Official Publication of the Scottsdale Ranch Community Association
Stay up-to-date! Visit the Scottsdale Ranch Community Association website, www.scottsdaleranch.org
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Social Life on the Ranch
To discover Scottsdale Ranch is to discover a premier and forward-thinking residential community just right for you. At Scottsdale Ranch, you will find a community that reflects your taste and individuality. From luxury waterfront homes and spacious single-family dwellings to private patio homes, you will find a home to suit your needs. Scottsdale Ranch was established in 1981 and encompasses 1,118 acres bordered by 96th Street to the West, 112th Street to the East, and Shea Boulevard south to the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community. There are 3,939 dwellings in Scottsdale Ranch.
Scottsdale Ranch’s prestige is complemented by its luxurious amenities. Lake Serena, a forty-two-acre man-made lake offers fishing and boating and is considered the jewel of Scottsdale Ranch. Likewise, the Community Center, which also houses the administrative offices, provides a comfortable gathering place for parties, community events, or even a game of cards.
Knitwits
Conveniently located at the corner of Via Linda and Mountain View is the Mercado which offers a variety of specialty stores, restaurants, a drug store, a gym, offices, and professional services. Centrally situated in the heart of Scottsdale Ranch is a 64-acre general public use area featuring many fine amenities such as Scottsdale Ranch Park, a world-class tennis facility, several lighted baseball fields, a beautiful Desert Garden, the Via Linda Senior Center, Virginia G. Piper Boys and Girls Club and Laguna Elementary School, an A+ School of Excellence.
The Scottsdale Ranch Community Association and the active participation of Ranch residents design the lifestyle, integrity, and aesthetics of our community. Visit our website at www. scottsdaleranch.org for more information about our fabulous community!
Mike Breslin Treasurer
Nina Munson Secretary
Ron Auerbach Director
Mike Thorlin Director
Peter Klausner Director
Meet Your HOA
A seven member Board of Directors governs Scottsdale Ranch Community Association (SRCA). The Board establishes the basic policies of the Association and oversees the operation of the professional staff while demonstrating values of fiscal responsibility, openness and inclusiveness, legacy and innovative leadership. It is our vision that by basing our decision making on our shared values, new ideas will be implemented, property values and quality of life will be enhanced, residents will feel a stronger sense of belonging, leadership and facilities will be recognized as best in class and Scottsdale Ranch will be the most desirable community in the Valley. SRCA’s Board employs an Executive Director who oversees the administrative, landscape and building/ lake departments including a full-time, on-site administrative staff and a contracted landscape maintenance company, who all work behind the scenes to implement the mission statement.
The Board of Directors meets the fourth Tuesday of every month at the Community Center. These meetings are open to the membership. Meeting minutes can be found on our website at www.scottsdaleranch.org under SRCA Documents and Forms, Board of Directors.
Association Information
Scottsdale Ranch Community Association (SRCA) 10585 N. 100th Street, Scottsdale, Arizona 85258
Office: (480) 860-2022/Fax: (480) 860-8264
After Hours SRCA Emergency/Answering Service Number: 1 (888) 271-0019 Website: www.scottsdaleranch.org
THE SRCA OFFICE WILL BE CLOSED DECEMBER 24TH & 25TH AND JANUARY 1ST FOR THE HOLIDAYS.
OFFICE HOURS: MONDAY – THURSDAY: 8 AM – 5 PM
FRIDAY: 8 AM – 3 PM
PHONE HOURS: MONDAY – THURSDAY: 9 AM – 5 PM
FRIDAY: 9 AM – 3 PM
Staff emails:
Kathe Barnes kbarnes@scottsdaleranch.org Executive Director
Maria Rodriguez Bookkeeper bookkeeping@scottsdaleranch.org
Police (Emergency) 911
(Non-emergency)
MISSION STATEMENT:
“The Mission of Scottsdale Ranch Community Association is to serve as the organization through which its residents may sustain and enhance the character, quality of life, and desirability of our community.”
Matt Metz President
Dave Specht Vice President
Manager’s Report
By Kathe M. Barnes, CAAM, LSM, PCAM Executive Director
How Community Associations Reduce Public Spending
Community associations—such as homeowners associations (HOAs), condominium associations, and cooperative housing corporations—can save municipalities money in the long run by shifting many responsibilities traditionally handled by local governments to private communities. For example:
1. Privately Maintained Infrastructure
Community associations such as SRCA’s sub-associations take care of their own:
• Roads and sidewalks
• Streetlights
Cities don’t have to fund the repair/repaving for private roads or maintain lights—reducing public infrastructure spending.
2. Privately Funded Services
Some HOAs can provide:
• Landscaping and groundskeeping
• Trash and recycling pickup
• Security or neighborhood patrols
• Pest control and street cleaning
Local governments can allocate fewer resources to public works and community safety in HOA-managed neighborhoods.
3. Higher Property Values = More Tax Revenue
Well-managed associations often:
• Maintain curb appeal and amenities
• Enforce design standards
• Provide consistent upkeep
This can increase property values, leading to higher property tax revenue without increasing tax rates or requiring more services.
4. HOA-Enforced Rules Reduce Local Code Enforcement Load
Associations enforce:
• Parking rules
• Property maintenance standards
• Noise restrictions
• Nuisance prevention
Less need for city code enforcement, inspections, or legal follow-ups—freeing up city staff and resources.
5. Increased Civic Engagement
Community associations often foster a culture of:
• Volunteerism
• Local involvement
• Participation in planning and governance
This can reduce strain on public services and enhance neighborhood self-sufficiency.
6. Capital Improvements Paid by Residents
Associations fund:
• Pools, clubhouses, tennis courts
• Lakes
• Pocket parks
• Community Centers
Residents are directly funding and managing improvements without drawing on public funds or grants.
Final Thought:
While community impose assessments/fees on its residents, they relieve municipalities of significant financial and operational burdens—effectively privatizing many local government functions and making public budgets stretch further. This also provides a greater opportunity for homeowners in an HOA to have more centralized amenities at their doorstep promoting a sense of community from within.
President’s Message YOUR HOA
By Matt Metz SRCA Board President
The Valley of the Sun is a great place to live, and Scottsdale is possibly the best city in the Valley. It provides a lifestyle not found elsewhere.
And in my opinion, Scottsdale Ranch is the best place in Scottsdale to live. It’s in a great location and the Scottsdale Ranch Community Association also delivers benefits not found elsewhere.
Here are some of the significant benefits Scottsdale Ranch residents enjoy because we are in a professionally managed homeowners association.
• Elsewhere in Arizona, the Arizona legislature allows even small lots to build “additional dwelling units”, increasing the traffic and density of neighborhoods. Our HOA has more stringent restrictions, helping to protect our quality of life.
• Scottsdale Ranch has strict rules against short-term rentals – and we enforce them diligently. Our neighborhoods across Shea allow short-term, even overnight rentals, which are often a source of late-night disturbances and additional traffic. Those short-term rentals can reduce property values and quality of life for nearby residents.
• Scottsdale Ranch restricts most on-street parking. These rules help ensure an uncluttered street, easier access for you and for emergency vehicles, and greater safety for pedestrians. This year, our members voted overwhelmingly to preserve our right to retain our prohibition of most on-street parking.
• Our residents have access to our signature private lake, beautiful Lake Serena, for boating and fishing. We also have a well-equipped Community Center which is used for SRCA events. It can also be rented for private events such as weddings, parties, and meetings. Don’t forget all property owners in Scottsdale Ranch are entitled to a free boat ride every two years.
• Scottsdale Ranch’s professional staff, along with scores of volunteers, put on numerous social events, such as Lakefest, Fishing Derby, Movie in the Park, Fall Festival, Food Truck Friday, and many others.
So when you send in your small annual SRCA membership dues, I hope you’ll remember all the benefits you receive as a member of Scottsdale Ranch.
Our board of directors, volunteers, and professional staff will continue working proudly to protect and enhance your property values and quality of life.
Board Briefs
September
There was no September Board Meeting.
October
• Board upheld fines that were assessed to a homeowner.
• Board adopted changes to the Permissible Flag Rule as required by AZ State Law.
November
• Board approved the budget which reflects no assessment increase for 2026.
• Updated reserve study approved which reflects a fully funded reserve.
• Homeowners cannot commence construction of projects without the required city permits.
• Homeowners cannot submit the same project that was previously denied unless it has a material change from the prior submittal.
The SRCA office will be closed December 24th & 25th and January 1st.
Make a Difference in Our Community
We Are Now Accepting Applications to be on the SRCA Board of Directors!
Leaders can arise from various backgrounds and experiences; there is no one-size-fits-all path to success. Contribute and share your expertise with the community. SRCA is looking for committed residents to volunteer their time to enhance Scottsdale Ranch. We encourage you to apply for a position on the SRCA Board of Directors.
In March 2026, three positions will be available for the SRCA Board of Directors’ election. If you have the time and passion to make a meaningful impact, we invite you to apply.
Board applications can be found on our website’s homepage at scottsdaleranch.org or in the SRCA office. All applications must be submitted by Friday, January 2, 2026, at 3:00 P.M. Candidates will be voted on by the membership and results will be announced at the SRCA Annual Meeting, scheduled for Thursday, March 19, 2026, at 6:00 P.M. at the SRCA Community Center.
For more detailed information about the SRCA Board of Directors, please visit our website or reach out to Kathe Barnes, SRCA Executive Director. She would be more than happy to meet with you to discuss further.
From the Treasurer
By Mike Breslin
As we approach the end of the year, I’d like to provide an update on our HOA’s financial health and upcoming plans.
Financial Overview
Our association remains in a very strong financial position. In the 4th quarter, our operating and capital improvement fund balance is $2,339,780, and our reserve account balance is $2,599,793. SRCA continues to maintain healthy reserves that meet or exceed our reserve study recommendations. SRCA was able to sell excess water rights that we had ownership but would never be able to use due to the restrictions from the AZ Dept. of Water Resources. That money will be put towards future reserve needs and capital improvements. The interest from these funds have helped to offset the need for an assessment increase in 2026.
Year-to-date, SRCA has collected 99% of 2025 annual assessments. Thank you to all homeowners who have kept their accounts current—your timely payments ensure that our association can continue to fund maintenance, landscaping, utilities, and community improvements.
Reserve Projects
This year, we completed the renovation of our main entrances to improve curb appeal and increase visibility. This project did not require an assessment increase as it was funded through our capital improvement and reserve accounts. Looking ahead to 2026, planned projects include installation of SMART irrigation controllers to aid in effective water management and renovating landscape and its infrastructure ensuring it is viable in order to maintain our beautiful community.
2026 Budget Planning
The Board has reviewed the proposed budget for 2026 that was submitted by management and approved by the SRCA Finance Committee. Even though SRCA has faced rising costs in landscaping, insurance, and utilities, the Board, Finance Committee and staff have worked hard to control expenses over this past year. I am happy to report that for the third consecutive year, SRCA will not be raising the annual assessment. The 2026 annual assessment will remain at $463 per unit.
A Note of Thanks
Thank you for your continued support and involvement in our community. Sound financial management is a team effort, and your cooperation helps us keep our neighborhoods viable, attractive, and financially stable.
If you have any questions about the HOA’s finances or the upcoming budget, please feel free to contact Kathe Barnes, SRCA Executive Director or attend our next board meeting.
Architectural Report
By Diane Botica SRCA Architectural Liaison
Frequently Asked Questions
I’m tired of the look of my house. Where do I start? Sometimes you feel that it is time for a change to the look of your property, but what exactly should I do?
It is helpful to back into the steps of a project. First, come up with the finished picture that includes all the elements, making sure that they complement each other. The designs need to work together. Some people find it helpful to follow Pinterest pages or designers posts on social media showing the new trends. Think about how what you are drawn to work into what you already have and into the character of your neighborhood.
Make a collage if that helps you. Anything that puts all the pictures together so you can see if you are making the right choices. Sometimes, once you get the new changes with the parts that you do not want to change on one board, you can see if it goes together. This way you can remove, change, or add until it feels and looks put together. This allows you to see the big picture more clearly.
How do I prioritize the steps?
Once you have decided what your project is going to be, list each item of change on a sheet of paper or spreadsheet. If you wish, list the color, dimension, and estimated cost of materials in the next columns. Be sure to include all the items that are to be accomplished to get to that finished masterpiece, whether big or small.
After listing each product, such as pavers, paint, lighting… the size or sizes, the color(s) of each and the number of them, you are ready to realistically see if this is within your budget. If it is, then move forward and submit the exterior changes for a review by the SRCA Architectural Committee.
How do I submit?
Visit the Architectural page https://www.scottsdaleranch. org/plan-my-project-architectural-guide of the SRCA website https://www.scottsdaleranch.org.
• Gather each checklist that relates to the changes you want to make.
• Put them into a stack on the table and start gathering each bullet point item listed.
• Stack up the information in order of the checklists.
• Then write a narrative. This helps you and me.
In order for me to help you process your project submittal, we need to understand fully what you are doing. We all need to
be on the same page. If you are making major changes, adding an addition etc. you will need to supply a construction timeframe with your filled out and signed application to include all the checklist items. This is where your spreadsheet comes in handy. You will list each item of work being done and the length of time it takes to complete each step. We don’t need the dates for each step of the project, just the length of time for the entire project to include start and end dates.
When can I start?
Once you have submitted and the project has been approved, you will need your sub association’s approval before beginning if you live in a sub association. Some projects also require a city permit, depending on what you are doing. Be sure to check with them before beginning any work, www.scottsdaleaz.gov/planning-development. The city permitting process can take some time. It is important not to start any work such as demolition before SRCA approval or city permits are issued.
How long do I have to compete my project?
Smaller projects are generally completed within 90 days from the approval.
For large scale projects that require city approval, the construction clock begins once you have received approval from the city.
If the city requires changes to be made you will need to relay that information to me. We will have to get the updated information approved before commencement of construction.
If the city approves the project without any required changes, you will let me know and I will make notes in your account. The project should follow the construction timeframe that was submitted with your application.
If you run into trouble with suppliers and getting your product, keep communication lines open with me. You will need to submit a revised construction timeframe with the reasons and new dates for review and approval. This helps to keep you in compliance.
I am always excited to see new projects cross my desk. It is an interesting time of architectural changes in our community. I look forward to seeing your submittal.
Please Remember…….when in doubt reach out and don’t forget to submit.
From Your Homeowner Liaison
By Kathy Diab SRCA Homeowner Liaison
An HOA (Homeowners Association) is an organization in a planned community, subdivision, or condominium complex that makes and enforces rules for the properties within its jurisdiction.
Our purpose as an HOA is to maintain property values and enforce community standards. As the master association, SRCA maintains many of the common areas along the major thoroughfares and overall aesthetics of Scottsdale Ranch. We enforce the CC&R’s (Covenants, Conditions, Restrictions) as well as the Architectural Guidelines. These documents can be found online at: www.scottsdaleranch.org.
Under the umbrella of the master association, Scottsdale Ranch, we have just under 4,000 homes, 39 neighborhoods and 19 sub-communities. A sub-community often has its own board, rules and fees. Most of those subs are managed by management companies and while a couple others are self-
managed. All the subcommunities are still subject to the master HOA’s guidelines in addition to their own. These sub-association rules can be more restrictive than SRCA’s; however, they cannot negate our rules. Most of the time, we see that the rules mirror each other or work together.
Notes about sub-communities
• Each sub-community pays assessments to both the master HOA and to their sub-community. The additional fees cover the cost of the specialized services that you receive within that neighborhood.
• The subs handle most of their own maintenance within their community to include gates, streets, amenities and landscape.
At Scottsdale Ranch Community Association, we work together with the sub-communities with Architectural changes as well as some of the violations. If you have questions or need information about your sub-community, please contact our office: 480860-2022. Our office is happy to help you to navigate through this sometimes confusing process.
Selling in scottsdale Ranch?
Work with a Local!
When it comes to Scottsdale Ranch, local expertise matters
I’m Samantha Malcolm with Sold By Samantha—a Scottsdale Ranch resident who understands exactly what’s driving our neighborhood’s market right now.
If you’re thinking about selling, you may be wondering:
f Is now a good time to list?
f How do interest rates affect my price?
f What do today’s buyers expect in Scottsdale Ranch?
Let’s simplify it. I offer free home valuations and strategy consultations designed specifically for Scottsdale Ranch homeowners.
Winter in the Desert: A Time for Landscape Renewal
As we finally leave behind one of the driest summers on record in the Phoenix metro area, the desert landscape tells a story of survival and loss. With close to 100 days of triple-digit temperatures and record low rainfall totals, even resilient cacti like saguaros, desert spoons, and agave species struggled to endure. Many plants wilted, and some didn’t survive the harsh conditions.
Now, with cooler weather settling in, it’s the perfect time to assess your landscape and plan for spring. December and January may bring frost warnings, so it’s best to hold off on planting until late March or early April, when temperatures are more favorable for new growth.
Scottsdale typically enjoys winter rains during these months, so be sure to turn off your irrigation systems during rain events. A helpful guideline is to shut off the system for three days for every 0.25 inches of rain. Keep an eye on your turf and plants, adjusting water schedules based on the weekly forecast. Often, slow-moving weather systems bring steady rain, reducing the need for irrigation. By saving water now, you not only cut costs but also help conserve a vital resource for the Valley.
If you didn’t overseed your lawn this year, run your irrigation system once a week for short intervals to keep the valves operational. If you did overseed, watering three to four times a week should be enough to maintain a green, healthy lawn. Program your irrigation to provide enough water without waste. Fertilizing every six weeks with a balanced formula will help keep your lawn vibrant until warmer weather arrives and the Bermuda grass begins to emerge.
Trees will also need attention. Water deeply once a week if there’s no rain and check for cross-branching or dead wood on deciduous trees, pruning as needed. Other than that, trees generally require minimal maintenance during winter.
For shrubs, a similar routine applies: water twice a week and consider rejuvenation pruning for species like Bird of Paradise and Sage. Reducing their size now allows for natural growth in the spring, cutting down on trimming work during the hot summer months.
If you have annual flowers in bloom, be prepared for cold nights with a frost cloth handy. Geraniums, petunias, pansies, and snapdragons thrive during winter, so monitor their water needs and adjust according to the drainage in your beds or pots. Fertilize monthly with a balanced mix and remove spent blooms to encourage longevity until your spring planting. Keep weeds in check to ensure your flowers aren’t competing for nutrients.
This is the perfect time to enjoy the cool, comfortable winter weather and give your landscape the attention it needs. Spring is just around the corner, and another summer will be here before you know it.
Happy Holidays from all of us here at SDL!
The SRCA Annual Assessment is due January 1st
By Maria Rodriguez SRCA Bookkeeper
Invoices are mailed or emailed to all property owners in early December.
For the third year in a row, the annual assessment fee has remained the same in the amount of $463.00 per unit.
Payment is due January 1, 2026, whether or not you receive an invoice, however, there is a 30-day grace period providing residents adequate time to make payments, as payments are not considered delinquent until February 01, 2026. All payments received in our office after February 01, 2026, are considered late and will be assessed a 10% late fee of $46.30. Starting February 28, 2026, all accounts not paid will be assessed interest at a rate of 12% per annum, per month until the assessment is paid.
There are several ways you can pay as we have tried to make paying the annual assessment as easy as possible for our homeowner. See below the various payment methods we offer.
1. You can mail your payment check to the lock box address located on the payment coupon at the bottom of your invoice (please make sure to write your account number on your payment check).
2. Visit our bank’s website at https://propertypay.firstcitizens.com/ where you can pay using an eCheck (no charge) or credit card (nominal fee). You must have your invoice available if you choose to use this payment method to ensure that your payment is credited to the correct property.
3. Automatic withdrawal (ACH) is also available at no charge to homeowners. ACH forms are available on the on the Scottsdale Ranch website at https://www. scottsdaleranch.org and in our office; either require a voided check. If you have previously enrolled for ACH, your invoice will indicate so.
For further questions or to request an ACH Authorization form, also on the next page, please contact the SRCA bookkeeper, Maria Rodriguez by email at bookkeeping@scottsdaleranch.org or call our office at 480-8602022.
HOMEOWNER AUTHORIZATION AGREEMENT FOR DIRECT PAYMENTS
(ACH DEBITS)
Scottsdale Ranch Community Association TAX ID Number 86-0420298
I (we) hereby authorize Scottsdale Ranch Community Association, hereinafter called ASSOCIATION, to initiate debit entries to my (our) Checking Account Savings Account in payment of the Annual HOA Assessment, at the depository financial institution named below, hereinafter referred to DEPOSITORY, and to debit the same to such account. I (we) acknowledge that the origination of ACH transactions to my (our) account must comply with the provisions of U.S. law.
This authorization is to remain in full force and effect until ASSOCIATION has received written notification from me (or either of us) of its termination in such time and in such manner as to afford ASSOCIATION and DEPOSITORY a reasonable opportunity to act on it.
Our membership is composed of retired men who are still active, enjoy life, and want to meet new people and learn new things. We meet at the SR Clubhouse at 9:00 AM on the third Wednesday of each month. Coffee and donuts are served. The highlight of each meeting is a presentation by a guest speaker. Our next few speakers:
DECEMBER 17th: “Introduction to Artificial Intelligence” by Electronics Industry veteran Rick Goeld
JANUARY 21st: “Scottsdale City Council Update” by Scottsdale City Council member Solange Whitehead
FEBRUARY 18th: “Energy vs Climate: A Balanced Analysis” by Petroleum Industry veteran Rick Ross
If you are interested in joining the Club, or just attending one of our meetings, please contact Jerry Howell (928242-7979, JDVHOWIE45@GMAIL.COM). Meetings are open to all Scottsdale Ranch residents, but due to space limitations, we ask that you RSVP in advance. Thanks!
City of Scottsdale Collection Services
December 15th & January TBD
SCOTTSDALE RANCH IS AREA 3
This Information can be found on the City of Scottsdale’s website at www.scottsdaleaz.gov.
The earliest items can be placed out is the Wednesday prior to the week of pickup and must be placed out no later than 5:00 am on Monday the week of the scheduled pick up. Residents, please be considerate of your neighbors - do not put your items out before the designated dates. Placing items out before this time can result in hefty fines being assessed to your account.
Please be patient as the city has all week to pick-up in our area.
NOTICES FROM THE CITY OF SCOTTSDALE:
Please separate your brush and bulk pickup into two piles – one for green waste and one for everything else. The piles will be picked up by separate trucks during your designated brush and bulk pickup week.
*Please refrain from placing trash containers or bulk trash where it blocks the sidewalk and would prevent pedestrians or wheelchair bound residents from passing along the sidewalk.
ATTENTION!!
The use of SRCA facilities and amenities are voluntary and at your own risk. The Association is not the guarantor of your personal safety if renting the community center, recreational boat rentals, or attending any groups, clubs or SRCA events.
For up-to-date information, please visit our website at www.scottsdaleranch.org or sign up to receive our weekly email blasts.
Seasonal Mailing Address on File?
If you are a resident who does not reside here yearround, please ensure that you update your address with our office upon your return to Scottsdale Ranch for the season. While you may change your address with the post office, it will not automatically update in our system; Scottsdale Ranch must be informed as well. To submit an ‘Update My Contact Information’, please visit our website at scottsdaleranch.org. Once you complete and submit the address change, our staff will promptly update your records.
Holiday Lights & Decorations
Please keep in mind that exterior holiday lighting and decorations must be taken down within fifteen (15) days after the holidays, by January 15, 2026. We appreciate your cooperation.
Laguna Elementary School
By Krisse Kelly, Principal A+ STEAM School, Scottsdale, Arizona
It’s a great day to be a Laguna Eagle! I am the proud Principal of Laguna Elementary School, an A+ STEAM School in Scottsdale. STEAM stands for Science, Technology, Engineering, the Arts, and Math. At Laguna, we believe in teaching rigorous instruction, with love. We support, mentor, and inspire the very best from all of our students.
Recently, we hosted a variety of fun and educational events on campus. Last month, we had our first “Laguna’s Living Library,” where we invited local leaders to visit with our families and share their life stories. (This included Scottsdale Chief of Police, a retired baseball player, a retired FBI agent, All About Dance owner, our School Resource Officer, a local real estate mogul, and the former President of Charros.) We also had our schoolwide Talent Show, Courtyard Connect, Halloween Parade, Pumpkin Decorating Contest, Veterans Day Lunch, and more! We are excited to start a few new clubs after school, including the Spark Club, where we teach kids about fiscal responsibility, Spanish Club, Ambassadors Club, and Baking Club.
We are very proud of Mrs. Shamy, our Gifted Teacher, who was recently recognized at the Arizona State Board of Education meeting last month. She received the Presidential Award for Excellence in Math and Science Teaching last year for the U.S. She will eventually have the opportunity to visit the White House and represent Arizona and Laguna. We are beyond proud of Mrs. Shamy! She goes above and beyond each and every day at Laguna, often teaching and helping students who are not even in her class. She travels from Anthem everyday just to teach our Eagles! She has been at Laguna for over 30
Continued on page 14
AMENITIES
Laguna Elementary School cont.
years. She is also a mentor teacher, National Board-Certified Teacher, Makerspace Director, and Drama Teacher. We are so lucky to have her on staff!
Open enrollment started on November 3rd at Laguna for next year, but we’re actively taking new students this year, as well. We have often been referred to as the best public school in Scottsdale because of the special care and attention we give to all of our students. Our teachers are all highly qualified, award-winning, loving, and caring. All of our teachers have been to four-year universities, have their teaching credentials, most of them have their Masters, and many of them are National Board-Certified Teachers. (This is one of the highest honors teachers can receive!)
Did you know that you do not even need a teaching credential to work in a private school or charter school? Do your homework! Laguna and all SUSD schools are highly accredited and well trained to teach your students. And, it’s our pleasure to do so!
But, don’t take my word for it, come tour our campus and see why our Makerspace was recently voted the “BEST” in all of Arizona! We also just received a $10,000 Innovation Grant from SUSD to enlarge our Robotics and Makerspace Program at Laguna! Please call our front office at 480-484-2400 to schedule a tour today.
As an A+ STEAM School, we do a variety of extra special things! For example, many schools claim to be hands-on or to have “STEM” curriculum, but we went through a rigorous three-year process where we became the first STEM Cognia-Certified School in Arizona. We have also become a “STEAM School,” because of our robust Arts Program. Our Drama Department is performing The Lion King Musical in our cafeteria and you’re invited to attend! Please check out the flyer below for more details. We would love to welcome you to campus!
Kindergarten Round Up is also taking place. Please call our front office and RSVP today for one of our sessions. You’ll get to meet our administration team, kindergarten teachers, tour our school, tour our classrooms, see our campus, and more! Once you step on campus, you’ll see why our school is different. It’s special! Kids, families, and staff agree that Laguna is a step about the rest!
We also offer students the opportunity to shadow one of our students in class. If you know someone at Laguna who you would like your child to attend a morning with, please call us. If you don’t know anyone at Laguna, simply call the front office at 480–484–2400 and we’ll introduce you to a buddy and set up a shadow day for you!
Do you receive the weekly SRCA email blasts?
Stay up to date on the latest community news and events!
Sign up to be on the distribution list by submitting your information on the front page of the SRCA website at scottsdaleranch.org.
Your emailaddresswillonlybeusedfor ScottsdaleRanchCommunityAssociation communications . SRCA considers an email addresspersonalinformationoftheindividual memberandeligibletobewithheldfromany recordsrequestunderA.R.S. §33-1805.
By Brian Hartman, #866 Scottsdale Police Department Crime Prevention Officer
Via Linda District
Holiday Safety Tips
Holiday Shopping Safety:
• Whenever possible, store purchases and/or personal items in the trunk or another concealed area of your vehicle so they are not visible to potential thieves.
• Be aware of your surroundings and maintain awareness of your personal belongings, particularly in crowded or hightraffic areas where theft is more likely.
• Always lock your vehicles’ doors and windows when leaving you vehicle unattended, and choose well-lit, populated parking spots.
Home Safety:
• Exercise care when interacting with unfamiliar individuals at your door. Avoid allowing strangers inside your home, and if someone or something feels off, don’t hesitate to contact SPD non-emergency line at (480) 312-5000 or 9-1-1 in an emergency.
• When away for extended periods, use interior or exterior light timers to make your home appear occupied and deter potential burglars.
• Collect packages, mail, and newspapers from your porch or mailbox as soon as possible to reduce the risk of theft or porch piracy. Consider using delivery alerts or secure dropoff options when applicable.
• Always ensure every door and window is locked, especially when leaving the house or settling in for the night. Even a quick trip away can provide an opportunity for break-ins.
Online Safety Reminders:
• Never share personal or financial information or financial information through unsolicited phone calls, emails, or text messages.
• Regularly check bank and credit card statements for unauthorized charges.
• Update passwords regularly and enable two-factor authentication when possible.
• If anyone calls claiming to “need a payment” through prepurchased gift cards, it is a scam.
