News from the Creek Archive

Dear Parents, Community & CCUSD Staff –

Congratulations to the Class of 2025 on their graduation!  This is an exciting time as they leave the nest and embark on the next phase of their life’s journey.  Their hard work, dedication, and accomplishments have led them to this moment. As they move forward with their enrollment  in higher education, enlisting in the military, or starting their employment, we wish them the best of luck and success in all their endeavors. They have accomplished so much already, and we have no doubt that they will continue to achieve great things in the future.

It is our hope that their time at Cactus Shadows and in CCUSD has taught them valuable skills they will carry with them: such as independence, critical thinking, problem-solving, communication, and a sense of empowerment to make a positive difference in both their lives and in the lives of others.

We congratulate the graduates of 2025 on their hard work and dedication. May they continue to learn, grow, laugh, love, and make a positive impact on their communities and the world.

Here are just a few noteworthy accomplishments of the Class of 2025:

The class of 2025 consists of approximately 368 graduating seniors.

• Congratulations to Valedictorian Lyla Strohman and Salutatorian Cole Kaminsky. 
• There were 609 Advanced Placement classes taken and 322 Dual Enrollment classes taken over the past two years by the Class of 2025.
• There were 27 graduates who were in the International Baccalaureate Program,  9 are on track to earn the full IB diploma.
• There was 1 graduate who was in the Early College Program.
• There were 15 seniors who attended EVIT.
• As of this article, we have 15 student athletes who have signed to continue playing at the collegiate level.
• A total of 37 seniors participated in the Superintendent’s Challenge and these students contributed over 7754 hours of community services in our local community over their years at Cactus Shadows. Emma Lee Adams accumulated over 1218 volunteer service hours to lead the Class of 2025.

We asked our graduates to share their plans after graduation. According to those who responded, we have Falcons who are ready to follow their chosen path after graduation. We have Falcons heading straight to the workforce and Employment. We have 5 Falcons who will honorably serve our country by Enlisting in the Army, Navy, Air Force, or Coast Guard. The large majority of Falcons are Enrolling to further their education and  will be attending trade schools; community colleges across the country, including Chandler-Gilbert, Cuesta College, Central Arizona-Yavapai, Glendale Community College, Houston Community College, Merritt Community, Palomar College, Casa Grande, PVCC, Phoenix Community, Scottsdale Community and South Mountain; and attending four-year universities, both in-state, across the nation, and even internationally. Their destinations include prestigious institutions such as the Air Force Academy, ASU, Baylor University, Black Hills University, Boise State, BYU, Claremont McKenna College, Colorado State, University of Colorado at Boulder, Commerce School, Dominican University, Duke University, Embry Riddle Aeronautical University, Fort Lewis College, GCU, George Washington University, Indiana University, Iowa State, Johnson and Wales University, Lewis University, LSU, NAU, New Jersey Institute of Technology, Pepperdine University, Purdue Global, Rice University, San Diego State, Texas A&M, UofA, University of Hawaii Manoa, University of Missouri, University of, Montana, University of New Mexico, University of Redlands, University of Tennessee, University of Utah, Utah State, Western Colorado University and Ynov Campus in France.

Again, congratulations to the Class of 2025! Always remember the lessons you’ve learned, the friendships you’ve made, and the experiences that have shaped  you into the incredible individuals you are today. Your future is bright, we are proud of you, and we can't wait to witness the extraordinary things you will accomplish - WE ARE FALCONS!

We look forward to seeing you in our schools.

Moving Forward Together,

Bill Dolezal, Superintendent

Dear Parents, Community & CCUSD Staff -   

As the season of Arizona State Assessments has begun for our students in grades 3 through 8, as well as, 9 and 11, it is essential to recognize that while these assessments provide valuable insight into academic progress, they do not encompass or measure the full spectrum of our student’s potential or worth.

In the Cave Creek Unified School District (CCUSD), we are committed to fostering well-rounded individuals who excel not only academically, but also physically, socially, emotionally, and creatively. We believe that a holistic approach to education is key to preparing ALL students for success in all facets of life in the future of their choosing.

While we encourage our students to do their best on these assessments, we also emphasize the importance of maintaining balance and prioritizing their overall well-being by providing support and encouragement that can help them feel confident on test day. As our partners, here a few reminders to help your student perform their best on test day (and every other day for that matter):

1)   Prioritize Rest: Adequate sleep is important for brain function and overall well-being. Ensuring your child gets enough rest can significantly improve memory, concentration, and performance. Research suggests that adults need 7-9 hours of sleep each night, while teenagers need 8-10 hours, and younger children need even more.

2)   Fuel with Nutrition: A healthy breakfast fuels the body and mind, providing the energy and nutrients necessary for optimal cognitive functioning. Encourage your child to eat a balanced meal to support their performance on test day.

3)   Promote Mental Preparation: In addition to physical well-being, mental preparedness is equally important. Encourage your child to stay calm and focused by practicing techniques such as deep breathing, visualizing success, and positive self-talk. These strategies can help to reduce stress and enhance performance.

In CCUSD, student success is our top priority. We are dedicated to providing a supportive and engaging learning environment, led by passionate educators committed to nurturing the growth and development of every student.

As our students embark on this year’s assessment journey, we extend our best wishes to each and every one of them. May they approach these assessments with confidence, knowing that they are prepared and that their worth extends far beyond a test score. Let us continue to work together to empower our students to thrive academically, physically, socially, emotionally, and creatively. 

Thank you for your ongoing support and partnership in education. We eagerly anticipate the continued growth and success of our students, both in and out of the classroom.

We look forward to seeing you in our schools.

Moving Forward Together,

Bill Dolezal, Superintendent

Dear Parents, Community & CCUSD Staff -   

As we approach the testing portion of the academic school year, I wanted to take a moment to communicate with you about the assessments that our students will be taking part in. Our students in grades 3-8, and grades 9 and 11 will participate in Arizona State Standardized Assessments. In addition to these state assessments, our high schoolers will have an opportunity to showcase their knowledge this spring by taking several different tests: Career and Technical Education (CTE), Advanced Placement (AP), and International Baccalaureate (IB)  exams.

State Testing- AASA, AZSCI, ACT Aspire, and ACT
State assessments are a crucial part of our educational system, providing valuable insights into the overall academic progress of our students and the effectiveness of our instructional programs. This year, our dedicated teachers have been working diligently to prepare students for these assessments, ensuring they are well-equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary for success. The students in the Cave Creek Unified School District have consistently performed well on the Arizona State Assessments and outperformed the state average. This accomplishment is a reflection of the hard work and dedication of our CCUSD educators, students, and parents. 

For site specific state testing schedules please make sure to check your school’s newsletter and or website. To learn more about the assessments given here in Arizona please visit this site. https://www.azed.gov/assessment.

Career and Technical Education (CTE) Testing:

Cactus Shadows High School takes pride in offering programs both here on campus and through our partnership with the East Valley Institute of Technology (EVIT) at their central campus. Students participating in these programs are gearing up for their Technical Skills Assessments as well as their Industry Certification Exams. CTE teachers and students are working hard to prepare for these tests. 

Advanced Placement (AP) Testing:
Cactus Shadows offers Advanced Placement courses that challenge and inspire our students. AP exams are an opportunity for students to showcase their mastery of rigorous coursework and, in many cases, earn college credit. For families with students participating in AP courses, I encourage ongoing communication with their teachers and counselors to ensure that your child feels supported and prepared for this exam. 

International Baccalaureate (IB) Testing:
The International Baccalaureate program at our high school is designed to foster global-mindedness and academic excellence. IB assessments play a crucial role in evaluating the achievements of our IB students. Again I would encourage parents of IB students to engage with the school community and take advantage of the resources available to support your child's journey through the IB program. 

As partners in your child's education, together we can create an educational environment that nurtures the development of each student. Thank you for your continued support, and we look forward to a successful testing season.

We look forward to seeing you in our schools.

Moving Forward Together,

Bill Dolezal, Superintendent

Dear Parents, Community & CCUSD Staff -   

As the school year moves into February, a month filled with opportunities for growth, kindness, and learning, I want to take a moment to celebrate a group of dedicated CCUSD professionals who make a positive impact on our students and schools every day - our fabulous school counselors. 

National School Counseling Week, February 3-7, gives all of us the perfect opportunity to recognize the invaluable role our school counselors play in helping our students in and out of the classroom. Whether they are providing academic guidance, supporting students’ social and emotional well-being, or helping to navigate future career and college pathways, our counselors are always there as trusted advisors and compassionate listeners. Their dedication helps ensure that every student feels seen, supported, and encouraged to follow their pathway and reach their fullest potential.

Our school counselors work tirelessly to create a positive and inclusive environment for all students. They assist in conflict resolution, mental health awareness, and serve as critical advocates for student success. Their ability to connect with students on a personal level and guide them through challenges is critical and inspiring. The work they do extends beyond academics; they are shaping confident, resilient, and well-rounded individuals who are prepared for life beyond the classroom.

I encourage everyone in our community—students, parents, staff, and neighbors—to take a moment this month to show appreciation for our school counselors. A simple “thank you” can go a long way in recognizing their hard work and commitment!

I am happy to start the gratitude: thank you for being an integral part of our Cave Creek Unified family. Your partnership, encouragement, and engagement make all the difference in the lives of our students. 

Let’s make February a month of gratitude and appreciation for our incredible school counselors!

We look forward to seeing you in our schools.

Moving Forward Together,

Bill Dolezal, Superintendent

Dear Parents, Community & CCUSD Staff -   

The Cave Creek Unified School District is registering for Kindergarten for the 2025-2026 school year! Kindergarten classes are found at all our “A” rated, highly-performing elementary schools.

In the Cave Creek Unified School District, we provide an innovative, high-quality learning experience for all students. Our classrooms facilitate strategies to develop curious, resilient, critical-thinking, and problem-solving students. Our students and educators are empowered to make a difference, while inspiring excellence in our families, community, and world.

Why should you choose CCUSD for Kindergarten?

• Highly-qualified, certified teachers
• Relationships
• Excellent instruction
• Commitment to community
• Focus on whole child development
• Consistently highest test scores in Maricopa County
• Top Performing School District in Northeast Valley
• Employment, enrollment, and enlistment pathways for all students

What are the age requirements?

• Students must turn 5 on or before August 31, 2025
• If your child turn 5 after August 31, 2025, you can:
  • Apply for early entrance testing, if their birthday is before December 31, 2025
  • Attend one of our outstanding, on-site pre-K programs for students who are 3 or 4 years old

Bring your child to one of our Kindergarten events to learn more. Scan the QR code for more information.

We look forward to seeing you in our schools.

Moving Forward Together,

Bill Dolezal, Superintendent

Dear Parents, Community & CCUSD Staff -   

As the seasons change and the spirit of gratitude fills the air, I want to take this opportunity to express my heartfelt appreciation for everyone who contributes to making our school district exceptional. It is a true honor to serve as the proud Superintendent of our beloved school community. 

To our Governing Board:

Thank you for your steadfast commitment to the success of our students, both inside and outside the classroom. Your guidance and collaborative leadership have built a foundation of trust and achievement that strengthens our district every day.

To our District Leadership Team:

I deeply appreciate your intelligence, compassion, and unwavering passion for excellence. Your dedication inspires me, and your hard work ensures our schools and departments continue to reach new heights.

To our Educators:

Your enthusiasm and dedication to nurturing the minds and hearts of our students are truly extraordinary. Through your tireless efforts to create inclusive and engaging learning environments, you empower our students to reach their fullest potential, even when they may not yet see it themselves. Thank you for making such a profound difference in their lives.

To our Staff Members:

Behind the scenes, you are the backbone of our district’s success. From maintaining our facilities to transporting, feeding, and safeguarding our students, and running our offices, your contributions are indispensable. Your hard work ensures our schools operate seamlessly and efficiently, and we are grateful for all you do.

To our Community Partners:

Your support enriches the educational experiences of our students in countless ways. Whether through your time, resources, or collaborative spirit, your partnership strengthens our shared mission to provide an exceptional education. We look forward to continuing this vital collaboration.

To our Parents and Guardians:

Thank you for trusting us with your children’s education and well-being. I know you have a choice where you send your children, and I am grateful you chose CCUSD. Your involvement and partnership are key to building a thriving educational community, and we are fortunate to work alongside such engaged and supportive families.

To our Students:

You are the heart of everything we do. Your enthusiasm, resilience, and drive inspire us daily. Your achievements, both in and out of the classroom, fill us with pride and remind us why we strive for excellence. You are the reason we come together as a community, and we are committed to helping you achieve your dreams.

I encourage everyone to reflect on the collective impact we have made and will continue to make together on the lives of our students. Together, we endeavor to set our students upon a path of excellence, compassion, and lifelong learning.  Together, we prepare our students to achieve success when they leave Cactus Shadows in their employment in the workforce, their enlisting in the military, or their enrollment in post-secondary education. I am truly honored to be on this journey with all of you.

Moving Forward Together,

Bill Dolezal, Superintendent

Dear Parents, Community & CCUSD Staff -   

We are grateful for the men and women who have served and are currently serving in our United States Armed Forces. We know their sacrifice enables us to live such amazing lives. 

Veterans Day Celebrations around CCUSD:

Black Mountain Elementary School
Black Mountain will host their annual Veterans Day Walk of Honor on November 8th starting at 2:45. Veterans will walk along the inner path at BMES while being honored for their service by students and staff. All veterans are welcome. Call 480-575-2100 for more information.

Desert Sun Academy
Desert Sun would like to invite you to a Veterans Day Concert that the PreK-sixth grade students will be performing on Friday, November 8th at 9:30 a.m. in the Multipurpose Building. Students will be singing patriotic songs in honor of our veterans who are welcome to join us for the concert. Call 480-575-2900 for more information.

Desert Willow Elementary School
Desert Willow will welcome veterans to come in to read to their students and will provide them lunch.  The students are writing thank you cards and the campus will be decorated in red, white, and blue. 

Horseshoe Trails Elementary School
Horseshoe Trails will be holding a 30 minute Veterans Day school assembly with a choir performance honoring our veterans. 

Lone Mountain Elementary School
Lone Mountain is inviting veterans to join them for coffee in the staff lounge and then attend an assembly in their cafeteria.  Fourth-sixth grade essay winners will read their essays, each grade level will sing a song, and there will be a slideshow.  They are also having a BBQ lunch. 

Sonoran Trails Middle School
Sonoran Trails will be hosting a Veterans Day Assembly to honor those who have chosen to serve in our country’s military on November 8th at 2:00 pm. 

As a reminder, all CCUSD schools and offices will be closed on Monday, November 11 in observance of Veterans Day. 

We look forward to seeing you in our schools.

Moving Forward Together,

Bill Dolezal, Superintendent

Dear Parents, Community & CCUSD Staff -   

Our CCUSD Governing Board officially recognized September 26 as “Legendary Teacher Day” in CCUSD. This day is a time for us to reflect on the profound influence that a teacher has had on our own lives. We all have that teacher who made a difference in our lives, who inspired us, believed in us when we doubted ourselves, or ignited a passion within us. These educators are the unsung heroes who shape the future through their dedication and passion. Many of these teachers do not even know the difference they have made in our lives.

While the official day may have passed, I invite each and every one of you to reconnect with that legendary teacher from your past who played such a pivotal role in your life. Reach out to them and express your gratitude for the impact they've had. Your words of appreciation can mean the world to them, reminding them of the importance of their work and the lives they've touched.

Whether it's a heartfelt email, a handwritten letter, a phone call, or even a visit if possible, your gesture will not only make their day but also serve as a powerful reminder of why they chose this noble profession. It's an opportunity to pay it forward by acknowledging the tremendous value of teaching and the lasting impact it has on generations to come. Share your stories, anecdotes, and reflections with your colleagues and students. Let us collectively honor the tireless dedication and boundless compassion of those who choose to work in education.

Thank you for your unwavering commitment and support to our students and schools. I'm incredibly proud to have each of you as part of our Cave Creek Unified School District family.

We look forward to seeing you in our schools.

Together,

Bill Dolezal, Superintendent

Dear Parents, Community & CCUSD Staff - 

As we approach Patriot's Day, we take a moment to reflect on the tragic events of September 11, 2001, a day that forever changed our Nation and united us in resilience and hope.  Those events and days after serve as a poignant reminder of the values we hold dear; courage, sacrifice, and community. 

Please see below the information on Patriot Day Celebrations at CCUSD Schools!

Black Mountain Elementary School

BMES will host their 14th Annual Patriot Day Ceremony, which will take place on Tuesday, September 10th.  The Patriot Day Ceremony is a highlight of the school year, fostering a sense of patriotism and community spirit among our students, families, and community.  This year, the event will coincide with their Grandparents' Breakfast, bringing together different generations to celebrate and acknowledge the contributions of our first responders. 

Desert Willow Elementary School

DWES will be displaying flags around the campus and hosting a lunch for first responders.  Students will create notes and pictures to thank the first responders and will pass out flag pins to all who attend. 

Desert Sun Academy

Teachers will use Patriot Day resources in Discovery ED and select books from our school library to read to students.  Our students will make cards and/or draw a picture to thank our first responders and local law enforcement.  As a school, we will wear red, white, and blue on September 11th. 

Lone Mountain Elementary

Students and staff will wear red, white, and blue and flags will be on display.  We will have a moment of silence. 

Horseshoe Trails Elementary

Students will be writing friendly letters to First Responders in the community and Principal Pettinato will be reading a brief, patriotic message to the whole school about 9/11 and the helpers that day, followed by a brief moment of silence. 

Sonoran Trails Middle School

STMS will be observing a moment of silence and having words about 9/11 in the announcements.  Social Studies teachers will be incorporating information into their lessons for the day. 

Cactus Shadows High School

CSHS will have a Patriot Spirit Day and read an informational paragraph on the announcements. 

Together,

Bill Dolezal, Superintendent