Summer Tips: Get Kids Out of the House

« Back  |  July 17, 2023 - ASU Preparatory Academy

Learning should be – and can be – fun. Summer is the perfect time to engage young learners in meaningful opportunities to be curious, to explore, and to discover new interests. Check out this list of fun yet educational (and often free) activities to get your kids out of the house and learning this summer.

Try Geocaching: A combination of technology and active outdoor time, “The world’s largest treasure hunt” involves searching for hidden items in a specific geographical area using GPS coordinates on your smart device. Create a free account on www.geocaching.com and download the app. Choose a cache to find based on area and level of difficulty and head out for adventure.

Go on a Scavenger Hunt: Apps like Monkey Spot or Goosechase include scavenger hunts kids can do outdoors or in everyday places like the grocery store, finding assigned objects. You can also search online for free printable scavenger hunts by topic — seasonal, outdoor or color/alphabet-themed. 

Explore Outdoors: Discover history and culture and connect with nature at a state or national park. The National Park Service offers a Junior Ranger program with interactive activities that give kids a chance to earn a badge and certificate. Bonus: Fourth graders can visit America’s National Parks for free with an Every Kid Outdoors pass. 

Roam a Local Garden: Let kids explore exhibits, feed fish, and identify types of flowers. The Japanese Friendship Garden in Phoenix offers free admission 5:00-7:30 p.m. on the first Friday of every month, and The Desert Botanical Garden in Phoenix hosts Community Day with free admission on the second Tuesday of the month. Search online to find more beautiful gardens and special deals to explore. 

Tour a Museum or Science Center: Check online for nearby museums of art or history as well as science centers for hours, special activities, and free admission opportunities. Some options near our ASU Prep campuses include Heard Museum, Phoenix Art Museum, Children’s Museum of Phoenix, and Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art. 

Through Museums for All, families presenting their SNAP EBT card can gain free or reduced admission to participating venues, and some banks offer their cardholders free or discounted museum passes. Check out an Act One Culture Pass from a public library to gain free access to Arizona’s arts and cultural treasures. 

Visit a Zoo or Aquarium. Check out animal encounters, tour habitats, learn about endangered species, get involved in conservation efforts, and take advantage of play areas.

Try Something New: Research local kid-oriented classes and workshops like pottery, painting, cooking, bird-watching, coding, or photography. Consider looking into Lowe’s or Home Depot’s building workshops or events held at nearby craft stores. Perhaps a new physical activity like gymnastics, martial arts, indoor rock climbing, dance, or ninja warrior training would be a good fit.

Stop in the Local Library: Local public libraries don’t only offer books for free check-out, but also host story time and hands-on activities like crafts, as well as interactive demonstrations like a magic show or science experiment.

Can’t Get Out of the House? Take your kids on a virtual field trip from the comfort of home to places like the Louvre in France or the famous Monterey Bay Aquarium. Tune in to one of the many educational programs offered on YouTube or keep kids busy with an at-home scavenger hunt. 

No matter where this summer takes you and your family, try to include fun learning opportunities for the kids. When planning outdoor activities, be sure to consider the weather. Wear sun protection, hydrate, and have fun! 

Minority Mental Health Month: Tips for Prioritizing Wellness

« Back  |  July 10, 2023 - ASU Prep Digital

Observed in July, National Minority Mental Health Month brings awareness to the unique challenges faced by our nation’s diverse minority groups. Due in part to a history of cultural stigma and lack of access to health care services, these groups often struggle to receive diagnoses for behavioral health issues. 

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention cautions that health disparities faced by underrepresented communities “negatively affect the mental and physical health of millions of people, preventing them from attaining their highest level of health and consequently affecting the health of our nation.”

When it comes to managing mental health, this year’s theme centers around culture, community, and connection. Check out the following suggestions to get started prioritizing mental wellness for the whole family. 

  • Create Connections with Others. It is important to feel a sense of belonging and security within our neighborhoods. Activities like shopping, dining, exercise or worship bring an opportunity to build social connections. This can lead to an extended support network of people to assist with childcare or meals when needed, as well as shared family friendly gatherings. Meaningful interactions and having people to call upon are essential stress relievers.   
  • Be an Active Community Member. Community brings more than social connections; it’s also an opportunity to find purpose. Take pride in where you live and work to make it a better place through volunteering and advocacy work. Get involved in issues you care about (like education or health services) through rallies or town hall meetings. Be sure to enlist children’s help when appropriate, like charity walks or collecting donations.   
  • Take Time for Self-care. Be sure to care for both your body and mind. To reduce stress and anxiety, consider meditation, breathing exercises, or yoga — find helpful guides on YouTube or in the app store. Listening to music, keeping a gratitude journal, praying, or reading are also healthy calming practices. For physical health, aim for a diet rich in fruits and vegetables, lean protein, and whole grains and limit simple sugars and saturated fats. A routine of regular exercise and sufficient sleep round out a healthy lifestyle. 
  • Talk Openly about Mental Health. Develop an environment of openness and trust that allows you and others to feel comfortable discussing mental health. Some pointers for these types of conversations include setting aside appropriate time and space, being honest, and validating emotions without downplaying or dismissing them. This can no doubt be difficult, but increasing visibility of mental health issues within minority communities breaks the stigma and encourages people to get support when needed. 
  • Seek Resources. In addition to commonly experienced life stressors, minority groups may also be impacted by additional trauma. Therapy provides tools so you can better handle the past, present and future in a healthier way. Seek a culturally competent therapist who is respectful of differences, appreciating that everyone has a unique identity and set of needs. To find a mental health program or resources that are a good fit, check out FindTreatment.gov, search the directory at Mental Health America or American Foundation for Suicide Prevention’s extensive list of inclusive resources organized by community. For free, immediate, and confidential support at any time, call or text 988, the Suicude and Crisis Lifeline.

When focusing on mental wellness, remember to keep in mind the importance of culture, community, and connection. When intertwined, you’ll find support and belonging to help you better navigate daily life.

 

Nurturing Children’s Mental Health

« Back  |  June 1, 2023 - ASU Prep Digital

ASU Prep recognized May 11th as National Children’s Mental Health Awareness Day, which highlights the importance of children’s positive mental health as part of their overall development. When children are in good mental health, they will be more successful at home and school, better able to participate and socially engage, learn new things and exhibit good decision-making.

Families can promote good mental health in what they say, how they act, and through the environment they create. Take a look at these suggestions for fostering a supportive environment for children and teens. 

Recognizing Emotions

It’s important for children to be able to recognize their feelings as the first step in processing them. For younger children, this might mean using a mood chart that allows them to identify a graphic depicting their current emotion. This check-in opens up the conversation for them to better share and get support. For older children, a journal with blank pages or guiding prompts is a positive and personal way to process feelings before discussing them.

Create a Safe Setting 

Nurture relationships by spending quality time together talking without judgment. A helpful technique is “High, Low, Buffalo,” in which each family member shares a “high” point from their day, a “low,” and a “buffalo” — a random tidbit. An Internet search for “conversation starters” can also be a fun way to ignite meaningful discussion with older children. 

A safe home environment also means setting boundaries on media use. Monitor use by discouraging screens in the bedrooms when possible to allow you to supervise both content and time spent on a screen, as well as any interactions through social media or online games.

Model & Encourage Healthy Behavior

Don’t be afraid to show kids when you struggle or make a mistake. It’s normal, and as they’re watching, they’re learning valuable coping skills.

Be a role model by taking care of your own mental health—discussing feelings and modeling what it looks like to make time for feel-good activities like reading, exercising or relaxing on the porch. 

Establish routines for the whole family that prioritize a nutritious diet, regular physical activity and plenty of sleep. 

Get Professional Support

Being involved in children’s lives allows us to regularly observe their well-being and track any signs that a child is experiencing changes in their thinking, feelings or behavior, as well as physical changes. 

As children navigate developmental and emotional milestones, continue to show them encouragement. Connect with them, reminding them that you care and are there for support.  

Need help? Call your child’s pediatrician or seek out additional resources, such as:

ASU Prep’s Family Resources — provides a sampling of social services available to our local community

Mikid — Arizona-based organization focusing on behavioral health and wellness with family-centered approach 

Crisis Text Line — offers free help via text message 24/7. Text ‘START’ to 741741 to text with a trained counselor.

988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline — provides 24/7 free, confidential support. Text 988 to connect to a skilled, trained crisis worker. 

Celebrating Teacher Appreciation Week at ASU Prep

« Back  |  June 1, 2023 - ASU Prep Digital

Thank you to all our hard-working ASU Prep Academy staff and teachers who most definitely deserve extra credit. We recently celebrated these remarkable educators during Teacher Appreciation Week with a little extra recognition and gratitude. 

The school year is quickly coming to an end, so what’s a guaranteed way to make our teachers and staff feel valued while also motivating them to keep up their school spirit? Apparently, it’s food! Together with the ASU Prep Academy network, our wonderful Parent Teacher Organization, local businesses and supportive families across all campuses, we were able to treat our teachers to a special week of goodies. 

Treating Teachers Across All ASU Prep Campuses

Across the network of ASU Prep Academy schools, teachers received gift cards to the ASU Prep store, inspirational videos and messages, as well as a hosted lunch from Honeybaked Ham or Elias the Foodie food truck.

ASU Prep Digital
Because ASU Prep Digital is primarily online, their staff received virtual recognition throughout the week, from special messages from their principals to motivational videos sent from the ASU Prep Digital administration team. 

ASU Prep Phoenix
The Phoenix campus was shown a lot of support (and food!) from the surrounding community with donations from Einstein Bros., Stern Produce, Sugar & Lace Bakery, Potbelly, Frios Gourmet Pops and a delicious charcuterie board assembled by a talented parent.

ASU Prep Polytechnic
The ASU Prep Polytechnic K–6 program was treated to a literary-themed week that included several favorites: books, puns, food, and an opportunity for student involvement. A standout day from the weeklong festivities highlighted the book Dragons Love Tacos with the slogan “Taco ‘bout our nacho average teachers & staff” with a lunchtime taco and nacho bar. Students were also encouraged to bring their teacher a dragon-fire red gift, which brought lots of creativity and smiles. 

ASU Prep South Phoenix 
The South Phoenix high school program told their staff “mahalo” with a Hawaiian-themed week of “tiki-riffic” treats including an ice cream bar, afternoon slushie break, and BBQ lunch from Ono. The elementary program hosted Hollywood week, pampering their staff like celebrities with movie-style popcorn, personalized gifts, a swag bag of surprises, and lunch catered by Federico’s. 

ASU Prep Pilgrim Rest
At ASU Prep Pilgrim Rest, each day brought a new treat, like Wake Up Monday (a coffee theme), Toolbox Tuesday (a call for students to bring in school supplies), and Thankful Thursday (thoughtful notes written to teachers and a morning cheer session to start the day). 

ASU Prep Casa Grande
ASU Prep Casa Grande kept their staff happy with food throughout the week, including breakfast, a PTO-sponsored lunch and a midweek treat of delicious cookies donated by Cook-E-Jar.

Thank Our Teachers Anytime

No need to wait until May’s Teacher Appreciation festivities to make teachers feel special. Treat staff all school year long with a snack or school supply bundle. If you know a teacher has a school night event or a pile of essays to grade, help them power through with a $5 gift card to grab a coffee. Remember, a thoughtful email or handwritten note from a guardian or student is easy, free and always makes a major impact. 

Anti-Bullying Tips for a Positive Community

« Back  |  June 1, 2023 - ASU Prep Digital

While many Star Wars fans were busy celebrating “May the Fourth Be With You,” ASU Prep Academy was also recognizing May 4th as Anti-Bullying Day with a focus on digital citizenship. Just as there are powerful alliances formed in the Star Wars franchise, ASU Prep Academy encourages students to come together to support and encourage one another. Here are some anti-bullying tips to foster a positive community. 

Hold That Thought

Getting ready to post that picture with a filter that makes your classmate look like a furry Ewok? Remember not to post photos or videos of others without permission, especially those who are minors. While you think your classmate’s Ewok impression is spot-on, she may not appreciate it going viral. 

And just like we use a filter to enhance photos, let’s do the same for our comments. Filter your thoughts before posting them to make sure they are truthful and kind. Avoid teasing and sarcasm, which don’t usually translate well online. Instead of jokingly commenting on a friend’s post about his new Mandalorian backpack, “You’re such a dork!” try “Love your style!” instead. 

Leave a *Good* Lasting Impression

Everything we do online leaves behind a trail. Everything from social media posts to search history. So make sure the prints you leave behind are good ones you wouldn’t be embarrassed for your teachers, family members or future boss to discover. 

ASU Prep Academy Supports You

ASU Prep does not tolerate bullying, harassing or intimidating others on school grounds, school-sponsored events, or through use of technology. Any reports of such behavior will be investigated and may lead to disciplinary action like a guardian conference, or in serious cases, removal from the school community. 

Connect in a Positive Way

Show your school spirit by posting positive accomplishments like club activities or the triumphant completion of a project. Finally finished your watercolor of Yoda? Post it! When sharing your Sun Devil successes, strengthen our community connection by tagging #RepthePrep and #ASUPrepAcademy. 

Help Us Celebrate Our 2023 Teacher of the Year Nominees

« Back  |  April 27, 2023 - ASU Prep Digital

At ASU Preparatory Academy, we recognize excellence in teaching, and want to thank all teachers for their skill, knowledge, and dedication to the profession. We are thrilled to announce the nominees selected for ASU Preparatory Academy’s 2023 Teacher of the Year. Meet our exemplary educators:

 

Guadalupe Diaz
ASU Prep Phoenix, K-6

Guadalupe Diaz is currently a Dual Language teacher who was instrumental in the development of ASU Preparatory Academy Downtown Phoenix’s Dual Language Spanish Immersion Program. She has demonstrated highly effective pedagogical skills and an understanding of language pedagogy. Guadalupe places high importance on fostering positive relationships with diverse populations of students while maintaining high standards in her classroom. She meets students at their cognitive level to provide comprehensible input and ensures that students master each standard. Her passion for student success, knowledge of quality instruction, and eagerness to continue learning, are just a few qualities that make her a wonderful teacher.  

 Eira Rodriguez
ASU Prep Phoenix, 7-12

For the past five years, Eira Rodriguez has taught Geometry, Algebra II with Trigonometry and College Algebra at ASU Prep Downtown Phoenix. She is also the campus’ National Honor Society advisor. Eira is dedicated to her students and wants them to become successful leaders. Under her guidance, the After school Tutoring Club not only helps younger students with their academics, but the fourth and fifth grade students learn mentoring skills. She believes the younger students will want to do well in their classes and will want to become leaders as well. Prior to ASU Prep, she taught at Carl Hayden High School for 24 years. 

Patricia Arrellanes
ASU Prep South Phoenix, K-6 

With 18+ years of experience in early childhood education, Patricia Arrellanes teaches second grade at ASU Prep South Phoenix. She is currently pursuing a Master’s degree in literacy education to further enhance her teaching skills to better serve her students. One of Patricia’s core beliefs is that every child has the ability to learn and grow, and it is her responsibility to provide them with the tools and opportunities to do so. Patricia has had the opportunity to also participate on the Design Team where she has been able to create a positive and engaging classroom environment that fosters student choice and independence.

Lisa Mills
ASU Prep South Phoenix, 7-12

Prior to teaching at ASU Prep, Lisa Mills taught both middle school and high school math for 10 years. For the past two years, she has taught high school math at ASU Prep South Phoenix High School. Lisa studied chemical engineering at ASU, and in addition to her love of math, also brings a love of science to her classroom. This year she received a STEM fellowship and has thoroughly enjoyed building rockets for an upcoming launch.

Danielle Houseman
ASU Prep Polytechnic, K-6

Elementary STEM teacher Danielle Houseman impacts her students through interactive scientific and mathematical application, and introductions into engineering and computer science fields. This year, she was accepted to the ASU STEM Fellowship program which provides STEM-specific professional development opportunities that she uses to enhance her curriculum and acquire new resources for the students at our ASU Prep STEM Academy. Danielle was a classroom teacher and reading specialist in the Apache Junction Unified School District for more than 24 years. Her experiences have given her the understanding of how effective instruction contains multiple academic disciplines, which she is mindful of when developing her STEM lessons.

Hector Herrera
ASU Prep Polytechnic, 7-12 

Seventh grade math teacher Hector Herrera brings his knowledge from the Poly Design and Innovation team to the ASU Prep Polytechnic campus. Hector completed his final year of student teaching and 200+ hours of volunteering/interning throughout his time at ASU’s Mary Lou Fulton Teachers College. He challenges his students to think critically and stretch outside their comfort zone through various project-based learning units. With three years under his belt at ASU Prep, Hector is piloting the start of a Student Council club for middle school.

Jeff Whipple
ASU Prep Casa Grande, 7-12 

For the past seven years, Jeff Whipple has taught World History, American History, Economics, American Government, Entrepreneurship, and Senior Seminar at ASU Prep Casa Grande, along with co-sponsoring Student Government. He has Highly Qualified endorsements for History, Government, Business, and Criminal Justice. Jeff is also College Board approved to teach Advanced Placement courses in Government and Politics, U.S. History, and World History. Prior to ASU Prep, he taught middle and high school social studies in Coolidge. Jeff was also a member of the ASU Prep Casa Grande delegation that presented at the Blended and Personalized Learning Conference in Rhode Island, sponsored by the Highlander Institute. He continues to explore different tech tools to build fun, engaging, and active learning experiences.

Katherine Coleman
ASU Prep Pilgrim Rest, K-6 

Over the past 15 years, Katherine “Kat” Coleman has served the Phoenix metropolitan area as a veteran teacher, coach, mentor, and is a founding teacher at ASU Prep Pilgrim Rest. Her pedagogy is around designing and modeling strategies to advance teachers to shift their instructional style to best serve scholars under a personalized and student-centered learning environment. Kat thrives in classroom management while ensuring her students know that they are loved and belong, and have a safe environment for learning. From her elaborately decorated classrooms, willingness to try new approaches, and her bright persona, she is passionate about helping her students reach and exceed their goals through creating out-of-the-box lessons. Kat is currently completing her Master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction. 

Laura Young
ASU Prep Digital, K-5 

With more than 15 years of teaching experience, nine of those in digital learning, Laura Young believes that all children are capable of achieving their dreams, goals, and experiencing academic success. Laura is a certified special education and general education teacher with a Bachelor’s degree in General Education and a Master’s in Special Education. She is passionate about helping children—specifically those with special needs—reach their goals and help parents successfully navigate the process and advocate for their children. Laura is dedicated to maintaining a safe, loving, and engaging learning environment for all her students, while also utilizing research-based methods to ensure their success.

Eric Roth
ASU Prep Digital, 6-8 

Eric Roth is a middle school math teacher at ASU Prep Digital. Prior to coming to ASU Prep, he taught math for more than 10 years at Coconino High School in Flagstaff, Arizona. During this time, Eric was also a special education teacher who worked with pre-kindergarten through second grade during the summer and high school during the school year. He aptly points out the strengths in each of his students, and supports them in attaining their academic and personal goals. Eric’s keen attention to detail, his communication with students and families, and his ability to make each student feel special enable him to create a welcoming classroom. 

Carli Stiller
ASU Prep Digital, 9-12 

Carli Stiller currently teaches Social Studies and Electives to high school students at ASU Prep Digital. She is a highly qualified educator with extensive credentials in various subject areas, including certifications in Math, Science, English, and Social Studies (grades 4-8); Technology Education and Technology Applications (K-12); and Social Studies (grades 8-12). Additionally, she is certified in 10 different states, allowing her to teach in multiple areas. One of her most notable career achievements has been assisting with data tracking and facilitating discussions among fellow educators to identify and support students. Throughout her 15-year career, Carli has shown an unwavering dedication to education, opening doors, and supporting students.

Congratulations to these outstanding educators! We appreciate you and are proud to see you #RepThePrep.

Cheers to Our 2023 Staff Member of the Year Nominees

« Back  |  April 25, 2023 - ASU Prep Digital

On behalf of ASU Preparatory Academy, we want to recognize our outstanding education support personnel for their significant contributions to our school and students. Meet our incredible 2023 Staff Member of the Year nominees:

 

Mollie Patten, Learning Success Coach
ASU Prep Digital 

Mollie Patten is a Learning Success Coach with ASU Prep’s Math Momentum Team. She enjoys working alongside passionate, innovative colleagues and curious, thoughtful middle school mathematicians. The heart of her work involves celebrating and supporting student progress, brainstorming and planning with teachers, and connecting with her partner district. She also ensures that all requirements are fulfilled with enrollments, scheduling, and testing. Mollie has her undergraduate degree from ASU and it is what led her to apply for the Learning Success Coach role. 

Yessica Flores, Administrative Assistant
ASU South Phoenix

Yessica Flores is an Administrative Assistant at South Phoenix High School. This is her second year in education and as a member of the ASU Prep team. In her role, she manages the school budget, inventory, school functions, and assists and provides guidance to all staff members. Prior to ASU Prep she was a Business Manager in the property management industry for 10 years. She decided to change career paths and is loving her current position. 

Liliana Grijalva, Academic Coach
ASU Prep Phoenix

Lily Grijalva is a dedicated technology-loving educator who has worked with teachers and students to challenge themselves in the classroom to improve student learning. Lily has 17 years in education, and for the past nine years at ASU Prep she has worked as a teacher and now supports teachers as an Academic Coach. She holds a Master of Administration and Leadership from the University of Phoenix, and a Master of Educational Technology from ASU. She is a first-generation school graduate, and believes that everyone is able to learn and accomplish goals that others may think of as impossible.   

Amy Danielson, Registrar
ASU Prep Poly

Amy Danielson is the lead Registrar for the Poly K-12 campus and provides guidance to all Registrar team members across the network. This is her seventh year as a member of the ASU Prep staff. Amy earned her Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. She believes in supporting our parents and students in the registration process, which helps pave the way to building long-lasting relationships with the school. 

Kacey McCan, IT Operations Manager
ASU Prep Academy 

Kacey McCan is a passionate IT manager who provides operational solutions to our students and staff across all of ASU Prep. She has eight years of IT support expertise and is entering her third school year at ASU Prep. Kacey completed her Bachelor of Science at the University of South Florida and has continued her education through various training and certifications. She has a curious mind and is dedicated to identifying innovative systems and outcomes that support our staff and ASU Prep learners on a daily basis. 

Kim Mitchell, Learning Facilitator
ASU Polytechnic 

Kim Mitchell is a devoted Learning Facilitator who provides support for our middle school and high school math immersion students and teachers at ASU Prep Poly. This is her 10th year in education and her ninth year at ASU Prep. She adores the students and strives to find methods to help each of them succeed. Kim believes in ASU Prep’s culture and vision so much that her son has attended our school since kindergarten. He is now in his junior year and is looking forward to continuing his education as a Sun Devil. 

Loralee Castillo Panagakis, Reading Interventionist
ASU Prep Phoenix 

Loralee Castillo Panagakis is a Reading Interventionist and has been at ASU Prep for two years. She has 24 years of teaching experience, and believes learning never stops. Raised in the old Atrisco Land grant area of Albuquerque, New Mexico, and having grown up in a bilingual home and community, she learned that with hard work and dedication dreams can become reality. She earned her Master of Education specializing as a Program Reading Specialist from Liberty University and is currently working on a Master in Educational Leadership at ASU. She is a current National Board Candidate for Early and Middle Childhood/Literacy: Reading-Language Arts.

 Fallon Roberts, Human Capital Manager
ASU Prep Academy 

Fallon Roberts is a Human Resources professional who is passionate about the employee experience. This is her fifth year in Human Resources, and second year with the Human Capital team at ASU Prep. Fallon earned her Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and Management from San Francisco State University, and recently earned her Society of Human Resources certification. She believes in fostering a positive culture for all by offering exceptional internal customer service that supports all employees in their work.

Brian Ross, Dean of Students
ASU Prep Casa Grande

Brian Ross is the Dean of Students at ASU Prep Casa Grande. This is his 23rd year in education and seventh year as part of the Casa Grande team. Brian earned his Bachelor of Science in General Biology and Master of Education in Teaching and Teacher Education from the University of Arizona. He believes that all decisions in education should be student-centered, that all students have the capacity for growth, and that restorative practices help build relationships between students and educators of every level.  

 Andrea Swayze, Speech Language Pathologist
ASU Prep Digital 

Andrea Swayze is a Speech-Language Pathologist serving digital middle and high school students. Her role includes case management, therapy, evaluations, as well as collaboration with each student’s academic team. This is her second year at ASU Prep Digital and her 21st as a Speech-Language Pathologist. Andrea earned her degrees from University of Central Florida, Florida Atlantic University, and Northcentral University. Andrea was drawn to the profession after receiving successful speech therapy as a child. She believes all students thrive when a quality relationship is nurtured and students feel respected as individuals. She is supporting the future of Speech-Language Pathology by guiding intern clinicians each semester. 

Tracy Patrum, Learning Success Coach
ASU Prep Digital 

Tracy Patrum is a Learning Success Coach who provides guidance and support to students and families in all aspects of their high school journey. This is her third year at ASU Prep Digital and her 20th year in education. Tracy earned her Bachelor of Arts in Special Education from Loras College and her Master of Science in Counselor Education from the University of Wisconsin Platteville. She believes that the most important thing she can do for her students and families is to be a light in their day. Her goal is to leave people feeling supported, happier, and more hopeful after each conversation. 

Allison Voltaire, Elementary Principal
ASU Prep Digital 

Allison Voltaire serves as the Digital Elementary Principal. This is her 17th year as an educator, her 11th year as a Digital educator, and her third year as a proud ASU Sun Devil. Allison has a Master in Educational Leadership from American College of Education as well as a Master in Curriculum and Instruction: Technology for Educators from Grand Canyon University. Her leadership philosophy is that every year should be every student’s best year ever, which she strives to blend in with ASU Prep’s Core Values every day.

Amanda Wojtalik, Dean of Students
ASU Polytechnic

Congratulations to all of our outstanding staff nominees!  

GameOn! At ASU Prep South Phoenix

« Back  |  April 20, 2023 - ASU Preparatory Academy

It was GameOn! April 1 when ASU Preparatory Academy South Phoenix held an all-out game themed event at the high school campus. 

Students and families were not SORRY! that they came out to enjoy some friendly competition at the fun Family Arcade Day.

From basket hoops to cornhole, football throws to foosball, classic arcade games and old-fashioned family board games, there was much to play and do. Mix in some music, pizza, and an ice cream social, and there was no time for boredom in this neighborhood.

Terrance Hudson with Fabkids Events said, “These events are very important because they bring the community together and also the families to see what exactly ASU Prep has to offer.”

Terrance is also on the ASU Prep South Phoenix staff, and provided free haircuts to kids at the event.

Charlie, a family member of a student said, “I think it’s really nice because they share the fun and folks can come and just check out the school and just have a good time.”

ASU Prep Teacher Wendy Cornacchio said, “I love ASU Prep and I love ASU Prep South Phoenix because it has a family feel to it. We’re a small school, and we know every student and every student’s name and I love coming and working and being part of that community.”

ASU Prep South Phoenix is a college preparatory school that serves students in PreK-12th grade. For more information on ASU Prep and the communities it serves, visit asuprep.asu.edu.

Spring Comes to Life at Spring Fling Multicultural Festival

« Back  |  April 20, 2023 - ASU Preparatory Academy

On March 24, spring came to life at the ASU Preparatory Academy Phoenix campus. The tuition-free public charter school hosted a Spring Fling Multicultural Festival for the community.

Students, friends, and families had the opportunity to enjoy brightly colored decorations, international-themed performances, delicious foods, and numerous arts and crafts. From African drums to a Chinese dragon dance, guests were treated to a free, enriching event.

Luis Olandez with Mountain Park Health Center said, “It’s a beautiful event for the community. There’s a lot of resources, very multicultural, and we’re out here trying to get information out to the community.”

ASU Prep Phoenix Dean of Students Desiree Soltero said a lot of students came up to her to tell her how happy they were to be on campus. “I’m happy to be here,” said Soltero. “For me, just being a proud African American and Hispanic woman to be here and represent for the students and families that attend here.”

Parent Deja Curry and her son were among those enjoying the activities who also liked the multicultural inclusivity. “In the climate that we have right now, awareness is such a good thing. It’ll only make my son a little bit better to be more well-rounded with more than just what he has at home.”

ASU Prep Phoenix is a college-preparatory school open to all students in grades PreK-12. For more information, visit asuprep.asu.edu.

Passover: Celebrating Freedom and Family

« Back  |  April 14, 2023 - ASU Prep Digital

Students of all religions, cultures, and beliefs call ASU Prep home, and we are honored to include and welcome them. Passover is one of the most widely celebrated Jewish holidays. It commemorates the Israelites’ Exodus from slavery in Egypt to freedom. The holiday, which usually falls in March or April, is often celebrated for eight days and incorporates remembrance of Jewish history, family, and themes of springtime. This year, it concludes the evening of April 13.

The Passover holiday is a “festival of freedom.” The festive seder meal occurs on the first two nights of the holiday and is observed with families, friends, and communities. The seder involves the re-telling of the Exodus. In order to protect their first-born children, the Israelites marked their doors with lamb’s blood so the angel of death would pass over them, thus the name Passover, or “pesach” in Hebrew.

Through stories, songs, and the consumption of ritual foods, families retell the story of deliverance and pass on traditions and religious beliefs. Many Jews do not eat certain leavened foods during Passover. There is a specific section of the seder called the four questions, where the youngest person at the table asks about the different Passover symbols and the elders explain.

In 2020, an estimated 15 million people worldwide identified themselves as Jewish. Jews believe God made a special covenant with Abraham, the founder of Judaism, and that he and his descendants were chosen people who would create a great nation. The origins of the Jewish faith are explained throughout the Torah.

ASU Prep wishes all our community celebrating Passover, a wonderful holiday.