HUSD News Stories

More than 130 business leaders, school administrators, and volunteers attended Higley Unified School District’s Fall Business & Community Partner Breakfast to enhance partnerships and make a difference for their schools and community. The event, aimed at fostering collaboration and community engagement, featured compelling presentations and dynamic discussions. 

Students took center stage, presenting the district’s #HigleyHelps initiative and how it helped shape their lessons in leadership at Cortina Elementary and Cooley Middle School. This program is part of the district’s Strategic Plan and Portrait of a Graduate to teach responsible citizenship.  

The breakfast also included group discussions facilitated in partnership with School Connect, a non-profit organization helping provide a network of community leaders for every local school. Attendees brainstormed potential projects and partnerships for the upcoming Make a Difference Day in October, discussing with PTO members, principals and fellow business leaders. The energy in the room was palpable as business leaders and school representatives worked together to identify initiatives that could bring about meaningful change. After discussion, leaders shared out ideas, including hosting supply drives, partnering with businesses to teach job interview skills, and connecting senior citizens to early elementary students through volunteer work. 

Superintendent Sherry Richards emphasized the importance of such partnerships in enhancing educational experiences and community well-being. “Higley is an A-rated school district in part because of partners who see the value in helping our students,” she remarked. 

McCarthy Building Companies was the food sponsor for the event. Andrea Ramos with McCarthy said events like these allow valuable opportunities to make connections with local schools. 

“You can learn how to help support the schools not only because the students that are coming out are your future workforce, but you can get engaged in the classroom, meet those individuals, help influence them, and help grow your community and support your business in the long run,” she said. 

The breakfast not only strengthened existing partnerships but also paved the way for new collaborations, ensuring that the district’s efforts to provide learners with limitless opportunities will continue to thrive.