Deer Valley Unified School District public meetings in 2024
38 substantive meetings from 2024, with official agendas or minutes and plain-English summaries.
Regular Governing Board Meeting
The Deer Valley Unified School District Governing Board approved two old business items: a modification of the Arizona State Land Department lease at Sandra Day O'Connor High School, reducing the leased acreage from 158.7 to 61.5 acres to allow the City of Phoenix to connect the Deem Hills Trail system; and the adoption of 8th grade science and high school International Baccalaureate science curriculum materials. The board also approved the consent agenda, including meeting minutes and HR changes.
- Approved ASLD land lease amendment at Sandra Day O'Connor High School (Lease 03-105699), reducing acreage for trail connection
- Approved $353,356.60 for 8th grade science kits (Carolina Biological Kits) plus 2 years of consumables
- Approved $36,288 plus tax for 7-year licenses for high school IB Science (Kognity for Biology, Chemistry, Physics)
- Approved minutes from the November 12, 2024 regular meeting
- Approved human resources changes and CTE stipends
The Governing Board approved a 2% performance pay rate for classified, administrative, and exempt employees for FY 2024-25. The board also approved science curriculum materials and a land lease modification for Sandra Day O’Connor High School. A consent agenda covering various policies and contracts passed with a 3-2 vote.
- Approved 2% performance pay for Classified, Administrative, and Exempt employees (5-0)
- Approved 8th Grade and HS International Baccalaureate Science curriculum materials (5-0)
- Approved Arizona State Land Department lease modification at Sandra Day O’Connor High School (5-0)
- Approved Consent Agenda items 4.A through 4.O (3-2)
- Approved out-of-state employee professional development (5-0)
- Approved addenda pre-approvals (4-1)
- Approved Revised SFD 2023-24 Preventative Maintenance Program Report (5-0)
- Approved Per Unit Payment Agreement with UA Happy Valley, LLC (3-2)
🗳️ How they voted — 1 divided vote
Special Meeting of the Governing Board - Executive Session
The Deer Valley Unified School District Governing Board will hold an executive session to discuss Superintendent Performance Pay Goals for the 2024-2025 school year, as part of the superintendent's evaluation. The meeting is closed to the public under Arizona law for discussion of employment matters. No votes on other items are scheduled.
- Executive session discussion of Superintendent Performance Pay Goals for School Year 2024-2025
Regular Governing Board Meeting
The Deer Valley Unified School District Governing Board voted to accept a bylaw change proposal from the Arizona School Boards Association aimed at improving governance practices. The board also approved consent agenda items including meeting minutes and human resources changes, and recognized student and staff achievements during pre-meeting awards.
- Awards presented to Terramar Band, Jerry Slawson (AZHPE), Jaime Hansen (ASTA), Emmett Burnton (AEF Teacher of Year), and All-State Show Choir students
- District financial reports for October 2024 received
- Board discussed and voted on ASBA bylaw change proposal (carried 4-1)
- Approval of Governing Board meeting minutes for Oct 15 and Oct 22, 2024
- Approval of Human Resources changes and CTE stipends (7 new certified hires, 6 resignations, etc.)
The Governing Board approved a revision to the FY24 Annual Financial Report and accepted a bylaw change proposal from the Arizona School Board Association. The board also approved several consent items, including a lease rider for Sunrise Elementary School and various personnel and purchasing authorizations.
- Approved Revision of the FY24 Annual Financial Report (3-1)
- Accepted Arizona School Board Association bylaw change proposal (3-1)
- Approved Lease Rider for Sunrise Elementary School with City of Phoenix and US Dept of Health and Human Services (3-1)
- Approved out-of-state employee professional development (4-0)
- Approved addenda pre-approvals (4-0)
- Approved Human Resources changes and CTE stipends (3-1)
- Approved Policy IGA - Curriculum Development (3-1)
- Authorized additional cooperative and sole source purchases for FY 2024-25 (3-1)
🗳️ How they voted — 1 divided vote
Special Meeting of the Governing Board - Study Session
This is a special study session of the Deer Valley Unified School District Governing Board. The board will receive a presentation on human trafficking awareness in Arizona, led by district administrators and a community engagement liaison from Arizona State University. No votes or action items are scheduled; the meeting is for discussion and information only.
- Study session on human trafficking awareness in Arizona
- Presentation by Dr. Gary Zehrbach, Tony Galietti, and Stefanie Calens (ASU)
The Governing Board met for a study session featuring presentations on human trafficking awareness in Arizona. No substantive policy decisions or legislative actions were taken during the meeting.
- Adopted the agenda (4-0)
- Adjourned the meeting (4-0)
🗳️ How they voted (1 roll-call vote)
Regular Governing Board Meeting
The Deer Valley Unified School District Governing Board will recognize 13 National Merit Scholarship semifinalists from four high schools. The board is also set to approve a consent agenda covering minutes, HR changes (27 new classified hires, 13 resignations/terminations), and additional qualified evaluators. District reports on finances, bond and override expenditures, and utility management will be presented.
- Recognition of 13 National Merit Scholarship semifinalists for 2025
- Finance report for September 2024 and year-end reports for fiscal 2024
- Approval of HR changes: 1 certified and 27 classified new hires; 1 certified and 13 classified resignations/terminations
- Report on 2019 Bond and FY24 M&O Override expenditures
- Utility management report addressing APS rate increase impact
The Governing Board approved the Annual Financial Report for fiscal year 2023-24 and the 2023-24 Preventative Maintenance Program Report. The board also approved several consent items, including human resources changes and a grant for the Sierra Verde STEAM Academy EV Innovators Club.
- Approved Annual Financial Report for FY 2023-24 (4-0)
- Approved School Facility Division 2023-24 Preventative Maintenance Program Report (4-0)
- Approved employee professional development out-of-state (4-0)
- Approved addenda pre-approvals (4-0)
- Approved IGA for Sierra Verde STEAM Academy EV Innovators Club Grant (4-0)
- Approved Human Resources changes (4-0)
- Approved vouchers and donations (4-0)
- Authorized additional cooperative and sole source purchases for FY 2024-25 (4-0)
🗳️ How they voted (1 roll-call vote)
Regular Governing Board Meeting
The Deer Valley Unified School District Governing Board approved the consent agenda, which included HR changes (6 new certified hires, 18 classified) and minutes from prior meetings. The board also recognized top student and teacher award winners and received an informational report on Professional Learning Communities (PLC).
- Award to students with highest AASA scores at multiple schools
- Award to teachers with highest median growth percentile in ELA and math
- PLC report presentation on district, state, and national PLC work
- Consent agenda approval including HR changes: 6 new certified, 18 classified, 1 exempt hires
- Approval of meeting minutes from 09.10.24 and 04.23.24 regular and special meetings
The Governing Board approved the School Facility Oversight Board FY25 Capital Plan and several administrative items. The board also ratified out-of-state professional development for employees and approved various consent agenda items including vouchers and donations.
- Approved School Facility Oversight Board (SFOB) FY25 Capital Plan (5-0)
- Approved employee out-of-state professional development (5-0)
- Approved addenda pre-approvals (4-1)
- Approved Human Resources changes (5-0)
- Approved vouchers and donations (5-0)
- Approved student travel (5-0)
- Authorized additional cooperative contract purchases for FY 2024-25 (5-0)
- Approved multiple year contract renewals for FY 2024-25 (5-0)
🗳️ How they voted (1 roll-call vote)
Regular Governing Board Meeting
The Deer Valley Unified School District Governing Board will meet on September 10, 2024, starting at 7:00 p.m. The agenda includes a pre-meeting awards ceremony recognizing staff and students, followed by district reports on finances and MTSS-B. The board will then consider a consent agenda that includes approval of prior meeting minutes and human resources changes. No major policy decisions or public hearings are scheduled.
- Recognition of Sierra Verde STEAM Academy for Cognia STEM Certification
- Award for Park Meadows School: PBIS Level 4 Award
- Award for Deer Valley Principal of the Year: Brittany Sutton (Boulder Creek High School)
- Finance Report for M&O for month ended August 2024
- Consent agenda includes approval of HR changes (new hires, resignations, etc.)
The Governing Board approved a series of consent agenda items including human resources changes and hiring policies. The board also authorized out-of-state professional development for employees and pre-approved contract addenda.
- Approved Human Resources Changes (3-1-1)
- Approved Policy GCF-Professional Staff Hiring (3-1-1)
- Approved Policy GDF-Support Staff Hiring (3-1-1)
- Approved Additional Qualified Evaluator for 2024-2025 (3-1-1)
- Approved vouchers and donations (3-1-1)
- Authorized Additional Cooperative Contract Purchases for FY 2024-25 (3-1-1)
- Approved out-of-state employee professional development (4-1)
- Approved addenda pre-approvals (4-1)
🗳️ How they voted — 1 divided vote
Regular Governing Board Meeting
The board voted to give direction to the ASBA delegate on the 2025 Political Agenda. They also approved a consent agenda including vouchers totaling $3,931,046.38 and HR changes with 12 new certified hires.
- Direction given to ASBA delegate on 2025 Political Agenda items
- Consent agenda approved including voucher payments of $3,931,046.38
- HR changes: 12 new certified hires, 5 resignations, 22 transfers
- Presentation on the DVUSD Teacher Prep Program and mentoring supports
- Approval of minutes from August 13, 2024 meeting
The Governing Board approved a series of consent agenda items including policy updates, vouchers, and a license agreement for the WIC program. The board also authorized out-of-state professional development for employees and provided direction on the ASBA 2025 Political Agenda.
- Approved ASBA 2025 Political Agenda direction (4-0)
- Approved Consent Agenda items 4.A. through 4.N. (3-1)
- Approved Fifth Amendment to license agreement with Maricopa County for WIC program at Constitution Elementary (3-1)
- Approved Policy BBBA - Board Member Qualifications (3-1)
- Approved Policy IHA - Basic Instructional Program (3-1)
- Approved Policy IKF - Graduation Requirements (3-1)
- Approved Policy EBAA - Reporting of Hazards/Warning Systems (3-1)
- Approved out-of-state employee professional development (3-1)
🗳️ How they voted — 1 divided vote
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 and potentially receive legal advice regarding the Superintendent Contract, which is the subject of negotiation. No public votes or decisions are anticipated during this session.
- Discussion of process to extend the Superintendent Contract under A.R.S. 38-431.03.A.3. and A.4 for legal advice
Special Meeting of the Governing Board - Executive Session
This special meeting is entirely an executive session closed to the public. The Governing Board will meet with its attorney for legal advice regarding KEB complaints against district personnel and related employee contract matters. No votes or decisions are scheduled in open session.
- Executive session under A.R.S. 38-431.03.A.3 and A.4 for legal advice on KEB complaints against personnel
- Possible discussion on instructing attorney regarding employee contract matters
Regular Governing Board Meeting
The Governing Board met to review summer programming and approve a multi-year writing resource adoption. The board also processed consent agenda items including student travel approvals and human resources changes.
- Grades 6-12 No Red Ink writing curriculum adoption: $927,035.51
- 2024 Summer Programming Report presentation
- Student travel approvals for various high schools and programs
- Human resources changes including 22 new certified hires
The Governing Board approved a new contract for Superintendent Dr. Curtis Finch and set his 2025 goals. The Board also approved a new writing curriculum for grades 6-12 and agreements for school resource officers with Phoenix and Glendale.
- Approved new Superintendent contract for Dr. Curtis Finch (July 1, 2025 - June 30, 2028) (3-2)
- Approved SY25 Superintendent Goals (3-2)
- Approved Grades 6-12 Writing Curriculum Resource Adoption (5-0)
- Approved IGAs with City of Phoenix and City of Glendale for School Resource Officers (5-0)
- Approved employee professional development out-of-state (3-2)
- Approved training for Traditional Academy at Bellair staff on reporting student injuries (5-0)
- Denied request for outside attorney to investigate KEB Complaints 2024-07-1, 2, and 3 (2-3)
- Approved concluding KEB Complaints 2024-701-1, 2, and 3 with no further action (3-2)
🗳️ How they voted — 1 divided vote
Special Meeting of the Governing Board - Public Hearing
This special meeting is a public hearing on the proposed 2024-2025 expenditure budget for Deer Valley Unified School District. The board will present the budget to residents and taxpayers as required by A.R.S. 15-905. Following the hearing, the board is expected to adopt the official budget for the fiscal year.
- Public hearing on proposed 2024-2025 expenditure budget
- Board to adopt official 2024-2025 expenditure budget
- Budget advertised at June 25, 2024 board meeting
- Proposed budget documents attached (FY25 Adopted Budget, 2025EXPBUD_2, FY25 Adopted Budget Book)
The Governing Board conducted a public hearing regarding the proposed 2024-2025 Expenditure Budget. No public comment requests were submitted. No vote was taken to adopt the budget during this meeting.
- Adopted the agenda (4-0)
🗳️ How they voted (1 roll-call vote)
Regular Governing Board Meeting
The Governing Board adopted the 2024-25 Expenditure Budget and approved the use of FY25 insurance proceeds. The board also approved a consent agenda covering personnel changes, student travel, and meeting minutes. No other major policy discussions or public hearings were held during the regular meeting.
- Adopted the FY25 Expenditure Budget
- Approved use of FY25 Insurance Proceeds
- Approved HR changes: 25 certified new hires, 2 resignations/terminations, 29 transfers; 20 classified new hires, 7 resignations/terminations, 2 leaves, 9 transfers
- Approved student travel: Deer Valley High School cross country to Irvine, CA and DECA camp to Williams, AZ
- Approved minutes of the June 25, 2024 regular meeting
The Governing Board approved the 2024-25 Expenditure Budget and the use of FY25 insurance proceeds. The board also approved a developer payment agreement with Lennar Arizona, Inc. and various administrative contracts.
- Adopted FY25 Expenditure Budget (4-0)
- Approved use of FY25 Insurance Proceeds (4-0)
- Approved Voluntary Per Unit Payment Agreement with Lennar Arizona, Inc. (3-1)
- Approved out-of-state employee professional development (4-0)
- Approved addenda pre-approvals (3-1)
- Approved Human Resources changes (4-0)
- Approved Amendment #4 to IGA with Arizona Department of Economic Security for TSW Program (4-0)
- Approved multiple cooperative and sole source contract purchases for FY 2024-25 (4-0)
🗳️ How they voted — 1 divided vote
Regular Governing Board Meeting
The Governing Board decided on the adoption of new Mandarin instructional materials and the advertising of the Fiscal Year 2025 Proposed Expenditure Budget. The board also approved a Memorandum of Understanding with the Deer Valley Education Foundation for the 2024-25 period.
- Approved $196,672 for Level Learning K-8 Mandarin curriculum digital licenses and training
- Approved the advertising of the Fiscal Year 2025 Proposed Expenditure Budget
- Approved 2024-25 Memorandum of Understanding with Deer Valley Education Foundation
- Discussed the 'Pro Statement' for the Special Maintenance and Operation Budget Override Election
The Governing Board approved the proposed Fiscal Year 2025 expenditure budget to be advertised and adopted a resolution supporting a Special Maintenance and Operation Budget Override Election. The board also approved K-8 Mandarin curriculum resources and a memorandum of understanding with the Deer Valley Education Foundation.
- Approved FY2025 Proposed Expenditure Budget to advertise (5-0)
- Adopted resolution supporting Special Maintenance and Operation Budget Override Election (5-0)
- Approved K-8 Mandarin Curriculum Resource Adoption (5-0)
- Approved Deer Valley Education Foundation MOU for 2024-25 (5-0)
- Approved out-of-state employee professional development (5-0)
- Approved Consent Agenda items 4.A. through 4.R (4-1)
- Approved addenda pre-approvals (4-1)
- Approved adoption of meeting agenda (4-0)
🗳️ How they voted — 1 divided vote
Special Meeting of the Governing Board - Executive Session
The Deer Valley Unified School District Governing Board is holding a special meeting, solely for an executive session. The closed session will discuss an appeal of a teacher's decision regarding a student's grade promotion, specifically from Greenbrier Elementary, under state law allowing private review of pupil promotion records. No public votes on other business are scheduled.
- Executive session under A.R.S. §38-431.03.A.2 and A.R.S. §15-342.11 for appeal of pupil promotion (Greenbrier Elementary)
Special Meeting of the Governing Board - Executive Session
The Deer Valley Unified School District Governing Board will hold a special executive session, closed to the public, to receive legal advice and discuss extending the superintendent's contract, evaluate the superintendent for the 2023-24 school year, and set performance pay goals. No votes or public decisions will occur during this meeting.
- Discussion on process to extend Superintendent Employee Contract (legal advice)
- Superintendent Evaluation for school year 2023-24
- Superintendent Performance Pay Goals for 2023-24
- All items handled in executive session under A.R.S. §38-431.03
Regular Governing Board Meeting
The Deer Valley Unified School District Governing Board will consider approving a $1.31 million adoption of new English Language Arts and writing curricula for grades 9-12 and 6-12, respectively. The board will also receive reports on district finances and Medicaid in schools, and act on a consent agenda including student travel and human resources changes.
- 9-12 English Language Arts curriculum adoption (Savvas MyPerspectives) and 6-12 writing curriculum (No Red Ink), total estimated cost $1,311,292.39
- Consent agenda includes approval of multiple student travel requests for camps and competitions
- Human resources changes including new hires, resignations, and transfers
- Finance report for May 2024 covering Maintenance & Operation, Student Activity, and Auxiliary funds
- Report on Medicaid in public schools requested by the board
The Governing Board approved a resolution to request the Arizona Department of Education recalculate state aid and provide reimbursement based on the Qasimyar litigation. The board also adopted a new 9-12 English Language Arts curriculum and approved several administrative and personnel items.
- Approved resolution to request Arizona Department of Education recalculate State Aid due to Qasimyar litigation (4-0-1)
- Approved 9-12 English Language Arts Curriculum Resource Adoption (5-0)
- Approved Superintendent Dr. Curtis Finch's performance pay at 50% of the 10% contract amount (3-2)
- Approved employee professional development out-of-state (5-0)
- Approved addenda pre-approvals (5-0)
- Approved Consent Agenda items including student travel, HR changes, vouchers, donations, and cooperative contracts (4-1)
🗳️ How they voted — 1 divided vote
Special Meeting of the Governing Board - Executive Session
The Deer Valley Governing Board is holding a special executive session to receive legal advice and discuss the superintendent's evaluation for the 2023-24 school year and the process to extend the superintendent's contract. Following the closed session, the board may vote to approve any direction given to legal counsel. The public portion of the meeting is limited to procedural items and a possible action on legal counsel direction.
- Discussion of Superintendent Evaluation for School Year 2023-24
- Discussion to extend Superintendent Employee Contract
- Possible action to approve direction given to Board's legal counsel during 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 (closed to the public) to discuss personnel matters. The only substantive item is a discussion regarding the recommendation for Principal of Desert Mountain School, under A.R.S. §38-431.03.A.1.
- Executive session discussion on employment/recommendation for Principal of Desert Mountain School
Regular Governing Board Meeting
The board will consider approving Jessica Brunk as principal of Desert Mountain School for the 2024-25 school year. They will also hear a report on generative AI progress in Deer Valley schools and receive the Auditor General's FY23 financial risk analysis report. The consent agenda includes numerous HR changes, such as 128 new certified hires and 29 resignations.
- Approve Jessica Brunk as principal of Desert Mountain School
- Report on Generative AI progress in DVUSD and next steps for 2024-25
- Auditor General FY23 Financial Risk Analysis Report presentation
- Consent agenda includes HR changes: 1 administrative hire, 128 certified hires, 9 classified hires, plus resignations and transfers
- Awards presented for student achievements in track, volleyball, and baseball state competitions
The Governing Board approved a performance pay amount of $4,755 per FTE for qualifying certified employees and professional staff. The board also appointed a new principal for Desert Mountain School and approved several administrative contracts and travel requests.
- Approved Jessica Brunk as Principal of Desert Mountain School (5-0)
- Approved $4,755 per FTE for FY 2023-24 Classroom Site Fund Performance Pay (5-0)
- Approved Consent Agenda items 5.A through 5.L, including vouchers and contracts (3-2)
- Approved out-of-state employee professional development (5-0)
- Approved pre-approval of addenda (5-0)
- Approved Superintendent travel to AASA National Conference in New Orleans (3-2)
- Approved recommendations for ASBA 2025 Political Agenda (5-0)
🗳️ How they voted — 1 divided vote
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 a recommendation for the principal of Mountain Shadows Elementary. The session is authorized under A.R.S. §38-431.03.A.1 for personnel matters. No public votes or decisions are scheduled for the open portion of the meeting.
- Executive session to discuss recommendation for Principal of Mountain Shadows Elementary
Special Meeting of the Governing Board - Public Hearing
The Deer Valley Unified School District Governing Board is holding a public hearing to discuss a proposed revision to the fiscal year 2023-2024 expenditure budget. The hearing allows community members to ask questions and provide input before any board action on the revision.
- Public hearing for Fiscal Year 2023-2024 Expenditure Budget Revision
The Governing Board conducted a public hearing regarding the Fiscal Year 2023-2024 Expenditure Budget Revision. No public comment requests were submitted. No vote was recorded on the budget revision during this meeting.
- Adopted the agenda (5-0)
🗳️ How they voted (1 roll-call vote)
Special Meeting of the Governing Board - Executive Session
The Deer Valley Unified School District Governing Board is holding a special meeting solely for an executive session under Arizona law to discuss personnel matters. The board will deliberate on the superintendent's performance pay goals for the 2023-2024 school year and the superintendent's annual evaluation. No public decisions or votes are scheduled; all discussion is closed to the public.
- Discussion of Superintendent Performance Pay Goals for SY 2023-2024
- Discussion of Superintendent Evaluation for SY 2023-2024
Regular Governing Board Meeting
This portion of the agenda lists only pre-meeting awards and presentations recognizing students and staff, including state championships, scholarships, and the Superintendent's Student Art Purchases. A public hearing is scheduled for 7:00 P.M., after which the regular Governing Board meeting will begin. No substantive decision items (e.g., contracts, policy changes) are included in this excerpt.
- Sandra Day O'Connor Beach Volleyball state champions recognized for third consecutive title
- Nine schools awarded 'A' rating from Arizona Educational Foundation
- Flinn Scholarship recipients Brendan Salisbury and Zahrah Ralph honored
- Boulder Creek High School Academic Decathlon team recognized with multiple national medals
- Tara LeCount from Diamond Canyon School named Maricopa County Exemplary Principal
The Governing Board approved the 2024-25 Certified Performance Pay Plan, hiring schedules, and a revision to the FY 2023-24 expenditure budget. The board also appointed Bryan Eberwein as Principal of Mountain Shadows School and approved several student discipline policies.
- Appointed Bryan Eberwein as Principal of Mountain Shadows School (5-0)
- Approved 2024-25 Certified Performance Pay Plan (5-0)
- Approved Tax Credit and Fee Authorization for 2024-25 (5-0)
- Approved Consent Agenda items including student discipline policies JK, JKD, and JKE (3-2)
- Approved out-of-state employee professional development (5-0)
- Approved Certified and Classified Negotiated Tentative Agreement #73 for 2024-2025 (5-0)
- Approved FY25 Hiring Schedules for all employee groups (5-0)
- Adopted FY 2023-24 Expenditure Budget Revision (5-0)
🗳️ How they voted — 1 divided vote
Special Meeting of the Governing Board - Work Session
The Deer Valley Unified School District Governing Board will hold a special work session to discuss proposed Policy JICK on student bullying, harassment, and intimidation. No votes or decisions are expected; the agenda also includes procedural items like call to order, roll call, and adoption of the agenda.
- Discussion of Governing Board Policy JICK - Student Bullying/Harassment/Intimidation
The Governing Board conducted a work session regarding Governing Board Policy JICK - Student Bullying/Harassment/Intimidation. No substantive votes or policy changes were decided during this session.
- Adopted the agenda (3-0)
- Adjourned the meeting (3-1)
🗳️ How they voted — 1 divided vote
Regular Governing Board Meeting
The Deer Valley Unified School District Governing Board voted to approve the 2024-2025 K-12 Use of Facility/Field Fee Schedule, which includes updated utility rates due to APS changes. The board also approved the 2024-2025 Pathways Calendar and accepted the FY23 financial audit and compliance questionnaire. Pre-meeting awards recognized A-rated schools and DECA state champions.
- Approved 2024-2025 K-12 facility/field fee schedule with increased utility rates
- Approved 2024-2025 DVUSD Pathways Calendar
- Accepted FY23 financial audit and compliance questionnaire by roll call vote
- Received Auditor General 2022-23 District Spending Report
- Recognized A-rated schools and DECA state champions
The Governing Board approved the FY25 Classroom Site Fund Plan and salary recommendations for the Negotiated Solution Team for both FY24 and FY25. The board also passed a student bullying and harassment policy and finalized two complaint cases. Several intergovernmental agreements and payment agreements with Trumont Group Arizona, LLC were approved.
- Approved FY25 Classroom Site Fund Plan (5-0)
- Approved FY24 and FY25 Negotiated Solution Team Salary Recommendations (5-0)
- Approved Policy JICK - Student Bullying/Harassment/Intimidation (3-2)
- Approved concluding Policy KEB Complaints 2023-0909-1 (5-0) and 2023-0909-2 (3-2)
- Approved 2024-2025 Pathways Calendar (5-0)
- Approved Annual K-12 Use of Facility/Field Fee Schedule for 2024-25 (5-0)
- Approved Voluntary Per Unit Payment Agreements with Trumont Group Arizona, LLC (5-0)
- Approved Consent Agenda items including HR changes, vouchers, and student travel (4-1)
🗳️ How they voted — 1 divided vote
Special Meeting of the Governing Board - Executive Session
The Deer Valley Unified School District Governing Board will hold a special meeting and convene in executive session under state law to receive legal advice regarding contracts and personnel complaints (Policy KEB). The board may then vote to approve any direction given to its attorney during the closed session. No other substantive business is scheduled.
- Executive session under A.R.S. 38-431.03.A.3 and A.4 for legal advice on contracts and personnel complaints
- Potential action to approve direction given to attorney following closed session
- Meeting is a special session with only procedural opening and adjournment items
Regular Governing Board Meeting
The Deer Valley Unified School District Governing Board will meet on April 9, 2024, to receive the March 2024 district financial reports and consider a consent agenda that includes approval of minutes from the March 19 regular and executive-session meetings. The meeting opens with awards recognizing student and school achievements.
- Finance report for March 2024 covering Maintenance & Operation, Student Activity, and Auxiliary funds.
- Approval of minutes from the March 19, 2024, Regular Governing Board Meeting.
- Approval of minutes from the March 19, 2024, Special Meeting (Executive Session).
- Adoption of the April 9, 2024, meeting agenda.
The Governing Board approved a consent agenda covering human resources, student travel, and various contracts. The board also voted to pre-approve addenda as recommended by the administration. Several financial and salary recommendations were previewed but not decided.
- Approved Consent Agenda items 4.A through 4.O (3-1)
- Approved Minutes of Regular and Special Meetings from March 19, 2024 (3-1)
- Approved Human Resources changes (3-1)
- Approved Policy JFABDA regarding Admission of Students in Foster Care (3-1)
- Approved Policy KEC regarding Public Concerns/Complaints About Instructional Resources (3-1)
- Approved MOU with Greater Phoenix Chamber Foundation for ElevateEdAZ initiative (3-1)
- Approved addenda pre-approvals (4-0)
- Approved adoption of the agenda (4-0)
🗳️ How they voted — 1 divided vote
Special Meeting of the Governing Board - Study Session
The Governing Board will hold a study session to review the Cognia accreditation process and information regarding the 2024 Bond and Override Election. The board will also discuss discipline protocols and Policy JICK concerning student bullying, harassment, and intimidation.
- Cognia Accreditation review
- 2024 Bond & Override Election information
- Discipline Protocols / Policy JICK - Student Bullying/Harassment/Intimidation
The Governing Board conducted a study session featuring presentations on Cognia Accreditation, 2024 Bond & Override Election information, and student bullying discipline protocols. No substantive policy changes or funding decisions were voted upon during this session.
- Adopted the agenda (4-0)
🗳️ How they voted (1 roll-call vote)
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 the employment of a principal for Sonoran Foothills School. The meeting is limited to this personnel matter and procedural items.
- Discussion of recommendation for Principal of Sonoran Foothills School (A.R.S. §38-431.03.A.1)
The Governing Board met in executive session to consider a recommendation for the Principal of Sonoran Foothills School. No public votes on personnel appointments were recorded in these minutes.
- Adopted the agenda (4-0)
- Approved call for executive session regarding Sonoran Foothills School principal recommendation (4-0)
- Adjourned meeting (4-0)
🗳️ How they voted (1 roll-call vote)
Regular Governing Board Meeting
The Deer Valley USD Governing Board will consider approving a recommendation for principal of Sonoran Foothills School and creating a new District Executive Director position. Other items include adoption of the agenda and recognition of student and staff achievements.
- Approve recommendation for principal of Sonoran Foothills School
- Approve new District Executive Director position
- Adoption of agenda
- Recognition of wrestling state runner-ups and basketball state champions at multiple high schools
- Presentation of colors and plaque donation of 58 remote control aircraft to Deer Valley HS JROTC
The Governing Board approved a resolution to call a Special Bond Election for $325,000,000 and a Special Budget Override Election. The board also approved the 2025-2026 instructional calendar and the appointment of a new principal. A policy regarding student bullying and harassment was tabled for further study.
- Approved Special Bond Election for $325,000,000 (3-2)
- Approved Special Budget Override Election (5-0)
- Approved District Instructional Calendar Option A-3 for 2025-2026 (5-0)
- Approved Samantha Colangelo as Principal of Sonoran Foothills School (5-0)
- Tabled Policy JICK - Student Bullying/Harassment/Intimidation (5-0)
- Approved 2024 Summer Pay Rates (5-0)
- Approved issuance and sale of school improvement bonds (5-0)
- Approved Consent Agenda items 6.A. through 6.Q (3-2)
🗳️ How they voted — 1 divided vote
Regular Governing Board Meeting
The Deer Valley Unified School District Governing Board voted to authorize litigation against Meta, TikTok, YouTube, and Snapchat for contributing to the youth mental health crisis. The board also received the FY25 Budget Committee and Bond/Override Citizen Advisory Committee reports, approved the FY25 employee benefit recommendation, and adopted the 2024-2025 meeting schedule.
- Authorized Frantz Law Group to represent the district in multi-district litigation against Meta, TikTok, YouTube, and Snapchat on a contingency basis with no cost to the district
- Received FY25 Budget Committee recommendation report
- Approved the FY25 Employee Benefit Plan as recommended by the Benefit Committee
- Approved the schedule for regular Governing Board meetings for 2024-2025
- Heard reports on the Bond/Override Citizen Advisory Committee and recognized award recipients including Teachers of the Year and National Board Certified Teachers
The Governing Board approved hiring Frantz Law Group, APLC to represent the district in litigation against Meta, TikTok, YouTube, and Snapchat. The board also approved the FY25 employee benefit recommendations and the 2024-2025 meeting schedule.
- Authorized Frantz Law Group, APLC for youth social media litigation (4-1)
- Approved 2024-2025 Governing Board meeting dates (5-0)
- Approved FY25 Employee Benefit Recommendation (5-0)
- Approved Head Start Building Lease Agreement with City of Phoenix (5-0)
- Retained DeConcini McDonald Yetwin & Lacy, P.C. to review Policy KEB Complaint 2023-0909-1 (5-0)
- Retained DeConcini McDonald Yetwin & Lacy, P.C. to review Policy KEB Complaint 2023-0909-2 (5-0)
- Approved March as Music In Our Schools Month (5-0)
- Approved out-of-state employee professional development (5-0)
🗳️ How they voted — 1 divided vote
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 or consult for legal advice regarding complaints against school personnel. No public decisions or votes are expected; the session is closed under Arizona law.
- Executive session for legal advice on complaints against school personnel (A.R.S. 38-431.03.A.3)
The Governing Board met in a special executive session to consult with legal counsel regarding complaints against school personnel. No public votes on personnel actions were recorded.
- Adopted the agenda (4-0)
- Approved call for executive session regarding personnel complaints (4-0)
🗳️ How they voted (1 roll-call vote)
Regular Governing Board Meeting
The Deer Valley Unified School District Governing Board will hold a regular meeting with pre-meeting awards, opening procedures, a finance report, and a consent agenda. The consent agenda includes approval of previous meeting minutes and human resources changes (new hires, resignations, leaves, transfers). The finance report for January 2024 is presented for information.
- Approval of human resources changes: 4 new certified hires, 7 resignations/terminations, 2 leaves, 4 transfers/reassignments
- Finance report for M&O, Student Activity, and Auxiliary funds for month ended January 2024
- Awards: Sandra Day O'Connor High School Talon newspaper recognized as state champions
- Presentation on Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs by district's CTE manager
The Governing Board approved contract language for Administrative/Exempt, Certified, and Deputy Superintendent roles for the 2024-2025 school year. The board also passed a series of policy updates and administrative approvals via a consent agenda.
- Approved contract language for Administrative/Exempt, Certified and Deputy Superintendent for 2024-2025 (5-0)
- Approved 2024 Career & Technical Education Month Proclamation (5-0)
- Approved out-of-state employee professional development (5-0)
- Approved addenda pre-approvals (4-1)
- Approved Consent Agenda items 4.A. through 4.R (3-0)
- Approved second readings of policies BCB, BDA, BE, BEDA, BEDB, and CBI (3-0)
- Approved Human Resources changes and part-time limited separation of employment list (3-0)
- Approved vouchers and donations (3-0)
🗳️ How they voted — 1 divided vote
Special Meeting of the Governing Board - Work Session
The Governing Board will hold a work session to review the third update on Superintendent Goals for the 2023-24 school year. Superintendent Finch and the Executive Cabinet will be available to answer questions. No other substantive business is scheduled.
- Review of third update on Superintendent Goals for 2023-24 school year
The Governing Board adopted the meeting agenda and held a work session regarding Superintendent goals presented by Dr. Curtis Finch. No other substantive actions were taken.
- Adopted the agenda (5-0)
🗳️ How they voted (1 roll-call vote)
Special Meeting of the Governing Board - Study Session
The Deer Valley Unified School District Governing Board will hold a study session to discuss social media litigation and receive an update on Cognia accreditation. No votes are expected on these information items.
- Discussion of social media litigation presented by communications director and outside attorney
- Update on Cognia accreditation process verifying district accreditation
The Governing Board conducted a study session featuring presentations on social media litigation and Cognia Accreditation. No substantive policy decisions or budget approvals were made during this meeting.
- Adopted the agenda (5-0)
- Adjourned the meeting (5-0)
🗳️ How they voted (1 roll-call vote)
Regular Governing Board Meeting
The Deer Valley Unified School District Governing Board will meet on January 23, 2024, to adopt the agenda and consider several items. The board will approve a consent agenda that includes human resources changes (22 new hires, 21 resignations/terminations, 3 leaves, 23 transfers), student travel for Boulder Creek High School, and minutes from previous meetings. Additionally, the board will receive a report on the 2024-2029 Cognia Accreditation Plan process.
- Recognition of three Flinn Scholar Semifinalists from Barry Goldwater High and Mountain Ridge High
- Approval of Human Resources changes: 22 new hires (8 certified, 14 classified), 21 resignations/terminations, 23 transfers
- Approval of student travel for Boulder Creek High School to attend Doc Wright
- Approval of minutes from January 9, 2024 regular meeting
- Review of the 2024-2029 Cognia Accreditation Plan process
The Governing Board approved a series of consent agenda items including vouchers, donations, and contracts. The board also authorized out-of-state professional development and travel for the Superintendent and board members to a conference in New Orleans.
- Adopted Agenda (3-1)
- Approved Consent Agenda items 4.A. through 4.J (3-1)
- Approved employee professional development out-of-state (4-0)
- Approved Superintendent and Board member travel to National School Board Association Conference (3-0-1)
- Approved addenda pre-approvals (3-1)
🗳️ How they voted — 1 divided vote
Regular Governing Board Meeting
This regular meeting starts with awards to Mountain Ridge High School's marching band and CTE teacher Jeff Samaniego. The board then holds an organizational meeting to elect Ann Ordway as president and Paul Carver as vice president, and appoints ASBA delegate and alternate. District financial reports for December 2023 are presented, and the public is invited to comment. The consent agenda includes approval of previous minutes and human resources changes.
- Award: ABODA/AzMBA State Marching Division 1 Champions to Mountain Ridge High School's marching band
- Award: ACTE Teacher of the Year to Jeff Samaniego
- Election of President Ann Ordway and Vice President Paul Carver
- Appointment of ASBA Legislative Delegate Stephanie Simacek and Alternate Jennie Paperman
- Finance Report for month ended December 2023
The Governing Board held an organizational meeting to elect its officers and appoint legislative delegates. The board also approved a series of consent agenda items including vouchers, donations, and contract purchases.
- Elected Ann Ordway as Governing Board President (3-2)
- Elected Paul Carver as Governing Board Vice President (4-1)
- Appointed Stephanie Simacek as ASBA Legislative Delegate (5-0)
- Appointed Jennie Paperman as ASBA Delegate Alternate (5-0)
- Approved Consent Agenda items 6.A. through 6.J (4-0)
- Approved out-of-state employee professional development (4-0)
- Approved addenda pre-approvals (4-0)