• Dear Families,

    It is my honor to welcome you to our school community. I am extremely passionate about our centers and proud to offer programs designed with our community needs in mind. This includes several part-time options as well as Mandarin, Spanish and Highly Gifted programs.

    No matter which program you choose, our staff is focused on providing a safe, positive, and loving environment as we prepare each child for emotional and academic success. Our enthusiastic and dedicated Early Childhood teachers are planning many engaging, yet challenging, activities. These activities are designed to be enjoyed by our students and to ultimately prepare them for Kindergarten.

    Let me tell you a little about myself. I am blessed with a patient husband, eight amazing children and 14 adorable grandchildren! I have a Master’s in Education from ASU and more than 18 years educational experience – all in preschool! This includes private preschool experience, as well as several years as a Preschool Special Education teacher. I have been with the Higley Early Childhood Development Centers since they opened in 2013, first as a teacher and later assisting Mrs. Gleason in the front office. I am currently dedicated to serve our early childhood community as the centers’ Assistant Director. I have always been child-focused and love interacting with little ones and helping them learn! I also like to read, travel the internet, or knit when I can find the time.

    I believe that great communication is the key to great accomplishments. If there is anything I can do to improve your child’s success and support you and your family in any way, I am happy to help. The best way to do that is to schedule a time with one of our secretaries as I spend time at both centers.

    We encourage your suggestions and we think that it is important for children to see parents take an active interest in their child’s school environment. We offer many ways to get involved, such as volunteering, cutting out things at home, joining PTO, etc. Please see your child’s teacher for details.

    Thank you for sharing your precious children with us. We look forward to getting to know them as we start this school year. We are also excited and committed to building a relationship with you as we become your partner in your child’s education. It is going to be incredible year!

    Respectfully,

    Stacey Utley
    Assistant Director
    Early Childhood Development Centers
    Stacey.Utley@husd.org
    480.279.9720