Community Connect: Vol. 7 Issue 1

Vol. 7 Issue 1

THE KINDEST CROSSING Meet Kendall Long, a Mountain View School crossing guard whose personality and big heart have made lasting impacts on the community.

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Cuts With Cops: A Community Event for All

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Student Voice: DSB Live

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Full Calendar of Events for the Winter

CATCH THE EXCITEMENT THIS SPRING!

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March 21 | 2 - 10 p.m.

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15960 N. Bullard Ave., Surprise, AZ

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$40 - Adults | $20 - Students

Must purchase an adult ticket with a student ticket.

Tickets go on sale November 18!

Find details and pricing online

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IN THIS ISSUE 4

Calendar of Events for the Local Community

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Spotlight: Shadow Ridge Wins Solar Competition

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Student Voice: Lights, Camera, Action

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Cover Story: The Kindest Crossing

Tips: Fueling 16 Teacher Young Minds Story: Cutting 18 Feature Through the Noise Photo: EMS Program

24 Takes Shape

Spotlight: Senior Earns

26 Scholarship for Family 28

Feature Story: Brewing Up Confidence Parent Perspective:

34 Marching with Pride 36

Community Capture Artwork

communi communitty CONNECT MAGAZINE

NOVEMBER 2025 • Vol. 7 Issue 1 15802 N Parkview Place Surprise, AZ 85374 Editorial Staff Renee Ryon Ryan McGinley Sarah Catalano Marcus Lopez Stephanie Jones Contributing Writers Allyson Geary Jaydrin Johnson Shannon Standaert Contributing Artists and Photographers Ashley Durham City of El Mirage City of Surprise

Yareli Damian

Advertising Interested in advertising with us?

The Community Connect Magazine offers full page, half page, and quarter page options for each issue. Contact us at publicrelations@dysart.org for more information on pricing and deadlines or visit dysart.org/ CommunityConnect.

Story Ideas?

The Community Connect is always looking for story ideas and contributing content. If you know of an idea or person that should be featured, please feel free to reach out to us at publicrelations@dysart.org.

About Us The Community Connect Magazine is a publication aimed at telling the stories of students, staff, and community members who make extraordinary contributions to our community. The magazine has one of the largest circulations in the Northwest Valley. The mission is to provide a publication for the community, about the community, through the support of community business advertisements.

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ON THE COVER

Kendall Long, a crossing guard at Mountain View School, poses with a stop sign after his duty.

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On the Calendar:

Theater Performances!

COMMUNITY CONNECT MAGAZINE 3

CALENDAR

NOV

Dysart High Presents Knights of the Rad Table

Willow Canyon Presents Cinderella

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The timeless enchantment of a magical fairy tale is reborn as Willow Canyon High School Theater performs this musical with the Rodgers & Hammerstein hallmarks of originality, charm, and elegance. The performance will take place at Willow Canyon NOV 12-15 at 7 p.m. Tickets are $10 and can be purchased at www.dysart.org/theatre TICKETED

FAMILY

STUDENT PRODUCTION

NOV 13-14 @ 7:00 p.m.

Dysart High Auditorium TICKETED

FAMILY

STUDENT PRODUCTION

Valley Vista High School Presents The Great Gatsby

City of Surprise Veterans Day Parade Join us in honoring our service men and women at the annual City of Surprise Veterans Day Celebration.

The parade begins at 10 a.m. and features community floats, bands, dancers and more. Following the parade, attendees can enjoy food and family-friendly activities.

NOV 11 from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. on Bullard Ave. FREE

Gwen’s spending her Saturday reading a book and Artie’s riding around on a skateboard. Just typical American teenagers... until Merlin wakes up from a 1500 year snooze to whisk them away to the days of chivalry in this fanciful farce about the legend of King Arthur. Tickets are available at www.dysart.org/theatre

FAMILY

The Valley Vista High School theater department presents a version of The Great Gatsby, the acclaimed novel by F. Scott Fitzgerald set in the Jazz Age on Long Island, near New York City.

Tickets are available for purchase online at www.dysart.org/theatre.

NOV 19-21 @ 7:00 p.m.

Vista Center for the Arts TICKETED

FAMILY

STUDENT PRODUCTION

Events Notice:

All calendar events are subject to date, time, and location changes and/or cancellation. Please check with the hosting venue and/or organization for the most up-to-date information on the event.

Shadow Ridge Presents The Diary of Anne Frank

In this powerful new adaptation by Wendy Kesselman, Anne Frank emerges from history a living, lyrical, intensely gifted young girl, who confronts her rapidly changing life and the increasing horror of her time with honesty, wit, and determination. Buy tickets at www.dysart.org/theatre NOV 12-14 @ 7:00 p.m.

Shadow Ridge High Auditorium TICKETED

FAMILY

STUDENT PRODUCTION

DEC Dysart Career Fair Dysart Schools invites the community to a Career Fair on Wednesday, December 10, 2025 from 3:00-5:00 p.m. at the Dysart District Office located at 15802 N. Parkview Place, Surprise, 85374. The Career Fair will feature a variety of employment options within Dysart Schools for immediate openings. High need areas include teachers, paraprofessionals, often referred to as classroom assistants, child care and preschool aide positions, maintenance positions, as well as food service workers. Learn more and register at www.dysart.org/careers

Surprise Party

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Surprise Day of Service

Volunteers will help separate new socks, sort and bag for distribution to a few organizations to give back to our community members in need.

DEC 13 @ 8:00 a.m.

City Hall Community Rm FREE

FAMILY

Surprise Party is the City of Surprise’s largest annual event, drawing more than 12,000 attendees over two nights in December. Held at the Surprise Community Park this year on December 5 & 6 from 5 - 9 p.m., this free, family-friendly celebration features a foam snow party, food trucks, vendor village, kid zone, and photo opportunities with Santa in Santa’s Workshop.

FREE

FAMILY

CALENDAR

City of El Mirage Winterfest & Parade Join the City of El Mirage for this FREE annual community event! There is lots of fun planned for the whole family.

The light parade begins at 6:00 p.m. and will run by the Winterfest event festivities at Bill Gentry Park. Additionally, the event will include live music by Rockin’ Wonderland, photos with Santa, bounce houses, axe throwing, train rides, Children’s Entrepreneur Market, food trucks, and community vendors.

DEC 6 from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at Bill Gentry Park, 14010 N El Mirage Rd. FREE

FAMILY

COMMUNITY CONNECT MAGAZINE 5

SPOTLIGHT

Solar Stallions Win Fifth Consecutive Championship Five seniors from Shadow Ridge High School have won the 2024-2025 Maker Class Championship for their solar-powered go-kart. Known as the SRHS Solar Stallion Solar Go-Kart Team, these engineering students got to put their skills to the test by researching, designing, testing, and building a full sized go-kart. The team is comprised of Sam Hartsock (team captain), Alayna Dent (driver), Matthew Alvarez, Skylar Varkalis, and Josh Milonis.

Engineering teacher, Eric Bennett, is their coach.

After a year’s worth of work, the Shadow Ridge team went up against other high schools from around the state to race at the Musselman Honda Circuit in Tucson, Arizona. The goal was to see how many laps the solar karts could complete, and secondarily, how fast. The Stallions competed in the highest division known as the Maker Class. This meant the students had to design and build their go-kart for the competition from the ground up.

Preparing young engineers for this annual competition is always exciting for Mr. Bennett.

“Working with students on our solar kart team has been an amazing and rewarding experience,” he said. “Each team is unique, but they all have the same goals and they work very hard to achieve them.”

With driver Alayna Dent at the wheel, the Solar Stallions tied for first place at ten laps, and ultimately won by virtue of completing those laps faster. This year’s win marks the fifth Maker Class Championship for Shadow Ridge. The team was also named Speed Champion for having the fastest kart.

Mr. Bennett, however, is most proud of the Solar Stallions for winning the prestigious title of Best Engineered Team. The award was new this year and is given to the top team from all divisions. It’s an honor Mr. Bennett feels the team earned because of their hard work, ability to collaborate, and tireless dedication.

“It’s very fulfilling when the students see their efforts rewarded,” he said. “Team captain Sam Hartsock led team members Josh Milonis, Skylar Varkalis, Matthew Alvarez, and Alayna Dent to a historically successful season!”

Mr. Bennett also won Coach of the Year. When asked how they feel about all the awards and accolades, the students returned Mr. Bennett’s sentiment, albeit more succinctly.

“Coach of the Year? More like Coach of the Century,” they echoed.

The Solar team poses with their kart and trophies. From left to right: Skylar Varkalis, Eric Bennett (coach), Josh Milonis, Matthew Alvarez, Sam Hartsock (team captain), and Alayna Dent (driver).

6 NOVEMBER 2025

Teacher Eric Bennett’s 2025 Coach of the Year plaque is displayed for Racing the Sun.

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COMMUNITY CONNECT MAGAZINE 7

STUDENT VOICE

LIGHTS, CAMERA, ACTION!

By Jaydrin Johnson, Senior Film & TV Production student and DSB Live Intern

W

hen I was in eighth grade, I attended the Future noise. The picture was either perfectly clear or not seen Freshman Night. Future Freshmen Night is at all. I also then made an FM video receiver similar to a something that allows parents and students to better normal FM radio. So you could connect a video recorder understand what a school has to offer. There weren’t many camera with a normal RCA connection to the transmitter programs I was interested in, except for the Film & TV and receive picture and sound. It was useful for video Production program. When the media students connection between Red Cross locations here presented the broadcasting equipment with in Arizona in case of emergency. This was the cool lights and many buttons, I was before the internet could do this.” hooked. However, I still wasn’t sure if I wanted I loved how my grandfather helped set up to take Film & TV Production as a class the transmitter systems at Red Cross locations throughout high school. As I was questioning locally here in Arizona. My grandfather’s story this decision, my grandfather told me how he made me feel a connection with TV and a used to make amateur TV radio transmitters. desire to learn more about broadcasting. He That got me thinking about if it could be was the influence that drove me to select something I would be interested in as well. “I Film & TV Production as my career path Jaydrin Johnson used to make TV amateur radio transmitters,” of choice in high school. As soon as I had my grandfather shared. “The Amplitude (AM) the opportunity to select the classes for my broadcast would often have snow noise in the picture. I freshman year, it was my first choice. found a simple way to put the TV video into the frequency I have Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), circuit that modulated the frequency. It made a frequency meaning I struggle to remember deadlines and learn modulated transmission, which like FM radio, had no when I’m not interested in a topic. I wasn’t the best high 8 NOVEMBER 2025

school student my first few years, but I passed all my classes even though I struggled with learning and my grades. To my surprise, Film & TV Production was a different type of learning. Using hands-on experiences with the class allowed me to persevere in this subject.

I did so well in the class that I joined the broadcasting part of the class, which is called Dysart Student Broadcasting (DSB Live). This broadened my idea on how I could use my love of computers and open a career in Information Technology (IT).

As I learned how to use the technology involved with DSB Live such as the live video switcher, graphics, videos, and animations, I found a love for this type of technology.

The DSB Live program has given me so many opportunities outside of the classroom. Some of them I’ve had at high school include signing days for colleges, awards programs, sporting events, and eighth grade promotions. Because of my experiences, I single-handedly developed the district-wide broadcasting trailer, which allows for large productions using sound design and instant replay. As a result, I’ve helped set up and produce all high school graduation productions at State Farm Stadium. As I developed in the program, I learned how event production and IT complement each other, which helped me further my work in the community.

I produced the Ottawa University graduation and various other Arizona Interscholastic Association (AIA) state events such as Night of Champions, AIA state basketball productions, and helped develop a state-wide referee promotional video. I also went to SkillsUSA competing in the News Production field. As a group, we were able to make the top five at the state level in Arizona. All of the things that I have done in Film & TV Production and DSB Live have opened doors into a career path within live production and IT. This all culminated with receiving two awards for my hard work in DSB Live. I earned the TriCaster Master Award in 2024 and the IT Integration Award in 2025, both of which meant so much to me. I’m now currently hired as a Theater Management Intern at The Vista Center for the Arts. I am also currently working toward getting a job in IT to follow my calling post high school. This entire experience has helped me realize even if you’re unsure about what you want, high school can help bring about the passions that interest you. I encourage you to follow your passion and use high school as a tool.

Jaydrin Johnson works on the TriCaster rack in the mobile DSB Live production trailer. Jaydrin helped to build the trailer that now can help students broadcast remotely from anywhere and provide instant replay.

Jaydrin Johnson poses with fellow classmates and Russell Baker, City of Surprise Economic Development Coordinator, at the first ever Future Business Leaders of America (FLBA) regional meeting. Jaydrin helped collect footage on behalf of the economic development office as part of a real-world training opportunity.

COMMUNITY CONNECT MAGAZINE 9

FEATURE

Kindest Crossing The

10 NOVEMBER 2025

Kendall Long, a crossing guard at Mountain View School, stops traffic as a girl crosses during a busy arrival time. Kendall has been a crossing guard for two years at Mountain View and has quickly gained notoriety as one of the kindest people at the school.

COMMUNITY CONNECT MAGAZINE 11

FEATURE

I

t’s 8:10 a.m. on a Monday morning and Kendall Long he also, with the position he’s in, works with adults. He walks into Mountain View School. He’s dressed in a knows those interactions are really important, and he does bedazzled Raiders hat he made go above and beyond his position, for himself, along with a matching sure.” shirt and sock ensemble. The Las Kendall, or Mr. Kendall as the kids Vegas Raiders had just won the like to call him, has been working previous day, and Kendall was He sees the good in at the school for nearly two years excited to share the victory with now. He graduated from Shadow everything we do, others. It’s his favorite football team Ridge High School in 2022, after and I don’t think he after all. He says hello to everyone also attending Sonoran Heights in the front office, calling them and Cimarron Springs. Living in the means to do it on all out by name and then heads purpose. I think it’s community of Mountain View, Kendall directly into the staff lounge. He’s a decided after he graduated that he just in his nature. crossing guard for the school, and wanted to help his community and He’s a happy his shift starts at 8:15 a.m. But if make it safe for kids. So he applied you know Kendall, he has to clock for an open crossing guard position at individual and it in right at 8:15 a.m. He patiently Mountain View. spreads. waits by the time clock until the last “I got the idea to be a crossing second, clocks in instantly, and then guard from myself,” he shared with - ​​Debby Cruz he’s off. He grabs his stop sign, pride. “I have a lot of friends here, and Kendall is out the door, literally and some of the teachers I know running to move the crossing guard signs into the street. from back when I was little are here. It’s fun. I get to be Good luck keeping up with him. outside most of the time. I like greeting the parents and “He comes here each day, and he only has a part time greeting the kids, seeing all their faces.” position, but he is here every day dedicated to what he It also helps that Kendall lives a short five minute bike does, and he loves what he does,” shared Debby Cruz, ride from the school and his little sister is a seventh grader Principal for Mountain View School. “He’s always looking there. In the two years since Kendall has worked at the to do well. He is super kind and very understanding. And school, he has made an invaluable impact according to the staff.

“I met Kendall when he first started working here as a crossing guard,” shared Jessica Gentry, the Data Records Technician for the school. “He’s absolutely amazing. We all love him. He is Kendall. There is nobody else like Kendall. I’ve never met anybody with such personality.

He will love everybody, smiles at everybody, and just makes all the kiddos days. He’s amazing.”

To understand Kendall without meeting him, it’s first important to share that Kendall has autism. But that condition provides Kendall with the attributes that make him the unique person he is. For example, it’s incredible to witness that Kendall knows nearly every staff, parent, and student name at the school. While out at the crosswalk, he’ll wave to parents he recognizes not only by their face but also the kind of car they drive. He says hello to every student that crosses his path by name.

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Kendall Long stands by waiting for the exact second that it turns 8:15 a.m. so he can clock in for the day as a crossing guard at Mountain View School.

12 NOVEMBER 2025

Kendall Long helps a large group of students cross the road safely during morning arrival time at Mountain View School.

COMMUNITY CONNECT MAGAZINE 13

FEATURE But that gift of memory is rooted in a much more impactful part of Kendall’s personality, his kindness.

“He’s a pleaser and he wants you to feel special,” said Monica Rodriguez, second grade teacher at Mountain View. “So he wants to acknowledge you with your name. When people remember your name, all of us feel like we must have made an impression on them. I think that is his way of connecting with people is by acknowledging them by their names. He will even remember certain things like wearing a blue shirt or those really cool purple tennis shoes. He remembers those things, those distinguishing factors of people, and definitely makes them feel important. Like I said, he really wants you to feel special in his eyes. I think that’s important to him.”

That level of memory is also put to use in Kendall’s actions, which are overwhelmingly praised by his colleagues for being heartfelt and truly kind.

“If you don’t know Kendall, and you just meet him, he will figure out what your favorite thing is,” said Jessica Gentry. “He doesn’t ask you.

He just observes and figures it out. We all get little treats on our desks. He will never admit that he did it, ever. He’s like, ‘Nope, it wasn’t me, wasn’t me.’ We all just magically have these little special things every time.

So I think that’s one of my favorite things about him, just how sweet he is.”

“He really does make you happy,” said Cruz. “He sees the good in everything we do, and I don’t think he means

Kendall Long poses with his plaque at the Dysart Hero Awards Dinner in April, 2025 14 NOVEMBER 2025

to do it on purpose. Does that make sense? I think it’s just in his nature. He’s a happy individual and it spreads.

You just see his enthusiasm, and it makes you happy too.”

While Kendall started out as a crossing guard, his level of comfort with the school grew over the past two years. As Monica Rodiguez shared, he can be shy at first. She remembered him observing her student council meetings from the door at first, timid to join or come in.

But as he got to know more people and developed those relationships, his level of confidence blossomed. Now, Kendall will participate in any activity the school has going on. He comes to all school dances, and he will even dance with the children.

“It is amazing to watch,” said Gentry with a smile. “He goes to our bingo nights, and when we have the Fall Festival, he is there. If there’s a school event, he is here.”

“He comes here because he has relationships with all of us,” Cruz echoed. “Not only the staff, but the kids. He enjoys working with other people. He goes out of his way to be involved with other people, because once he’s done with his crossing guard duties, he clocks out and he still stays, because he’s working with people. He likes to be around others. I think that genuinely he knows that

Kendall Long moves a crosswalk sign onto the street with a big smile as part of his morning duties at Mountain View School.

everybody here cares about him, and that also he cares about us.”

On this particular Monday morning, Kendall was out at the crosswalk when he noticed something. Parents were starting to line up and had inadvertently blocked in a delivery truck. In a split second he ran over to a car and had them move just enough for the truck to get out. It was a small act of kindness that went a long way in the eyes of the truck driver. What might have escalated to anger and honking was quickly diffused by the kind heart of the crossing guard.

“There’s not many people you meet like Kendall,” said Gentry. “He is just so intrigued with life and just the way that he loves the kids and supports our kids, I think he is amazing. We have regular adults who don’t do that. So to see him do that and care and just put the effort in, I think, is what’s amazing about him.”

Memory, kindness, and compassion are all evident when meeting Kendall. But there is that quirky, fun side as well.

He does like to be a little humorous and insert fun into what he does. For example, when it is time to pick up the cones, Kendall turns it into a game and gets all the other staff in on it, challenging each other in the fun.

“He takes something that can be very boring and minute in our jobs and makes it into some things that are fun and make us laugh,” said Cruz. “So I appreciate that with him.”

In the Spring of 2025 Kendall was nominated for the Dysart Hero Award by peers in the school. Dysart Hero Awards are presented to staff who have made positive contributions to the Dysart Unified School District. Kendall was selected by the judges to receive the award, and was surprised by the Superintendent with a certificate and balloon. But his statement when being surprised with the award caught everyone off guard. He said, “I don’t feel like a hero, I’m just an ordinary crossing guard.”

“Him and I both won the Dysart Hero Award last year and it was very overwhelming for him, I think, to be the center of attention,” said Rodriguez. “He likes to give attention to people, but he doesn’t like to be the center of attention for people.”

When asked on this ordinary Monday if his feelings changed, Kendall acknowledged the part he plays in making Mountain View a great school, and that heroes can have big jobs and little jobs.

“It is important,” Kendall admitted. “I really love these kids and they love me. I care about them.”

He also shared that he still has the balloon in his room, albeit deflated down! Kendall said that he wants to continue being a crossing guard at Mountain View, but Principal Cruz shared that he is such a great employee and so dedicated that she hopes he can become even more involved in the school.

“People can recognize right away that Kendall’s special and different than your typical or average adult,” said Rodriguez. “But I think it helps other people who maybe don’t know how to deal with people with autism, to see that they’re just regular folks, that they can hold a job, that they’re able to do things, and that they’re just as equal as we are. I think they want to feel as important as we do, you know.”

“I think he gets a lot of joy out of it,” said Gentry. “You can just see his face light up like when the kids cross the road. He just gets so happy and almost giddy. It’s so cute. I love it. I just think he loves being around all the kids. He feels important, he feels needed and wanted, and he’s very needed and wanted. We absolutely appreciate him being here and all the hard work he does for us.”

COMMUNITY CONNECT MAGAZINE 15

TEACHER TIPS

FUELING YOUNG MINDS Smart Nutrition for Learning at School and Beyond

By Allyson Geary, Director of Nutrition Services, Southwest Food Service Excellence (SFE) When it comes to helping children succeed in school, we often focus on homework, reading, and classroom support. But one of the most powerful ways to set kids up for success happens at the table. Nutrition directly affects energy, focus, memory, and overall well-being. Whether students eat school-provided meals, pack lunch from home, or participate in after-school programs, the choices they make at mealtime can make a real difference in learning and growth.

BREAKFAST: START THE DAY STRONG Breakfast fuels the brain for learning. Children who eat a balanced breakfast are more attentive, have better memory, and perform better academically. Schools provide a variety of breakfast options that combine protein, whole grains, and fruit, such as: • Breakfast burritos with eggs, cheese, and vegetables • French toast with sausage • Fruit smoothies made with yogurt For families eating at home, a similar balance works: • Whole-grain toast with nut butter and banana slices • Yogurt parfait with fruit and granola • Scrambled eggs with a side of fruit Even a quick, balanced breakfast can significantly improve a child’s focus and energy during morning lessons.

MAKING THE MOST OF LUNCH Lunches are designed to provide balanced meals with protein, whole grains, fruits, and vegetables. However, children may not always choose the most nutritious options on their own. Tips for helping children maximize lunch benefits during the school day: • Review the menu together: Discuss weekly options and help your child choose meals that include protein, whole grains, and at least one serving of fruit or vegetable.

• Encourage variety: Challenge kids to try a new fruit or vegetable each week.

• Balance portions: If a favorite entrée like pizza or a cheeseburger is chosen, remind your child to include fruit or vegetables to create a well-rounded plate.

AFTER-SCHOOL SNACKS FOR ENERGY AND FOCUS

After-school hours are another key time for brain fuel, especially for students in sports or extracurricular activities.

Snacks that combine protein with fruits, vegetables, or whole grains help maintain steady energy and support focus for homework or practice. Snack ideas include: • Yogurt with berries • Apple slices with nut butter • Carrot sticks with hummus • Whole-grain crackers with cheese Avoid snacks high in added sugar or refined flour, which can cause energy crashes just when children need focus.

16 NOVEMBER 2025

HYDRATION: THE BRAIN’S SECRET WEAPON Even mild dehydration can lead to fatigue, headaches, and difficulty concentrating. Encourage children to drink water regularly throughout the day. Hydration tips include: • Pack a reusable water bottle for school and activities • Encourage water first before juice or sports drinks • Add natural flavor with lemon, cucumber, or berries

DINNER AND HEALTHY HABITS AT HOME Evening meals replenish energy and set the stage for tomorrow. Balanced dinners help reinforce healthy habits learned at school and make nutritious choices feel normal. They also provide a valuable opportunity for families to connect.

Sharing a meal together gives everyone a chance to talk about their day, celebrate successes, and offer support during challenges. These moments strengthen family bonds and nourish a sense of belonging just as much as the food nourishes the body. To make the most of family mealtime: • Eat together when possible: Even a few nights a week makes a difference.

• Turn off distractions: Phones, tablets, and TVs can pull attention away from the moment and lead to mindless eating • Encourage mindful eating: Paying attention to flavors, textures, and hunger cues help children develop a healthier relationship with food.

Balanced dinner components include: • Lean protein: chicken, fish, beans, tofu • Whole grains: brown rice, whole-wheat pasta, quinoa • Vegetables: steamed, roasted, or raw • Healthy fats: avocado, olive oil, nuts

INVOLVE KIDS IN FOOD DECISIONS Children are more likely to eat nutritious meals when they feel involved.

• Let them pick a new fruit or vegetable at the grocery store • Give age-appropriate kitchen tasks, like rinsing vegetables or stirring ingredients • Talk about how foods help their bodies and brains

SMALL CHANGES, BIG IMPACT The goal isn’t perfection, it’s consistent, balanced choices. Small adjustments make a lasting difference: • Add a fruit or vegetable to breakfast or lunch • Swap one sugary snack for a fruit and protein option • Encourage water instead of sweet drinks • Turn off TVs, phones, and tablets during mealtimes to encourage mindful eating and conversation By supporting children’s choices at school and home, parents provide the energy and focus students need to thrive academically and socially. Good nutrition fuels learning. Balanced breakfasts, school lunches, smart snacks, proper hydration, and supportive family dinners create the foundation for children to do their best each day. By working together as a community, at school and at home, we can give every child the fuel they need to grow, learn, and reach their full potential.

COMMUNITY CONNECT MAGAZINE 17

FEATURE

B

uilding a strong community is something Officer Ray Montes has always been passionate about. Growing up in Pico Rivera just outside of Los Angeles, he felt drawn to service. Now, as a resident of El Mirage and a Community Resource Officer with the El Mirage Police Department (EMPD), not much has changed. He still feels compelled to do his part to make his hometown, wherever it may be, a safer, better, and more welcoming place for everyone, especially 18 NOVEMBER 2025

Amely Lopez and School Resource Officer David Patterson set up inside the Dysart High School Cafeteria for the second Cuts With Cops event in September 2025.

its youngest residents. “I chose public service because of the kids and the community,” he said. “I like being able to help somebody and then looking back at it knowing that I’ve changed a life in some way.”

His job duties as a Community Resource Officer include educating youth about the dangers of vaping, substance abuse, and other serious issues that could impact their futures. But even for a professional, having meaningful conversations COMMUNITY CONNECT MAGAZINE 19

FEATURE that resonate with teenagers can be difficult. “Today’s generation is a lot different than how I grew up,” Montes admits. “There are similarities. I think every kid goes through a certain set of challenges, but the environment has changed. We were playing with our friends outside, and they’re hanging out with friends on their phones.

So you have to find a different way of getting them to understand your message.”

Social media had historically been EMPD’s way to reach that particular demographic, but Montes knew that wasn’t enough. “We have social media, we can put that on there, but that’s probably a three to four second scroll, and we have to understand that we can’t get our message across in three to four seconds.” That’s why he decided to change his approach. “I wanted to find a way to get the kids to share our message. And what better way than to have an event where they get a free haircut.”

So what do haircuts have to do with drug prevention education? As it would turn out, this was the key to opening up crucial lines of communication. “A haircut kind of changes your mentality, you feel clean and fresh,” Montes explained. “For young people, identity is a big deal. Self-confidence is a big deal. If we can build up that self-confidence, we can build on other factors.”

The concept was, by presenting information to kids and teens at an event designed to boost their self-esteem, they

A young El Mirage resident is all smiles as he gets a fresh cut and some encouraging words from a West-MEC School of Cosmetology volunteer.

20 NOVEMBER 2025

would start sharing that message with their peers. Montes said, “Even if they can remember just one or two things about the dangers of vaping, for example, then we’ve opened that door. Then maybe they have the confidence to tell their buddy about it. We’ve created that movement.”

Montes would soon find out that great minds really do think alike. While he was in the planning phase, he discovered that Dysart High School Family Outreach Specialist Amely Lopez had already held a similar event where students were treated to free haircuts.

Mrs. Lopez, like Montes, has always been inspired to do more for her community. According to her, “The first couple of months that I was at Dysart High School, I was toying with the idea of a haircut event.” As luck would have it, she came across local barber Robert Hinojosa on social media. He was starting up a mobile barber shop and was offering first-time clients a free haircut. Mrs. Lopez reached out to Robert with a somewhat larger proposition.

“I asked if he had any other barbers that could join him, because I’d love to provide free haircuts for our students here on campus.” It didn’t take much convincing. “Robert is from our community and loved the idea of giving back,” Mrs. Lopez recalls. “He said, ‘Yes! Let me find barbers!’”

By the time the event took place that September, Robert had recruited three other barbers to volunteer their services. Together, they provided a dozen students with fresh cuts. Even Assistant Principal Shaynan Dehorty, who fittingly has a background in cosmetology, dusted off her barber shears when a female student signed up. The event was relatively small - taking place in the hallway of the cafeteria - but successful, nonetheless.

Unsurprisingly, Mrs. Lopez wasn’t ready to rest on her laurels. She recalled, “When it was done, my only thought was that this could be bigger. This could be better. We could have more barbers come out!”

It would seem that it was time to join forces. Officer David Patterson is Dysart High School’s School Resource Officer (SRO). Montes’ duties often brought him on to campus, so the two had a working relationship. When Montes mentioned his idea about providing free haircuts, Patterson insisted he meet with Mrs. Lopez who had just held her event and was looking to expand.

“It was very organic,” Mrs. Lopez said of the partnership.

“When we got to talking, we knew we could make this happen. This was totally something we could put together and make it bigger and better for our community.

Everything just fell together. It felt like it was meant to happen.”

By the spring semester, they were putting on their

Barber Robert Hinojosa was the first to volunteer to help get the event off the ground. He knows all of the latest trends and gives a Dysart High School student a contemporary style just in time for homecoming.

first collaborative event, which they named Cuts With about what they wanted (for a haircut). All the barbers, Cops. The event featured tables where people could get including our West-MEC students, did a good job making information about the dangers of vaping and substance sure that they were having those conversations and they abuse, and even try on impairment were providing that full service. It goggles that simulate driving was more than a trim or an edge up. under the influence. Dysart High Kids were coming away with designs School’s Key Club, football, and in their hair!” sand volleyball teams handed out Montes agreed, “These were cotton candy, popcorn, and hosted talented barbers. I saw some of a cupcake walk for kids. Dysart what they were doing and these Cheer also performed for the crowd. were hundred dollar haircuts for Throughout the event, police officers sure.” He credits the volunteers’ mingled with attendees, providing generosity with removing barriers pizza, soda, and a listening ear. and opening up a critical dialogue Several more local barbers, with the kids. “We were giving them including West-MEC cosmetology free haircuts, nobody’s making a students, joined the original four. dime. But the main thing is that we With the additional help on hand, the wanted to communicate with the event could offer more appointments, kids.” and the volunteers could take their The inaugural Cuts With Cops time with each client to give them a expanded from the first humble full salon experience. haircut event in other ways, too. As - Officer ​​ Ray Montes “It was like they were walking into a graduate of Dysart High School the barber shop,” Mrs. Lopez explained. “As soon as a herself, Mrs. Lopez reached out to her fellow alumni, many student sat in the chair, they were having a conversation of whom now have their own businesses. “I told them

“

We’re trying to get to a point where people see the school and the police department as two big community resources coming together as one entity.

“

COMMUNITY CONNECT MAGAZINE 21

we’re starting this event, but I was really thinking that we will be a fixture going forward. Mrs. Lopez is also looking could give more to the community. What else could we to add a mini job fair where small businesses can connect provide?” with students looking to enter the workforce, possibly for Offers soon came in from individuals, churches, the first time. Regardless of how the event evolves, the realtors, and small businesses. Items included clothing, focus will always be on creating a safer community where homegoods, and even furniture. “Here comes me, taking kids can thrive. everything,” Mrs. Lopez joked. “One of my classrooms Montes reiterates, “I think as we grow, we want to was completely filled! I eventually had to stop taking continue on the path of wanting to talk to young people donations.” about important issues.” He adds, “We’re trying to get With that many donations, the community spirit once to a point where people see the school and the police again came into play when department as two big the Dysart High School community resources beach volleyball team coming together as one stepped up and offered to entity, so now we’re here to sort everything and set up help you even more.” the display tables for the It’s a vision that both event.

Mrs. Lopez and Montes Representatives from would love to see expanded community colleges, trade beyond Dysart High School. schools, formal wear Officer Montes said, “I think shops, credit unions, and other schools and police realtor companies rounded departments should partner out the event. The goal with each other and have was to create a one-stop [Cuts with Cops events]. shop to meet the needs of We don’t just want to focus El Mirage PD hosts booths that offer information on drug students, parents, and the on a certain geographical prevention, including the opportunity to wear impairment community at large. area, because it’s not just goggles that simulate being under influence.

Both Officer Montes and about our kids,” he said, “It’s Mrs. Lopez emphasized about all of them.” that Cuts With Cops is The second Cuts With open to the public.

Cops was held in the fall, Mrs. Lopez said, “We one short year after its want to make it clear that modest predecessor. What anybody in our community started as four barber is welcome. If you’re chairs in a cafeteria hallway anywhere close to Dysart has since exploded into [during an event], come a community event with enjoy some cotton candy, music, food, furniture, see if we have clothes entertainment, make-up or shoes or homegoods and spa stations, and yes, for you. Do you need haircuts. All for free. It’s information on how to become an event where open a checking account teens take photos and for your student? Come videos to share on their and sit at this table and social media. It’s an event Community Resource Officer Ray Montes strikes up a get some information.” that gets kids and parents conversation with a student waiting for his turn in the barber Future events are talking about important chair. Making communication comfortable is the first step in on track to offer the topics and sharing what getting his message across to young people. community even more. they’ve learned with their Booths for neighborhood mom and pop shops, many of friends. It’s an event that just may build a stronger, safer whom are located within walking distance from the school, community - one haircut at a time.

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COMMUNITY CONNECT MAGAZINE 23

PHOTO SPOTLIGHT

As a test of the skills they have learned over the past year, the first graduating class of the Emergency Medical Services (EMS) program participated in a Mock Mass Casualty Drill. The scenario featured an accident with multiple victims, and with the help of the City of Surprise Fire Department, the event was a realistic interpretation of what these students will encounter in the real world.

The EMS program is a partnership between Dysart Schools and the City of Surprise where high school seniors earn an Emergency Medical Certified Technician (EMCT) certification upon graduation and have the opportunity for immediate employment as an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) through a public or private ambulance service.

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COMMUNITY CONNECT MAGAZINE 25

SPOTLIGHT

Senior earns scholarship to help cure family disease Shadow Ridge High School senior, Mirabelle Yontz, was awarded the prestigious Dorrance Scholarship, which is valued at more than $100,000. The Dorrance Foundation for Education awards 60 scholarships each year to Arizona high school students to attend one of three state universities (Arizona State University, Northern Arizona University, and the University of Arizona.)

Mirabelle will use the scholarship to attend the University of Arizona in the fall of 2025. Her field of study, biology and genetics, is ambitious but also very personal to her.

“My family has a chronic illness, it’s called Fabry 26 NOVEMBER 2025

Disease,” she shared. “My brother and my mom have it. My grandmother had it, and she passed away. Her brother also passed away from it. My mom and brother are in treatment for it, but it’s a pretty severe disease.”

Fabry disease is a rare, inherited disorder where the body lacks an enzyme called alpha-galactosidase A. This enzyme is essential for breaking down fats, and its absence leads to a buildup of fatty substances in cells, blood vessels, and tissues, particularly in the kidneys, heart, skin, and brain.

“My brother has some of the worst symptoms because it’s an X-linked disease,” Mirabelle said. “Males only have one X chromosome, and it affects them more

severely. My brother has a head-to-toe body rash, and “It means the world to me to get this scholarship,” she then also severe stomach issues, severe pain in his said with an enthusiastic smile. “It means so much that hands and feet, and he has to miss a all the work I put in paid off, and that lot of school.”

I do get to be able to help people.”

Her brother has been getting a In addition to the Dorrance treatment called fabrazyme since Scholarship, Mirabelle was also he was seven that’s administered awarded the Surprise Youth at Phoenix Children’s Hospital.

Scholarship and the Wildcat Mirabelle is lucky in that she didn’t Distinction Award. She’s graduating inherit the chromosome with the with a 4.3 weighted grade point disease. average with both an Honors “Even though I don’t have the Diploma and an Arts Seal of disease, it’s traumatic to watch your Proficiency. family go through things like that.”

The Dorrance Scholarship is Her mother and brother were a need-based award that aims her inspiration for wanting to get to instill college-going traditions into genetics and applying for the in future generations of Arizona scholarship to begin with. Her goal families, provide financial access after the bachelor’s degree is to get and academic support for recipients a master’s degree in microcellular and enhance college persistence - Mirabelle ​​ Yontz biology and a doctorate in genetics. through unique enrichment Mirabelle hopes to work with experiences. Students must be those affected by the disease and help with symptom Arizona residents and current seniors at an accredited management, hopefully also helping to find a cure for it.

Arizona high school.

“

Even though I don’t have the disease, it’s traumatic to watch your family go through things like that.

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COMMUNITY CONNECT MAGAZINE 27

FEATURE

BREWING UP

CONFIDENCE

28 NOVEMBER 2025

Students at Canyon Ridge, Student Support Technician Hallie Thomson, and Nicole Wissing pose for photo with Canyon Ridge Roasters cart.

COMMUNITY CONNECT MAGAZINE 29

FEATURE

E

very Friday morning at Canyon Ridge School begins like any other day. The bell rings, students file into class, and the morning announcements echo through the school’s intercom. As the classrooms come to life, a warm, sweet aroma begins to fill the air. Soon, the silence is interrupted, and third-grade teacher Ms. Olivia Johnson receives a gentle knock on the door.

When she opens the door, she is greeted by two smiling faces standing proudly in front of a cart filled with coffee and treats.

“Canyon Ridge Roasters are here!” the two students cheer.

Nicole Wissing started working at Canyon Ridge as an Structured Teaching Classroom (STC) paraprofessional.

At the time, she and one other colleague were trying to find an engaging way to teach students with special needs how to further develop life skills, such as communication and collaboration, beyond the classroom.

“Academics is great, but ultimately, especially with special needs kiddos, life skills are extremely important,” Wissing said. “Knowing that there’s more outside of the classroom, as far as, like, social skills, just talking to people in general.”

Wissing presented the idea of a student-operated coffee cart to her husband, and he immediately began building it, but the process didn’t happen overnight. They searched online for cart layouts until they found a suitable one. Mr. Wissing acquired the materials and welded the cart himself, even applying a Canyon Ridge Roasters decal to make it official. Lastly, thanks to a generous $1,000 donation from Sands Chevrolet, the cart’s shelves Students working the Canyon Ridge Roasters cart gather in a circle to count change from a donation. In addition to helping students develop communication skills, the cart provides plenty of opportunities for students to apply their math skills to real world situations.

30 NOVEMBER 2025

were stocked with enough snacks and drinks to get through most of the school year.

“So, yeah, we built it, and we started it last year, and each Friday, I would pull a few kiddos from my class and go around the school,” Wissing smiled. “And they just loved it and look forward to it every Friday.”

The Canyon Ridge Roasters cart was first operated by students as a way to help them meet communication goals. These goals include making eye contact and working on sentence starters, such as greetings. Wissing recalls having a student last year with selective mutism who helped operate the cart.

“We had one of my kiddos who could vocalize, but he had selective mutism, so he didn’t always want to vocalize,” Wissing explained. “He would go with a buddy, and he would see his friend knock on the door and say, ‘Canyon Ridge Roasters, how can I help you?’”

“We would have our speech pathologist come with us last year, and she would say, ‘Okay, now it’s your turn.’ And he would do it,” Wissing continued. “And you know, he’d start off really shy and quiet, and then by the end of the first day, he was knocking on doors, ‘Canyon Ridge Roasters!’ with this boisterous voice, and just so excited.”

The importance of helping students develop communication skills can’t be understated.

With school days packed full with subjects and lessons that follow dedicated curriculums, it can be difficult to find the time to work on developing such important interpersonal life skills. Canyon Ridge Principal Jill Hoppe recognizes that sometimes these important lessons must go beyond the traditional classroom.

“We look at these babies as babies as well as people who have to be productive in our society. I think that sometimes kids, when they’re leaving say, ‘We know how to do algebra, we know how to analyze a text, but do we have the life skills necessary and needed to be a successful worker and understand how to communicate?’”

Hoppe said. “Those might not be in the standards, but we know how important those skills are in real life so kids that maybe struggle with communication are able to say, ‘I have a voice. Because I, today, asked somebody what their order was. Today I was able to manage some

A student working the Canyon Ridge Roasters cart pumps flavored syrup into a cup for coffee for a customer at the school.

money, and you know, see that we need to collect this.

We need to work together. We need to listen so that I know what kind of coffee to make.’ It’s small things, but I think it makes a big impact on students.”

Now, every Friday morning, Wissing restocks the cart with an assortment of different chips, pastries, soft drinks and, of course, coffee. She selects a handful of students to help operate the cart, and they set out to deliver morning treats and smiles to all the Canyon Ridge staff members.

Though the students aren’t in class, what they gain from the experience is invaluable. Running the cart teaches the students to collaborate with one another and work as a team to complete each task, from pushing the cart and pouring drinks, to carefully placing muffins on plates with napkins, and counting their donations.

The students begin their Roaster mornings in the front office with a food and drink menu in hand, asking staff if they would like anything from the cart. As the morning continues, the students trek their way through the school, stopping at each classroom door, the cafeteria, the gym, and every other corner of the school. The students take their job incredibly seriously, ensuring that no stone is left unturned. If there is a thirst for coffee or a sweet-tooth for muffins, the Canyon Ridge Roasters are on the grind.

By the time the students are done fulfilling a hallway’s worth of orders, the cart is firing on all pistons. The students take turns quickly pouring drinks, snapping on coffee lids, and delivering the drinks with enthusiasm to encouraging staff members.

Michael Larry, an eighth-grade student at Canyon Ridge who works the cart, says that he enjoys working the cart COMMUNITY CONNECT MAGAZINE 31

FEATURE because it feels good to help others while visiting old The students are not just interacting with each other, teachers and making new friends. they’re interacting with adults in real world situations “When you have to do something, do it with joy, and try outside of class. to make as many friends as you can,” Michael said.

“We’re giving the kids an experience of knowing our The cart, to no surprise, is a hit amongst teachers staff and getting to know different people that can’t be and staff. Wherever the Canyon Ridge Roasters go, underscored enough,” Hoppe said. “So, you know, I’m just they are met with smiles, hugs, high-fives, words of so lucky to have such an incredible staff that is supportive encouragement, and, of of this.” course, donations. No While the purpose purchase is necessary to of the Canyon Ridge receive something from Roasters cart is to the cart, but the staff at develop interpersonal Canyon Ridge are more life skills, the end goal than happy to donate. is to instill confidence That’s because all the in students. Unfamiliar money received by the situations and settings cart is reinvested in can often be difficult resupplying the cart and for anyone to navigate, keeping it running. but the Roasters cart “Canyon Ridge serves as a controlled Roasters is my very environment to allow favorite part of Fridays,” students to interact with Ms. Johnson declared. each other and staff at “Building relationships their own pace, while is the best part of being still being an engaging - Nicole Wissing, Canyon Ridge Teacher a teacher, and I look communication lesson. forward to engaging “I just hope it makes with the different groups them feel more of kiddos each week. [The Canyon Ridge Roasters] confident. I hope that they have a good time, and that Coffee cart gives students the opportunity to build their they leave feeling confident and happy,” Wissing said. confidence, have positive interactions with others, and “They got to come to school today and do something new bring so much joy to Canyon Ridge staff.” and different, and they go home and they talk about it, The reception from other staff members echoes Ms. and they remember it, and it sets them up for something Johnson’s sentiment, and that’s part of the experience. new.”

“

Academics is great, but ultimately, especially with special needs kiddos, life skills are extremely important.

“

Canyon Ridge Principal Jill Hoppe orders a coffee from the Roasters menu during their Friday rounds.

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Two students work together to pull/push the Canyon Ridge Roasters coffee cart.

Two students working the Canyon Ridge Roasters cart hand physical education teacher, Jay Laursen, a muffin and coffee.

COMMUNITY CONNECT MAGAZINE 33

PARENT PERSPECTIVE

Marching with

By Shannon Standaert

O

ur son Cole started playing the clarinet and saxophone at Sonoran Heights Middle School in the fifth grade, learning from Mrs. Deborah Forest. He is now days. Our experience with the band programs at both a junior at Shadow Ridge High School playing under the Sonoran Heights and Shadow Ridge have demonstrated direction of Mr. Kurwin Forest. what dedicated teachers can do to build a true community.

When Cole started at Shadow Ridge as a freshman, Cole has benefited so much from the arts programs in we were excited for him but also nervous. We wondered the district. He has had an opportunity to step up as a how he would make the transition from a smaller middle peer leader and mentor to younger students. He has been school campus to a huge high school campus. But being able to experience the nerves of a real audition for alla part of the band program state and the thrill of performing that fed the high school gave on bigger stages with peers from him a leg up. He was able across the state. to attend future Stallion night This summer, those in seventh and eighth grade experiences culminated in a to see what being part of the family adventure of a lifetime high school marching band when Cole and one of his would be like. Playing stand classmates, Jack Horrocks, tunes under those Friday night were nominated to participate lights with high schoolers was in a program called Musicians exciting and fun! Then came Abroad. Cole and Jack were band camp, which happens The Standaert family poses for a photo with Cole at his the only two students from performance at the Andermatt, Switzerland Concert Hall the district that were selected two weeks before school starts in July. This allows the to participate in this program. band students a chance to get to know each other and the Through this experience they traveled to Europe for two high school campus before their first day of school. To say weeks with a group of high school students from across that band camp was invaluable to the beginning of Cole’s Arizona where they performed in five different countries: high school experience is an understatement. Because England, France, Switzerland, Germany, and Austria! We of band camp, Cole started his freshman year on day one were fortunate enough as a family to travel with them with a few friends and the confidence of knowing his way and see them perform overseas. It was truly an amazing around campus already. experience to watch these high school students put I am now the band booster President for the Shadow together a concert of the highest caliber to perform in front Ridge band program and in talking with many other band of international audiences! Cole and Jack represented parents, their sentiment is the same, band camp helped their hometown and high school with pride, dedication and break the ice for many students whether they were coming professionalism. as freshmen or as seniors at a new school. Band camp As we get close to the end of our high school experience allows them to bond and make friends before the school with Cole, we are looking forward to college tours and year even starts. The teachers open their classroom to will be checking out marching band programs across the students during the summer to just stop in and play music country. Friday night lights is about more than football, or catch up with each other. During the school year, you pom and cheer. So, if you come out to a high school will often find the band students having lunch in the band football game, we invite you to stay in the stands during room or staying after school studying together. Creating a half-time to watch the marching bands from around the welcoming place for teenagers is not an easy task these district perform!

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Cole Standaert poses with his marching band instrument and uniform.

Photo courtesy of Ashley Durham Photography

Cole and Jack smile for a picture in Bavaria Germany at the Neuschwanstein Castle

COMMUNITY CONNECT MAGAZINE 35

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[community capture]

Artwork by Yareli Damian, 11th grader at Valley Vista High School