It seems the theme of this year is “change”, and as such, the Dysart Unified School District made a few mid-year staffing shifts in order to fill some gaps and better serve its community.

First, Anthony Capuano moved from leading the Sundown Mountain Alternative Education Program to assist at Luke Elementary School in Glendale.

Second, Roberta Lockhart, moved from principal at Valley Vista High School to fill the Sundown Mountain principal position.

In her Oct. 23 introductory letter to parents of the El Mirage-based school, Ms. Lockhart wrote: "Sundown is in its 11th year of applying PBIS.  (Positive Behavior Interventions and Support). The PBIS program provides students essential skills and opportunities to make positive and productive choices, and recognizes their efforts. This program creates and fosters a school environment rich in trust and support. "

Lastly, Dr. Shelley Isai, the districts’s director of curriculum, instruction and assessment, is serving as interim principal at Valley Vista High School for the remainder of the school year.

“Each of the impacted school communities have been extremely welcoming and we are confident the moves are in the best interest of our students,” a district spokesperson stated in a press release.