Completing a full school year — passing the challenges presented by a global pandemic — were reasons to celebrate for educators in the Scottsdale Unified School District as leaders and students alike have graduated from an academic year of “firsts.”
The 2020-21 school year was complicated by COVID-19 scares, compounded by virtual learning coupled with in-person classroom instruction. Addressing gaps in learning, measuring test scores and fluctuating COVID cases in the community, some administrators and those in new district leadership roles were hazed by COVID-19 hindrances in managing public education.
“It was bittersweet. I need to take a moment to acknowledge the class of 2020. While we tried to make the best of what was an incredibly challenging environment, my heart is broken because we were unable to give those students a traditional graduation. I am very grateful the class of 2021 was able to participate in one of life’s most memorable and meaningful traditions,” said Patty Beckman, who has served in nearly every capacity as an SUSD governing board member.
