18 minute read
Education
DVUSD WELCOMES NEW SCHOOL AND PRINCIPAL THIS FALL
THIS FALL, DEER VALLEY UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT WELCOMES THE TRADITIONAL ACADEMY AT BELLAIR WITH PRINCIPAL VIVIAN HUNT AT ITS HELM. Currently the principal of Arrowhead Elementary, Hunt is thrilled to be heading up what she is calling her “dream school.” Hunt has 41 years in education (which she says she has loved every minute of), including teaching for 27 years before moving into the administration side 15 years ago. She is currently in her eighth year as principal of Arrowhead Elementary and is looking forward to a new year and a new school with The Traditional Academy at Bellair. Her philosophy behind education is that every student deserves to thrive – regardless of the “type of school.” She encourages parents not to ask which types of school (public, private, charter, etc.) they should send their child to, but rather which type of school can serve their student’s individual needs in the best possible way. When it comes to The Traditional Academy at Bellair, Hunt calls the school “an environment that allows students to focus at a rate that aligns with their ability.” An accelerated traditional school that offers education a grade level above in reading, writing and math, Hunt admits that the school’s back to basics philosophy is centered around hard work and high standards. “We believe in the fundamental academic values that are designed around an environment where kids can focus as well as core values of patriotism, citizenship, leadership, and responsibility.”
As for that last part, Hunt notes that, as an open enrollment school, the kids that are there want to be there, and as such, they will have the accountability to rise to the school’s standards and expectations… as will the parents.
“A certain level of parent participation will be required, and we also require commitment from the staff that goes beyond the school day,” says Hunt adding, “We are all working to make this the greatest school ever. Everyone who will be here will be here by choice and that is very exciting.”
Hunt’s goal in opening this “dream school” is that students will feel free to be themselves in a safe and nurturing environment. She hopes to offer the best of what public and charter schools can provide. Services will include gifted, developmental preschool, free kindergarten, before and after school programming, staffing for special education and technology, including an 86-inch interactive screen that serves as a huge iPad.
The current Bellair Elementary School, located at 4701 W. Grovers Avenue, is being repurposed and receiving modernization to become The Traditional Academy this fall. Hunt says it will receive fresh paint, new carpeting
and cabinets in the classrooms and the front of the building will be redone with pillars, so it looks like a traditional school when it’s ready to welcome students in the fall.
Online Open Enrollment for the 2020-2021 School Year Now Available! Visit openenrollment.dvusd.org to apply
•Opportunities for accelerated learning •Strong behavior expectations •A focus on citizenship & patriotism •Back-to-basics learning environment
Apply Now to Avoid the Waitlist!
2020
THE TRADITIONAL ACADEMY AT BELLAIR
4701 W. Grovers Ave. • Phoenix, AZ 85308 www.dvusd.org/traditional
CELEBRATIONS HONOR LOCAL TEACHERS, 2020 GRADUATES THIS SCHOOL YEAR WILL END UNLIKE ANY supporting students over the phone and through online house with encouraging messages for grads and notes OTHER BEFORE IT. But that doesn’t mean it resources, while helping to track their mental well be- of appreciation for teachers shouldn’t be memorable. At a time that families are ing, safety and academic needs. • Orchestrate a block driveway party to celebrate usually marking Teacher Appreciation Week and graduates graduations, typical celebrations will be cancelled or “Graduation ceremonies are an important milestone in • Share messages of congratulations/recognition on postponed and the future of them remain unclear. a student’s life, whether it’s kindergarten or a Ph.D.,” social media using the appropriate hashtags (#AZThompson adds. “They’re a rite of passage, particu- TeachersRock and #AZClassOf2020) To ensure that both educators and graduates have a larly for students who are first generation gradu- • Families (or graduating classes) could coordinate a memorable May, Expect More Arizona, a nonprofit, ates, those who overcame unique burdens and those virtual graduation party; create school-themed virtual nonpartisan advocacy organization, is rallying the who accomplished their academic goals. The efforts backgrounds that all students can use state behind two special days: shouldn’t go unnoticed.” • Make homemade yard signs or banners • Tuesday, May 5, 2020 – Arizona Teacher Appreciation Day To help the community rally behind local teachers “We want communities to get creative,” says Thomp• Wednesday, May 20, 2020 – Arizona Graduate Rec- and graduates, Expect More Arizona has compiled son. “We love our teachers and we honor our graduognition Day creative ways to get involved. ates and we want them to know that.”
“Our teachers are amazing in normal times, but this spring has brought unique challenges,” says Christine Thompson, president and CEO of Expect More Arizona. “The sacrifices of time and emotional burden have been great as they adapted to distance learning. We want every educator in the state to feel honored.”
School closures have placed new burdens on educators as they transitioned from teaching in classrooms to teaching online or through paper packets. They’re Whether it’s sharing messages of congratulations/recognition on social media or orchestrating a neighborhood parade of cars, there’s something for everyone. Expect More Arizona has even included ideas on how teachers and graduates can identify themselves. Decorating homes or cars, homemade banners or caps and gowns are just a few suggested activities.
Some of these ideas include:
• Chalk your driveway or the sidewalk in front of your Find more suggestions for creative ways to celebrate at bit.ly/CelebrateAZ.
Put Your Graduate in the Spotlight!
Whether it’s a preschool diploma or a Ph.D., this year’s graduates won’t be able to walk across the stage in front of classmates, family and friends. Because of this, we’re offering our loyal readers the chance to celebrate your graduates with a spotlight ad in our June/July issue. Make a mem able keepsake f years to c e!
Price includes Digital Shareable Edition and 15% Donated to the Graduate’s School
STUDENT NAME Student School
STUDENT NAME Student School
Congratulations to Nichole Smith who is graduating from Skyline High School! Nichole was on the newspaper, making editor-in-chief by her sophomore year. She was also a photographer for the yearbook and in the National Honor Society. She volunteered her time at Skyline Elementary School, working on her goal of becoming an elementary school teacher. She will go to Northern Arizona University this fall. Nichole will be the fi rst person in her family to go to college, a milestone we are all so proud of her for achieving. Nichole, we believe that whatever you put your mind to, you can achieve. STUDENT NAME Student School
Congratulations to Nichole Smith who is graduating from Skyline High School! Mom and dad are so proud of you! During high school, Nichole was on the newspaper, making editor-in-chief by her sophomore year. She was also a photographer for the yearbook, starred in three school plays, and was in the National Honor Society. She is this year’s valedictorian. More than all of her academic achievements, her family and friends are proud of her for her community service. She has volunteered with several nonprofi ts during her time at Skyline High, including the local homeless shelter and food bank. In addition, since her junior year, Nichole has volunteered her time at Skyline Elementary School as a teacher’s aide, working on her ultimate goal of becoming an elementary school teacher. She earned a full ride to Northern Arizona University and will be majoring in education. She will be the fi rst person in her family to go to college, a milestone we are all so proud of her for achieving. Nichole, we believe in you—whatever you put your mind to, you can achieve. We know you are going to meet and exceed your plans and we can’t wait to see where life takes you!
STUDENT NAME Student School
Congratulations to Nichole Smith who is graduating from Skyline High School! Mom, dad and your sisters are so proud of you! Go class of 2020! During high school, Nichole was on the newspaper, making editor-in-chief by her sophomore year. She was also a photographer for the yearbook, starred in three school plays, was on student council, never missed a day of school, and was in the National Honor Society. She is this year’s valedictorian as well—a goal she set her freshman year and achieved. More than all of her academic achievements, her family and friends are proud of her for her community service, too. She has volunteered with several nonprofi ts during her time at Skyline High, including the local homeless shelter and food bank. In addition, since her junior year, Nichole has volunteered her time at Skyline Elementary School as a teacher’s aide, working on her ultimate goal of becoming an elementary school teacher. She did this all while working part-time at a local retirement home, helping the elderly. What we are most proud of is her can-do spirit and the example she set for her younger sisters. They’re both so proud of you! She earned a full ride to Northern Arizona University (Go Lumberjacks!), and will be majoring in education. She will be the fi rst person in her family to go to college, a milestone we are all so proud of her for achieving. Nichole, we believe in you—whatever you put your mind to, you can achieve. No matter whether they’re graduating kindergarten, college, or anything in between (preschool counts, too!). Simply share with us photos and a description of their accomplishments and we’ll take it from there. (Please note, editorial staff has fi nal editing rights if needed.)
H y r graduate today!
Congratulations to Nichole Smith who is graduating from Skyline High School! During high school, Nichole was on the newspaper, making editor-in-chief by her sophomore year. She was also a photographer for the yearbook and the National Honor Society. In addition, since her junior year, Nichole has volunteered her time at Skyline Elementary School as a teacher’s aide, working on her ultimate goal of becoming an elementary school teacher. She earned a scholarship to Northern Arizona University and will be majoring in education. She will be the fi rst person in her family to go to college, a milestone we are all so proud of her for achieving. Nichole, we believe in you—whatever you put your mind to, you can achieve.
Contact us at 888.313.7916 or advertising@egpublishing.com for pricing by May 15.
MOCHILERO KITCHEN OPENS UP TO SERVE THE COMMUNITY THIS FAMILY-OWNED AND OPERATED RESTAURANT WELCOMES YOU TO EXPERIENCE THE FLAVORS OF MEXICO By Michelle Talsma Everson month—even though they couldn’t and operated restaurant aspires to so guests can relax and enjoy the full showcase the restaurant’s original take its guests on a culinary adventure menu, our great staff, the lively décor
During a time where many dine-in menu in its entirety. exploring the various distinct regions and warm energy.” businesses are shutting down of Mexico. The original menu features or pausing operations, brother “The grand opening was not exactly a savory weekend brunch and a wide Once they are able to open their doors and sister duo Jorge Cota and Meliza how we planned it,” Cota says. “But selection of dinner entrées with local up, Miranda assures that the entire Miranda both say that they have a lot my family and the team members flavors celebrating specific regions staff will continue to adhere to all to be thankful for. The two are the co- we’ve hired have worked too hard for of Mexico. Signature hand-crafted guidelines placed by the Centers for owners of Mochilero Kitchen, a new us not to give it our all.” cocktails, along with a select wine Disease Control (CDC) and other entilocal restaurant that takes patrons on a and spirits list were, to also to make ties. “Every restaurant should be comflavorful journey through the “various “It was scary there for a moment,” he its debut at the restaurant’s trendy 17- mitted to those guidelines anyway. I distinct regions of Mexico.” continues. “But at the grand opening seat bar. For the moment, the original know we are. ” on April 8 we had a great turnout and expansive menu has been adapted to a While plans for the restaurant have it gave us the confidence to bring our condensed online selection of dishes “Just like a backpacker, or a mochilbeen in the works for years, their orig- full staff back, which is important to that travel well from restaurant to ero, we have had to adapt to this new inal grand opening had to be changed us as they have families to support. home. terrain in the restaurant industry,” drastically due to COVID-19 and the We are excited though for when the Cota says. “But like all small business order for restaurants to offer take out, restrictions lift and we can show off “Don’t be fooled by the simplicity of owners right now, we believe in our delivery partners and curbside pick- our skills and show our patrons the the online menu. The complexity and vision and are committed to giving our up. A trendy and elevated Mexican type of service and ambiance we’re rich favors aren’t anything you’ll find very best to our customers.” restaurant concept, the management capable of.” in the Northwest Valley,” says Direcstaff at Mochilero Kitchen had to tor of Culinary Justin Baunach. “We One perk about the changed operathink quickly and still decided to go “Mochilero” in Spanish means back- are excited for the day when we get tions is that both Cota and Miranda through with a grand opening last packer. Cota says the family-owned to open our dining room and patio have connected with new customers
PEORIA FAMILY OWNED Mouthwatering Mexican Food Made from Scratch! 6791 W. Happy Valley Rd. #100, Peoria • Open Tues.-Sat. 12-8 p.m. • 623.440.5588 •| MochileroKitchen.com TAKEOUT CURBSIDE DELIVERY DELIVERY PARTNERS
Cinco de Mayo Taco Party Pack
(served on May 5, 6, and 7th ONLY)
$55
16 oz. of meat – braised beef short ribs or tender chicken pibil 10 corn tortillas Fresh shredded cabbage slaw 16 oz. smoky & sweet black beans (home-made from scratch) 16 oz. cilantro lime rice One family bag of fresh tortilla chips with 8 oz. of house-made salsa
ADD
$10- Four Buqui Bichi Mexican Craft Beer $12- Choose one (16 oz. – for 2 to 3 people): Hand-crafted Skinny Margarita (fresh squeezed lime juice, Blanco Tequila, agave nectar) Hand-crafted Prickly Pear Margarita (house-infused prickly pear tequila, fresh squeezed lime & grapefruit juice, agave nectar, a splash of grapefruit Pellegrino Everyday Meal 6 Enchiladas Family Style: Choice of chicken, $25 short rib or pork / green or red sauce, served with rice and black beans
ADD
$4- Freshly fried tortilla chips and house-made salsa $8- Sweet & savory freshly fried plantain chips with house-made guacamole
Get TWO FREE bottled Mexican sodas with min. $25 order. (EXP. 5.30.20)
* Cannot be combined with Taco Party Pack offer
and community members in ways that they might not otherwise have. “Because we’ve taken the leap and opening during the pandemic, we think that helps our customers really connect with us, and it’s been almost a blessing in disguise,” Cota shares.
Cota and Miranda share that the vision for their restaurant has been in the works for years.
“It’s been about two years from the start of construction until now,” Miranda says. “But we had started envisioning the concept two years before that. I used to work for a supplier in the spirits industry, so I’m very familiar with the business end of the restaurant business.”
Cota adds that he used to be a chef, creating dishes and menus for high end resorts. He took a trip to Mexico, exploring 22 Mexican states, to explore the flavors and culinary intricacies to help elevate the restaurant concept they were planning. “Initially, we were thinking about featuring street tacos from the various regions of Mexico,” Miranda shares. But, as they began to look in their own backyard, they realized that there wasn’t a truly Mexican dining concept in the area. “My family loves Peoria, we live and play here, but chain restaurants seem to dominate every corner,” Miranda adds. “So when we couldn’t find a true made-from-scratch Mexican restaurant, we decided to build one.” Both siblings note that they cherish memories of family gatherings that centered around home-cooked feasts where quality ingredients and care in kitchen were never compromised. The restaurant’s chef boasts having one of the smallest commercial refrigerators in town as it ensures guests that all ingredients are delivered almost daily from the premium, fresh cut meats (never frozen) and all the fresh-harvested produce. There is one small freezer with the sole purpose of storing the gelato that compliments the homemade dessert, churros. The kitchen is void of a microwave oven, canned or processed foods, vegetable oil or lard. All dishes are prepared with organic rice oil or extra virgin
olive oil, they assure. With both siblings being local residents and employing staff from the area, they both feel a distinct connection and responsibility to the local community.
“We want to thank the community for their support and trust in us,” Miranda says. “We look forward to serving the community in many ways, including supporting local charities.”
“We also want to thank our staff,” Cota adds. “They’ve been great accommodating the changes and showing up to help us offer delicious food to our new customers.”
Both Cota and Miranda reassure locals that they will have an official grand opening as soon as it is safe to do so. They will also have ongoing sales and specials throughout the month and recommend that community members keep in touch with them on social media and by visiting their website on a regular basis.
“Peoria is home for us and we opened Mochilero Kitchen right in our backyard, which is special to us,” Cota says.
“There’s nothing else like this here in this part of town,” Miranda adds. “We hope community members come out and give us a try so they can see and taste what we’re so excited about.”
Mochilero Kitchen is located at 6791 W. Happy Valley in Peoria. It is open Tuesday through Saturday from noon to 8 p.m. for carry out orders. Customers can order online at mochilerokitchen.com or by phone at 623-440-5588. Find them on Instagram and Facebook at @MochileroKitchenAZ.
A Thank You from Our Families to Yours
Dear Neighbors,
We hope you and your family are all well. This month would’ve typically meant kids getting out of school, maybe a Mother’s Day brunch somewhere or, perhaps, even a little travel. But COVID-19 had other plans. Like you, we’re all doing our best to work around it. But there are some neighbors who’ve been severely affected and it makes us refl ect on what or who we hold most dear. To those of who have family or friends who fell ill with the virus, our hearts and prayers are with you.
Then there are those brave essential employees who we count on every day to bring a sense of normalcy and security in our lives. We say THANK YOU to our medical teams, caregivers, fi rst responders, truck and delivery drivers, grocery and pharmacy workers , so many other professionals who keep our communities going.
It’s crazy how everything happened so fast. By March 19, restaurants across Arizona were ordered to close their dining rooms. Our team at Mochilero Kitchen were stunned. After two years of planning we had set the grand opening date for April 8. We opened anyway, if even just offering take-out. Some called us foolish, others said, overly optimistic. Simply put, we just wanted to give to the community in the way we knew best… to hopefully bring a little happiness and comfort through our food.
Because of you, our neighbors, supporting our restaurant, we have been able to keep our doors open, our take-out door, that is. If not for you, our staff would not have been able to support our families. You have kept us going and we thank you from the bottom of our hearts. And we promise you this… when we DO open our doors we want YOU to celebrate with us. We will be hosting a community “thank you” party honoring you, our neighbors. We’ll post on our social media when that happy day will be.
Until then, we’d love your feedback on how we can provide you with a better experience at Mochilero Kitchen. If something wasn’t quite right with your order, we’d love the opportunity to make it right. Please don’t hesitate to ask for Germain, Justin, Jorge or John. We’ve got your covered.
Germain/G.M. • Justin/Dir. of Culinary • Jorge/Owner • John/Dir. of Ops. • Miguel/Sous Chef
With gratitude, from our families to yours… Salud! The Mochilero Kitchen Family
