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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.
Mercado Corner
In the Community
In
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 Thorlin President
Specht
Mike Breslin Treasurer
Jake Amrani Secretary
Ron Auerbach Director
Peter Klausner Director
Michele Holzman 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 JULY 3RD.
“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.” Police (Emergency) 911
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
MISSION STATEMENT:
Dave
Vice President
Manager’s Report
By Kathe M. Barnes, LSM, PCAM Executive Director
E-bikes have quickly become a common sight in neighborhoods, offering a convenient, ecofriendly way to get around. But with that rise has come a growing tension: riders moving too fast through shared spaces, cutting across lawns or sidewalks, and occasionally putting pedestrians at risk. Riding responsibly isn’t just about avoiding trouble—it’s about preserving the sense of safety and community that neighborhoods depend on.
At their core, e-bikes blur the line between bicycles and motorized vehicles. They can accelerate quickly and reach speeds that surprise both riders and bystanders. That means the casual mindset people often bring to biking—cruising wherever feels convenient—doesn’t always translate well. A sidewalk or a narrow residential path might feel like fair game, but at 15–25 mph, it becomes a hazard zone, especially for kids, pets, or anyone who isn’t expecting fast-moving traffic.
One of the biggest issues is speed management. Neighborhoods are shared environments, not transit corridors. Even if your e-bike can go fast, it rarely should be in these settings. Slowing down isn’t just courteous—it gives you time to react. A child chasing a ball, a car backing out of a driveway, or someone stepping out from behind a parked vehicle can appear instantly. Speed reduces your margin for error to almost nothing.
Pedestrian awareness is equally critical. E-bikes are relatively quiet, which can make them harder to notice. Passing someone without warning, especially at speed, can startle them or cause unpredictable reactions. A simple bell, verbal cue, or slowing down significantly when passing goes a long way. Think of it less as “getting by” someone and For riders, the takeaway is simple: control your speed, respect boundaries, and stay aware of the people around you.
For parents: You have a bigger influence on how kids ride e-bikes than any rulebook or sign ever will. The goal isn’t just teaching “don’t crash”—it’s helping kids understand that they’re sharing space with other people and that their choices affect others.
Below are some key City of Scottsdale Bike and E-Bike Rules: E-Bike Classifications: Class 1 (pedal-assist 20 mph) and Class 2 (throttle 20 mph) are permitted on paved pathways. Class 3 (pedal-assist 28 mph) e-bikes are prohibited on multiuse pathways but allowed in designated bike lanes.
• Age Restriction: Individuals under 16 cannot operate Class 3 e-bikes or similar high-speed devices on city property (streets, sidewalks, parks, McDowell Sonoran Preserve).
• Helmet Law: Helmets are mandatory for all riders under 18 years old.
Board Briefs
March
• Board Officers were appointed
• SRCA Committee Appointments were selected, other than Architectural.
• Architectural Appeal was upheld.
• Lighting Rule Revision was passed.
April
Special Board Briefs
• SRCA Architectural Committee Board Member Assignments were appointed.
• City of Scottsdale Maintenance and Reimbursement Agreement was approved
April
• The City of Scottsdale Community Involvement team spoke about the resources the city offers for homeowner associations.
• SRCA will hire consultant to assist with the cell site lease with Crown Castle.
• Board approved the decision to get bids for new neighborhood signs that mimic the new SRCA entrance signage.
• Nicholas Sagalkin was approved as a member of the Lake Committee.
The SRCA office will be closed July 3rd.
• Obey traffic laws: All bicycles and scooters, electric or otherwise, must obey traffic laws, including always yielding to pedestrians. Scooters and bicycles can be ridden on a public sidewalk, multiuse path, or roadway at a safe speed to avoid colliding with people, cars and objects around them.
• Operating Rules: Yield to pedestrians and equestrians on paths; announce when passing.
• Respect private property: Devices can only be on private property with permission of the property owner (except in commercial or multi-family residential properties within common area bike racks and designated bicycle parking zones).
Who should I call if I see someone riding a bike or scooter in an unsafe manner?
If the rider is moving through the area, there is little the city can do. If there is a persistent problem with riding in a particular area, please call the police non-emergency line at 480-3125000 and the call will be prioritized for response by the police department.
E-bikes have a love-hate relationship. I try to get out and ride my e-bike as much as I can—it’s something I really enjoy. Let’s face it, e-bikes are here to stay, and they can be a great addition to neighborhood life. Used responsibly, they make getting around easier and more enjoyable. Used carelessly, they become a source of risk and resentment. The difference is in how—and where—you ride.
President’s Message
By Mike Thorlin SRCA Board President
Dear Scottsdale Ranch Residents,
Welcome to this latest edition of the Scottsdale Ranch Community Association Magazine. I’d like to begin by sharing the results of the Board’s recent officer organization following our latest election cycle.
I am honored to have been elected by my fellow Board members to serve as President of the Scottsdale Ranch Homeowners Association. Joining me in leadership, Dave Specht has been elected Vice President, Mike Breslin will continue his dedicated service as Treasurer, and Dr. Jake Amrani has been elected to serve as Secretary of the Board. Together, we are committed to serving the community with transparency, accountability, and a shared focus on maintaining the exceptional quality of life here in Scottsdale Ranch.
Scottsdale Ranch continues to benefit from a strong and well-managed Association. Financially, the community remains on solid footing, supported by prudent fiscal management and long-term planning. Organizationally, the Association is structured to effectively support operations, governance, and community engagement. These strengths, combined with the dedication of past and present Board members, have contributed significantly to the continued preservation of home values and the high quality of life that residents enjoy throughout Scottsdale Ranch.
This transition follows several recent changes to the Board. Matt Metz, our former President, and Nina Munson have both completed their terms and stepped away from service in accordance with our HOA bylaws. We thank them sincerely for their time, leadership, and meaningful contributions to the community.
We are also pleased to welcome two members elected by the community to join the Board. Dr. Jake Amrani joins for the first time, bringing fresh perspective and energy, while Michele Holzman returns after previously serving the community with distinction. We appreciate their willingness to serve and contribute their time and expertise.
The Board is also closely monitoring matters that may
impact our broader community. One such issue is the uncertainty surrounding the potential closure of Laguna Elementary School by the Scottsdale Unified School District, along with future plans for the property and facilities. We recognize the importance of this location to the community and are actively tracking developments. Under the leadership of Governmental Committee Chair Peter Klausner, the Board is engaged in efforts to stay informed and help shape outcomes in a way that best serves the interests of Scottsdale Ranch residents.
We would also like to recognize the important role of the Election Committee, chaired by Ron Auerbach. The Election Committee ensures that election policies and procedures are uniform, unbiased, and open to all eligible members of SRCA. They oversee the entire election process to uphold fairness and integrity, ensuring that no preference is shown to any candidate. Their work is essential in maintaining the transparency and trust that underpin our community governance.
As your new President, I am committed to building on the strong foundation established by past leadership while working collaboratively with the Board and our residents. Our priorities remain focused on preserving property values, maintaining our community standards, and fostering open communication and engagement.
Scottsdale Ranch is a truly special place because of its residents, and I look forward to working together to ensure it continues to thrive.
Warm regards,
Mike Thorlin President Scottsdale Ranch
Homeowners Association
Important Information about Assessments
By Maria Rodriguez SRCA Bookkeeper
We’d like to once again take the opportunity to thank each of the homeowners here at Scottsdale Ranch who have paid their 2026 Annual Assessment!
By paying your annual assessment in a timely manner, you are not only ensuring that Scottsdale Ranch Community Association continues to remain in good financial standing, but you are also helping to ensure that we are able to perform the many tasks and duties for which the association is responsible.
If your annual assessment has not yet been paid and you have not arranged a payment plan, a lien has been or will be filed against your property through the Maricopa County Recorder’s Office. Lien filing/release fees have been added to your account; monthly interest continues to accrue at a rate of 12% per annum and further collection action may be necessary.
What does having a lien against your property mean to you? It means you’ve failed to pay a debt you owe. Typically, the property cannot be sold until the past due amount has been paid in full and the Lien has been released. Additionally, having a lien filed against your property could affect your credit as not paying a debt can negatively affect your credit scores.
Should a homeowner’s assessments continue to be delinquent, the account may be turned over to an attorney for collection action without further notice from the association. Failure to pay these assessments could also result in the filing of a personal judgment action and the homeowner will be responsible for all attorney’s fees, document recording, and any other fees incurred to collect this debt.
If you have any questions or would like to pay your overdue 2026 annual assessment, you may contact me at bookkeeping@scottsdaleranch.org or (480) 860-2022 ext. 14, and I’ll be happy to assist you! We are here to work with you.
From Your Homeowner Liaison
By Kathy Diab SRCA Homeowner Liaison
Palm Tree Trimming Time
The best time to trim palm trees in Scottsdale Arizona is usually during warmer months, June through July when growth is active. However, hazardous or dead fronds can be removed at any time. Trimming during this period removes flowers and fruit pods before they fall and prepares the tree for summer monsoons by reducing heavy, wind-catching fronds.
1. Purpose of Trimming
Palm trees are trimmed mainly to removed dead, dying or damaged fronds. This helps prevent falling debris, reduces fire hazards, and improves the tree’s appearance.
2. Avoid Over-Trimming
One of the most important takeaways is that palms should not be excessively pruned. Removing too many green fronds weakens the tree, slows the growth, and make it more vulnerable to disease and pests.
3. Proper Technique
Trimming should focus on cutting only brown or broken fronds, typically those hanging below a horizontal line. Specialized tools or professional arborists are often recommended for tall trees to ensure safety and proper care.
4. Safety Considerations
Palm Tree trimming can be dangerous due to height and heavy fronds. We encourage hiring professionals or larger trees.
Monsoon Season
Monsoon season in Arizona typically runs from June 15th –September 30th. Three dangers to watch out for include dust storms, flash floods, and lightning.
Safety Tips:
• Trim trees to ensure branches are clear of windows and roofs; a thinner tree canopy can help reduce the risk of limb breakage and uprooting.
• Inspect and clean your roof drainage system, including gutters and scuppers.
• Clear debris from street gutters near your property to help prevent flooding on the streets.
• Secure loose items around your property, such as patio and pool furniture.
• Unplug valuable electronics (like TVs, stereos, home entertainment systems, and computers). It’s also wise to install power protection devices to guard against power surges. If you experience a power outage, please contact your service provider.
DO;
• Remove only dead fronds to a 180-degree angle, 9:00/3:00 o’clock positions as you look at the tree.
• Use a sharp linoleum knife to remove dead fronds.
• Remove fruit clusters to avoid pavement staining.
• Remove seedling branches
DO NOT;
• Remove fronds higher than a 45-degree angle.
• Trim fronds before entering cool/wet season to avoid creating an environment for fungal development.
• Remove more than 25% of foliage at any time
• Prune before the danger of frost.
Now is the time to schedule with a landscaper or certified arborist for palm trimming before you get that letter in the mail requesting you trim your trees. The City of Scottsdale has brush pick up throughout the summer. We list the brush pickup dates on our Scottsdale Ranch Email Blasts and website. Visit http://www.scottsdaleaz.gov/solid-waste/brush-bulk-collection for more information.
Important Note: For residents living by the lake: It’s important to keep your ropes tied to your boat a bit looser during the summer. This way, if heavy rain causes the water level in Lake Serena to rise significantly, there will be enough slack in the rope to prevent it from becoming too tight, which could lead to breakage and the boat floating away.
If your boat becomes detached from its dock during a monsoon and needs to be towed or rescued by SRCA, a Watercraft Tow Policy charge of $75.00 will apply.
SOME TIPS FOR TRIMMING PALM TREES:
Architectural Report
By Diane Botica SRCA Architectural Liaison
Exterior Lighting, Edison Lights, Holiday Lights
The SRCA Board of Directors put together a task force whose purpose was to review existing Architectural Guidelines relating to lighting for appropriateness. Discussions arose about if Scottsdale Ranch should be a dark sky community and after lengthy discussions, it was clear that was not the intent or direction the task force wanted to head.
Mission Statement: The SRCA Exterior Lighting Committee has been established to educate Scottsdale Ranch homeowners about lighting solutions that reduce light pollution while enhancing property values and maintaining the safety and security of each residence.
During this review, it was clear that the changes needed to be more in tune with recommendations and education on how Lumens and Kelvins work together so homeowners can choose the right brightness which are further defined in the rules below.
Living in an HOA community means sharing space—and that includes how our homes look and feel after dark. Exterior lighting plays an important role in safety and curb appeal, but when it’s too bright or poorly positioned, it can unintentionally affect nearby neighbors.
Why it matters
Bright lights that shine beyond your property can spill into neighboring yards or windows, disrupting sleep, privacy, and enjoyment of outdoor spaces. This is called “light trespass,” and it’s one of the most common (and easily fixable) neighborhood concerns.
Simple ways to be considerate with outdoor lighting
• Aim lights downward: Make sure fixtures are directed toward your own driveway, walkway, or entry—not outward or upward.
• Choose the right brightness: Extremely bright bulbs aren’t always better. Softer, warm-toned lighting often provides enough visibility without being harsh.
• Use shields or covers: Many fixtures can be adjusted or fitted with shields to keep light focused where it’s needed.
• Install motion sensors or timers: These reduce constant light and help ensure lighting is only on when necessary.
• Check your property at night: Step outside and see how your lighting looks from different angles, including from the street and near neighboring homes.
A shared responsibility
Maintaining a comfortable and respectful environment ben -
efits everyone. Small adjustments to lighting can make a big difference in preserving the peaceful atmosphere we all value.
Updated Architectural Rules for lighting language:
Scottsdale Ranch supports the City of Scottsdale policies for exterior and site lighting by encouraging quality lighting design by providing a sense of safety and security while reducing excessive light levels, light trespass, and glare. By reducing excessive light levels, light trespass and glare, homeowners can effectively light their property without adversely impacting the neighborhood.
LED Information
• Most of the new light fixtures are designed with LED bulbs or they are LED integrated fixtures. To substitute traditional incandescent bulbs for LED bulbs, you will need to compare the Lumens to achieve the same brightness. See the lumens chart below for more information.
• Both types of LED illumination have higher Kelvins than the traditional incandescent bulbs. LED illumination offers up to 90% less energy used, LED lasts up to 50 times longer, and LED emits significantly less heat.
• Integrated light fixtures have the LED chips built into the light fixture rather than operating with replaceable bulbs. They are said to offer high-quality uniform illumination with a sleek design that can often be flush mounted.
Kelvins Information
• All exterior lighting must be soft and indirect in white or yellow bulbs with a color temperature of 3,000 – 5,000 Kelvins. Kelvins (K) measure the color temperature of light bulbs, determining if they appear warm (yellowish), neutral (white), or cool (bluish). Kelvin are what make some lights appear brighter than others even if they are the same lumens.
Lumens by usage suggested:
• 100 – 300 lumens per fixture for landscape lighting
• 200 – 700 per fixture for house lighting such as porches and entry light fixtures
• 700 – 1,300 per fixture for spotlights, floodlights, or similartype high intensity lighting new lighting offerings and how they relate to lumens/wattage, and light trespass.
For ease of locating and understanding specific lighting guidelines, the Holiday and Edison lights requirements were moved to their own index within the rules. Please visit the SRCA website at www.scottsdaleranch.org for the complete lighting rules.
Summer Gardening Tips for a Vibrant Landscape
Summer has arrived, bringing with it warm days and drier conditions. As you enjoy the longer days, it’s important to adjust your gardening practices to keep your landscape looking its best during this time of year. Follow these tips to maintain a vibrant garden throughout the summer.
1. Timing of Plantings
If you missed planting in May, hold off on new plantings until the higher humidity of July, August, and September. These months provide the optimal conditions for new plantings, especially for citrus trees.
2. Proper Watering
As temperatures rise, proper watering becomes crucial. Ensure your landscape plants receive enough water to thrive. Shrubs should be watered to a depth of 2 feet, while trees require a depth of 3 feet. Use a soil probe to monitor moisture levels and adjust your watering schedule accordingly.
• Watering Frequency: Established gardens generally need watering 1-2 times per week for an hour. Mature trees do well with watering of 90-120 minutes at 10-20 day intervals.
• Adjust for Rain: As monsoon rain cycles approach, modify your watering schedule based on the amount of rainfall you receive.
3. Lawn Care
By June, your Bermuda lawn should be thriving, and winter rye should be fading. Take advantage of the summer season by aerating your lawn and applying a balanced fertilizer with at least 19-21% nitrogen to promote healthy growth.
4. Tree Pruning
With increased heat and irrigation, expect new growth on your trees, particularly Elms, Mesquites, and Palo Verdes. Avoid thinning out your trees during the hot summer months, as this can expose branches to intense sunlight. Instead, focus on tip pruning of longer, drooping branches.
5. Palm Maintenance
June and July are ideal for pruning palms such as date and Canary Island varieties. Remove new flower stalks to prevent fruit formation and prune fan palms (Mexican and Californian varieties) at angles of 9:00 and 3:00 degrees, up to 10:00 and 2:00.
By following these tips, you can keep your landscape healthy and vibrant throughout the summer. As always, monitor your plants closely and adjust your care routine as needed based on weather conditions.
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.
City of Scottsdale Collection Services
Upcoming Weeks of Brush Collection:
June 8th & July 13th
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.
City of Scottsdale Community Notices
Vacation Watch Request
This long-standing service allows residents to request Police Officers drive by their home to check when they are on vacation. There is no guarantee officers will be able to check the home each day and are subject to department priority calls for service. To submit a vacation watch form, visit www.scottsdaleaz.gov and search Vacation Watch.
Check out SRCA’s website Chatbot - Serena
Last April, we announced the launch of the SRCA website chatbot –“Serena”.
The chatbot appears as a small blue and white bubble on the bottom right-hand corner of most pages on the SRCA website.
Serena aims to help residents easily locate information on the SRCA website. Homeowners will be able to access Serena 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
The chatbot can quickly provide accurate information about policies, resources, community events, and more - no waiting on hold or searching through website pages, helping visitors get what they need faster. When users click the bubble, a chat window opens, prompting users to ask questions. Users will then be able to type in questions such as “Where can I find the Architectural Application” and “When is the next Board meeting?”
The chatbot interprets the question and responds instantly.
The chatbot can provide direct answers:
• Linking users to the correct page
• Walk residents through steps
• Offer suggestions based on what they’re trying to do
“Serena” can also pass on the question if a question is too complex or requires human response. After two failed attempts to retrieve the information you are looking for, users will be able to submit their contact information and a SRCA staff member will respond to the resident within 24-48 hours. This keeps the experience smooth and avoids dead ends.
Please remember that Serena can only address inquiries regarding information available on the website. The chatbot is designed to assist you with the best of its capabilities. As a new addition to the SRCA website, Serena is constantly learning and improving.
If you have used our Serena Chatbot, we’d love to hear your feedback. Your insights help us improve and provide an even better experience for all users. Please email serena@scottsdaleranch.org.
Pool Drainage Guidelines
Permitted Drainage Options
• Drain onto your own property:
o Water must remain entirely within your property lines.
o Only drain dechlorinated water; allow 3–7 days after the last chemical treatment for chlorine to dissipate.
o Keep the pH between 7 and 8 before releasing water onto landscaping.
• Drain into your home’s sanitary sewer cleanout:
o Locate the cleanout, typically a capped pipe near the house.
o Use a pump with a maximum flow rate of 12 gallons per minute to prevent sewer backups.
o Do not use cleanouts located inside walls or make permanent connections.
o Monitor indoor drains during pumping to ensure no overflow occurs.
Practices That Are Not Allowed
• Draining water into storm drains or streets
• Draining into alleys, city easements, or natural washes
• Directing water into neighboring yards
Improper drainage can cause environmental harm, damage infrastructure, and result in city fines or costly repairs.
Additional Support
If you need help locating your sewer cleanout or are unsure how to drain safely, contact a licensed plumber.
More detailed guidance is available on the City of Scottsdale website: https://www.scottsdaleaz.gov/water/water-quality/ protect-your-water
Let’s work together to keep our community safe, compliant, and environmentally responsible. Thank you for doing your part.
AMENITIES
Laguna Prep
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 Prep, A+ STEAM School, in Scottsdale, off of Shea and Via Linda. (Formerly known as Laguna Elementary School.) STEAM stands for Science, Technology, Engineering, the Arts, and Math. At Laguna, we believe in delivering a rigorous education grounded in care. We support, mentor, and inspire the very best from all of our students.
In an effort to increase enrollment, differentiate ourselves from Laguna Elementary School in Tucson, and compete with our neighboring schools, we have officially renamed Laguna Elementary School - we are now Laguna Prep, A+ STEAM School. Laguna Prep also defines what we do at Laguna! We are “prepping” our students for a successful future. We are preparing our students to be academically ready, hard workers, and well-rounded students. We have high academic standards and expectations for our students. We expect them to master their math, English Language Arts, reading, writing, science, and social studies goals, as well as be respectful, responsible, trustworthy, and kind students. At Laguna, we master the art of the handshake, how to give oral presentations, and how to get along with others. All of these skills are important in today’s society.
Some of you have reached out to me about a recent letter you received from the Scottsdale Ranch HOA. It is true that Laguna has been named a “Phase 2” school, which means that we are part of a large group of schools which might be consolidated or repurposed in the future. This past spring, there was a committee of teachers, staff, and community members who were examining the best options for our students. The SUSD School Board will vote in October and we will keep you posted. But we are indeed open for the 2026-2027 school year!
Let me reassure you that our students and their families are our number one priority. Our staff’s future is also on the forefront of our minds and we will do everything within our power to make sure everyone is safe and happy! At SUSD, we always put our students first! I will keep you posted about any developments, but please feel free to reach out to our office at 480-484-2400 if you have any questions, concerns, or would like a tour. We continue to grow and enroll more students every day, so we remain optimistic about Laguna’s future!
Enrollment is on-going at Laguna and I’m happy to give tours this summer! So, please don’t hesitate to contact me if you’re considering Laguna. I came from out of state over 21 years ago, where you had to go to your neighborhood school. As you
may already know, you have lots of choices in Arizona! You can choose Laguna, even if you don’t live in our immediate area. 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.
All of our teachers are highly qualified, award-winning, loving, and caring. All of our teachers have graduated from four-year universities and graduate school, have their teaching credentials, most of them have their Masters, and many of them are National Board Certified Teachers. (This is the highest honor teachers can receive!) Did you know that you do not even need to have 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 children.
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 Program at Laguna. Please call our front office at 480-484-2400 to schedule a tour today. Once you step on campus, you’ll see why our school is different. Kids, families, and staff agree that Laguna is a step above 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 something 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.
Please consider a tax credit donation today!
As you know, Arizona allows taxpayers to receive a dollarfor-dollar tax credit for contributions made to “Laguna Prep.” Please share this great news with friends and family, as contributions can be made any time by any Arizona resident. Taxpayers can contribute up to $200 for individuals and $400 for joint filers. This is a win-win for you and our school! We use these vital funds for field trips, club fees, tutoring, and more. All students benefit from these donations. (The most a household can contribute is $400 - even if you have multiple children.) If you choose to make this no-cost contribution to Laguna, your checks can be made payable to “Laguna Prep” and returned to our front office. There is also an online option: https://azscottsdale-lite.intouchreceipting.com/
We look forward to an amazing summer! As always, please feel free to call me if you have any questions or concerns. Thank you in advance for considering Laguna when making your tax credit contribution!
By Brian Hartman, #866 Scottsdale Police Department Crime Prevention Officer
Via Linda District
June/July Safety Tips
Heat Safety
• Stay hydrated by drinking water regularly even if you are not thirsty.
• Try to avoid strenuous outdoor activities, especially during the peak heat hours.
• Take frequent breaks in shaded or air-conditioned areas.
• Never leave children, or pets unattended in parked vehicles.
Fireworks and Fire Safety
• Familiarize yourself with local laws and regulations for fireworks.
• Never allow children to handle fireworks unsupervised.
• Keep a bucket of water or a hose nearby if personal fireworks are permitted.
• Consider attending a professional fireworks display as a safer alternative.
Scam Prevention
Here are a few ways you can best protect yourself and your family from online/phone scams:
• If someone contacts you by phone or email demanding payment with gift cards, treat it as a scam. Legitimate businesses and government agencies will never require payment in that form.
• Never share your Social Security number or other personal information with anyone you do not know or have not verified as legitimate.
• Avoid answering calls from unfamiliar numbers. If the matter is important, the caller will leave a voicemail, giving you the opportunity to confirm their identity before returning the call.
• If something doesn’t feel right, trust your instincts—hang up. It is always better to end the call than risk falling victim to a scam.
Artists of Scottsdale Ranch Raise $11,550 for Tina’s Treasures Cancer Care Boutique
Inspired by the strength of breast cancer survivors and the healing power of art, the Artists of Scottsdale Ranch raised $11,550 for Tina’s Treasures Cancer Care Boutique at the HonorHealth Virginia G. Piper Cancer Center, exceeding their 2026 fundraising goal of $10,000. The check was officially presented to Tina’s Treasures and HonorHealth Foundation staff on Monday, March 23, 2026, at the HonorHealth Virginia G. Piper Cancer Center, located at 10460 N. 92nd Street, Scottsdale, Arizona.
The Artists of Scottsdale Ranch is a collective of twenty accomplished artists residing in and around the Scottsdale Ranch community. Recognized regionally and internationally, the group hosts an annual art show accompanied by a silent auction to benefit local charitable causes. Since 2022, the silent auction has supported Tina’s Treasures, with 100 percent of proceeds donated directly to the boutique.
Tina’s Treasures provides essential post-surgery products, apparel, and supportive services for women recovering from cancer treatment—particularly those who may be unable to afford these necessities. The boutique also offers encouragement and a welcoming environment that helps restore confidence during recovery.
Many members of the Artists of Scottsdale Ranch have been personally touched by breast cancer through their own experiences or those of loved ones. The annual art show was founded seventeen years ago by sculptor Sharon Martin while she was undergoing breast cancer treatment at the Virginia G. Piper Cancer Center. In 2022, painter Judi Bloom assumed leadership of the group and designated Tina’s Treasures as the primary beneficiary of the silent auction after touring the boutique.
Fundraising totals have steadily increased over the past five years, growing from $4,800 to $6,000, $7,300, and $9,200 before surpassing the 2026 goal.
About the Artists of Scottsdale Ranch
The Artists of Scottsdale Ranch is a community-based group of professional artists committed to supporting local causes through the arts. The organization hosts an annual art show and silent auction benefiting nonprofit organizations in the Scottsdale area.
About Tina’s Treasures Cancer Care Boutique
Located within the HonorHealth Virginia G. Piper Cancer Center, Tina’s Treasures provides post-surgical necessities, apparel, and compassionate support to individuals undergoing cancer treatment.
Photo: Courtesy of Artists of Scottsdale Ranch – Artists of Scottsdale Ranch Team Left to Right: Dawn Villa Masci, Denise McCue, Vicky Scheider, Judith Bloom, Julieta Hughes, Judith Rothenstein-Putzer, Leslie Kiefus. Not Pictured: Jim Rapisarda, Judy Orent
2026 SRCA Calendar of Events
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