Somos Sunnyside

Somos Sunnyside: Episode 21 featuring Andrea Romero

In this uplifting episode of Somos Sunnyside, we shine a spotlight on Andrea Romero, an exceptional senior at Star Academic High School. Andrea is set to graduate third in her class and has earned acceptance letters from seven universities! Her journey has been marked by resilience and determination, especially in the face of the challenges brought on by the pandemic. Andrea shares how the personalized and smaller atmosphere at Star Academic High School provided her with the support and encouragement needed to excel academically and personally.
As Andrea prepares to walk across the stage at graduation, she offers heartfelt advice to her peers: to have fun and hold onto their youth for as long as possible while they are still in school. She emphasizes the importance of balancing hard work with enjoying the high school experience and making lasting memories.
Tune in to hear Andrea's inspiring story, her words of wisdom, and her excitement for the future. Join us as we celebrate her remarkable achievements and look forward to the bright future that lies ahead for this extraordinary young woman.

Somos Sunnyside: Episode 20 featuring Frankois Valdez

In this episode of Somos Sunnyside, we delve into the inspiring journey of Frankois Valdez, co-valedictorian at Desert View High School, who shares his remarkable story of perseverance, gratitude, and determination.
With a stellar 4.3 GPA and the prestigious Dorrance Scholarship under his belt, Frankois reflects on his high school experience with heartfelt gratitude towards his counselors and educators, who played a pivotal role in preparing him for success. His journey is not just about academic achievements; it's deeply rooted in his Mexican-American heritage and the dream his parents instilled in him.
Frankois acknowledges the sacrifices his parents made, laying the foundation for his future through hard work and dedication. Following in his sister's footsteps as a valedictorian and college student, he finds strength and guidance in her mentorship, shaping his path towards bringing positive change to his community.
Through his story, Frankois embodies resilience and the power of education to transcend barriers. Join us as we explore his journey of building on his family's legacy and striving to make a difference in the world.

Somos Sunnyside: Episode 19 featuring Lucy Pacheco

In the latest episode of Somos Sunnyside, we are joined by the remarkable Lucy Pacheco, co-valedictorian of Desert View High School, whose humility and dedication shine through her academic achievements. Lucy shares her insights into the power of collaboration in education and the invaluable role of teachers in shaping her journey.
Throughout the conversation, Lucy reflects on her journey, emphasizing the importance of teamwork and the support of her peers in her academic success. She credits her achievements not only to her own hard work but also to the guidance and mentorship of her teachers, whom she views as invaluable collaborators in her learning process.
Looking ahead to the future, Lucy reveals her aspirations to pursue a career in architectural engineering, a path she will embark on in Philadelphia this coming fall. Her passion for architecture, combined with her relentless determination, promises a bright and impactful future ahead.
Tune in to Somos Sunnyside as Lucy Pacheco shares her inspiring story of empowerment through education.

Somos Sunnyside: Episode 18 featuring Desert View High School's Learning Ambassadors

In this episode of Somos Sunnyside, the spotlight is on Desert View High School's Learning Ambassador group with students dedicated to amplifying student voices in education.
Listeners get an inside look at how these passionate students are thriving in the classroom and aiding teachers in their professional growth. Through articulate discussions, the Ambassadors shed light on their classroom experiences and the development of crucial student agency skills. From ELA to Mathematics, Science, CTE, and Fine Arts, these students articulate how they are shaping their learner identities across diverse content areas.
Moreover, the Learning Ambassadors are not just confined to their school walls. They are honing their public speaking skills by presenting to teachers on-site, district administrators, and even educators nationwide at prestigious conferences. Through their efforts, a diverse range of perspectives is not only being heard but also influencing classroom practices.
Tune in to discover how this student-led initiative is fostering equity, amplifying voices, and shaping the future of education at Desert View High School and beyond!
 

Somos Sunnyside Episode 17 Featuring Audrey Jimenez & Anthony Leon

Welcome to Somos Sunnyside! In this special episode, we are joined by Audrey Jimenez, a remarkable athlete, and Coach Anthony Leon. Audrey is no stranger to victory, being a four-time state champion and gearing up for the 2024 Olympic Trials this month, where she's poised to dominate as the top seed in the challenge tournament.
Audrey's journey is nothing short of inspiring. From winning state titles in the girl's division during her freshman, sophomore, and junior years to fearlessly competing against boys, Audrey's determination knows no bounds. She has her sights set on the 2024 Olympic Trials, where she will face off against the formidable 2023 World medalist Sarah Hildebrandt in a best-of-three series for the 50 kg spot at the Paris Olympics.
But Audrey's achievements don't end there. As a silver medalist in the 110 lb weight category at the U20 World Championships in both 2022 and 2023, she has consistently proven her prowess on the wrestling mat.
Coach Leon also has exciting news to share. Audrey has been selected as the inaugural recipient of a new scholarship established in her honor. This scholarship, worth $10,000 each year of the recipient's college education, is awarded to an outgoing Sunnyside wrestler who maintains a 3.2 GPA. Audrey's outstanding performance at the AIA state championship played a pivotal role in the formation of this scholarship, and her legacy will live on through its name for years to come.
Tune in to Somos Sunnyside to learn more about Audrey's incredible journey and the formation of this groundbreaking scholarship.

Somos Sunnyside: Episode 16 featuring The Middle School Principals

Welcome to another episode of Somos Sunnyside! In this installment, we're honored to host five remarkable guests who embody the spirit of excellence and dedication in education. Joining us are Thad Dugan, Principal of Apollo Middle School; Matthew Craft, Principal of Billy Lane Lauffer Middle School; Adriana Molina, Principal of Challenger Middle School; Kathy Dong, Principal of Gallego Intermediate Fine Arts Magnet; and Angelica Encinas, Principal of Sierra K-8 School.
These passionate educators represent the Sunnyside Unified School District and are here to shed light on what makes their middle schools exceptional. From providing enriching fine arts programs to offering diverse career exploration classes, clubs catering to various interests, and robust sports opportunities, these principals ensure that every student's needs and passions are nurtured.
As you listen to these inspiring leaders, it's evident that Sunnyside Unified School District's middle schools are more than just educational institutions—they are vibrant communities dedicated to nurturing the potential of every student.
If you're looking for a supportive and enriching educational environment for your child, we encourage you to consider enrolling with Sunnyside Unified School District for middle school.
 
INTERESTED IN LEARNING MORE: Check out the new club and activity feature on our middle school pages to see what each school has to offer and while your visiting don't forget to enroll for the upcoming school year! 

Somos Sunnyside: Episode 15 featuring Leticia Craft, Brayan Rodriguez, and Mari Lujan

Welcome to another episode of Somos Sunnyside! In this edition, we take you inside the inspiring world of the Education Professions program at Sunnyside High School, led by the dedicated Leticia Craft.
Joining us for an insightful conversation are two passionate juniors, Brayan Rodriguez and Mari Lujan, who share their aspirations for a future in teaching. This program offers students like Brayan and Mari real-world experiences through internships at local elementary to high schools, providing a hands-on approach to learning.
Crafted to prepare students for both employment and post-secondary opportunities in the education field, the Education Professions program is a comprehensive journey into the various facets of education. From teaching and coaching, students get a taste of it all.
Our guests highlight the interactive experiences the program provides, exposing students to diverse age groups and content areas in educational environments. It's not just a classroom experience; it's a stepping stone into the dynamic world of education.
As we delve into the impact this program has on shaping the next generation of educators, we discover how it is molding passionate individuals who are destined to make a positive difference in the lives of our youth.
Tune in to Somos Sunnyside and explore the incredible work happening within the Education Professions program at Sunnyside High School, where the future of education is being shaped by enthusiastic students like Brayan Rodriguez and Mari Lujan.

Somos Sunnyside: Episode 14 featuring Carlos Rue, Mark Acosta, and Ronnie Ventura

In this episode of Somos Sunnyside, we dive into the world of sports medicine with an insightful conversation featuring Sports Medicine Instructor Carlos Rue and two of his students, Mark Acosta and Ronnie Ventura. The sports medicine class at Desert View High School goes beyond the boundaries of traditional education, providing students with a hands-on experience that prepares them not only for sports medicine but also for a diverse array of medical career options.
Listeners will learn about the dynamic curriculum, which includes mastering anatomy terms, practicing skills such as taking blood pressure and dressing wounds, and gaining a realistic perspective on various medical careers. The program has successfully produced graduates who have gone on to pursue pre-med and nursing studies.
Discover how students get a unique opportunity to observe, diagnose, and treat sports-related injuries firsthand. They also serve as valuable assistants to the athletic trainer for their school, actively participating in injury prevention, rehabilitation, and supporting student athletes by mastering techniques like taping and wrapping.
Tune in to hear about the students' appreciation for Mr. Rue, who not only imparts knowledge but also provides valuable insights into a spectrum of potential careers while maintaining a fun and engaging classroom environment. This podcast episode sheds light on the impactful Sports Medicine program at Desert View, where students not only learn but actively contribute to the well-being of their fellow student athletes.

Somos Sunnyside: Episode 13 featuring The Rodriguez Family

Buckle up for an extraordinary episode of Somos Sunnyside as we dive headfirst into the thrilling world of rodeo with none other than the remarkable Rodriguez family! In the spirit of Rodeo Week in Tucson, our esteemed guests bring a wealth of experience, not only in the adrenaline-pumping arena but also in the heartwarming halls of education within the Sunnyside Unified School District.
Meet the dynamic duo of the Rodriguez family, where passion for roping and the pursuit of prestigious rodeo buckles are seamlessly intertwined with a steadfast commitment to learning and service. Mr. Rodriguez, a dedicated teacher at Desert View High School, and Ms. Alvarado, a compassionate SPED Personal Care Assistant at Challenger Middle School, exemplify the perfect balance between professional excellence and family values.
But the story doesn't end there—enter Auggie Rodriguez, a spirited 7th grader at Challenger Middle School, and the talented Camila Rodriguez, a vivacious 3rd grader at Elvira Elementary School. These young dynamos have not only inherited the family's rodeo prowess but have also found success in their academic endeavors.
In this captivating episode, we delve into the Rodriguez family's journey, exploring their passion for hard work, continuous learning, and the art of succeeding both inside and outside the classroom. With the Tucson Rodeo just around the corner, our hearts swell with excitement as we extend our heartfelt wishes to Camila, who is gearing up to compete in this weekend's rodeo extravaganza!
So, join us as we ride the waves of inspiration with the Rodriguez family, celebrating their achievements, embracing their dedication, and sending nothing but the best of luck to young Camila in her upcoming rodeo adventure. This is an episode you won't want to miss!

Somos Sunnyside: Episode 12 featuring Mrs. Lawrie, Golda, and Mariana

Dive into the rich world of agriculture on the latest Somos Sunnyside podcast! This time, we explore Desert View High School's Agriculture Science program with the incredible Mrs. Lawrie.
Mrs. Lawrie, a seasoned expert with roots deep in agriculture, shares her passion for cultivating knowledge in the classroom. Joining us are Golda and Mariana, offering a behind-the-scenes look into their enriching experiences within the program.
Golda and Mariana spill the beans on their summer internships, where they delved into agriscience care, explored the realms of food justice, and even raised adorable animals like chickens. 🐓✨ And speaking of chickens, don't miss out on the feathered sensation of Desert View – their resident rooster, aptly named "Chick Magnet"!
And here's a green twist: Desert View's partnership with the Community Food Bank is sowing seeds of change! Discover how they're enhancing their greenhouse, growing plants right in the classroom, and contributing to the community's well-being.