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Fresh initiatives in an inclusive environment are giving them a chance to make a bigger impact in the world.
Overseeing 24 schools with more than 26,000 students is a daunting task. However, it is a challenge that Thea Andrade, superintendent of Phoenix Union High School District (PXU), and her staff of over 3,500 professionals have been accomplishing with flying colors. From their freshman year to completing their chosen pathway, students feel a sense of belonging at the all-high-school institution that exerts every effort to equip them with 21st-century skills.
“We’re a very progressive district, and we’re truly proud of that,” says Andrade, who has served in Arizona’s public education for nearly three decades and as an administrator for over 20 years. “Our schools welcome and inspire students to go places and do things that matter. That’s our promise to the community.”
True enough, PXU’s unconventional methods have raised student engagement and performance. Acknowledging the difficult period that freshmen undergo, the high school district established freshman houses where the same group of kids stay together for the start of their high school journey. Guided by link crews comprising seniors, the dropout rate among freshmen has declined to 1.5 percent from 6. The institution is further moving towards equity and inclusivity as it launches a dual language education program at Carl Hayden Community High School.
PXU guarantees consistency in the student’s academic experience across its different schools as it prepares them to be future-ready. Its expansive career and technical education (CTE) program certifies students for high-demand fields, from aeronautics to precision manufacturing. The school district is also collaborating with universities to give seniors a taste of college life and streamline their acceptance into partner universities.
“The future is now, and if we don’t maneuver and shift, our scholars will be left behind,” Andrade says. “We would like every student to graduate college, career and life-ready with all the skills needed to succeed in our global economy. We’ll continue building strong, robust programs that endow them with assets they can give back to the community.”
Learn more about Phoenix Union High School District (PXU) at www.pxu.org.
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