Dear Canutillo community,
Last week, a verdict was delivered in the death of George Floyd. This verdict offers important lessons. We should love and respect our neighbors and always act to protect and save lives, not take them.
The first full week of May is Teacher Appreciation Week. On behalf of everyone at Canutillo ISD, I would like to express my deep gratitude to our teachers for the meaningful work they do every day to ensure the success of each and every child.
Our teachers provide the high-quality instruction and support that our students need to graduate ready for college and career. They deliver culturally relevant teaching and learning designed to keep our students engaged and on track.
But we all know teachers do so much more. Our teachers are meaningful partners in the raising of our community’s children. They collaborate with parents and caregivers to keep families informed and contribute to a school climate that makes our students feel safe and valued.
We can all look back and remember a great teacher who touched our lives. I encourage our community and school district to join me in appreciating our teachers this week and in the weeks and years to come. Teachers, we are compiling a list of perks from our partners in education. Check our website often to see the latest offers!
I am proud to announce another amazing program opportunity for our community. In an effort to provide a high-quality education to all students in our community we will be opening a new full-day Universal pre-kindergarten section at Bill Childress Elementary beginning this upcoming 2021-2022 school year.
This newly created section of Pre-K will be a full-day, Reggio-inspired model and will offer students the opportunity to engage in a 50/50 dual language model of education focused on learning in both English and Spanish. This program will be offered to all Canutillo ISD students that do not meet the regular pre-k requirements. This opportunity will be on a first-come-first-served basis. If you are interested, please contact Bill Childress Elementary.
This week, Reyes Elementary 3rd-5th-grade students enjoyed an in-person, unique opportunity to experience engaging, immersive, hands-on STEM experiences. In partnership with the Texas Education Agency, Learning Undefeated operates the Texas Mobile STEM Laboratory for students and teachers, teaching science, technology, engineering, mathematics topics, and skills.
Also, Canutillo Middle School STEAM Academy students joined the ranks of the millionaires club when they completed the 2020 Million Words Read Challenge. Between September and April, 97 students in Mrs. Gamboa’s 7th-grade ELAR class collectively read 1 million words using Read to Lead, a digital learning program that empowers students to “be the boss,” of a virtual workplace. While playing Read to Lead, students develop reading, writing, and 21st-century skills that benefit them in school today and prepare them for a successful transition to high school and beyond. Congratulations, students!
Finally, for the health and safety of our students, employees, and their families, we are reminding everyone to continue wearing masks while on school property and follow all health and safety protocols.
We are also encouraging everyone who is eligible to get vaccinated for COVID-19. The CDC states that the vaccines are highly effective at protecting against symptomatic and severe COVID-19. We have been working very closely with local health partners to provide every opportunity for everyone who needs a vaccine to be able to get one. So, if you know anyone who still needs a vaccine, please direct them to one of the many convenient locations where it is currently being offered or contact our Student Support Services Department for assistance at 877-7650.
Have a great weekend!
Pedro Galaviz
Superintendent of Schools