Somos Sunnyside

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! 🚗💨

Somos Sunnyside: Episode 40 featuring Amy Link & Collette Bernal Ortiz

In this episode of Somos Sunnyside, Superintendent Gastelum sits down with Desert View High School’s Home Health instructor, Amy Link, and student Collette Bernal Ortiz to explore what it’s like to be part of the school’s Home Health Aide program. They discuss how the program prepares students with essential skills to care for homebound individuals, including training in first aid, personal hygiene, infection control, and more. Collette shares her personal experience in the program and delivers an inspiring message to fellow students: don’t be afraid to try new things! She also encourages parents to support their children in exploring new opportunities. Tune in to hear how this program is shaping future healthcare professionals and making a difference in the community.

Somos Sunnyside: Episode 39 featuring Paul Ibirogba & Esteban Velazquez

In this episode of Somos Sunnyside, we dive into the exciting new Career and Technical Education (CTE) Marketing program at Star Academic High School. Superintendent Gastelum sits down with Paul Ibirogba, the program’s teacher, and Esteban Velazquez, one of his students, to discuss how this class is shaping future professionals in sales, customer service, advertising, and entrepreneurship.
Paul shares insights into the program’s hands-on learning approach, which equips students with technical marketing skills while integrating critical thinking, business fundamentals, and leadership development. Esteban offers a student perspective, detailing what it’s like to take the class and apply real-world marketing strategies to their school’s snack bar.
From branding and promotions to customer service and business operations, this episode highlights how students are gaining practical experience while preparing for careers in marketing, business, and beyond. Tune in to hear how Star Academic High School is empowering students with the skills they need for success in the 21st-century workplace!

Somos Sunnyside: Episode 38 featuring Mario Castro

In this episode of Somos Sunnyside, we sit down with Mario Castro, Director of Career and Technical Education (CTE) for the Sunnyside Unified School District. Mr. Castro proudly reflects on his own journey as a CTE student at Pueblo High School, where he took a class called Warrior News, and later became a CTE teacher himself. Now, as Director, he oversees 26 teachers across the district, all dedicated to helping students discover their passions and prepare for high-demand careers.
CTE is not the vocational education of the past—it’s a rigorous, dynamic program that blends technical knowledge with academic skills, equipping students for the evolving workforce. Mr. Castro shares insights on how CTE programs in Sunnyside integrate industry partnerships, cutting-edge technology, and real-world experiences to prepare students for lifelong career success. Through collaborations with Southern Arizona Manufacturing Partners, Arizona Technology Council, JTED, Sun Corridor, and other organizations, students gain access to internships, mentorship, and career opportunities in emerging industries.
Tune in to hear how CTE is shaping the future of education and workforce development in Sunnyside!