L to R, top row: Garrett White, Jessica Gentrup, and Cameron Janda; L to R bottom row: Tyler Huffman, Tucker Johnson, and Matt Carson.

Haitian Relief from Many Small Hands and Big Hearts

Putting the “Character Counts!” Curriculum into action, Val Vista Lakes Elementary students and families raised $1,800.89 to support Haitian relief efforts during the American Red Cross change drive.

Students looked for ways to earn money beyond emptying change from their piggy banks or their parents’ wallets. On Monday, January 18, Garrett White, Cameron Janda, and Lauren Janda sold lemonade and baked goods earning $165, which they donated to the change drive. Fifth-grade student Jessica Gentrup and second-grade students Matt Carlson, Tyler Huffman, Tommy Gentrup, and Tucker Johnson went door-to-door asking their neighbors for donations that totaled $220.

Administrators and teachers at Val Vista Lakes Elementary are so proud of the students because they came together in support of the American Red Cross change drive and demonstrated how individually or collectively we can make a difference in the world.

Spencer Larsen (Denver Broncos) and Ryan Fitzpatrick (Buffalo Bills)

Pioneer’s First Super Bowl Saturday a HUGE Success

Pioneer families and a few from the community had a great time at Pioneer Elementary’s first annual Super Bowl Saturday event. There was good food, music and lots of fun activities. The children competed in many football events, including the 40-yard dash, longest pass, and longest field goal competitions.

One of the highlights of the day was a visit from pro football players Ryan Fitzpatrick of the Buffalo Bills and Spencer Larsen of the Denver Broncos. Fitzpatrick and Larsen participated in many of the events with the children and assisted in presenting 24 medals to the winners of four different events. All of the elementary-age children who attended had a chance to compete and win medals.

The Gilbert Fire Department was also on hand to teach the children about the fire truck. Cartoonist Steve Benson sketched personal caricatures for donations to the family of Gilbert Police officer, Lt. Eric Shuhandler. High school cheerleaders demonstrated and taught a few of their jumps and cheers. The day was topped off by fun flag football games.

Many people volunteered their time and energy to make this event a huge success. Pioneer Elementary wishes to thank all of the students from Highland High who volunteered, Steve Benson, Terry Fair, Jann and the MoonDoggs, L&R Corrales Catering, Bob Davis from Strength of America, the Pioneer PTSO members that volunteered, and many other volunteers at the event.

Presidential Scholar Candidates Announced

In a letter to Superintendent Dave Allison, the U. S. Department of Education announced that Anna P. Borja (Gilbert High School) has been selected from 500 candidates for the United States Presidential Scholars Program. The program recognizes graduating seniors who have demonstrated exceptional scholarship and talent in the visual, creative, and performing arts. For more detailed information regarding the program, please visit www.ed.gov/progrms/psp/index.html. Semi-finalists will be posted to the website in early April, and Scholars will be selected in early May.

Award-Winning Cartoonist Contributes to Fund for Shuhandler Family

Pulitzer Prize-winning editorial cartoonist for The Arizona Republic, Steve Benson attended Pioneer Elementary’s Super Bowl Saturday held February 6, where he graciously donated his time and talent to raise money for the family of Lt. Eric Shuhandler. Mr. Benson created funny caricatures for over five hours, raising more than $800 for the Shuhandler family. The crowd found it very entertaining to watch him work and visit with him. The Pioneer community was very pleased to have such an amazing and charitable artist at their first annual Super Bowl Saturday.