FLORENCE UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT #1
APRIL 2013 BOARD REPORT
DR. AMY FULLER, 2013-2014 SUPERINTENDENT
Arizona School Board Association (ASBA) Spring Legal Seminar
Funding: We were informed that the sequestration cuts would be approximately 5.1%. In other
words, for every $1 million of federal aid received by districts; we would lose approximately
$51,000. These cuts will take place in 2013-2014. Other conference topics included: Legislative
updates, School Attacks - 21st Century, School District Budgets, Teacher and Principal
Evaluations, School Board Micromanagement, and discussion of legal cases affecting schools.
Mrs. Guenther, FUSD Board Vice President, and Mrs. Monks, Board Member, attended with me.
FUSD Opportunities
We are excited to be able to form strong teams at each school site and for the district in general.
Our goal is to serve our youth and community as we move up toward academic excellence.
Please join me in welcoming our new FUSD Principals:
Eddie Lopez, Magma Ranch K-8 Principal - Mr. Lopez was an assistant principal for six years,
four of them at MR. He has experience in curriculum, athletics, and student safety, among
others. He would like to create a culture of success, make a difference in the lives of students,
and increase academic achievement. Mrs. Rebecca Hendry, previous MR Principal transferred to
Circle Cross Ranch K-8.
Toby Haugen, Skyline Ranch K-8 Principal. Mr. Haugen started at Copper Basin K-8 and was
asked to move to Florence High School where he established a successful band and music
program. He later was given the opportunity to become an assistant principal. Mr. Haugen’s
experience lies in curriculum, discipline interventions, building relationships with students, faculty
and staff, and band and orchestra, among others. He believes in being a strong professional
leader, but staying humble. His goal is to increase student achievement. Ms. Maribel Lopez, our
current Skyline Ranch Principal is transferring to the district office as a Curriculum & Data
Administrator.
Paul Hatch, Walker Butte K-8 Principal. Mr. Hatch is a seasoned administrator with experience
in high achieving schools, as well as under-performing schools; he has a special education
background which includes autism programs; has been a K-12 Principal with includes elementary
and junior high school principal experience. Mr. Hatch understands data, curriculum, safety,
education law, the importance of community participation, team work, priorities, and supporting
teachers so they can advance/grow. Mr. Hatch supports technology in education. His philosophy
includes: consistency, clear communication, fairness, caring, and motivating students, teachers
and faculty to succeed.
Thad Gates, Florence High School Principal. Mr. Gates is an experienced administrator with a
background in athletics, IB, AP, discipline, discipline interventions, data, curriculum, school
safety, and more. He is known to be a good listener and to have strong judgment. He’s not one
to overreact, but reflects on the issues. He supports the community as an important part of
Florence High. He supports positive behavior and establishes an environment that fosters mutual
respect. He would like to continue holding high expectations, simultaneously supporting the
students and holding them accountable.
Dr. Tim Richard, Poston Butte High School Principal. Dr. Richard is an experienced
administrator with a strong background in research (Goldwater Institute), IB and AP programs. He
is a strong believer that students can succeed in academics, arts, and athletics. Dr. Richard
believes in being visible on campus and building rapport with students, faculty, staff, and parents.
He combines remediation and celebration to ensure all students learn. Dr. Richard’s work ethic is
second to none; he has high energy and is a strong believer in solving problems with creative
solutions. He believes Poston Butte will become the best high school in San Tan Valley and it’s
surroundings.
Dr. Sonia Bribiescas, Future Florence Academy Principal. Dr. Bribiescas was a Principal at
Pinnacle On-Line School prior to coming to FUSD. She has experience working in junior high
school, high school, and EVIT (a career and college readiness program). According to her
principal, “She has gained a reputation for being an outstanding team member.” Dr. Bribiescas is
enthusiastic, effective, and knowledgeable.
Her experience includes improving schools,
professional development, TAP coach/evaluator, curriculum and instruction, business computer,
math, behavior interventions, 504/IEP plans, community involvement, and school safety as well.
She is patient, considerate, and has good judgment. She loves kids, and demonstrates that in
her daily actions.
STUDENT DISCIPLINE:
There were 5 Discipline hearings with -0- long term suspensions
DISCIPLINE HEARINGS
Anthem K-8
Circle Cross K-8
Copper Basin K-8
Florence High School
Florence K-8
Magma Ranch K-8
Poston Butte High School
Skyline Ranch K-8
Walker Butte K-8
STEP Alternative Program
Total Hearings - March 2013
# of Hearings
1
1
1
2
5
# Long Term Suspensions
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0