As the semester comes to a close, we want to recognize the heart of AJUSD—our students, families, and staff who make this community vibrant, resilient, and full of possibility. December gives us a moment to reflect on the progress we’ve made and the excitement we’re building for the new year ahead. |
Apache Junction High School students took center stage before the break—and delivered outstanding performances! Several Prospector performers earned Superior ratings at the Eastern Regional Festival, showcasing exceptional talent, hard work, and creativity.
Congratulations to:
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Jay Paine – Solo Musical Theatre
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Jane Schlemper – Solo Musical Theatre
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Emily Mitchell, Jane Schlemper & Kayden Spicer – Group Musical Theatre
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Jay Paine, Lucy Mitchell & Skylar Essig – Group Musical Theatre
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Shyenne Toro – Scenic Design
We are incredibly proud of these students for representing AJHS with passion and excellence. Their dedication continues to inspire our entire school community!
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Cactus Canyon Jr. High AVID students spent an unforgettable day at Arizona State University, diving into hands-on workshops and big-picture thinking!
From learning about innovation and real-world problem-solving with ASU’s Luminosity team, to a fast-paced game of career-themed Heads Up with the College of Design and Arts, students explored new pathways and possibilities at every turn. The grand finale? A virtual-reality trip through outer space that left everyone dreaming bigger than ever.
A huge thank you to ASU for welcoming our students and showing them just how far their futures can go!
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Peralta Trail Elementary has a brand-new outdoor learning space—and it’s officially open! Thanks to the leadership of Ms. Meacham and the incredible support of Rio Tinto/Resolution Copper, who funded the project through a generous grant, students now have a beautiful, hands-on environment to explore, experiment, and learn beyond the classroom walls. This renovated outdoor center will inspire curiosity and discovery for years to come. |
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Desert Vista Elementary students kicked off reading season with a bang at the Book Blast Opening Party! Thanks to our friends at Books Are Fun, every student went home with at least one new book—and many earned even more. More than 1,000 books were distributed, and our library received a complete K–5 collection to support future readers.
The excitement didn’t stop there—one lucky student even won a treasure chest packed with book-themed prizes! Thank you to everyone who helped make this celebration of literacy unforgettable. Desert Vista readers are officially blasting off into new adventures!
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At Four Peaks Elementary, Mrs. Dixon’s kindergartners rolled up their sleeves and dove into phonics fun! This week’s focus was the letter E—a powerhouse vowel that early readers need to master.
Students practiced beginning sounds, traced words, matched pictures, and worked in small groups with Mrs. Dixon to sharpen both their letter recognition and handwriting skills. Their concentration, teamwork, and enthusiasm made the classroom buzz with learning.
We are so proud of these hardworking kinders! Big readers start with small steps, and they’re already on their way!
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At The Classical Academy at Superstition Mountain, Mrs. Jones’s kindergarten scientists rolled up their sleeves for some hands-on pumpkin exploration! They measured the height, counted the lines, and—after a few brave faces—inspected the famously slimy insides before making their big prediction: Would a pumpkin sink or float?
After testing their hypothesis, students recorded their findings like true scholars and even took home pumpkin seeds to grow their own future gourds—just in time for the season of harvest and gratitude.
It’s learning, wonder, and a dash of fall fun all wrapped together. So now we’re curious—what do you think? Would a full-sized pumpkin sink or float?
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The Early Learning Center was buzzing with excitement as students got up close and cuddly with real farm animals! A petting zoo visited campus, giving little learners the chance to step inside, meet each animal face-to-face, and even help brush them.
From soft feathers to fuzzy coats, students explored textures, sounds, and behaviors in a fun, interactive way. What better way to learn about farm life than by experiencing it firsthand? It was a day full of smiles, giggles, and unforgettable memories!
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On Veteran's Day, the City of Apache Junction came together to celebrate and honor the brave men and women who have served our country. AJUSD was represented in the with our NJROTC cadets leading the way in a spirited march to recognize our nation’s heroes.
Our Transportation Department showcased their patriotism with a bus decorated in American flags, and Black and Gold Youth Football brought energy and excitement to the procession.
Thank you to everyone who participated and supported this meaningful community event—and to all our veterans, we remain deeply grateful for your service and sacrifice.
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What a moment for Apache Junction High School! Last Friday, our all-girls Stunt Team hit the mat at the AIA State Championships—and absolutely owned it.
Ellery Brennan, Kayden Brummer, Tinsley Stickle, and Sedona Steele delivered a powerhouse performance packed with precision, athleticism, and heart. Their energy was electric, their teamwork was flawless, and they represented AJHS with true Prospector pride.
These four athletes have trained relentlessly all season, and seeing them shine on the biggest stage was nothing short of inspiring. Congratulations, Prospectors!
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We had a fantastic time at Blossom Rock’s Pioneer Gold Rush event at Painted Sky Park!
Our AJUSD team brought the excitement with a booth where principals connected with families and shared what makes our schools so special.
GenTech stole the show with hands-on robotics demos, and our Transportation Department gave curious kids (and parents!) an inside look with interactive school bus tours.
It was a joy meeting so many new families and welcoming them into our growing community. We’re excited for what’s ahead—and we hope to see these future Prospectors on our campuses soon!
Special thanks to Blossom Rock for including us in this fun and festive day.
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As we prepare for the second half of the school year, we want to thank our families for choosing AJUSD. Your commitment to our schools allows us to do what we do best—put Kids First and create learning environments where every student is known, supported, and given room to grow. January brings new opportunities, expanded programs, and deeper learning experiences across the district, and we’re excited for what’s ahead.
Each of our campuses offers something unique, and together, they form a continuum of learning that keeps students engaged from their very first days of school through graduation:
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Early Learning Center families can look forward to more hands-on, play-based exploration that builds confident, kindergarten-ready learners.
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Four Peaks Elementary continues to strengthen and expand its Dual Language Immersion model, giving students the lifelong advantage of bilingualism and cultural insight.
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Desert Vista Elementary is growing leaders through character-focused classrooms and real-world experiences that inspire confidence and voice.
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Peralta Trail Elementary is expanding outdoor learning and STEM opportunities, bringing academics to life through nature, exploration, and problem-solving.
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The Classical Academy at Superstition Mountain remains committed to a traditional, knowledge-rich curriculum rooted in mastery, character, and deep thinking. NEW! Master Gardeners Program starting January 2026!
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Cactus Canyon Junior High offers AVID, GenTech STEM, electives, and experiences that help students discover interests and prepare for the rigor and independence of high school.
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Apache Junction High School provides pathways in academics, athletics, performing arts, and career-connected programs that open doors to college, certifications, and future careers.
No matter where your child is on their educational path, there is a place for them here—and a purpose behind every step. Staying with AJUSD means continuity, connection, and a community that cares deeply about who your child is and who they will become.
Start your re-enrollment now to secure your child’s spot in our premiere programs and continue their journey with AJUSD.
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Looking for a great way to advertise your business while directly supporting Apache Junction High School? Secure a spot in the AJHS Yearbook! Ad space is filling up fast, so don't miss this opportunity to reach the community and show your school spirit.
Give the Gift of Memories
Did you know you can also make a lasting impact by donating a full or partial yearbook to a student? It's a fantastic way to ensure every student can cherish their high school memories.
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December
10th - Early Release Day
18th - Early Release Day
19th - January 5th - Winter Break
January 2026
6th - School Resumes
14th - Early Release Day
19th - Civil Rights Day - No School
28th - Early Release Day
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Are you passionate about developing young athletes and building strong, character-driven teams? We are looking for dedicated coaches to join AJUSD and help students grow both on and off the field.
Our coaches play a vital role in shaping confidence, teamwork, discipline, and leadership. If you’re committed to motivating students, fostering sportsmanship, and creating a positive athletic culture, we want you on our team.
Help us inspire the next generation of Prospectors—apply today and make an impact that lasts far beyond the season!
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Do you take pride in craftsmanship, problem-solving, and creating environments where others can do their best work? AJUSD is seeking dependable, skilled, and service-minded individuals to join our team as Maintenance Technicians and Custodial Staff.
From repairing equipment and maintaining facilities to ensuring classrooms and common spaces are clean, safe, and welcoming, you are the backbone of our schools.
If you are looking for a meaningful position where your reliability, attention to detail, and work ethic truly matter, apply today and become a vital part of the AJUSD community.
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December has a unique way of asking us to pause. Not just to look back, but to look differently. As we approach a new year, we are invited to reconsider the familiar: our routines, our assumptions, and even the way we see one another.
In education, perspective is powerful. A student who once saw a challenge as a wall learns to see it as a doorway. A teacher reframes a setback as an experiment. A family recognizes growth not in grades alone, but in resilience, curiosity, or confidence. Nothing around them changed, their vision did.
Albert Einstein reminded us, “No problem can be solved from the same level of consciousness that created it.” As a district, this resonates deeply. We don’t move forward by repeating old patterns; we move forward by imagining new ones. By seeing potential where others see limits and possibilities where others see obstacles.
As we head into 2025, I encourage all of us—students, staff, and families—to look at our schools, our work, and our futures with a renewed lens. What might we see if we assume competence, expect growth, and believe in the extraordinary potential of every learner?
The year ahead isn’t waiting to be discovered, it’s waiting to be seen.
Wishing you clarity, rest, and fresh vision this winter break.
Dr. Robert Pappalardo
Superintendent, AJUSD
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