FUSD Newsletter - July 2026 Edition

Click HERE to download the PDF version of this newsletter.

This summer, 46 Indigenous students entering grades 3–8 enjoyed a meaningful week of learning, discovery, and community at Camp Indi-Genius. The camp was made possible through a partnership between Flagstaff Unified School District, Northern Arizona University's College of Education, and the Flagstaff Young Riders bike safety program.

Camp Indi-Genius was designed with two important goals: to provide Indigenous children with a week-long camp experience that celebrates and validates their native languages and cultural identities, and to create an authentic teaching environment where Indigenous teacher candidates can strengthen their instructional skills.

Throughout the week, campers explored engaging themes including Land, Identity and Community, Cycles of Life, and Engineers of the Sky, Keepers of the Land. Students also learned about the Diné, Hopi, and Tohono O'odham languages, tribal histories, clan systems, and Indigenous perspectives on constellations while building meaningful connections with one another.

The camp was led by Dr. Sigmund A. Boloz, Associate Teaching Professor and PITAS Anchor Faculty in Northern Arizona University's Department of Teaching and Learning, along with 14 instructors enrolled in the Preparing Indigenous Teachers for Arizona Schools (PITAS) program. Reflecting on the camp's mission, Dr. Boloz shared, "Camp Indi-Genius has two main goals: first, to offer Indigenous children a week-long day camp experience focused on validating their native language and cultural identity; second, to provide Indigenous teacher candidates with a venue for sharpening their teaching skills."

The impact of the camp extended beyond the classroom. One parent shared that "the cultural conversations from the camp extended into evening conversations with the family," highlighting how students brought their learning home and strengthened connections with their families and communities.

Campers also discovered confidence in themselves. One fifth-grade student reflected, "I learned that I can do anything. I learned that Indigenous peoples are also Americans who fought for our rights, history, and culture. I also learned that many Mexicans are also Indigenous peoples, and that there are 547 tribes in the United States."

Families praised the experience, with parent evaluations unanimously rating Camp Indi-Genius as excellent. Campers gave the week-long program an average rating of 4.6 out of 5, citing self-identity, Indigenous languages and cultures, tribal stories, and Native perspectives of the night sky among their favorite learning experiences.

Flagstaff Unified School District is proud to partner with Northern Arizona University to provide opportunities that honor Indigenous cultures, empower students, and prepare the next generation of Indigenous educators.

Dear FUSD Families, 

As we look toward the horizon of the 2026-2027 school year, I am filled with excitement for the journey ahead. As Superintendent of the Flagstaff Unified School District (FUSD), it is my privilege to partner with you and our dedicated educators as we begin this new year together.

In Flagstaff and our Northern Arizona communities, we are surrounded by a spirit of natural wonder and scientific discovery, and we strive to bring that energy into every classroom. For our students, this means more than just learning facts; it means asking bold questions, testing new ideas, and discovering their own unique potential in vibrant, engaging spaces where curiosity flourishes.

This year, our focus is more clear than ever. We are following a new "North Star," the State 48 Graduate Profile, to guide our students from "Day 1 to Diploma". This framework was not created in isolation; it reflects the collective voices of thousands of parents, students, and educators across Arizona who defined what success should look like.

Throughout our students’ educational careers in FUSD, we will cultivate the 8 Essentials, durable skills like Critical Thinking and Problem Solving, Collaboration and Communication, and Adaptability and Lifelong Learning, needed to ensure our learners can navigate a rapidly changing world shaped by emerging technologies. Our goal is to prepare every graduate for their own "Path to Purpose" through the 4 Futures:

Our schools are more than buildings; they are communities where every child feels they belong. FUSD remains deeply committed to the physical, social, and emotional well-being of every student, ensuring our campuses are secure and nurturing spaces. 

 

Please remember that Every Day Counts in FUSD, and we want your child to participate in each learning opportunity we provide.  Let’s get to work on Monday, August 10, when we welcome our students for their first day of school, and make this an incredible year of growth for each student.

Thank you for choosing FUSD and for trusting us with your children. Partnership among our staff and families is the key to our students’ success. The path ahead is clear and I am excited to walk it together with you. 

Sincerely, 

Michael Penca

Another unforgettable summer is in the books at FACTS Camp IWANNAGO! Campers enjoyed a wide variety of activities that kept them active, engaged, and smiling all summer long. Highlights included exciting field trips, swimming, soccer, Art Club, and creative projects that filled classrooms with colorful artwork showcasing students' talents.

Camp IWANNAGO offered more than just summer fun. Through daily schedules, routines, and expectations that mirror the school day, students built positive habits while preparing for a successful transition back to the classroom. Campers also formed meaningful connections with staff and classmates while learning the value of teamwork, responsibility, and kindness.

One of the most rewarding parts of the summer was seeing older campers help younger students, staff members work together to create memorable experiences, and everyone participate in spirited theme days that built a strong sense of community. "Our staff worked together every day to create a safe, fun, and meaningful experience for every camper," said Jennifer Pizzi, who has been part of FACTS since 2008 and led camp logistics and operations this summer. Families regularly shared their appreciation for the welcoming environment, and students arrived each day excited for another adventure.

A special thank you to Jennifer Pizzi and the entire FACTS Camp staff for their dedication, flexibility, and commitment to creating a safe, engaging, and memorable summer for every camper. We also extend our sincere thanks to our families for their continued support and for making this another outstanding summer at FACTS Camp IWANNAGO. We look forward to welcoming everyone back for a fantastic school year!

Flagstaff Unified School District is pleased to announce its participation in the School Breakfast Program and the National School Lunch Program for the upcoming school year. These programs aim to provide nutritious meals to students every school day, supporting their health and academic success.

Meal Offerings: Breakfasts will be available for $2.25 and lunches for $3.60 (Elementary Schools) and $3.70 (Middle and High Schools)

Free and Reduced-Price Meals: Students may qualify for free or reduced-price meals based on household income and other criteria. Reduced-price meals cost $0.00 for breakfast and $0.00 for lunch.

Eligibility Criteria: Household size and income criteria are used to assess eligibility if the household does not receive assistance or if children are not categorized under homeless, migrant, runaway, or foster status.

Application Process:To apply for free or reduced-price meals, households can conveniently fill out the application online at https://bit.ly/FUSDMealApplications26-27 Alternatively, applications are available at the FUSD Food Service office located at 3285 E Sparrow Avenue in Flagstaff and at most FUSD schools. 

Families are required to submit only one application for all children in the household. The information provided on the application will be used to determine eligibility and may be verified at any time during the school year by school or program officials.

Eligibility Verification and Appeals: Applications for free or reduced-price benefits must contain complete eligibility information as per the application instructions. Parents or guardians dissatisfied with the determination may discuss the decision informally with the determining official. To formally appeal for a hearing on the decision, they may contact Steven Rhode, 3285 E. Sparrow Ave. Flagstaff, AZ 86004, 928-527-6010, srhode@fusd1.org.

Notification of Eligibility: Households receiving assistance from programs like SNAP, FDPIR, or TANF may be notified of their children’s eligibility for free meals without needing to submit an application. If any children were not listed on the notice or if a household did not receive one, they should contact Carlos Murillo Hernandez, 3285 E. Sparrow Ave. Flagstaff, AZ 86004, 928-527-6094, cmurillo-hernandez@fusd1.org to ensure all eligible children receive benefits.

Special Categorical Eligibility: Children categorized as foster, homeless, migrant, or runaway may also qualify for free meals. Families should contact Carlos Murillo if any eligible children were not listed on their notice of eligibility.

Changes in Household Circumstances: Families are encouraged to notify the school if their household experiences changes such as unemployment or an increase in household size. Such changes may affect eligibility for meal benefits.

Declining Benefits: Households notified of their children’s eligibility must contact the school if they choose to decline the free meal benefits.

Contact Information: For more information about the application process, eligibility criteria, or to obtain an application, please contact Carlos Murillo, 3285 E. Sparrow Ave. Flagstaff, AZ 86004, 928-527-6094, cmurillo-hernandez@fusd1.org.

To file a program discrimination complaint, complete the USDA Program Discrimination Complaint Form, AD-3027, found online at How to File a Program Discrimination Complaint and at any USDA office or write a letter addressed to USDA and provide in the letter all of the information requested on the form. To request a copy of the complaint form, call (866) 632-9992.

(1)  mail: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Office of the Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights, 1400 Independence Avenue, SW, Mail Stop 9410, Washington, D.C. 20250-9410

(2)  fax: (202) 690-7442

(3)  email: program.intake@usda.gov

Rising fourth and fifth graders spent a week exploring the wonders of Northern Arizona during this year's Colton Adventure Camp, where hands-on learning, outdoor adventure, and new friendships came together to create an unforgettable summer experience.

Created and developed through a partnership between Friends of Camp Colton and Camp Colton, the program gives students the opportunity to experience Northern Arizona through exploration, discovery, and adventure. Throughout the week, campers traveled from the San Francisco Peaks to Red Mountain Cinder, learning about the region's geology, ecology, and history through hands-on experiences.

Each day was filled with opportunities to discover, create, and problem-solve. Campers built boats, baked bread in Camp Colton's wood-burning stove, created ceramic art, practiced throwing an atlatl, hiked to Viet Springs, conducted science investigations, and explored creeks and forests. Along the way, they became engineers, scientists, and explorers while developing confidence and curiosity.

Camp Colton Program Coordinator Callie Harward said helping students discover what they are capable of is one of the camp's greatest rewards.

"More than anything, I hope students leave with the confidence to try things that feel challenging or unfamiliar. So many campers arrive feeling nervous about a new activity, whether it's climbing the ropes course, hiking up a mountain, or exploring a creek they've never visited before. Early in the week, we visited the FLG X Adventure Course, where many students were anxious about getting off the ground. Watching them work through those nerves, encourage one another, and finish with huge smiles and a real sense of accomplishment was incredible. Moments like those help students realize they're capable of more than they thought."

The camp's small-group environment allows every camper to be known, encouraged, and supported while making new friends and trying new things. Throughout the week, students learned by asking questions, investigating the natural world, and working together to solve problems. By the end of camp, they were more comfortable adapting to new environments and approaching new experiences with curiosity and enthusiasm.

One memorable moment captured the spirit of the program during a bread-making activity. Two girls who had never met before camp quickly became friends as they worked together to create a loaf of bread. They eagerly checked on their dough throughout the day, carefully decided how to shape it, and proudly braided a decorative piece on top before baking it. When the loaf came out of the oven, they were beaming with pride and each saved part of it to share with their families. The experience reflected what Camp Colton is all about: building friendships, creating something meaningful together, and gaining confidence through shared experiences.

Beyond outdoor adventure, Camp Colton helps students develop a deeper appreciation for the place they call home. By exploring local forests, creeks, mountains, and volcanic landscapes, campers gain a better understanding of Northern Arizona's rich natural and cultural history while building a lasting connection to the environment. Those experiences inspire students to become thoughtful stewards of the region and leave them eager to continue exploring long after camp ends.

Through Friends of Camp Colton, full scholarships are available for families with financial need, ensuring more students can participate regardless of financial circumstances. This year's camp was also supported by two high school student leaders who served as mentors, encouraging younger campers throughout the week.

By the end of camp, students returned home with more than memories of hiking, science experiments, and outdoor adventures. They left with new friendships, greater confidence, stronger teamwork skills, and a deeper appreciation for the incredible landscapes that make Northern Arizona such a special place.

FUSD Transportation is putting the finishing touches on bus routes for the new school year. Route information will be shared with eligible families as soon as it is finalized.

Transportation requests can be made during online enrollment or through your school's registrar. Please allow 48 hours for general education routing and up to 5 days for special education transportation. Students in split-household situations may require additional processing time.

Eligible students will receive route information by email, and bus passes will be distributed by their morning bus driver on the first day they ride.

Students in grades 6–12 attending Mount Elden Middle School, Sinagua Middle School, Coconino High School, Flagstaff High School, and Summit High School are eligible for a free Mountain Line transit pass. Passes are valid on all Mountain Line routes and may be used year-round for transportation to school, work, extracurricular activities, and more.

We encourage families to use the Here Comes the Bus app for real-time updates on your student’s route. New users can sign up here: https://herecomesthebus.com/parents/get-started/. To register, you will need the District Code 83662 and the 16-digit number located on the back of your student’s bus pass.

Kinsey Inquiry and Discovery School received an exciting boost for the new school year when Burlington surprised the school with a $5,000 donation during its grand opening celebration in Flagstaff. The gift, made through Burlington's partnership with AdoptAClassroom.org, will provide teachers with funding to purchase classroom materials and resources that directly support student learning.

Kinsey Principal Ellen Herman said the surprise donation was both exciting and meaningful, especially as Burlington begins serving the Flagstaff community.

"We were incredibly excited and genuinely grateful for Burlington's generosity," Herman said. "It was especially meaningful to see a new business in our community choose to invest in local schools from day one. That kind of support sends a powerful message to our students, staff, and families that education matters and that our community believes in the success of every child."

Rather than purchasing a single project or program, the donation will be distributed to Kinsey teachers, allowing them to select the materials that best meet the needs of their individual classrooms.

"Through Burlington's partnership with AdoptAClassroom.org, each of our teachers will receive access to funds they can use to purchase materials and resources that directly support their students' learning," Herman said. "This allows teachers to select the items that best meet the needs of their classrooms, ensuring the donation has an immediate and meaningful impact where it matters most."

The gift arrives at an especially exciting time for Kinsey as staff prepare to implement new curriculum and continue planning for the school's future move into its new campus. Herman said the additional resources will help replace and expand classroom materials while enhancing the school's Project-Based Learning approach through hands-on, creative learning experiences.

Community partnerships like Burlington's play an important role in helping Kinsey continue providing meaningful opportunities for students while supporting teachers in their work.

"Community partnerships like this remind our students that they are surrounded by people who believe in them and want them to succeed," Herman said. "As Kinsey prepares for an exciting new chapter with a new school building on the horizon, partnerships like these help us continue providing outstanding opportunities while strengthening the connection between our school and the greater Flagstaff community."

Herman also expressed appreciation to the many Kinsey students, families, and staff members who attended the ribbon-cutting celebration, saying their presence made the event even more memorable and demonstrated the strength of the Kinsey community.

"On behalf of the entire Kinsey community, thank you for believing in our students and investing in their future," Herman said. "Your generosity will have a lasting impact on classrooms across our school and will provide opportunities that might not otherwise be possible."

This summer, students from Flagstaff High School and Coconino High School participated in the Northern Arizona University Hispanic/Latine Media Workshop (H/LMW), a transformative experience designed to help high school students explore careers in media, communication, and visual storytelling.

During the five-day workshop, students from Flagstaff High School and surrounding Arizona communities developed skills in graphic design, content creation, and news reporting while creating projects centered on cultural storytelling. With guidance from NAU School of Communication faculty, professional journalists from Univision Arizona and Telemundo, and NAU student mentors, students gained hands-on experience in media production and explored the many pathways available in the communications field.

Throughout the workshop, students created visual content for social media campaigns and learned how storytelling can be used to highlight culture, community, and personal experiences. The opportunity also allowed students to experience college life while living and learning on the NAU campus.

FUSD thanks Northern Arizona University and its partners for providing this meaningful opportunity and for supporting students as they develop their voices, creativity, and skills as future storytellers and media professionals.

Families, students, and staff proudly represented FUSD in the Flagstaff 4th of July Parade, walking alongside a creatively decorated school bus that served as the district's float. The parade was a fun opportunity to connect with the community, celebrate the spirit of Flagstaff, and showcase the pride, enthusiasm, and strong sense of belonging that make FUSD a special place to learn and grow.

Seventy-six future kindergarteners took their first ceremonial step toward elementary school during the KinderCamp Bridging Over Ceremony on June 26, celebrating the skills, confidence, and friendships they built throughout the program.

The annual ceremony marked an exciting transition for students as they prepared to begin kindergarten this fall. Families gathered to recognize each child's accomplishments and celebrate their readiness for the next chapter in their educational journey.

"The Bridging Over Ceremony is a celebration of how far these young learners have come and how ready they are for the adventure ahead," said KinderCamp Coordinator Sara Owen. "The ceremony marks that transformation—from curious preschoolers to capable, confident kindergarteners."

This year's ceremony featured a fun superhero theme that encouraged students to recognize the hero within themselves. Each graduate proudly wore a custom superhero cape featuring a shield they designed and performed a superhero-themed song for family and friends. The theme reminded students that kindness, helping others, and making positive choices are everyday acts of heroism.

The celebration was filled with proud smiles, cheers, and happy tears as students crossed the bridge into their next adventure. Owen said families could see the confidence their children had gained during KinderCamp as they stood a little taller and embraced their new identity as kindergarteners.

One of the most memorable moments came when families learned that students who complete KinderCamp qualify for free tuition through the CCC2NAU program, providing a pathway to begin at Coconino Community College and transfer to Northern Arizona University. The announcement highlighted the long-term impact of KinderCamp and the collaborative partnership between FUSD, Coconino Community College, Northern Arizona University, United Way of Northern Arizona, and the many community supporters who make the program possible.

As students prepare for their first day of kindergarten, Owen hopes they carry the excitement and confidence they developed throughout KinderCamp.

"Because of KinderCamp, they already know the ropes—how to line up, listen actively, and lend a hand when a classmate needs help," Owen said. "They're ready to lead by example."

Owen also recognized the many individuals who make KinderCamp possible each year, including generous donors, community partners, FUSD staff, and this year's outstanding team of teachers and paraprofessionals at Killip Elementary School. Their collective efforts help ensure students begin kindergarten ready to learn, grow, and succeed.

As Flagstaff Unified School District welcomes students back for the 2026–2027 school year, we're excited to begin another year of learning, growth, and opportunity. One of the most important ways families can help students succeed is by making school attendance a priority.

At FUSD, Every Day Counts because every day in the classroom helps students build academic skills, develop confidence, form meaningful relationships, and stay engaged in their learning. Even missing just a few days of school throughout the year can make it more difficult for students to keep up with instruction and feel connected to their school community.

We know that sometimes challenges arise that make it difficult for students to attend school. If your family is experiencing barriers to regular attendance, we encourage you to reach out to your child's school. Whether it's transportation, health concerns, or another challenge, we're here to partner with you and connect your family with resources and support to help your student succeed.

This year, we're also excited to introduce ParentSquare Attendance Plus, a new tool that makes communication between families and schools even easier. Attendance Plus is built into ParentSquare, so families who receive school communications through ParentSquare are automatically enrolled. There's nothing extra to sign up for or download.

With Attendance Plus, families can:

Attendance Plus also helps schools identify attendance concerns early so staff can provide support before absences become a bigger challenge.

If you haven't activated your ParentSquare account yet, simply visit parentsquare.com/signin or download the ParentSquare app and register using the email address or phone number on file with your school.

Thank you for partnering with us to make attendance a priority this year. Together, we can help every student thrive because at FUSD, Every Day Counts.

From climbing into the driver's seat of a school bus to learning how some of the community's biggest vehicles operate, families had a hands-on experience at this year's Touch A Truck event hosted by the City of Flagstaff at Coconino High School.

FUSD was proud to participate in the free community event, which invited children and families to explore a wide variety of vehicles, including fire trucks, construction equipment, public works vehicles, emergency response units, and FUSD school buses. Transportation staff welcomed hundreds of visitors throughout the morning, giving children the chance to sit behind the wheel, sound the bus horn, and learn about the many safety features that help keep students safe every day.

Touch A Truck is designed to spark curiosity by giving families an up-close look at the vehicles that keep the community moving while offering opportunities to meet the professionals who operate them. For FUSD, it was also a chance to highlight the important role school bus drivers play in supporting students and schools every day.

As preparations continue for the 2026–2027 school year, FUSD is actively recruiting school bus drivers to join its Transportation Department. Bus drivers are often the first and last school employee students see each day, making them an essential part of creating a safe, welcoming, and positive experience for students.

FUSD offers:

If you've ever considered a career that combines flexibility, purpose, and community impact, FUSD invites you to explore becoming a school bus driver. Whether you're looking for a new career or a rewarding way to serve your community, the Transportation Department is ready to help you get behind the wheel. Visit fusd1.org/jobs to learn more and apply.

FUSD has adjusted school start and end times for the 2026–2027 school year to better support student supervision needs at our middle and high schools. As part of these changes, middle school and high school schedules have shifted. These changes also impact Puente de Hózhó Elementary.

Families are encouraged to review the updated arrival and dismissal times for their child’s school. Early release times for Fridays, parent-teacher conferences, finals, and elementary grading days will remain consistent with the schedule below.

Questions regarding school schedules may be directed to your child’s school office.

The first day of school for students is Monday, August 10, 2026.

Families are encouraged to review the district calendar to stay informed about important dates throughout the year, including holidays, breaks, conferences, and early release days.

View the full calendars: https://www.fusd1.org/school-calendar

We would like to share important information about House Bill 2164, also known as the Arizona Healthy Schools Act, and how it will impact food served to students beginning in the 2026–2027 school year.

This law prohibits schools from serving, selling, or allowing a third party to sell ultra-processed foods on campus during the regular school day. The school day is defined as the time from midnight until 30 minutes after the instructional day ends.

Under the law, foods and beverages provided to students during this time may not contain certain additives commonly found in ultra-processed products. This includes foods served through school meals, vending machines, snack bars, school stores, celebrations, fundraisers, or any food distributed to students on campus during the school day.

The restricted additives include:

Food brought from home for a student’s personal consumption is not affected by this law. However, foods containing these additives may not be brought to school to share or distribute to other students, including for classroom celebrations, parties, or other activities during the school day.

This change is part of a statewide effort to support student health and well-being. Our schools are working closely with Nutrition Services and campus teams to ensure compliance while continuing to provide safe, enjoyable options for students.

Please review the attached flyer for additional details and guidance.

Thank you for your partnership and support as we prepare for implementation across our schools.

This November, Flagstaff voters will consider two funding measures that support Flagstaff Unified School District (FUSD) students: the Maintenance & Operations (M&O) Override and the District Additional Assistance (DAA) Override, formerly known as the Capital Override. Together, these measures help ensure FUSD can continue providing high-quality educational opportunities while maintaining safe, modern learning environments for students.

The Maintenance & Operations (M&O) Override is a continuation of FUSD's existing voter-approved 15% override, first approved in 2022. If renewed, it is expected to generate approximately $9.7 million annually to support staffing and educational programs that are not fully funded by the state. These funds help sustain preschool and full-day kindergarten, fine arts, athletics and extracurricular activities, and academic programs such as Advanced Placement (AP), International Baccalaureate (IB), STEM, gifted education, and dual enrollment. Because this is a renewal of the existing override, approval would continue current funding. Without voter approval, funding would begin to phase down over time.

The District Additional Assistance (DAA) Override is a new funding measure that would generate approximately $2.5 million annually for seven years to address capital needs. Unlike the M&O Override, DAA funds are legally restricted and cannot be used for salaries or day-to-day operating expenses. Instead, they may only be used for student and staff technology, curriculum and textbooks, classroom furniture and equipment, school buses, safety upgrades, and campus improvements.

The estimated tax rates are approximately $0.51 per $100 of net assessed property value for the M&O Override and $0.13 per $100 of net assessed property value for the DAA Override. Property owners can find their net assessed value on their property tax bill or through the Coconino County Assessor's Office.

The election will be held on Tuesday, November 3, 2026. Residents must be registered to vote by October 5, 2026, with early voting beginning October 7, 2026. Voter registration is available through Arizona's online voter registration system at servicearizona.com. Community members can also visit FUSD's Override Information webpage at fusd1.org/override2026 to learn more, view frequently asked questions, and access additional informational resources.

FLAGSTAFF UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT

3285 East Sparrow Avenue, Flagstaff, AZ 86004

(928) 527-6000 | www.fusd1.org