Development News for Sahuarita, Arizona

Concerns Raised Over District Policy Limiting ESA Student Participation in AIA Sports

Ward Law addressed the ABCUSD governing school board regarding ESA (Expanded Secondary Academy) student participation in AIA (Arizona Interscholastic Association) sports. He previously thanked the board for new tennis courts at Walden Grove High School. Law believes the district can and must make a well-thought-out policy for ESA students. He noted the board's unanimous decision not to allow ESA students to participate in AIA sports and stated this decision will be a negative overall for the community. Law suggested the policy might aim to attract ESA students to the district for funding, but stated there is no data to support this. He drew parallels to declining church attendance due to streaming services and pandemic closures. Law argued that coercing ESA families to attend district schools will not succeed and will damage community health. He cited that ESA students can participate in AIA sports according to the education website. Law proposed that the school board consider a financial differential for ESA students participating in AIA sports, potentially three or four times the current amount paid by public school students, to cover stipends for coaches. He projected an immediate negative impact on tennis teams, noting that the number one incoming player next year is an ESA student. Law expressed his commitment to continue advocating until a satisfactory resolution is reached.

District Recommends Annual Renewal of Banking Services Contract with Wells Fargo

Mrs. Huey recommended the approval of RFP 2023-2 for banking-related services, including the possibility of future leasing and financing. Currently, the district uses procurement cards and online payment services. This RFP supports these endeavors. This is a renewal for Wells Fargo Bank, marking year three. The contract is a 5-year term, renewable annually, with another procurement process after the fifth year. The services include online procurement cards and vehicle leasing, though leasing is not currently favored unless advantageous for the district. The district previously used a lease-to-own program for buses when interest rates were favorable and bus costs were increasing. The RFP keeps the option of leasing available.

Cerritos Teen Advisory Council (STAC) Program Highlighted for Community Impact

Luke Smith from the Town Manager's Department of the Town of Cerritos presented on the Cerritos Teen Advisory Council (STAC) program. The program connects high school students with local government and community leadership, aiming to give students a voice, provide real-world civic experience, and develop future leaders. STAC students learn about local government, discuss issues, and present recommendations. The program strengthens connections between students, schools, and the Cerritos community, fostering civic responsibility and public service. Applications are open until June 5th, and STAC students will present their annual report to the Cerritos Town Council in the coming weeks. The district's support in promoting STAC and recruiting students from high schools is crucial for the program's success. Smith invited governing board members to attend the town council meeting.

Walden Grove Drainage Improvement Project Approved to Address Wash Erosion and Flooding Risks

The board discussed the Walden Grove drainage improvement project. A wash north of the property brings debris and sediment, posing a risk of damage to the softball field and other areas. Research indicated the current wash path is not viable for the water volume. The plan is to permanently reroute the water. This involves lowering the berm on the wash so water flows onto FICO property (with their permission), lowering water lines, and redirecting water westbound to existing culverts. The estimated cost for Core Construction is $167,357, funded by adjacent ways, not bond money. A board member expressed frustration that the district is fixing a drainage problem likely created by a prior subdivision that altered the natural flow and installed a berm without removal. This has caused erosion and safety issues for the school district. The adjacent ways funding mechanism was explained as a levee system approved by the governing board and vetted through the SFD process.