Somos Sunnyside

Somos Sunnyside: Episode 50 featuring Sebastian Gonzalez

In this inspiring episode of Somos Sunnyside, Superintendent Gastelum sits down with Desert View High School’s own Sebastian Gonzalez, a proud product of the Sunnyside Unified School District. Sebastian shares his story growing up in the district, participating in programs that shaped who he is today—mariachi, basketball, boys volleyball, and the S.U.N. program during his elementary years.
A true example of dedication and perseverance, Sebastian reflects on the ups and downs of applying for scholarships, including the many rejections that made his eventual success as a Dorrance Scholar even more meaningful. He recounts the powerful moment he made it to the final interview panel—face-to-face with Mr. Dorrance himself—and how the process sharpened his interview skills and boosted his confidence.
Sebastian’s academic motivation, fueled in part by some healthy sibling rivalry, has taken him far, and he’s just getting started. He’ll be attending the University of Arizona this fall with a dream to earn a degree that will help him open a chiropractic office alongside his dad, a licensed massage therapist.
Tune in to hear how Sebastian’s journey through Sunnyside schools, his commitment to both academics and extracurriculars, and his passion for giving his best have led him to a future filled with opportunity and purpose.

Somos Sunnyside: Episode 49 featuring Jeanette Mendoza

In this episode of Somos Sunnyside, we’re thrilled to feature Jeanette Mendoza, a standout senior from Sunnyside High School. Jeanette is a passionate learner with a deep love for both mariachi music and science. As a 2025 Flinn Scholar, she shares her journey through academics, the power of cultural expression through mariachi, and what drives her to succeed.
Jeanette reflects on the teachers and experiences that shaped her, and talks about her plans to study at the University of Arizona. With her sights set on making a difference, Jeanette hopes to one day give back to the very community that supported her growth.
Tune in to hear this inspiring conversation with one of Sunnyside’s brightest stars—where tradition, talent, and ambition come together.

Somos Sunnyside: Episode 48 featuring Tucson Youth Music, Tucson Police Department & Sierra K-8

In this powerful episode of Somos Sunnyside, we highlight a groundbreaking collaboration that’s hitting all the right notes in the Sunnyside Unified School District. Superintendent Gastelum sits down with a diverse panel of change makers: Christopher Garcia, Sierra K-8 teacher and music instructor; Lieutenant Faith Schrouder from the Tucson Police Department; Dana Wier, CEO of Tucson Youth Music; and Granger Vinall, Board Chair of Tucson Youth Music.
Together, they discuss the On Beat Studio program—a unique partnership between Sierra K-8, the Tucson Police Department, and Tucson Youth Music. The program offers free violin and guitar lessons to 2nd–3rd and 6th–7th graders, bringing students and police officers into the same learning space, united through music. It's more than just music instruction—it’s a violence prevention initiative under TPD’s VIVA program, aimed at creating positive, personal interactions between youth and law enforcement.
Lieutenant Schrouder shares how being a musician herself allows her to connect with kids on a human level, while Dana Wier and Granger Vinall speak to the broader vision and impact of music education across Tucson. Christopher Garcia offers an inside look at the classroom magic, where students are finding confidence, joy, and a sense of belonging through their instruments.
This episode is a testament to the power of partnership, the importance of access, and the role music can play in building stronger, safer communities.

Somos Sunnyside: Episode featuring Arlene Wade Peña

In this episode of Somos Sunnyside, we sit down with Arlene Wade Peña, a dedicated second grade teacher at Elvira Elementary School and this year’s recipient of the Esperanza Teacher of the Year Award, presented by Chicanos por la Causa. Arlene shares her journey from dreaming of becoming a lawyer to finding her true calling in the classroom—thanks to early encouragement from her teacher, Mr. Miller at Drexel Elementary, and later, mentors who saw her potential as an educator. With over a decade of experience, Arlene reflects on the joy and purpose she’s found in teaching. Her passion is clear: she’s where she belongs, with her students, shaping young minds year after year. Tune in to hear how Arlene’s heart for teaching continues to make a lasting impact at Elvira—and why she knows she’ll retire right where she is: in the classroom.

Somos Sunnyside: Episode 46 featuring Lily Meda and Dr. Aram Abramian

In this episode of Somos Sunnyside, we highlight an essential service making a difference in our community—mobile dentistry in Sunnyside schools. Our guests, Lilly Meda and Dr. Aram Abramian from General Dentistry 4 Kids, share how their program brings preventative dental care directly into school classrooms, ensuring students receive necessary check-ups without missing valuable class time or requiring parents to take time off work.
Since first partnering with Sunnyside Unified School District in 2009, General Dentistry 4 Kids has evolved from using an RV-based clinic to setting up full dental stations inside schools, creating a more comfortable and familiar environment for children. Their preventative services include X-rays, exams, cleanings, fluoride treatments, and sealants—all aimed at keeping students healthy and ready to learn.
Importantly, their program is accessible to all students, accepting all types of insurance and providing free preventative care to those without coverage. Beyond school-based care, they also support the community through oral hygiene education and their Caring4Community donation initiative.
Join us as we discuss the impact of this invaluable program and how it removes barriers to dental care, ensuring every child can maintain a healthy smile and focus on their education. Tune in and learn more about how General Dentistry 4 Kids is keeping Sunnyside students smiling!
 

Somos Sunnyside: Episode 45 featuring Dr. Jeffrey Nasse

In this episode of the Somos Sunnyside podcast, Superintendent Gastelum sits down with Dr. Jeffrey P. Nasse, Chancellor of Pima Community College (PCC), to discuss the incredible opportunities available for students looking to continue their education. Dr. Nasse highlights PCC’s commitment to transforming lives through affordable, high-quality education and its mission to empower every learner, every day, for every goal.
To parents and students: Pima Community College values you as a student and cannot wait to help you accomplish your dreams. Like Sunnyside, PCC is dedicated to transforming students’ lives for the best. Tune in to learn how PCC can support your academic and career aspirations!

Somos Sunnyside: Episode 44 featuring Fernando Jimenez, Mari Martinez, and Ethan Bussell

In this episode of Somos Sunnyside, Superintendent Gastelum welcomes a panel of dedicated educators to share their journeys into teaching and how they found a professional home within the Sunnyside Unified School District. Guests include Mari Martinez, a preschool teacher at Ocotillo Learning Center; Fernando Jimenez, an ELA and AVID teacher at Desert View High School; and Ethan Bussell, a social studies teacher and teacher coach at Apollo Middle School.
Together, they discuss the rewards of teaching in Sunnyside—from the meaningful connections they build with students to the District’s robust professional development opportunities. Their message to anyone considering a career in education? Sunnyside offers a supportive, collaborative, and enriching work environment where educators can thrive. Whether you’re a new teacher or an experienced educator looking for a welcoming community, Sunnyside is a place to grow and make a lasting impact.

Somos Sunnyside: Epsiode 43 featuring Nick Duddleston and Marisela Wilson

In this episode of Somos Sunnyside, Superintendent Gastelum visits Sunnyside High School’s Film & TV program with teacher Nick Duddleston and student Marisela Wilson to explore how students are gaining hands-on experience in broadcast journalism, film, video, and live media production. This dynamic program prepares students for careers in the Radio, TV, and Film industries, equipping them with technical skills and real-world opportunities.
From producing Blue Devil News to filming public service announcements and community events, including graduation, these talented students are mastering storytelling through media. Tune in to hear how Sunnyside’s Film & TV program is shaping the next generation of media professionals!

Somos Sunnyside: Episode 42 featuring Chief Master Sergeant Steven Frederick and Mika Chance

In this episode of Somos Sunnyside, Superintendent Gastelum sits down with Chief Master Sergeant Steven Frederick and student Mika Chance to explore what it’s like to be part of Desert View High School’s Air Force Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps (AFJROTC).
AFJROTC isn’t just about uniforms and drills—it’s a leadership program designed to build character, promote wellness, and instill a sense of service to the nation and community. Students develop teamwork, discipline, and problem-solving skills while having the chance to participate in color guard, drill team, Orienteering, Raiders physical training, and the prestigious Kitty Hawk honor society.
And here’s the key—there’s no military obligation! It’s all about becoming a strong, confident leader ready for any future path.
🎧 Tune in to hear how AFJROTC is shaping the next generation of leaders!

Somos Sunnyside: Episode 41 featuring Armando Escalante & Ariel Acosta

In this episode of Somos Sunnyside, Superintendent Gastelum sits down with Sunnyside High School’s Auto Body Collision instructor, Armando Escalante, who has been shaping future automotive professionals for an incredible 40 years! Joining him is student Ariel Acosta, who shares what it’s like to be part of this hands-on program.
From dent removal and painting to refinishing and safety operations, the Auto Body Collision program equips students with the skills needed for entry-level jobs in the industry and prepares them for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) Certification. But the learning goes beyond the classroom—students also give back to the community, partnering with agencies like the Tucson Police Department to restore their lowrider for local events.
Tune in to hear how this program is revving up career opportunities and making an impact in the community! 🚗💨