12 JANUARY 2026 By Rachael Bouley Two Tavan Elementary teachers have received Innovation Startup Grants through Scottsdale Unified School District, opening the door to expand STEM resources for students of all grade levels to enjoy. The grant program recognizes outstanding educators who are transforming teaching through creativity, and Katie Khan and Susan Green are eager to share their love of science and technology with more students. According to Dr. Dave Priniski, SUSD Director of State and Federal Programs, the district launched the Innovation Startup Grants in 2023 to expand hands-on, future- focused learning opportunities. The SUSD Strategic Action Team inspired the grant, which was created to remove barriers and support innovation, helping schools bring forward-thinking ideas to life. “Since then, we’ve seen remarkable creativity across classrooms, with teachers integrating problem-solving, design thinking, and technology into instruction,” Priniski said. “Katie and Susan are leading the initiative. Their vision is to create a hybrid makerspace and robotics/coding program that expands access to meaningful STEM learning for K-5 students.” Creative educators spark curiosity, build confidence, and prepare students for a rapidly changing world. Grant funds support student-centered projects and may be used for materials, supplies, and other learning resources. Through funding received this fall, teachers have greater flexibility to create a truly innovative and inspiring learning space. Khan teaches kindergarten and first-grade CGP (comprehensive gifted program). This is her ninth year teaching, with two years of kindergarten at Tavan, one year teaching special education in Nevada, and six years in Virginia, leading kindergarten and third- grade classrooms. Green teaches second- and third-grade CGP, where her students learn through individualized instruction and passion projects. Now in her 21st year of teaching, Green loves all subjects but especially science and social studies. The duo said that receiving the SUSD Innovation Startup Grant felt very exciting and rewarding. “We are thrilled knowing we now have the opportunity to bring coding, robots, and hands-on learning experiences to our scholars,” Khan said. “It felt amazing to have our vision supported, especially knowing how much these tools will inspire creativity, problem-solving, and confidence.” The new makerspace will feature tools like coding robots, BreakoutEDU boxes, microscopes, and scales to spark curiosity and exploration. It will supplement classroom learning while giving students opportunities to problem solve, create, and develop strong critical thinking skills. “We can’t wait to see how this space empowers scholars to discover new interests and confidently engage in hands-on learning,” Green said. Khan discovered Wonder Robots and introduced them to her class. When she saw how quickly they connected with the robots, she teamed up with Green to apply for the Innovation Startup Grant. “Our goal was to expand this success into a school-wide initiative, so all students benefit from creative learning experiences, including coding and science equipment,” Khan said. Khan already integrates STEM projects into literacy lessons for kindergarten and first-grade CGP. Students use the stories they read as inspiration for design and build projects, which helps prepare them for Genius Hour investigations in the older grades based on their passions. With a shared commitment to opening opportunities through curiosity and creativity rooted in science, these teachers are excited for the future. “Our goal is to continue growing our makerspace initiative and expand it so every scholar at Tavan has access. We want to help build a school culture that values creativity, exploration, and perseverance,” Green said. “As we continue teaching at Tavan, we hope to support our scholars in becoming confident thinkers, curious creators, and collaborative problem solvers.” Coming soon: Tavan’s new innovative makerspace Katie Khan and Susan Green with Alyson Sawkiw, Denise Nofi and Principal Julie Ballard. PHOTO COURTESY OF TAVAN ELEMENTARY GRAND OPENING Phase 2 ENTERTAINMENT LOCAL FOOD TRUCKS RAFFLE GIVEAWAY Saturday, January 24, 2026 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM 4220 N 32nd St. Phoenix, AZ 85018 Tour Our New Luxury Model Homes and Enjoy A Festive Morning! Interest rates are introductory and subject to change. Contact our sales team for current rates. * You’re Invited! You’re Invited! Let Us Know You’re Coming!

13 JANUARY 2026 By Kylie de Best Have you driven by the old Tonalea Elementary campus and wondered what all the construction has been about? Well, now the wait is over: this former school has been transformed into a brand-new athletic facility designed for the entire community to enjoy. Temporarily named the 68th and Oak Street Athletic Facility, the space offers something for everyone. Sports enthusiasts can enjoy eight competition sand volleyball courts, refreshed ball fields, and basketball courts, while community members can take advantage of a playground, walking paths, and calisthenics pods for stretching and fitness. Solar-powered lighting also ensures the facility is sustainable and welcoming after the sun sets. The journey to this transformation took years of collaboration. In December 2020, the community met to discuss the future of the Tonalea campus. Residents shared ideas and reviewed SUSD proposals, eventually leading to the formation of the Old Tonalea School Visioning Committee, tasked with shaping a clear vision for the site. In November 2024, an official proposal for an athletic facility was presented, developed in partnership with DLR Group, Willmeng Construction, and Bowman. Construction required significant planning and effort. Extensive discussions with residents helped guide priorities before work officially began in April 2025. From site preparation and infrastructure to active building and hardscape work, progress continued through spring and summer. By November, the updated ball fields, courts, playground and walking paths were ready for public use. The facility brings numerous benefits. It offers a safe, engaging space for people to gather, be active, and connect. Students now have access to top-notch athletic resources without relying on rentals, while multiple schools can utilize the space for programs and events. The district views the facility not just as a practical solution but as a lasting asset for students, families, and the entire Scottsdale community. “We’re excited to have a resource like the new 68th and Oak Street Athletic Facility in the neighborhood,” Comm Manager Cymphanie Sherman said. “For years, Scottsdale Unified School District had to rent sand volleyball courts and other athletic spaces. Now our schools are beyond ecstatic to have these resources available close by.” On December 13, a ribbon-cutting ceremony celebrated the grand opening. Superintendent Dr. Scott Menzel joined representatives from DLR Group, Willmeng, and Bowman, along with community members, to explore the transformed space. Attendees also had the chance to participate in a naming ballot for the property. Looking ahead, the district plans to maintain and leverage the facility as a shared resource, ensuring it remains a hub where students and residents can safely learn, play, and thrive. Former SUSD school site transforms into athletic hub DLR Group’s Kristen Taylor-Foley, Willmeng Construction’s Dr. Jason Reynolds, members of the SUSD governing board and Coronado High’s band participated in the ribbon cutting in December. At the unveiling, community members were able to check out all facets of the new park, including the calisthenics machines. PHOTOS BY TORRENCE DUNHAM 7001 N Scottsdale Rd Suite C-138, Scottsdale, AZ 85253 Furniture | Lighting | Art | Accessories