May is a time of celebration for school districts, and in the J.O. Combs Unified School District, we're no exception. It's a time to reflect on the positive achievements of our students and staff throughout the year and to celebrate their hard work and dedication.
Our graduation ceremonies are: on Tuesday, May 21, students from Combs Center for Success High School will celebrate at 6:30 p.m. in the Combs High Performing Arts Center; and on Wednesday, May 22, Combs High School seniors will graduate at 7 p.m. on the football field.
The Class of 2024 has much to be proud of, having received over $2 million in scholarships. These graduates will embark on various paths, including attending colleges and universities across the country, trade schools, or joining different branches of the military. They represent the future and will continue to shine the light of J.O. Combs Unified School District wherever they go.
It's not just our students who are celebrated; our staff members have also received well-deserved recognition. Ms. Jess Furman was honored with the Arizona Association of Teachers of Mathematics Copper Apple award, the highest recognition for math teachers in Arizona. Mrs. Laura Ridge, principal of Combs Middle School, was named the Distinguished Middle School Principal of the Year by the Arizona Administrators Association. Additionally, Mr. Mike Griffith, athletic director of Combs High School, was recognized as the Arizona Interscholastic Association 4A Athletic Director of the Year.
Our schools continue to achieve excellence, with Ranch Elementary School being recognized as an A+ Elementary School by the Arizona Education Foundation. Combs Traditional Academy earned an “A” grade from the Arizona Department of Education earlier this year. Ranch Elementary School, Harmon Elementary School, Simonton Elementary School and Combs High School also received “B” grades from the state.
On May 8 we held our annual Staff Excellence Awards night, sponsored by the Combs Education Foundation. Employees nominated their colleagues in six categories and finalists were invited to a celebratory evening, culminating in an awards ceremony. This year’s winners include: Mitzi Prueher from Harmon Elementary School as Teacher of the Year; Heaven Gomez from Combs Middle School as Rookie Teacher of the Year; Joline King from Simonton Elementary School as Licensed Professional of the Year; Virginia Kambeitz from Combs Center for Success as Support Staff Member of the Year; Vanita Harris as Substitute Teacher of the Year; and Mike Griffith from Combs High School as Administrator of the Year.
As we close the school year, let's take a moment to appreciate the educators who have made a positive impact in our lives or the lives of our children. Let's celebrate the accomplishments of our students and recognize the contributions of outstanding students, staff and parents who make our community an amazing place to live, grow and thrive.
Dr. Gregory A. Wyman is superintendent of the J.O. Combs Unified School District.
