38 DECEMBER 2023 The curriculum is designed to empower kids to grow to be the best they can be, while living their best life. Interwoven throughout their golf clinics are lessons in character building, which McDonough said results in kids having better mental and emotional strength, self-confidence and resilience, valuable skills that they can apply every day. “First Tee-Phoenix has amazing coaches and volunteers that have shaped me into who I am thanks to their kindness and important life lessons, such as setting myself up for success,” alumna member Isabelle Junio said. By Jennifer Marshall Each year, more than 120,000 young golfers take to the links, thanks to a national nonprofit called First Tee. The organization was established in 1997 by the LPGA, the Masters Tournament, the PGA of America, the PGA Tour and the USGA. Through the use of interactive games, introspective questions and immersive exercises, First Tee helps kids not only learn the game of golf, but use those learning lessons in their everyday lives. The Thunderbirds, a local philanthropic group, began the First Tee-Phoenix Chapter and were instrumental in its success, which was evident at the 20th annual fundraiser. This year, First Tee-Phoenix raised almost one million dollars. The nonprofit offers two robust programs: On Course and its School and Community Program. On Course takes place at 14 golf facilities throughout Maricopa County, utilizing a curriculum developed by experts in positive youth development through sports. Executive Director Erin McDonough describes the action-oriented program as “building Game Changers.” The program is taught by more than 50 staff and volunteer coaches. Nearly 2,000 youth participate each year. As they continue through the program, golfers are eligible for the First Tee PHX Tour, the tournament series, Thunderbirds Ace Club, the capstone experience and college scholarships. The School and Community Program currently operates in 17 different locations. Coaches teach the curriculum and philosophy to educators and instructors who, in turn, teach their students. “Through First Tee-Phoenix, I have learned how to succeed in both golf and school by setting attainable goals and maintaining control over them, while at the same time keeping them specific,” member Drew Stauffacher said. Wyndham Clark, Max Homa, board members, donors, Thunderbird members, former Govorner Doug Ducey and former VP of the United States Dan Quayle attended this year’s fundraiser gala. “The money raised will support our programming, including investing in coaches and mentors, training, equipment, course fees, college scholarships, camps, clinics, and more,” McDonough said. firstteephoenix.org This organization is empowering youths to be Game Changers PGA Tour golfer Max Homa with First Tee members Izzy Junio, Cadence Garcia, Ian Kennedy and Gavin Diaz. PHOTO COURTESY OF FIRST TEE By Mark Hays The Arizona State Board of Education’s Student Advisory Panel connects a like- minded group of student representatives with similar goals to share input on educational matters. This panel assists officials as they make state policies – and Phoenix Country Day School junior Kaleb Gebresillasie was recently appointed as Vice Chair. The purpose of the Student Advisory Panel is to share student input and insight with the school board, introduce students to the workings of state government related to education, and provide them with the opportunity to elevate concerns and issues to the board. The group is made up of 10 sophomores, juniors, and seniors enrolled in Arizona schools. They meet virtually each month with quarterly in-person gatherings in Phoenix. Kaleb’s journey to the panel began when he applied in August. “I was driven by a passion to serve as a bridge between students and educational policymakers,” he said. “With the Arizona Board of Education representing over 1.4 million students, it was paramount to ensure that the student voice was not just heard, but effectively integrated into the policymaking process.” Kaleb saw the position as a way to enact positive change in his and other’s lives. “I felt that this panel would be the best platform to facilitate and bring about real, impactful changes,” he said. According to Kaleb, serving on the board is both an honor and a responsibility. “It signifies trust, as I was selected to represent the diverse student voices of Arizona. It’s a role that I cherish because it provides me with an opportunity to advocate for my peers, ensuring that our concerns, aspirations, and challenges are directly communicated to the highest levels of our state’s educational system,” he said. “It’s a chance for me to demystify the workings of state government in education, making it more comprehensible and accessible to all.” One of his goals is to develop an approach for student-led advocacy strategies to broaden civics education in Arizona’s rural school districts. Another priority is facilitating direct access to financial literacy resources so students are equipped with skills to succeed in the future. After graduation, Kaleb is considering a career in law or finance. “Both fields hold the potential for substantial impact, allowing me to advocate for meaningful change in diverse arenas,” he said. “Kaleb’s appointment is a testament to his leadership, academic excellence, and passion for creating positive change,” PCDS Director of Communications Chris Martinez said. “Through this role, Kaleb will empower fellow students by providing them with a platform to voice their concerns.” Becoming a voice for 1.4 million fellow Arizona students Kaleb Gebresillasie T H E XAVIER EFFECT Where Young Women Finish Strong xcp.org Xavier College Preparatory is a Catholic community that strives to prepare young women of faith with knowledge, skills, and integrity to meet the challenges of a changing global society in a positive and productive manner celebrating unity. Next Steps in Admissions Process Admission HSPT Entrance/Placement Exam at Xavier College Preparatory Sat., Dec. 2, 2023 | 7:30 a.m. - 11:15 a.m. Sat., Dec. 9, 2023 | 7:30 a.m. - 11:15 a.m. Affording a Xavier Education Financial Aid Workshops available to interested parents during the Entrance/Placement Exam Testing, Dec. 2, 2023 and Dec. 9, 2023. Deadline for Application Tuesday, Jan. 16, 2024 Go to XCP.org for more information All are welcome! * ...........

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