Aaron Pettinato 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, Mr. Pettinato has 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… Forks Up!

Mr. Pettinato is in his 18th year at CCUSD and is incredibly humbled and honored to be returning to Horseshoe Trails as the Principal for a 6th consecutive school year. Previously, Mr. Pettinato was the Dean of Students at Cactus Shadows High School, which prepared him well to lead the Stallion community. Additionally, Mr. Pettinato began his career at HTES as a 5^th and 6^th grade teacher way back when the school first opened. As a result, he's SO excited to give back to the community that has given him so much.

Mr. Pettinato aims to create a buzz on campus with an excitement for learning, to connect with students and build positive relationships, forge meaningful and productive partnerships with families and foster an inclusive culture that promotes opportunities for connection and compassion for others and self. 

In his spare time, Mr. Pettinato likes to read, hike, play pickleball, shoot pool, night swim and spend time with his wife and children. He's also an avid sports fan (Go Steelers!), a movie buff, an intense Ping-Pong player and a terrible golfer!