OPINION — Nearly half of school-age children living within SUSD boundaries are enrolled elsewhere. At the same time, recently rebuilt or renovated district facilities provide up to over three times as much space as needed.
Meanwhile, SUSD’s 11th grade academic performance — the highest grade included in Arizona’s statewide testing program — has fallen from first among several nearby comparison districts to fifth; nearby charter elementary/middle schools also substantially outperform SUSD. Yet SUSD’s operating expenditure per pupil exceeds those of districts and charters outcompeting it.
Another serious concern is SUSD safety. Recent survey data have shown substantial parent and student concern about bullying, violence, theft and related discipline problems. SUSD’s response has been reactive (closing schools, minimizing transparency and goals), instead of proactively raising achievement and parent satisfaction.
