not only heard but also respected and valued.
At its heart, the purpose of the VOICE Committee is to cultivate a culture of belonging and mutual respect, where diversity is celebrated, and everyone has a seat at the table. By championing inclusivity and amplifying the voices of our employees, we lay the foundation for a stronger, more cohesive community, united in our shared commitment to excellence and continuous improvement.
As we move forward, let us embrace the spirit of the VOICE Committee, and seize every opportunity to make our voices heard, to listen with empathy, and to collaborate with purpose. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the dedicated members of the VOICE Committee for their unwavering commitment and tireless efforts in championing inclusivity and amplifying the voices of our diverse workforce. Your dedication truly embodies the spirit of collaboration and empowers us all to make a meaningful impact within our organization.
2023-2024 Members - Dianne Gutierrez, Jamie Smith, Christina Wiede, Mikkel Gutzwiller, Haven Dubel, Dawn Quamahongnewa, Kim Howell, Phil Marandola, Michelle Powers, Gabby Spiguzza, Sarah Ogden, Sandra Cortez-Brown, Jana Fix, Pamela Cain, April Christensen, Dawn LaCivita, Jacyln Fierros, Derek Born
We are delighted to highlight the remarkable impact our staff have made through their participation in the Professional Learning Advisory Committee (PLAC). Over the last two years, this dedicated group has been instrumental in shaping the landscape of professional development (PD) within our organization, influencing outcomes that resonate throughout our workplace.
The PLAC serves as a conduit for staff voices, ensuring that the professional learning experiences offered align closely with the needs and aspirations of our team members. Through collaborative efforts, the committee has provided invaluable input into various aspects of our professional learning framework, including:
PD Criteria: By establishing clear criteria for professional learning opportunities, the PLAC has ensured that our PD offerings are relevant, equitable, impactful, and aligned with organizational goals.
Evaluation of Professional Learning: Through rigorous evaluation processes, the committee has helped assess the effectiveness of PD initiatives, ensuring that resources are allocated to programs that yield the greatest benefits for our staff.
Goals and Objectives: The PLAC has played a pivotal role in setting ambitious yet achievable goals and objectives for professional learning, guiding our efforts towards continuous improvement and growth.
New Employee Orientation: By integrating PD components into our new employee orientation process, the committee has helped newcomers acclimate to our organizational culture and values more effectively.
Classroom Site Fund: Through the allocation of resources from the Classroom Site Fund, the PLAC has supported initiatives that enhance the learning environment and promote innovation in teaching practices.
Staff PD Day: The committee has been instrumental in planning and organizing Staff PD Days, ensuring that these events are enriching, engaging, and tailored to the diverse needs of our staff members.
PD Strategic Plan: By contributing to the development of our PD Strategic Plan, including the mission and vision statements, the PLAC has provided a roadmap for future endeavors, grounded in our collective commitment to professional growth and development.
The impact of the PLAC extends far beyond the confines of our committee meetings. Through their dedication and collaborative spirit, members have helped foster a culture of continuous learning and improvement within our organization, empowering staff members to thrive personally and professionally.
As we reflect on the achievements of the Professional Learning Advisory Committee, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to all staff members who have contributed their time, expertise, and passion to this endeavor. Your commitment to enhancing the professional learning experience for all FUSD team members is truly commendable and deeply appreciated.
Together, let us continue to champion a culture of lifelong learning and growth, where every staff member has the opportunity to realize their full potential. Staff interested in joining the PLAC next year can email hzeigler@fusd1.org.
Committee Members - Tom Safranek, Rochelle Bronson, Jane Guan, Nancy Pierce, Dawn Anderson, Ashley Esparza, Libby Miller, Lawrence Watson, Frank Garcia, Linda Harbottle, Alisha Mihoda, Chelsea Drey, Rachel DeJesus, Renda Fisk, Lance Huffman, Cecil Prado, Katrina Collins-Hernandez, Ellen Herman, Patti Pastor, Cynthia Noble, Derek Born, Ninon Wilson, Susan Smith, Ginni Biggs, Jaclyn Fierros, Kim Aringdale, Janis Doneski-Nicol, Erin Fagan, Kaitlyn Leung, Virginia Seery, Alianah Ramirez
The Flagstaff Unified School District's Calendar Committee has been hard at work, ensuring that our school year aligns with the needs and priorities of our students, parents, and staff. This dedicated group of individuals has undertaken the crucial task of evaluating various aspects of our academic calendar, aiming to enhance the educational experience for all.
One significant recommendation put forth by the Calendar Committee was the implementation of a single early release day. Recognizing the importance of providing educators with dedicated time for professional development and collaboration, the committee proposed this initiative to support ongoing growth and innovation within our schools.
Furthermore, the committee addressed the scheduling of parent-teacher conferences, recognizing the importance of fostering strong home-school partnerships. By recommending adjustments to conference times, they aim to ensure that these vital meetings are convenient and accessible for both parents and educators, fostering meaningful dialogue and collaboration to support student success.
In addition, the Calendar Committee has explored the possibility of implementing a later start for secondary students. Understanding the unique needs and rhythms of adolescent learners, they have sought to create a schedule that maximizes student engagement and well-being, while also accommodating the diverse needs of families and staff members.
The recommendations put forth by the Calendar Committee underscore their commitment to enhancing the educational experience for all members of our school community. Through thoughtful consideration and collaboration, they continue to play a pivotal role in shaping our school calendar to better meet the needs of our students, families, and staff.
As we move forward, we extend our gratitude to the members of the Calendar Committee for their dedication, expertise, and tireless efforts in advancing our shared goals of academic excellence and student success.
