Today we proudly celebrate Pueblo del Sol Elementary’s Teacher of the Year, school counselor Courtney Ochoa! 🌟
Ms. Ochoa is an extraordinary counselor whose compassion and dedication touch every corner of PDS. She creates a safe, nurturing space where students feel seen, heard, and valued—reminding every child that their feelings matter and they are never alone.
Through her gentle guidance and unwavering support, she helps students build the skills and confidence they need to navigate challenges and find success both in and out of the classroom. Whether leading classroom lessons, working one-on-one with students, or supporting emotional regulation strategies, Ms. Ochoa brings patience, understanding, and heart to every interaction.
What makes her truly exceptional is her deep commitment to meeting the needs of every student. Her work with PBIS systems and the Student Success Team ensures that all learners—especially those who need it most—receive the structure, care, and support they need to thrive.
Beyond PDS, Ms. Ochoa is a collaborative leader who helps strengthen practices that support students across the system. Her impact is profound, lasting, and felt far beyond her own campus.
She embodies care, advocacy, and excellence in education, making her truly deserving of the honor of Pueblo del Sol Teacher of the Year. 💙
Congratulations, Courtney Ochoa! 🎉
#SVUSD #TeacherOfTheYear #AchievingExcellenceTogether #EmpoweringYou

Today we proudly celebrate Huachuca Mountain’s Teacher of the Year, PE teacher Jessica Eikenberry — better known to students as “Coach Mac!” 💙
Coach Mac brings unmatched energy, passion, and heart to everything she does, transforming physical education into an experience where students feel empowered, included, and inspired. In her class, PE becomes more than movement—it becomes a place where students learn confidence, resilience, leadership, and teamwork.
What makes Coach Mac truly exceptional is the way she supports the whole child. She meets students where they are academically, emotionally, and physically, ensuring every student feels seen, capable, and successful. Through leadership opportunities, encouragement, and inclusive experiences, she creates a culture where students feel safe to grow, take risks, and believe in themselves.
Her impact reaches far beyond the gym. As a mentor, leader, and community builder, Coach Mac helps students develop lifelong habits of wellness, self-belief, and perseverance. Students leave her class not only stronger physically, but more confident in who they are and who they can become.
Coach Mac embodies the true spirit of education, and her lasting impact makes her incredibly deserving of the honor of Huachuca Mountain Teacher of the Year. 🎉
Congratulations, Jessica Eikenberry! 👏
#SVUSD #TeacherOfTheYear #AchievingExcellenceTogether #EmpoweringYou

Today we are proud to celebrate Carmichael’s Teacher of the Year, Kindergarten teacher Kerry Ingold! ❤️
Mrs. Ingold creates a classroom filled with joy, purpose, and belonging. From the moment students walk through her door, they are welcomed into a safe and caring environment where they feel valued, supported, and excited to learn.
Through song, movement, play, and hands-on learning, Mrs. Ingold brings learning to life in meaningful and engaging ways. Her intentional teaching helps build strong foundations in literacy and math while also nurturing confidence, independence, and a belief in every child’s potential.
What makes Mrs. Ingold truly exceptional is her ability to meet each student where they are and help them grow. Using thoughtful, data-informed instruction, she ensures every student is supported and successful.
Beyond her classroom, she is a dedicated collaborator and leader who works closely with her team to strengthen instruction and support students across the school community.
Mrs. Ingold represents the very best of education through her compassion, excellence, and unwavering commitment to children. Her impact is lasting, and she is truly deserving of the honor of Carmichael Teacher of the Year. 💙
Congratulations, Kerry Ingold! 🎉
#SVUSD #TeacherOfTheYear #AchievingExcellenceTogether #EmpoweringYou

Today we proudly celebrate Bella Vista’s Teacher of the Year, Kindergarten teacher Paloma Lepley! ❤️
Ms. Lepley creates far more than a classroom—she builds a joyful, welcoming community where students feel safe, valued, and excited to learn each day. Through her patience, kindness, and dedication, she helps her kindergarten students grow in confidence, independence, and a lifelong love of learning.
What makes Ms. Lepley truly exceptional is the way she supports every child individually, meeting students where they are and helping each one thrive. Her students leave her classroom believing in themselves and their ability to succeed.
Beyond her classroom, Paloma is a leader throughout the Bella Vista community. She collaborates with colleagues, helps improve schoolwide practices and campus safety, mentors others, and brings positivity and innovation to everything she does.
Her impact reaches far beyond kindergarten, and her dedication to students, families, and staff makes her truly deserving of the honor of Bella Vista Teacher of the Year. 💙
Congratulations, Paloma Lepley! 🎉
#SVUSD #TeacherOfTheYear #AchievingExcellenceTogether #EmpoweringYou

You started your journey at our Elementary schools, and now you’re finishing as a Colt. Before you cross the big stage, come back to where it all began for the annual Senior Walk at all SVUSD Elementary!
Put on your cap and gown, walk the halls one more time, and let’s show the 6th grade Class of 2032 what the future looks like! They are walking before their own promotion, and they’re looking to you! 🥹
We need you to sign up so we can plan for you!
👇 HOW TO JOIN THE WALK:
✅ Sign up with the link: https://forms.gle/2BanAx1Q1fCWdCMz9
🎓 Wear your cap and gown.
Let's make this memory count. Can't wait to see you there!

These outstanding teachers go above and beyond every single day to inspire students, build meaningful relationships, and create classrooms where learning thrives. Their dedication, passion, and commitment to excellence truly represent what it means to be part of SVUSD.
👏 Congratulations to our Teachers of the Year:
⭐ Bella Vista Kindergarten – Paloma Lepley
⭐ Carmichael Kindergarten – Kerry Ingold
⭐ Huachuca Mountain PE – Jessica Eikenberry
⭐ PDS Counselor – Courtney Ochoa
⭐ Town & Country 4th Grade – Tammy Jones
⭐ Village Meadows 4th Grade – Cindy Avery
⭐ JCMS Culinary – Dawn Wolslagel
⭐ Buena Science – Wendy Mehl
🏆 And congratulations to our Overall SVUSD Teacher of the Year: Cindy Avery!
Over the next several days, we will be highlighting each of these amazing educators and sharing what makes them so special to their students, schools, and the entire SVUSD family.
Thank you for all you do to empower students and help us continue Achieving Excellence Together! 💙 #SVUSD #TeacherOfTheYear #AchievingExcellenceTogether #EmpoweringYou

Students from all of our elementary schools came together at Buena High School to compete in a fun-filled day of track and field events. From sprints and relays to long jump and mile runs, our students gave it their all, showed amazing sportsmanship, and had an absolute blast!
A huge thank you to all of our PE teachers for helping organize this fantastic event — especially Coach Mac from Huachuca Mountain Elementary School for all of the hard work and coordination that made the day such a success.
We also want to give a special shout out to the Buena Track & Field student-athletes and Coach Bristow for volunteering their time and helping encourage our future Colts throughout the day!
And finally, thank you to Ed Morse Automotive Group
for generously sponsoring t-shirts for every student participant. Your support helped make the day even more memorable for our students!
#AchievingExcellenceTogether #EmpoweringYou #ElementaryTrackDay #FutureColts










After learning about the important role fungi play in ecosystems, the symptoms of Valley Fever, and why some individuals are more genetically vulnerable to severe illness, students stepped into the lab to put their knowledge into action.
Using DNA samples isolated from soil collected across various Southwest U.S. cities, students performed gel electrophoresis to analyze the presence of the fungus responsible for Valley Fever. Their mission: identify how widespread the fungus is and pinpoint potential “hot spots.”
Real-world science, critical thinking, and hands-on learning in action—this is what it means to be a Colt! 🐎✨










Today we celebrate the incredible leaders who guide our schools with passion, dedication, and heart. Our principals go above and beyond every single day to support students, staff, and families—creating positive, thriving school communities where everyone can succeed.
We are so grateful for our amazing team of principals. Your leadership inspires us, your commitment drives us, and your impact makes all the difference.
Thank you for all that you do! 💙 #PrincipalAppreciationDay #AchievingExcellenceTogether

The event was a true celebration of all their effort—students proudly shared their work, showing off their growth in research, writing, and presentation skills. We loved seeing their confidence and excitement shine! ✨
A big shoutout to Ms. Dickerson and Ms. Quinones for creating such a meaningful and engaging experience for our students. And of course, we are so proud of our 2nd graders for their dedication and hard work! 🩵🐺








Join us for Six: The Musical, Teen Edition, a high-energy, pop-powered performance where the six wives of Henry VIII take the mic and tell their stories—like you’ve never heard them before! 💥✨
📅 Friday & Saturday, May 1 & 2
🕖 7:00 PM
📍 Klein Center for the Performing Arts at Buena High School
🎟️ Tickets are just $7
💵 Cash at the door or online at Buena.BookTix.com
Come support our incredibly talented students and enjoy a show full of powerful voices, catchy music, and unforgettable performances. You won’t want to miss it!
#AchievingExcellenceTogether #EmpoweringYou #BuenaFineArts #SixTheMusical

Our talented Buena Theatre Arts students brought this classic children’s story to life in a fun and engaging way—creating an unforgettable experience just for our younger learners. From laughter to excitement, it was clear that fun was had by all!
We love opportunities like this to connect our schools and showcase our amazing Colts to our future Colts. The future is bright! 🎭💛





On Tuesday, we had the privilege of celebrating some of the most dedicated and inspiring members of the Sierra Vista Unified family. 💙
This special evening was all about recognizing the incredible employees who have reached milestone years of service — 10, 15, 20 years and beyond — and honoring those who are beginning an exciting new chapter in retirement.
Together, these 37 outstanding staff members represent an incredible 390 years of service to our students, schools, and community. That impact is immeasurable.
A special thank you to the Education Foundation of Sierra Vista for sponsoring this meaningful event and providing our retirees with a special gift as they begin their next chapter. We are also grateful to Buena Culinary for catering a wonderful reception for our honorees prior to the presentation.
To our longevity honorees and retirees: thank you for your commitment, your passion, and the difference you’ve made in countless lives. You are the heart of what it means to be SVUSD.
#AchievingExcellenceTogether #EmpoweringYou #SVUSD #ThankYou







Following the loss of two beloved members of the Bella Vista Bobcat family, students from across all of our schools came together to create hearts filled with messages of love and support.
On Wednesday evening, after campuses had quieted, our principals walked the halls of Bella Vista, carefully hanging each heart. Together, they filled the office and cafeteria with warmth and surrounded the space between the two classrooms with an outpouring of care—creating a powerful reminder that no one grieves alone.
We are incredibly proud of how our SVUSD family has come together to lift up one another during this difficult time. 💙
#SVUSDTogether #BobcatStrong #AchievingExcellenceTogether










🍕 Support Buena Seniors + Enjoy Some Pizza! 🎓
Join us on April 13 from 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM at Vinny’s New York Pizza for a delicious way to give back!
A portion of the proceeds will support Buena High School’s Project Graduation — a FREE, all-night celebration for our graduating seniors made possible by the Sierra Vista Sunrise Rotary and our amazing community.
🎉 This unforgettable night provides a safe, alcohol-free environment filled with:
✨ Games
🎁 Prizes & gift baskets
🎟️ Raffles
…and so much more!
Come grab a slice (or two!) and help us make this special night possible for our seniors. ❤️
#ColtProud #ClassOf2026 #ProjectGraduation #CommunityStrong

We are incredibly proud of our Buena Theatre Arts MILK CARTON IMPROV Troupe for their outstanding performance at Youth Arts Month at the State Capitol!
Each year, Youth Arts Month brings together talented students from across Arizona to showcase their creativity through music and visual arts—but this year marked something truly special. For the first time ever, a theatre group was invited to perform, and our very own Buena students rose to the occasion! 👏
Their creativity, quick thinking, and stage presence represented our district with excellence and made history in the process.
💙 Way to go, Buena Theatre Arts students! You continue to make us proud! #AchievingExcellenceTogether #EmpoweringYou






What an incredible turnout at yesterday’s SVUSD Enrollment & Family Fair! Thank you to all of the families—both new and returning—who came out to explore what makes Sierra Vista Unified School District such a special place to learn and grow.
From meeting our amazing teachers and learning about our schools and programs, to enjoying games, photo booths, free books, and prizes—it was a great afternoon filled with connection, excitement, and community.
We are so proud to share all that SVUSD has to offer, including our A+ Schools of Excellence and top-performing elementary schools in Cochise County. Events like this remind us how strong our SVUSD family truly is.
If you weren’t able to attend, we still look forward to connecting with you and helping you get enrolled for the upcoming school year!
✨ Thank you for being part of the journey—we loved having you aboard the SVUSD Express!
#SVUSD #SierraVistaSchools #EnrollmentFair #FamilyEvent #FutureSVUSDStudents








We’re bringing back the fun of our Read Across America Title I Family Night—but even BIGGER and BETTER! 🎉
Join us for the SVUSD Enrollment & Family Fair on:
📅 April 1
⏰ 4:00–5:30 PM
📍 The Rothery Education Center
Come enjoy an afternoon packed with:
🎮 Games
📸 Photo Booth
📚 FREE books for students
🎉 Prizes & family fun
PLUS—we’re hosting our Enrollment Fair at the same time! 🙌
Know a family new to the area or thinking about SVUSD? Bring them along and help us show off how amazing the SVUSD Express really is! 🚂💙
Let’s fill the station with smiles, laughter, and community—we can’t wait to see you there!
#SVUSD #FamilyFun #EnrollmentFair #CommunityEvent #AllAboard

We are incredibly proud of our Academic All Stars, scholarship recipients, and Golden Apple honorees. These recognitions highlight the hard work, dedication, and excellence happening across our district every day.
👏 Academic All Stars
Elle Mata – Buena High School (Junior)
Elora Chavez – Buena High School (Freshman)
Brilynn Gonzalez – Joyce Clark Middle School (8th Grade)
Brexen Bryson – Joyce Clark Middle School (7th Grade)
Tristyn McClinton – Pueblo Del Sol (6th Grade)
Vincent Turner – Carmichael (5th Grade)
Emma Villegas – Town & Country (5th Grade)
Declan Crossland – Village Meadows (2nd Grade)
🎓 2026 Scholarship Winners
Gretchyn Adams
Paige Goodman
Jason Janssen
Veronica Jimenez
Alannah Murphy
Calee Young
🍎 Golden Apple Honorees
Courtney Ochoa – Pueblo Del Sol Elementary
Kyle Dunlap – Joyce Clark Middle School
Michele Quinones – Village Meadows Elementary
Keri Muscarella – Town & Country Elementary
Laura Peters – Pueblo Del Sol Elementary
Cara Bush – Buena High School
Ryan Taylor – Buena High School
Stefanie Miller – Buena High School
✨ A special congratulations to our very own Laura Peters of Pueblo Del Sol Elementary, who was honored with the Crystal Apple Award on Saturday!
We are so proud of each of these individuals for their dedication, talent, and commitment to excellence. 💙
#SVUSD #AcademicExcellence #GoldenApple #StudentSuccess




🚍✨ Rolling in style!
Our Buena CTE students are hitting the road with a fresh new look! From competitions across the state to representing Buena with pride, they’re now traveling in style—and turning heads when they arrive. 😎
Our Career & Technical Education (CTE) programs are among the best in the state, and now our students can show it off before they even step off the bus.
👏 Huge shoutout to High Desert Signs for the incredible wrap—this bus looks amazing!
🔍 Did you know?
Career and Technical Education (CTE) is designed to give high school students real-world experience, preparing them to enter the workforce right after graduation or continue in their field in college.
CTE is also a separately funded state program, which helps keep our classrooms up-to-date with the latest technology used in each industry.
Buena proudly offers more than 13 CTE programs, helping students build skills for their future—starting today.
Buena CTE Programs include:
Auto Technology & Collision
Culinary
EMS
Engineering
Film & TV Production
HVAC
JROTC
Law & Public Safety
Marketing
Nursing
Sports Medicine
Stagecraft
Welding
#CTE #BuenaHigh #CareerReady #StudentSuccess #CTEWorks



