At every board meeting during the school year, Mesa Public Schools will recognize a Spotlight School. The Spotlight School at the March 25 meeting was Summit Academy. Below are principal Michael Deignan's remarks on each honoree.
Student Spotlight: Sequoia Foust
Sequoia excels in many areas, particularly in her musical prowess. She has been the 1st Chair Percussionist in the Junior High Honor Band since 5th grade. She had to obtain special permission to audition in 5th grade because she was still in elementary school.
Sequoia was the first junior high student allowed to participate in the state’s High School Solo and Ensemble Festival. She performed a four-mallet marimba solo, for which she received a Superior Rating. Sequoia is an accomplished honor roll student who does not shy away from challenges; instead, she uses them as motivation and learning opportunities.
In her own words, Sequoia says, “Whether it’s a math problem in class or a drum groove in Jazz Band, it is always rewarding to find success after failure. Struggle has been very impactful in my life, shaping me into the person I am today.”
Outside the classroom, Sequoia is an accomplished cross-country runner and participates in Jiu-Jitsu. She is truly deserving of the spotlight.
Classified Staff Spotlight: Heather Oakley
Heather started in February 2020, right before COVID changed how we conducted business. During our hybrid model, she supervised our online center—first in the MPR and later in the library—for students who were learning onsite during those emotionally trying times.
After that, Heather worked closely with primary-grade students as a highly supportive and engaging assistant to teachers, helping to foster early literacy development.
When needed, she would venture across the parking lot to the junior high during the lunch period, demonstrating her ability to positively engage with students from kindergarten through 8th grade.
Currently, Heather is the go-to person in our elementary lunchroom and playground, masterfully balancing the need for structure and order with goodwill and banter. She is a delight to work with and wears her many hats at Summit with grace and humor.
We appreciate Heather so very much.
Certified Staff Spotlight: Cody Allen
Cody has been teaching for 13 years. He has worked across the entire K–8 spectrum but prefers the junior high level for its quirkiness and the unique relationships students need to succeed.
He has effectively worked in many inclusive co-teaching environments alongside outstanding educators, always striving to benefit students. His teamwork approach and excellent collegiality make him the perfect co-teaching partner in the classroom.
For the past four years, Cody has served as the special education department chair for both campuses (elementary and junior high), supporting teachers and working closely with parents and guardians to serve students with special needs.
As an aspiring administrator, Cody often functions as our Admin on Duty when Joelle, our AP, or I am not present. His big heart, strong rapport with students and staff, sense of humor, and deep knowledge of public education serve him well in his current role and will undoubtedly set him up for success in whatever lies ahead.
Thank you, Cody, for being you.