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Killip Elementary School was honored to be part of the 2025 Master Gardeners’ Garden Tour on Saturday, August 9, welcoming more than 150 visitors to explore its thriving food garden, woodland/forest area, and expansive pollinator garden. These unique spaces have been developed by students, teachers, volunteers, and community partners since the opening of the new school in 2022.

Sheryl Wells, a coordinator of the garden, explained the gardens are more than just beautiful spaces.

“Killip’s gardens serve as outdoor classrooms where students engage in projects and activities tied to academic standards, as well as project- and problem-based learning units,” she said “Partnerships with organizations such as TerraBIRDs, Coconino County Cooperative Extension, Milkweeds for Monarchs, Northern Arizona University, and many dedicated volunteers have been essential in creating and maintaining these learning environments.

Wells also reflected on the response from tour participants.

“We were excited to share our journey with tour participants,” she said. “Several teachers expressed interest in starting gardens at their own schools, and many visitors were surprised and delighted to see such thriving green spaces on an elementary school campus.”

Killip looks forward to continuing its journey of blending academics, sustainability, and outdoor learning through its gardens, which remain a point of pride for students, staff, and the Flagstaff community. 

View more photos, click HERE

August 27, 2025

The first few weeks of the 2025-2026 school year have been filled with the vibrant energy that marks a new beginning. It has been a joy to see our hallways and classrooms buzzing with excitement. I am grateful for our students, who have arrived ready and eager to learn, and to our dedicated staff who have worked to create engaging, welcoming, and supportive school communities.

Amidst this positive start, I want to acknowledge a significant challenge we have been experiencing in this first month: the uncomfortably warm temperatures in many of our classrooms. Please know that the safety, comfort, and well-being of our students and staff are priorities, and I understand your concerns about the impact of this heat on the learning environment. I assure you that we are actively addressing this issue on multiple fronts.

Our current challenge is largely rooted in the underfunding of capital needs of public schools and outdated state-level regulations that do not prioritize funding for cooling systems at Flagstaff’s elevation. We believe our students and staff deserve better. Thanks to the support of our voters through bond funding and the strategic use of federal COVID relief funds, we have made significant progress in recent years to install air conditioning at Killip Elementary, Mount Elden Middle School, Cromer Elementary, and DeMiguel Elementary, as well as in the newly designed Marshall and Kinsey schools. We are, and will continue to be, a strong and persistent voice at the state level, advocating for the policy changes and funding necessary to modernize our facilities.

In the meantime, our school leaders and staff are doing a tremendous job managing these warm days with creativity and care. We deeply appreciate your patience and partnership as we navigate this challenge. Your resilience and support are what make our district so special. 

Congratulations to Dawn Quamahongnewa of Leupp Elementary School for being named a 2026 Arizona Teacher of the Year Candidate by the Arizona Educational Foundation! 

This prestigious recognition honors Dawn’s unwavering dedication to her students, innovative teaching, and the meaningful impact she makes in our FUSD community every day. We are proud to celebrate her as one of Arizona’s most exceptional educators. 

Stay tuned as she continues through the selection process. The Teacher of the Year will be announced on October 18, 2025, in Phoenix. 

Flagstaff Unified School District is emphasizing the importance of daily attendance as a key part of student success. Superintendent Michael A. Penca reminded families that being present in class impacts not only a child’s learning, but the growth and success of the entire school community.

“At Flagstaff Unified School District, we believe that Every Day Counts when it comes to your child’s learning and growth,” said Penca. “We want every student to be engaged, happy, and successful — and their presence in class makes a difference every single day.”

Regular attendance helps students keep up with lessons, build friendships, and develop important life skills. When students are absent, however, it can disrupt both their own learning and that of their classmates. Penca encouraged families to help by establishing consistent routines and scheduling appointments or vacations around the school calendar whenever possible.

“Parents and guardians play a vital role in supporting consistent attendance, which is one of the most important contributors to a child’s success in school and beyond,” he said.

FUSD also recognizes that children may occasionally need to miss school. Illness, doctor appointments, mental health needs, bereavement, family emergencies, and up to three days of family vacation each year are considered excused absences when verified by a parent or guardian. Families are encouraged to contact their school nurse with health questions or reach out to school counselors for mental health support.

Transportation resources are also available to help families overcome barriers to attendance. Parents can contact the Transportation Department at (928) 527-2300 with bus questions, and all secondary students are eligible for free Mountain Line transit passes for the school year.

To keep families informed, schools provide daily attendance notifications. If an absence is not verified within 48 hours, it is marked as unexcused. Parents and guardians can also review their child’s attendance at any time in ParentVUE.

FUSD monitors attendance closely to identify students who may be trending toward chronic absenteeism, which is defined as missing 10 percent or more of enrolled school days for any reason. When this occurs, schools reach out to families to find solutions and may make supportive referrals to the Coconino Juvenile Courts if needed.

“Together, we can ensure that every student has the opportunity to discover their path and thrive,” added Penca. “Your partnership in helping your child attend school regularly makes all the difference.” 

The First Day of School was a success! On August 4, we were excited to welcome back students and staff across the district. It was an incredible start to the 2025–2026 school year! 

View more photos, click HERE

Flagstaff Unified School District is proud to welcome Joseph “Joe” Caslin in his new role as principal of Puente de Hózhó Elementary School. A longtime educator with deep roots in the FUSD community, Caslin officially stepped into his position on July 1, 2025.

Originally from Ohio, Caslin moved to Flagstaff to pursue a career in education—a decision that marked the beginning of a 24-year journey within FUSD. He most recently served at Kinsey Inquiry and Discovery School, bringing a wealth of experience and dedication to his new leadership role at Puente de Hózhó. This unique trilingual school offers Navajo immersion and Spanish-English bilingual programs, in addition to the International Baccalaureate framework.

Caslin holds a bachelor’s degree in communications from Ohio State University, a master’s degree in bilingual/multicultural education from Northern Arizona University, and a certification in educational leadership. As principal, he is committed to supporting the school’s distinctive educational model and fostering a strong sense of community.

“I am excited to support the bilingual education program, the IB program, and the wonderful community of teachers, students, and families of Puente de Hózhó,” he said. 

When not on campus, he enjoys mountain biking, snowboarding, and exploring the natural beauty of northern Arizona. Both of his children are proud graduates of Flagstaff High School.

Please join us in celebrating Principal Caslin as he begins this new chapter at Puente de Hózhó.

Flagstaff Unified School District is pleased to announce the promotion of Michael Charles Sifling to Assistant Director of Operations Services and Safety. A dedicated member of the FUSD team for nearly a decade, Sifling officially began his new role on July 3, 2025.

Born and raised in Southern California, Sifling was inspired to pursue a career in law enforcement by his uncle. That path brought him to Arizona, where he began working for the Department of Corrections in Winslow in 1994. A year later, he joined the Coconino County Sheriff’s Office, where he served with distinction until his retirement in 2017. Soon after, he began working with FUSD, where he has become a trusted leader in operational safety and support.

In his new role, Sifling is responsible for overseeing safety procedures and practices across the district. His work includes conducting internal and Title IX investigations, supporting Transportation with ADOSH compliance, and providing safety-related training to staff. 

“My goal is to elevate FUSD safety awareness through education, training, and supportive measures,” he shared.

Sifling is a graduate of the Phoenix Regional Police Training Academy. Outside of work, he enjoys building custom furniture from exotic wood, boating on Lake Roosevelt, and spending time with his wife Sharon, their four grown children, and three grandchildren.

Reflecting on his journey, Sifling expressed deep gratitude to the district.

“I would like to thank the FUSD community for all the support they have shown me over the past 9 years. I am truly honored to be a part of the FUSD family,” he said.  

Flagstaff Unified School District proudly announces the appointment of Reyna Rodriguez as the new Executive Assistant to the Superintendent and Board Secretary.

A proud graduate of FUSD and member of Coconino High School’s Class of 2008, Reyna has called Flagstaff home since the age of nine. She attended Thomas Elementary, Mount Elden Middle School, and Coconino High School, making her new role at the district level both a professional and personal milestone.

Reyna has served FUSD for the past 10 years, building her career across multiple roles, including positions at Puente de Hózhó Elementary School and at the District Office as a Human Resources Specialist and Research, Assessment, and Data Analyst. Throughout her time with FUSD, she has gained valuable experience, developed strong community ties, and affirmed her commitment to supporting student success.

In her new position, Reyna will manage the Superintendent’s schedule, communications, and meetings. She will also serve as a liaison between the Superintendent’s Office, staff, families, and community members. As Board Secretary, she will prepare board meeting agendas, support Governing Board Members, and help facilitate meetings to ensure smooth operations and effective communication.

Her goals in this role reflect her dedication to collaboration and service.

“My goals are to support the Superintendent and the Governing Board Members in leading the district, facilitate clear communication between students, families, staff, and the Superintendent’s Office, and help ensure the successful implementation of district initiatives,” she explained.

Reyna’s pride in FUSD extends beyond her professional role—she is also the parent of three children currently enrolled in FUSD schools, with one attending Coconino High School and two at Puente de Hózhó Elementary School.

When asked what makes her work meaningful, Reyna emphasized the sense of community she feels within FUSD.

“I truly value my time at FUSD, where I have the opportunity to communicate openly, welcome and support students, families, and staff, and foster positive, friendly connections across our community,” she said. “Being part of a team that prioritizes collaboration and student success makes my work meaningful and rewarding every day.”

Please join us in congratulating Reyna on her new role and welcoming her as a key partner in fostering communication, collaboration, and support across the FUSD community. 

Flagstaff Unified School District is excited to welcome Jacquelyn Johnson-Braden, aka “Jacqui,” as the new Receptionist at the District Office. Jacquelyn began her role on July 28, 2025, and is already bringing warmth, positivity, and enthusiasm to the front desk as one of the first and last impressions for families, staff, and visitors.

Jacqui recently moved to Flagstaff from Olympia, Washington, though she is no stranger to the desert. A graduate of both high school and college in Las Vegas, Nevada, she is new to Arizona but familiar with the Southwest’s unique landscapes and culture. While this is her first position working directly for a school district, she has long supported schools in a variety of ways. She spent 13 years running a sporting goods store in Las Vegas and San Diego, partnering with schools on events and sponsorships. Her store employed high school and collegiate athletes, some of whom went on to compete in the Ironman, Special Olympics, and even the Olympics.

“I’m excited for my new position and most looking forward to bringing positive energy and an approachable environment to my role as the first and last impression,” she said. “I plan to set the team up for success by providing a warm disposition and being engaging, calm, and courteous.”

Outside of work, Jacqui is passionate about travel and unique cultural experiences. Her adventures have included everything from attending a 600-year-old chess match at a castle to enjoying tea at the British Museum, racing sailboats on the Nile, and even defeating a Pokémon gym inside the Vatican. 

As a Southern California native, she loves the ocean and spends time kayaking in the coves of San Diego or scuba diving off Catalina Island. She is also an avid reader who proudly calls herself a “book dragon,” with a personal library that includes a memorable milestone—her 1,000th book, which she carried to the ruins of the Library of Alexandria.

Jacqui is looking forward to discovering everything Flagstaff has to offer and is eager to connect with the community. 

“I’m looking forward to discovering Flagstaff and its amazing community and surrounding areas, and if you know any cool off-the-beaten-path places to visit—or better yet, great eateries to enjoy—please let me know,” she said.

Please join us in giving Jacqui a warm FUSD welcome! 

Construction is well underway on Camp Colton’s much-needed new lodge and upgraded infrastructure, marking a major step forward in transforming this fully off-grid campus. 

Ari Wilder, executive director of the Friends of Camp Colton, explained the project officially began in July 2024. It resumed this spring after a winter pause. 

“While many of the improvements are hidden from view, they are essential to the campus’s long-term sustainability,” said Wilder. “Upgrades include expanded water storage, upgraded water lines, and new grease traps and septic tanks.”

“At the center of the project is the new lodge, designed to serve as the heart of Camp Colton. The building will feature a spacious gathering hall for meals, a modern kitchen, a fully equipped medical office, and staff housing,” she added. “The goal is to complete the lodge’s exterior—including windows, siding, roof, and doors—by the end of September [2025], ensuring the structure is protected through the winter while awaiting final approval from the State Fire Marshal.”

Wilder also explained, in addition to the lodge, several visible improvements are underway across the site. These include widened roads, dedicated bus parking, and a welcoming new ramada. Once approval is granted, construction is expected to resume in May 2026, with further progress on interior and site enhancements. 

This transformative project is being made possible through funding from both the FUSD School Bond and the non-profit Friends of Camp Colton, whose partnership continues to ensure that this beloved outdoor learning campus remains a thriving resource for students and the community. 

This summer, Flagstaff Unified School District had the unique opportunity to host the Army National Guard’s 91st Civil Support Team (CST) at Sinagua Middle School on June 10, 2025. Based at the Papago National Guard Base in Phoenix, the 91st CST is one of only 57 National Guard Weapons of Mass Destruction Teams in the United States.

Every two years, the unit undergoes a rigorous recertification process that includes a full-scale scenario evaluated by experts in the field. This year, Sinagua Middle School served as the site for the exercise, providing an important backdrop for the team’s scenario-based training.

Members of FUSD’s safety team were invited to observe the exercise firsthand, gaining valuable insight into emergency response procedures. From Incident Command briefings to a front-row seat inside the scenario itself, the team witnessed the precision and professionalism required during high-stakes operations.

One highlight of the day was the deployment of a specialized robot used early in the scenario to determine the size and scope of the simulated incident. Later, FUSD staff toured the team’s extensive equipment, including a mobile laboratory designed to test hazardous chemicals, a mobile command post, and a mobile communication trailer capable of reestablishing communication systems in the field.

FUSD is grateful for the opportunity to partner with the Army National Guard and to witness the vital work of the 91st Civil Support Team. The training not only supports national preparedness but also strengthens local partnerships that help keep our schools and community safe. 

Flagstaff Unified School District extends its gratitude to the Arizona Community Foundation (ACF) and its generous partners for supporting our schools through the 2025 Celebrating Flagstaff’s Nonprofit Organizations grant awards.

This year, several FUSD schools received meaningful support through these grants:

These contributions will directly benefit students, teachers, and school communities by providing resources that enrich learning experiences and strengthen educational opportunities across the district.

A heartfelt thank you goes to ACF and its partners for their commitment to investing in education: ACF of Flagstaff, Burton Family Foundation, Capstone Health Fund, Ernest & Evelyn Chilson Fund, Erin & Tad Moore Charitable Fund, Forest Highlands Foundation, Geile Charitable Fund, GeoFund, Geo Family Foundation, Lyons Family, Molly & Joseph Herman Foundation, McClanahan Family Fund, Northern Arizona Healthcare Office of Philanthropy, and W.L. Gore and Associates.

Together, we are building brighter futures for every learner.

Learn more about ACF at azfoundation.org. 

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FLAGSTAFF UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT

3285 East Sparrow Avenue, Flagstaff, AZ 86004

(928) 527-6000 | www.fusd1.org