Deer Valley Unified School District public meetings in 2025

Regular Governing Board Meeting

The board will hear a report on the DVUSD Technology Vision Plan through 2030, review FY25 A-F school accountability letter grades, and receive monthly financial reports. Under the consent agenda, the board will approve HR changes including 4 new certified hires, 26 classified hires, and numerous resignations and transfers, as well as student travel.

• Presentation of DVUSD Technology Vision Plan - Driving Excellence through 2030 & Beyond
• FY25 A-F Accountability letter grades report
• Approval of HR changes: 4 certified hires, 8 certified resignations, 26 classified hires, 31 classified resignations/terminations, plus leaves and transfers
• Approval of student travel
• Approval of minutes from October 28, 2025 meeting

Regular Governing Board Meeting

The Deer Valley Unified School District Governing Board will hear a district report on Early Childhood programs and consider a consent agenda approving October 14 minutes, human resources changes (including new hires, resignations, leaves, and transfers), and 11 student travel requests for trips to California, Florida, Arizona, and Georgia. The board may also act on items discussed in executive session.

• HR changes: 1 certified and 19 classified new hires, 16 resignations/terminations, 5 leaves, 30 transfers/reassignments
• Student travel: Sandra Day O'Connor HS to Nike Sabrina Ionescu Classic (Concord, CA), Deer Valley HS to Nationals (Anaheim, CA), Mountain Ridge HS to UDA Nationals (Orlando, FL), and others
• Early Childhood programs report covering Developmental preschool, Head Start, and Child Find services

The Governing Board approved a resolution to support a tax assessment ratio reclassification for Amkor Technology Arizona, Inc. expansion. Additional actions included approving employee professional development and hiring outside counsel for Open Meeting Law training.

• Adopted the meeting agenda (5-0)
• Approved Consent Agenda items including minutes, human resources changes, student travel, vouchers, donations, addenda contracts, and cooperative/sole source purchases (4-0-1)
• Approved resolution for Amkor Technology Arizona, Inc. tax assessment ratio reclassification (5-0)
• Approved employee professional development out-of-state (5-0)
• Approved addenda pre-approvals (4-1)
• Approved hiring outside legal counsel for Open Meeting Law training (5-0)

Regular Governing Board Meeting

The board will discuss and vote on direction for its delegate regarding a proposed Arizona School Board Association bylaw change. District reports include an update on regional development impact from the City of Phoenix, a report on Professional Learning Communities, a Career and Technical Education presentation, and a fiscal and business services report. The consent agenda includes approval of minutes from prior meetings.

• Discussion and vote on direction for ASBA bylaw change proposal
• Deer Valley Unified School District Region Development Impact Update by City of Phoenix director
• PLCs @ Work report from Arizona Department of Education
• Pathways to Success, Career & Technical Education in Deer Valley report
• Fiscal and Business Services Report including M&O, Student Activity, Auxiliary reports and 2019 Bond/Override report

The Governing Board approved the Annual Financial Report for Fiscal Year 2024-25 and the School Facility Division Preventative Maintenance Plan Report for 2024-25. The board also passed several consent agenda items including human resources changes, student travel, and vouchers.

• Adopted the meeting agenda (4-0)
• Directed ASBA delegate Dr. Karen Pack to vote as approved by the Board (4-0)
• Approved Consent Agenda items including minutes, HR changes, student travel, and vouchers (4-0)
• Approved Addenda Pre-Approvals (4-0)
• Approved 2024-25 School Facility Division Preventative Maintenance Plan Report (4-0)
• Approved Annual Financial Report for FY 2024-25 (4-0)

Regular Governing Board Meeting

The Governing Board is meeting to review a report on 2024-25 K-8 achievements and highlights. The session includes recognizing teachers and students for high growth and test scores in Math, ELA, and Science.

• K-8 Achievement report presented by Deputy Superintendent Dr. Gayle Galligan
• Awards for teachers with highest growth in ELA and Math State Assessments 2025
• Awards for students with highest test scale scores in Math, ELA, and Science (grades 3-8)
• Approval of Human Resources changes including 6 new certified hires and 16 certified resignations/terminations

The Governing Board approved the meeting agenda, various consent agenda items, and out-of-state professional development. The board also approved a job order contract for a new sand volleyball court at Mountain Ridge High School.

• Adopted the meeting agenda (4-1)
• Approved Consent Agenda items 4.A. through 4.L. (4-0-1)
• Approved employee professional development out-of-state (5-0)
• Approved addenda pre-approvals (5-0)
• Approved Skyline Builders contract for a sand volleyball court at Mountain Ridge High School (4-1)

Regular Governing Board Meeting

The Deer Valley Unified School District Governing Board met on September 9, 2025, to approve routine consent agenda items and receive information reports. The board adopted the agenda and approved consent items, including minutes from the August 26 meeting and human resources changes. Administration will present updates on high school achievements, student wellness supports, and monthly financial reports that track district spending and staffing levels for the community.

• Approval of consent agenda items, including August 26 meeting minutes
• Human resources changes: 10 certified and 30 classified new hires, plus resignations and transfers
• Finance report covering Maintenance & Operation (August) and Student Activity/Auxiliary funds (June–August 2025)
• District reports on 2024-25 high school achievement and student wellness supports
• Pre-meeting recognition of PTA, principal, teacher, and student competition awards

Special Meeting of the Governing Board - Public Hearing

The Governing Board holds a public hearing to consider the first revision of the Fiscal Year 2025-26 Expenditure Budget, required because the adopted budget was not on the correct state forms due to the late legislative session. The board may take action after hearing public comments.

• Public hearing for FY2025-26 Expenditure Budget Revision #1
• Recommended action to allow community questions per A.R.S. 15-905
• Adoption of the agenda (motion carried 4-1)

Regular Governing Board Meeting

The Deer Valley Unified School District Governing Board voted 4-1 to direct its ASBA delegate on the 2026 Political Agenda, with guidance to be represented at the September 6 delegate assembly. The board also approved the consent agenda with exceptions, including revisions to Board Policy BA on operational goals, and heard a report on summer learning programs. An initial motion to adopt the agenda failed before a modified version passed.

• Vote to direct ASBA delegate on 2026 Political Agenda (motion carried 4-1)
• Revision and approval of Board Policy BA - School Board Operational Goals
• Approval of Human Resources changes: 5 certified hires, 6 resignations, 44 classified hires, among other changes
• Presentation on summer learning programs by Deputy Superintendent Dr. Gayle Galligan
• Agenda adoption motion initially failed 2-3, then passed 5-0 with items moved for separate consideration

The Governing Board approved direction for the ASBA Delegate regarding the 2026 Political Agenda. Multiple consent agenda items, including human resources changes and several board policies, were also approved.

• Approved direction for ASBA Delegate regarding 2026 Political Agenda (4-1)
• Approved Consent Agenda items A through R, excluding 4.D (3-1-1)
• Approved Administration's recommendation to pre-approve addenda (4-1)
• Approved employee professional development out-of-state (5-0)

Regular Governing Board Meeting

The board will hold a reception for 12 newly hired campus principals, then hear a district report on the start of the 2025-2026 school year. They will also vote on a consent agenda including personnel changes, student travel, and voucher payments.

• New Administrator Reception introducing 12 new principals (e.g., New River, Sunset Ridge, Highland Lakes, etc.)
• District Report by Deputy Superintendent Dr. Gayle Galligan on planning and strong start to 2025-2026 school year
• Consent agenda: Approve HR changes (21 certified new hires, 88 certified transfers, 58 classified new hires, etc.)
• Consent agenda: Approve student travel for band retreat, Disneyland trip, camp surf, golf invitational, and field trip
• Consent agenda: Approve vouchers for district expenditures from various accounts

The Governing Board approved grant funding for chiller repairs at Desert Sage Elementary School. The board also passed a consent agenda covering various administrative approvals and authorized professional travel for the Superintendent.

• Approved SFD Building Renewal Grant Funding for Desert Sage Elementary School Chiller Repair Project (5-0)
• Approved professional travel for Superintendent to attend AASA National Conference in Nashville (4-1)
• Approved addenda pre-approvals (4-1)
• Approved Consent Agenda items 4.A. through 4.K. (4-1)
• Approved RFP #26-1229-002-5 for Book Fairs (4-1)
• Authorized additional Cooperative Contract Purchases for FY 2025-26 (4-1)
• Authorized additional Sole Source Contracts for Walk-in Grocery for FY 2025-26 (4-1)
• Adopted the meeting agenda (5-0)

Regular Governing Board Meeting

The Deer Valley USD Governing Board will consider a consent agenda including approval of $8.5 million in payroll and expense vouchers, human resources changes, donations, and addenda contracts. The agenda text provided ends during item 2.E, so the full meeting scope is incomplete. The meeting also includes procedural opening items and adoption of the agenda.

• Approval of Payroll Voucher #26 ($3,491,915.64) and #27 ($1,880,725.53) for FY 2024-25
• Approval of Expense Vouchers totaling $3,153,648.33 for FY 2024-25
• Human Resources changes: 2 admin hires, 26 certified hires, 38 classified hires; resignations/terminations and transfers
• Approval of donations totaling $550 to various schools
• Approval of addenda contracts (listing cut off in provided agenda)

The Governing Board approved a series of consent items including contracts, vouchers, and human resources changes. The board also authorized out-of-state professional development for employees and pre-approved specific addenda.

• Adopted the meeting agenda (4-0)
• Approved Consent Agenda items 2.A. through 2.M. (3-1)
• Approved IFB #26-599-008-5 for Certified Athletic Trainers (3-1)
• Approved Governing Board Policy JHD - Exclusions and Exemptions (3-1)
• Approved out-of-state employee professional development (4-0)
• Approved administration recommendation to pre-approve addenda (3-1)

Special Meeting of the Governing Board - Public Hearing

The Deer Valley USD Governing Board holds a public hearing to present and discuss the proposed 2025-26 expenditure budget. After the hearing, the board is expected to adopt the official budget for the upcoming fiscal year.

• Public hearing on the proposed 2025-26 expenditure budget
• Board to consider adopting the 2025-26 Official Expenditure Budget
• Budget documents attached: FY26 Adopted Budget, Budget Book, and EXPBUD

The Governing Board conducted a public hearing regarding the proposed 2025-26 Expenditure Budget. No public comment requests were submitted. No vote was taken on the budget during this meeting.

• Adopted the agenda (4-0-1)

Regular Governing Board Meeting

The Governing Board is deciding on the district's financial plans for the 2025-26 school year. This includes the expenditure budget and a plan for using insurance proceeds. The board is also reviewing a pro statement for a proposed 15% Maintenance and Operation Budget Override election.

• Adoption of the Fiscal Year 2026 Expenditure Budget
• Approval of the Fiscal Year 2026 Insurance Proceeds Plan
• Approval of the 2025-26 Memorandum of Understanding with the Deer Valley Education Foundation
• Resolution approving the Governing Board's argument for the Special Maintenance and Operation Budget Override Election
• Approval of human resources changes including 40 new certified hires

The Governing Board approved the FY2026 expenditure budget and insurance proceeds plan. The board also authorized several vendor contracts for food, dairy, and marquee services, and approved a grant for the Diamond Canyon Chiller Replacement Project.

• Adopted FY2026 Expenditure Budget (4-1)
• Approved FY26 Insurance Proceeds Plan (5-0)
• Approved Deer Valley Education Foundation MOU for 2025-26 (5-0)
• Approved Diamond Canyon Chiller Replacement Project grant terms (5-0)
• Awarded dairy supply contract to Aikins Distribution (5-0)
• Awarded general food supply contracts to nine vendors (5-0)
• Awarded marquee services contract to Equity Sign Group (5-0)
• Requested administration review of public records protocols regarding KEB 2025-0508-1 (4-0-1)

Special Meeting of the Governing Board - Executive Session

This special meeting is an executive session closed to the public. The board will discuss legal advice on contracts and consider its position regarding Policy KEB complaints against personnel. No public votes or decisions are scheduled.

• Discussion of contracts that are the subject of negotiations
• Legal advice on Policy KEB complaints against personnel

Special Meeting of the Governing Board - Executive Session

This special meeting of the Deer Valley Governing Board will convene in executive session to discuss a pupil promotion appeal from Constitution Elementary, as allowed under Arizona law for records exempt from public inspection. The board may also receive legal advice. No votes are expected in open session, and the remainder of the agenda is procedural.

• Executive session to hear an appeal of a pupil promotion decision at Constitution Elementary (A.R.S. §38-431.03.A.2 and A.R.S. §15-342.11)

Regular Governing Board Meeting

The Deer Valley Unified School District Governing Board will consider a consent agenda that includes approval of payroll and expense vouchers totaling nearly $24 million for fiscal year 2024-25. Also up for discussion are human resources changes, student travel requests, and a finance report for May 2025. The board is expected to vote on all consent items together.

• Approve Payroll Voucher #24 for $10,985,987.09
• Approve Payroll Voucher #24.9 for $10,001,668.99
• Approve Expense Vouchers totaling $2,977,138.66
• Approve Human Resources Changes: 49 certified new hires, 26 certified transfers/reassignments
• Approve student travel to Chapel Rock Aspen Creek Outdoor School, California Live Invitational, and other trips

The Governing Board approved the proposed Fiscal Year 2026 expenditure budget to be advertised. Other actions included approving a contract for sand volleyball courts and superintendent performance pay.

• Approved advertising of the FY26 Proposed Expenditure Budget (3-0)
• Approved Job Order Contract with Skyline Builders for sand volleyball courts at Barry Goldwater and Boulder Creek High Schools (3-0)
• Approved Superintendent Dr. Curtis Finch's performance pay at 40% of the 10% contract amount allowable (3-0)
• Approved SY26 Superintendent Goals (3-0)
• Approved employee professional development out-of-state (3-0)
• Approved addenda pre-approvals (3-0)
• Approved Consent Agenda items 3.A. through 3.K, including vouchers, donations, and contract renewals (3-0)

Special Meeting of the Governing Board - Executive Session

The Deer Valley Unified School District Governing Board is holding a special meeting for an executive session. The board will discuss superintendent performance pay goals for the 2024-2025 and 2025-2026 school years, which involves personnel matters under state law.

• Discussion of Superintendent Performance Pay Goals for School Year 2024-2025
• Discussion of Superintendent Performance Pay Goals for School Year 2025-2026

Regular Governing Board Meeting

The Deer Valley Unified School District Governing Board will vote on approving updated 5th Grade Social Studies materials from McGraw-Hill, transitioning to 'Custom Arizona United States Studies'. The meeting also features recognition of student and staff achievements, including a Flinn Scholarship winner and multiple state champions.

• Approve 5th Grade Social Studies Adoption Update – transitioning to McGraw-Hill Custom Arizona United States Studies (action item)
• Recognition of Maya Ysabella Bustos as DVUSD's fourth consecutive Flinn Scholar
• Award to nine National Merit Scholarship winners from Mountain Ridge, Barry Goldwater, and Sandra Day O'Connor high schools
• Award to Sandra Day O'Connor's Girls Beach Volleyball team for DI state championship and 59-match win streak
• Multiple athletic state champions recognized (track, tennis, pom, dance)

The Governing Board approved the 5th Grade Social Studies Adoption Update and a motion to consider a special election for the sale, lease, or exchange of district property. The board also approved a series of consent agenda items, including an agreement with the City of Glendale for school resource officers.

• Approved 5th Grade Social Studies Adoption Update (3-1)
• Approved Consent Agenda items 4.A through 4.H (3-1)
• Approved Intergovernmental Agreement with City of Glendale for School Resource Officers FY 2025-26 (3-1)
• Approved out-of-state employee professional development (4-0)
• Approved addenda pre-approvals (3-1)
• Approved motion to consider a special election for sale, lease, or exchange of district property (4-0)

Special Meeting of the Governing Board - Executive Session

The Deer Valley USD Governing Board is meeting in executive session to discuss the evaluation of the superintendent for the 2024-2025 school year. No votes or public decisions are scheduled; the session is closed under state personnel law.

• Executive session pursuant to A.R.S. §38-431.03.A.1 to discuss Superintendent Evaluation for School Year 2024-2025

Special Meeting of the Governing Board - Work Session

The Governing Board will hold a work session on May 20, 2025, to preview the proposed Fiscal Year 2025-26 Expenditure Budget. The agenda includes only procedural items and this single discussion item; no votes are scheduled.

• Preview of the proposed FY26 Expenditure Budget (Discussion/Information)

The Governing Board held a work session to preview the Fiscal Year 2025-26 Budget. No formal decisions were made on the budget, which is scheduled for further discussion at the June 10, 2025 Board Meeting.

• Adopted the agenda (5-0)

Special Meeting of the Governing Board - Executive Session

This is a special meeting of the Deer Valley Unified School District Governing Board held entirely in executive session. No public votes or decisions are scheduled; the board will discuss a teacher's decision to promote or retain a pupil at Las Brisas Elementary, as allowed under Arizona law for confidential records review.

• Executive session pursuant to A.R.S. §38-431.03.A.2 and A.R.S. §15-342.11 to review a promotion/retention decision (Las Brisas Elementary)

Special Meeting of the Governing Board - Executive Session

The Deer Valley USD Governing Board is meeting in a special executive session to discuss an appeal regarding a teacher's decision to promote a pupil at Las Brisas Elementary. The session is closed to the public under Arizona law for reviewing exempt records and pupil promotion decisions.

• Executive session under A.R.S. §38-431.03.A.2 and §15-342.11
• Appeal of promotion decision at Las Brisas Elementary

Special Meeting of the Governing Board - Public Hearing

The Deer Valley Unified School District Governing Board will hold a public hearing to allow community questions on a proposed revision to the Fiscal Year 2024-25 Expenditure Budget, as required by state law. The board may also adopt the agenda and adjourn. No other substantive items are listed.

• Public hearing on Fiscal Year 2024-25 Expenditure Budget Revision

The Governing Board conducted a public hearing regarding the Fiscal Year 2024-25 Expenditure Budget Revision. No public comment requests were submitted. No vote was taken on the budget revision during this meeting.

• Adopted the agenda (5-0)

Regular Governing Board Meeting

The Deer Valley Unified School District Governing Board approved the Tax Credit and Fee Authorization for 2025-26, which raises athletic participation fees from $100 to $200 at high schools and from $60 to $120 at middle schools, adds a $100 marching band fee, and authorizes principals to waive fees for economic hardship. The board also approved principal appointments for Constitution Elementary (Dr. Janet Gilbert), Gavilan Peak (Kelly Zywczyk), Park Meadows (Pam Vigil), and Barry Goldwater High (Sharon Wieser). A finance report for April 2025 was presented. The meeting began with pre-meeting awards including Teacher of the Year and Rookie of the Year.

• Approved Tax Credit and Fee Authorization for 2025-26 with athletic fee increases: high school $100→$200, middle school $60→$120, plus $100 marching band fee
• Appointed Dr. Janet Gilbert as Principal of Constitution Elementary School
• Appointed Kelly Zywczyk as Principal of Gavilan Peak School
• Appointed Pam Vigil as Principal of Park Meadows Elementary School
• Appointed Sharon Wieser as Principal of Barry Goldwater High School

The Governing Board appointed new principals for four schools and approved the 2025-26 Rates of Pay Schedule. The board also authorized a performance pay amount of $4,755 per FTE for qualifying staff and approved a lunch meal price increase for FY26.

• Appointed Dr. Janet Gilbert as Principal of Constitution Elementary School (5-0)
• Appointed Kelly Zywczyk as Principal of Gavilan Peak School (5-0)
• Appointed Pam Vigil as Principal of Park Meadows Elementary School (5-0)
• Appointed Sharon Wieser as Principal of Barry Goldwater High School (5-0)
• Approved $4,755 per FTE for FY 2024-25 Classroom Site Fund Performance Pay (5-0)
• Approved Rates of Pay Schedule for 2025-2026 (5-0)
• Adopted FY 2024-25 Expenditure Budget Revision (4-1)
• Approved FY26 Lunch Meal Price Increase (5-0)

Special Meeting of the Governing Board - Executive Session

This is a special meeting of the Deer Valley Unified School District Governing Board held in executive session. The board will discuss employment recommendations for principals at four schools: Barry Goldwater High School, Constitution Elementary, Gavilan Peak School, and Park Meadows Elementary. The meeting is closed to the public under Arizona law for personnel matters.

• Discussion of principal recommendation for Barry Goldwater High School
• Discussion of principal recommendation for Constitution Elementary
• Discussion of principal recommendation for Gavilan Peak School
• Discussion of principal recommendation for Park Meadows Elementary
• Executive session held under A.R.S. §38-431.03.A.1 for employment discussions

Special Meeting of the Governing Board - Executive Session

This special meeting of the Deer Valley Unified School District Governing Board is called for an executive session immediately following the regular board meeting. The board will convene in closed session under Arizona law to discuss the Superintendent Evaluation for the 2024-2025 school year. No public votes or decisions are scheduled.

• Executive session pursuant to A.R.S. §38-431.03.A.1 to discuss employment, assignment, appointment, promotion, demotion, dismissal, salaries, disciplining or resignation of a public officer, appointee or employee
• Discussion of Superintendent Evaluation for School Year 2024-2025
• Meeting held at District Office Executive Conference Room, 20402 N. 15th Avenue, Phoenix, AZ
• Board members may participate by telephonic, video or internet conferencing

Special Meeting of the Governing Board - Executive Session

The Deer Valley Unified School District Governing Board is meeting in executive session to discuss employment matters, specifically a recommendation for the principal of Sunset Ridge School. No public decisions are expected as the session is closed under Arizona law for legal advice and personnel discussions.

• Executive session under A.R.S. §38-431.03.A.1 for discussion of employment, assignment, or dismissal of a public officer or employee
• Recommendation for Principal of Sunset Ridge School

Regular Governing Board Meeting

The board adopted a resolution calling a special budget override election on November 4, 2025, to renew the 15% Maintenance & Operations Override. It also approved a 5% increase to the annual facility/field rental fee schedule for 2025-26 and appointed Megan Pyles as principal of Sunset Ridge School. Consent agenda items included minutes, HR changes, and contract renewals.

• Resolution calling a Special Budget Override Election to renew the 15% M&O Override on Nov. 4, 2025
• Approval of 5% increase to the K-12 Use of Facility/Field Fee Schedule for 2025-26
• Appointment of Megan Pyles as Principal of Sunset Ridge School
• Awards: A+ School of Excellence (Highland Lakes, Stetson Hills), National Chinese Contest winner, Vocab Bowl winner, Superintendent Art winners
• Consent agenda including minutes, HR changes, and contract renewal list

The Governing Board approved a resolution to hold a Special Budget Override Election at 15%. Other key actions included approving the FY26 Classroom Site Fund Plan and a revised salary recommendation for the Negotiated Solution Team.

• Approved Special Budget Override Election at 15% (4-0)
• Approved FY26 Classroom Site Fund Plan (4-0)
• Approved Revised FY26 Negotiated Solution Team (NST) Salary Recommendation (4-0)
• Appointed Megan Pyles as Principal of Sunset Ridge School (4-0)
• Approved Annual K-12 Use of Facility/Field Fee Schedule for 2025-26 (4-0)
• Approved Consent Agenda items 5.A. through 5.L. (4-0)
• Approved addenda pre-approvals (4-0)

Regular Governing Board Meeting

The Governing Board is deciding on salary recommendations for the 2025-26 fiscal year and reviewing the FY24 financial audit. The body is also appointing new principals for Esperanza Elementary School and Sierra Verde School.

• Approval of FY26 Negotiated Solution Team Salary Recommendation
• Appointment of Amber Landis as Principal of Esperanza Elementary School
• Appointment of Kim Lanese as Principal of Sierra Verde School
• Acceptance of FY24 Financial Audit and Compliance Questionnaire
• Review of March 2025 Maintenance & Operation, Student Activity, and Auxiliary financial reports

The Governing Board approved the Negotiated Solution Team salary recommendations for Fiscal Year 2025-26 and the FY24 financial audit. The board also appointed new principals for Esperanza Elementary and Sierra Verde schools. Several administrative items and contracts were approved via a consent agenda.

• Approved FY26 Negotiated Solution Team Salary Recommendation (4-1)
• Appointed Amber Landis as Principal of Esperanza Elementary School (5-0)
• Appointed Kim Lanese as Principal of Sierra Verde School (5-0)
• Approved FY24 Financial Audit and Compliance Questionnaire (5-0)
• Approved Consent Agenda items including vouchers, donations, and contract renewals (5-0)
• Approved addenda pre-approvals (5-0)
• Adopted meeting agenda (5-0)

Special Meeting of the Governing Board - Executive Session

The Deer Valley Governing Board will hold a special executive session to discuss the employment recommendation for the principal of Esperanza Elementary School. No other business is scheduled. The meeting will convene and then move to closed session under Arizona law for personnel matters.

• Executive session to discuss recommendation for Principal of Esperanza Elementary School (A.R.S. §38-431.03.A.1)

Special Meeting of the Governing Board - Executive Session

This is a special meeting of the Deer Valley Unified School District Governing Board, convening in executive session. The only substantive item is discussion of a recommendation for Principal of Sierra Verde School, under A.R.S. §38-431.03.A.1 for personnel matters. No public votes or decisions are scheduled.

• Executive session to discuss recommendation for Principal of Sierra Verde School
• Meeting held at District Office Executive Conference Room, 20402 N. 15th Avenue, Phoenix
• Members may participate by telephonic, video or internet conferencing
• Agenda includes only procedural items: call to order, roll call, adoption of agenda

Regular Governing Board Meeting

The Deer Valley Unified School District Governing Board voted to approve contract language for certified, administrative/exempt, and deputy superintendent positions for the 2025-2026 school year. The board also adopted several policies on second reading, including BAA (board self-evaluation), BEDBA (agenda preparation), and BEDD (rules of order), with amendments. A fiscal year 2024 district spending report was presented by the deputy superintendent. Additionally, the board recognized student and athletic achievements from earlier in the month.

• Approved contract language for Certified, Administrative/Exempt, and Deputy Superintendent for 2025-2026 school year
• Adopted Policy BAA - Evaluation of School Board / Board Self-Evaluation (second reading, with ASBA clarification)
• Adopted Policy BEDBA - Agenda Preparation and Dissemination (second reading, amended per legal advice)
• Adopted Policy BEDD - Rules of Order (second reading)
• Received Fiscal Year 2024 District Spending Report from Auditor General

The Governing Board approved contract language for certified, administrative, and deputy superintendent roles for the 2025-2026 school year. Several board policies regarding self-evaluation, agenda preparation, and rules of order were updated. The board also approved the revised FY24 Annual Financial Report.

• Approved 2025-2026 contract language for Certified, Administrative/Exempt, and Deputy Superintendent (5-0)
• Approved Policy BAA - Evaluation of School Board / Board Self-Evaluation (4-1)
• Approved amended Policy BEDBA - Agenda Preparation and Dissemination (3-2)
• Approved Policy BEDD - Rules of Order (3-2)
• Approved Consent Agenda items 5.A through 5.K, including 2025 summer pay rates and vouchers (4-1)
• Approved out-of-state employee professional development (5-0)
• Approved the Revision of the Fiscal Year 2024 Annual Financial Report (5-0)
• Approved addenda pre-approvals (5-0)

Special Meeting of the Governing Board - Executive Session

The Deer Valley Unified School District Governing Board is holding a special meeting in executive session to discuss and consider Superintendent Performance Pay Goals for the 2024-2025 school year, including a review of latest data related to the superintendent's evaluation. The meeting is closed to the public under Arizona law for discussion of employment matters. No other business items are scheduled.

• Discussion of Superintendent Performance Pay Goals for School Year 2024-2025 in executive session

Special Meeting of the Governing Board - Executive Session

This is a special meeting of the Deer Valley Unified School District Governing Board, held entirely in executive session. The board will discuss the employment recommendation for the principal of New River Elementary under state law allowing closed-door personnel discussions. No public votes or decisions are scheduled.

• Executive session under A.R.S. §38-431.03.A.1 for discussion of employment of a public officer or employee
• Agenda item: Recommendation for Principal of New River Elementary

Special Meeting of the Governing Board - Executive Session

The Deer Valley Governing Board is holding a special meeting to convene an executive session. The session is focused on a personnel recommendation for the principal of Las Brisas Elementary.

• Recommendation for Principal of Las Brisas Elementary

Regular Governing Board Meeting

The Deer Valley Unified School District Governing Board approved the FY2026 employee benefit recommendation, including an 8.4% increase for PPO dependent rates, and adopted the 2025-26 Certified Performance Pay Plan with adjusted service hours. The board also appointed principals for Las Brisas and New River schools, and set regular meeting dates for the 2025-2026 school year. A presentation on music education and a finance report were provided.

• Approved Alisha Kellum as principal of Las Brisas School
• Approved Melissa Sepuka as principal of New River School
• Approved 2025-26 Certified Performance Pay Plan with service hour adjustment from 20 to 10
• Approved FY2026 employee benefit recommendation with 8.4% dependent rate increase for PPO
• Approved Memorandum of Understanding for Certified Agreement on class loads

The Governing Board appointed new principals for Las Brisas and New River and approved the 2025-26 Certified Performance Pay Plan with adjusted service hours. The Board also approved the FY 2026 employee benefit recommendations and the 2025-2026 meeting schedule.

• Appointed Alisha Kellum as Principal of Las Brisas (5-0)
• Appointed Melissa Sepuka as Principal of New River (5-0)
• Approved 2025-26 Certified Performance Pay Plan with service hours adjusted from 20 to 10 (5-0)
• Approved 2025-2026 Governing Board Meeting dates (5-0)
• Approved FY 2026 Employee Benefit recommendation with PPO dependent rates corrected to 8.4% increase (5-0)
• Tabled MOU for Certified Agreement for the 2025-2026 academic year (5-0)
• Approved Human Resources changes and contracted employee renewals (5-0)
• Pre-approved addenda as presented (4-1)

Regular Governing Board Meeting

The Deer Valley Unified School District Governing Board voted to approve instructional calendars for school years 2026-2027 (Option 7-A) and 2027-2028 (Option 8-A). They also approved the appointment of Amanda Hicks as Principal of Highland Lakes School and Michelle Martelli as Principal of Sunrise Elementary School, both effective for the 2025-2026 school year. The board heard reports on National Board Certification, Career & Technical Education, and the FY26 Budget Committee recommendation. The consent agenda was adopted with the exception of items 6.B., 6.H., and 6.I., which were pulled for separate consideration (details not fully provided in the agenda).

• Approved instructional calendars for 2026-2027 (Option 7-A) and 2027-2028 (Option 8-A)
• Appointed Amanda Hicks as Principal of Highland Lakes School
• Appointed Michelle Martelli as Principal of Sunrise Elementary School
• Received Fiscal Year 2026 Budget Committee report
• Consent agenda items 6.B. (HR changes), 6.H., and 6.I. pulled for separate consideration

The Governing Board appointed new principals for Highland Lakes and Sunrise Elementary schools. The board also approved instructional calendars for 2026-2028 and authorized an emergency procurement to move high school graduation to Desert Diamond Arena.

• Appointed Amanda Hicks as Principal of Highland Lakes (4-0)
• Appointed Michelle Martelli as Principal of Sunrise Elementary School (4-0)
• Approved 2026-2027 (Option 7-A) and 2027-2028 (Option 8-A) instructional calendars (4-0)
• Approved emergency procurement to move 2025 High School Graduation to Desert Diamond Arena (4-0)
• Approved revised Job Order Contract with Skyline Builders for Sunrise Elementary Head Start classrooms (4-0)
• Approved FY 2025-26 General Statement of Assurance (3-1)
• Approved HR changes and part-time limited non-renewal list (4-0)
• Updated authorized signers for written agreements and purchase orders (4-0)

Special Meeting of the Governing Board - Executive Session

This agenda is primarily procedural boilerplate for a closed executive session. The Deer Valley Unified School District Governing Board will meet on February 25, 2025, at its Phoenix office to discuss a recommendation for the principal of Sunrise Elementary. No public vote or detailed policy discussion is scheduled.

• Closed session to discuss principal recommendation for Sunrise Elementary
• Meeting location: 20402 N. 15th Avenue, Phoenix, AZ 85027
• Procedural items: call to order, roll call, agenda adoption, and adjournment

The Governing Board met in executive session to consider a recommendation for the Principal of Sunrise Elementary. No public votes on personnel appointments were recorded in these minutes.

• Adopted the agenda (4-0)
• Approved call for Executive Session (4-0)
• Adjourned the meeting (4-0)

Special Meeting of the Governing Board - Executive Session

The Deer Valley Unified School District Governing Board will hold an executive session to discuss the employment recommendation for the Principal of Highland Lakes School. The meeting is otherwise procedural, with no public decisions scheduled.

• Discussion of recommendation for Principal of Highland Lakes School under A.R.S. §38-431.03.A.1

The Governing Board met in executive session to discuss a recommendation for the Principal of Highland Lakes School. No public votes or final decisions on the appointment were recorded in the minutes.

• Adopted the agenda (4-0)
• Entered executive session to discuss Highland Lakes School principal recommendation (4-0)

Regular Governing Board Meeting

The Deer Valley Unified School District Governing Board will recognize students and staff with awards, hear a safety update from district administration and Phoenix Police, and receive a monthly finance report. The board will also vote on a consent agenda including approval of minutes and human resources changes (including 2 new certified hires, 23 new classified hires, and various resignations/transfers).

• Award: State Vocabulary Bowl Winner Fall 2024 from Sierra Verde STEM Academy
• Award: A-rated school banners presented to 10 schools including Mountain Shadows Elementary and Sandra Day O'Connor High School
• Presentation: Career and Technical Education (CTE) overview
• District report: Safety Office Update highlighting law enforcement presence for National School Resource Officer Day
• Consent agenda: Approve Human Resources changes including 23 new classified hires and 20 classified resignations/terminations

The Governing Board approved a proclamation for Career and Technical Education Month and authorized several personnel and contract actions. The board also approved out-of-state professional development and travel for board members and the superintendent.

• Approved February as Career and Technical Education Month (5-0)
• Approved Consent Agenda items 4.A. through 4.I. (4-1)
• Approved Human Resources changes, CTE stipends, and part-time separation list (4-1)
• Approved vouchers and donations (4-1)
• Authorized additional cooperative and sole source contracts for FY 2024-25 (4-1)
• Approved RFP/IFB multiple year contract renewals for FY 2024-25 (4-1)
• Approved out-of-state employee professional development (5-0)
• Approved travel for Board members and Superintendent to attend NSBA Conference in Atlanta (5-0)

Regular Governing Board Meeting

The board elected Dr. Karen Pack as Governing Board Vice President and approved a consent agenda including HR changes (hires, resignations, transfers) and the minutes from the previous meeting. The meeting also featured awards recognizing student and staff achievements, such as choir and swim state champions and A-rated school banners.

• Election of Karen Pack as Governing Board Vice President
• Approval of Human Resources changes: 6 new certified hires, 24 new classified hires, 17 classified resignations/terminations, and various transfers and leaves
• Recognition of Boulder Creek Varsity Concert Choir and Honor Choir for Superior with Distinction by AMEA
• Award of A-rated school banners to the first 9 of 27 schools, including Anthem School, Arrowhead Elementary, and others
• Recognition of Delaney Barbee (Boulder Creek) for state championships in 50 and 100 yard freestyle swimming

The Governing Board elected a new Vice President and approved a series of administrative items via a consent agenda. The board also authorized out-of-state professional development for employees and pre-approved contract addenda.

• Elected Dr. Karen Pack as Governing Board Vice President (3-2)
• Approved Consent Agenda items 4.A. through 4.I. (5-0)
• Approved January 14, 2025 meeting minutes (5-0)
• Approved Human Resources changes (5-0)
• Approved vouchers and donations (5-0)
• Authorized additional cooperative and sole source contracts for FY 2024-25 (5-0)
• Approved out-of-state employee professional development (5-0)
• Approved addenda pre-approvals (5-0)

Regular Governing Board Meeting

This is the organizational meeting of the Deer Valley Unified School District Governing Board for 2025, including election of a board president and vice president, appointment of an ASBA legislative delegate and alternate, and reports on state assessment results and district finances. The board also welcomed two new members and re-elected one from the November 2024 general election. Items on the consent agenda include approval of December 2024 meeting minutes.

• Reception for incoming Governing Board Members Stephen Bottfeld and Dr. Karen C. Pack, and re-elected member Kimberly Fisher
• Election of temporary president (Paul Carver elected) and then board president (Paul Carver elected) and vice president (no election achieved after three failed motions)
• Appointment of Karen Pack as ASBA Legislative Delegate and Steve Bottfeld as alternate
• Presentation on 2024 state assessment results and A-F Accountability System performance
• Finance report covering Maintenance & Operation, Student Activity, and Auxiliary monthly reports for December 2024

The Governing Board held an organizational meeting to elect leadership and appoint legislative delegates. Paul Carver was elected President, while several motions to elect a Vice President failed. The board also approved a consent agenda and employee professional development.

• Elected Paul Carver as Governing Board President (3-1)
• Appointed Karen Pack as ASBA Legislative Delegate (4-0)
• Appointed Steve Bottfeld as ASBA Delegate Alternate (4-0)
• Approved Consent Agenda items 5.A. through 5.I. (3-1)
• Approved and ratified out-of-state employee professional development (4-0)
• Approved addenda pre-approvals (3-1)
• Election of Governing Board Vice President failed after three separate motions (all 2-2)

Special Meeting of the Governing Board - Work Session

The Deer Valley Governing Board is holding a work session focused on legal and ethical protocols. Attorney Denise Lowell-Britt will present on Open Meeting Law requirements. The board will also discuss board member ethics, social media use, email protocols, and meeting conduct. No votes on operational items or contracts are scheduled.

• Presentation and discussion on Open Meeting Law requirements by attorney Denise Lowell-Britt
• Discussion of Board Ethics and Etiquette, including review of Board Policy BCA
• Discussion on social media, board meetings, and email protocols

The Governing Board conducted a work session featuring presentations on open meeting law, board etiquette, and ethics. No substantive policy or budget decisions were made during the meeting.

• Adopted the agenda (4-1)
• Adjourned the meeting (4-0-1)