MARCH 18, 2015
CCUSD receives Magna Award
Dr. Debbi Burdick, Superintendent of the Cave Creek Unified School District, is pleased to announce that the Cave Creek Unified School District has received a first place Magna Award. The 21st annual Magna Awards program is sponsored by the National School Boards Association flagship magazine, American School Board Journal. The Magna Awards recognize school districts and their leaders taking bold and innovative steps to improve the lives of their students and their communities. Award winners will be honored at NSBA’s 75th Annual Conference, to be held March 21 to 23 in Nashville, Tennessee.
“In a time when public schools are under attack, we are pleased to showcase schools and their leaders who are dedicated to innovation and excellence,” said Thomas J. Gentzel, Executive Director of NSBA. “The winning programs are proof that public education is leading the way to advance student achievement.”
A panel of judges selected Cactus Shadows High School’s program, Team Falcon - Vocational Success for Students with Disabilities, as one of five 2015 Magna Awards first place winners in the 5,000 to 20,000 enrollment category. Cactus Shadows High School students with disabilities have been working in innovative training sites throughout the district. These jobs afford students a chance to experience career options and an opportunity to work alongside district staff to foster mentorship and skill training. Team Falcon students work in the Copy Center, Nutritional Services, Transportation, Facilities, Preschool, Landscaping and Technology. Team Falcon has supported students in acquiring 21st Century Skills-particularly communication and collaboration. Most importantly, their work experience in the district translates to success in employment after high school.
Congratulations to Directors, Janet Holt, John Muir, and Bruce McWhorter for their national recognition of the 2015 Magna Award for Cave Creek Unified School District, Team Falcon: Vocational Success for Students with Disabilities.
For more information visit CCUSD93.org.
Courtesy photo by Vickilyn Hussey
