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We take a look at the district’s new and very first “Grow with SUSD” coloring book, illustrated by Chaparral High School junior Jackson Washburn. The “Grow with SUSD” coloring book is the start of a campaign to highlight the meaningful journey through SUSD schools that students can take.

Enjoy this exciting episode of the "SUSD Spotlight" podcast, where we sit down with Sam Primack, a talented musical theatre actor and SUSD alum, to discuss his impressive journey from Arizona to the bright lights of Broadway. Sam is most well-known from the final Broadway and National Tour casts of "Dear Evan Hansen," where he has performed the role across the country and in New York. We'll explore his experiences, the impact of his SUSD education, and his recent masterclass at Chaparral High School for current Firebirds.

In this episode of the "SUSD Spotlight" podcast, we are treated to a conversation with some voices behind “Gold Dust Avenue,” an a cappella group in SUSD that shines. Led by Dr. Sammy Brauer (who has been teaching music in SUSD since 2007) and featuring student singers such as Lillian Apostolou, Gold Dust Avenue has made Chaparral High School proud by placing 2^nd in the 2024 SingStrong New York School Competition with five superior ratings, plus Lillian winning for Best Arrangement. Today, we’ll learn more about some amazing musicianship in our schools, the SingStrong event, and hear the group sing an arrangement.

In this episode of SUSD Spotlight, we sit down with Chaparral High School’s Criminal Justice teacher, Tarnisha Tilson, and students Angie Rosacci and Charlie Zimmerman to explore how this dynamic Career and Technical Education (CTE) program prepares students for real-world careers in law enforcement, forensic science, and legal studies. From hands-on experiences like crime scene investigations and police training to the high-stakes reality of Chaparral’s Teen Court. In this unique experience, students actively participate in real juvenile justice cases. This episode highlights the impact of immersive learning. Angie and Charlie share their roles as attorneys, jurors, and prosecutors, offering firsthand insight into how the program has shaped their career aspirations and understanding of the justice system.

In this episode of "SUSD Spotlight," we are joined by Dr. Eric Leshinskie, President of Scottsdale Community College (SCC), to discuss the impactful partnership between SCC and Scottsdale Unified School District (SUSD). Under Dr. Leshinskie’s leadership, SCC has fostered a culture of care and collaboration, creating numerous opportunities for SUSD students. From dual enrollment programs to scholarships and support for students with disabilities, this partnership is paving the way for students to achieve their academic and career goals. Join us as we explore how SCC and SUSD are working together to create a seamless transition from high school to college and beyond.