FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Apache Junction Unified School District Unveils New Mission and "Kids First" Vision Statements

Apache Junction, Arizona – October 25, 2023 - The Apache Junction Unified School District (AJUSD) is delighted to announce the unveiling of its new mission and vision statements, which reflect the district's unwavering commitment to delivering an outstanding education that empowers students from kindergarten through 12th grade to excel as innovative scholars, be well-prepared for college and careers, and develop into compassionate global citizens.

New Mission Statement: "Apache Junction Unified School District's mission is to provide a world-class education that empowers students from kindergarten through 12th grade to become innovative scholars, college/career prepared, and compassionate global citizens. We are committed to fostering a dynamic learning community that cultivates intellectual curiosity, critical thinking, and a passion for lifelong learning."

"Kids First" Vision Statement: 

"Kids First: I come in second as kids come first."

  • Kids first.

  • I come in second as kids come first.

  • Doing our best as teachers and staff, every day, for every child: AJUSD's educators and staff are wholeheartedly committed to delivering their utmost dedication to every student, ensuring a supportive and enriching educational experience.

  • Setting high expectations for all: The district maintains rigorous standards to ensure that each student is challenged and encouraged to reach their full potential.


  • Finding problems to be opportunities for creative solutions: AJUSD embraces challenges as opportunities to innovate, finding creative solutions that tailor the learning experience to meet each student's unique needs.

  • If educationally correct, it must be administratively possible: AJUSD aligns its educational practices with administrative feasibility, ensuring that the educational needs of students are met effectively.
  • Respect; modeled, given, received, and praised: The district fosters an atmosphere of mutual respect among students, faculty, staff, and the community, cultivating a positive and inclusive learning environment.

  • Sharing an articulated, challenging, real-world, technologically integrated curriculum: AJUSD is committed to offering a curriculum that is both challenging and relevant to the real world, incorporating technology to prepare students for the future.

  • Trust - earned, granted, forging a true partnership between faculty, staff, administration, students, and community: AJUSD values trust as the cornerstone of a strong partnership among all stakeholders, including faculty, staff, administration, students, and the community.

Dr. Robert Pappalardo, Superintendent of AJUSD, emphasized the significance of these new statements, saying, "Our mission and 'Kids First' vision represent our unwavering commitment to the well-being, growth, and success of our students. They encapsulate the core values of our educational community, placing students at the heart of all that we do."

AJUSD invites its community, students, parents, and stakeholders to embrace and champion this new mission and vision statements. They exemplify the district's unwavering dedication to fostering a transformative educational experience.

For more information about AJUSD, its mission, and commitment to placing "Kids First," please visit our official website at www.ajusd.org