May 2018
Lyla Faraohn makes a spring craft at the Las Sendas Ladybug release.
Barbara Bush Elementary remembers its first lady
Red Mountain junior to represent Mesa in New Zealand
By Paul Maryniak
By Carson Mlnarik
Barbara Bush Elementary School is the only school named after her outside of Texas. (Photo by Kimberly Carrillo)
Tracy Olson was just finishing his studies at ASU as he transitioned from a job in construction to a career in education when Barbara Bush reigned as the nation’s first lady. On April 18, he delivered a tribute to Bush over the PA system to the 560 students at Barbara Bush Elementary School, where he has been principal for eight years at the only school named in her honor outside Texas. Bush died April 17 at age 92. “She was a wonderful proponent of child literacy, and we look forward to carrying on her legacy,” said Olson, a product of its school system and a member of the last graduating class of the old Mesa High
Bush...continued on page 6
Ryan Coats’ New Zealand visit will be his first overseas trip. (Photo courtesy Mesa Public Schools)
Red Mountain High School junior Ryan Coats will travel to New Zealand this summer as part of Mesa’s Sister Cities program. “I still can’t believe it,” he said. “I’m just really excited for all the opportunities and experiences this is going to give me.” The program sends Mesa youth ambassadors to cities worldwide each summer to build international friendships and foster understanding and cooperation. Coats will head to Upper Hutt, New Zealand, at the end of May for three weeks. The Sister Cities movement became
Student...continued on page 8
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