Principal Mr. Pettinato's Page
-
I was born and raised in the 'City of Champions' and moved to Arizona in 2001 to attend Arizona State University. As a proud and passionate Sun Devil alumnus, I have received an M.Ed. in Educational Leadership, an M.Ed. in Curriculum and Instruction, a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Communications, a Minor in Sociology, a K-12 Principal Certificate and a K-8 Teaching Certificate all at ASU… GO DEVILS!
I'll be embarking on my 17th year at CCUSD and I'm incredibly humbled and honored to be returning to Horseshoe Trails as the Principal. I taught for ten years as a 5th and 6th grade teacher at HTES way back when the school first opened. As a result, I'm SO excited to give back to the community that has given me so much. Previously, I served as the Dean of Students at Cactus Shadows High School, which prepared me well to serve and lead our strong Stallion community.
As the leader of this school community, it's my intent to create a buzz on campus with an excitement for learning, to connect with students and build positive rapport, forge meaningful and productive partnerships with families, and foster an inclusive culture that promotes opportunities for connection and compassion for others and self.
In my spare time I like to read, hike, play pickleball, shoot pool, night swim and spend time with my wife and children. I'm also an avid sports fan (Go Steelers!), a movie buff, an intense Ping-Pong player and a terrible golfer!

