NE Valley Times

During its May 18 meeting, the Paradise Valley Unified School District Board of Education (BOE) recognized some of its most outstanding students and athletes in honor of their achievements.

The board recognized Paradise Valley High School senior Tej Desai for being one of only 161 students to be named 2023 Presidential Scholars, a national academic competition under the Department of Education that “selects scholars annually based on their academic success, artistic and technical excellence, essays, school evaluations and transcripts, as well as a demonstrated commitment to community service and leadership.” More than 5,000 students were eligible, and Desai was the only one chosen from Arizona in the Career and Technical Education category.

Shadow Mountain High School senior Jessica Henry was honored as a recipient of the Arizona Dance Education Organization’s Artistic Merit Leadership and Academic Achievement Award.

“This award is the highest student dance award in the nation," Matthew Droge, Paradise Valley marketing director, said in the meeting. "On her application, the student scored in the top 15%, earning 770.5 points out of a total of 800 points. Such an honor is a testament to her individual achievements, dedication and skills.”

The board also celebrated the district's track & field athletes for their performances in state competition. Senior Gabriella Chiara won first place in the state Division 1 competition in the 800 meters, junior Donovan Bitticks won the 1600 meters in Division 2, Emmanuel Hernandez competed in the shot put, and Gloria Hussey competed in the long jump and triple jump events in Division 2. The district additionally recognized the 4x100 meter relay team of Bryonna Stroughter, Oliviah Hussey, Lanaya McCloud and J’Neya Hill for competing in the Division 2 championship, with Hill also winning the 200 meter championship and running in the 100 meters as well.

Droge said the athletes "have made quite a name for themselves in the area of track and field. These athletes are an inspiration to their peers and community alike."

Droge also congratulated the DECA program.

“Pinnacle High School's DECA presence at the International Career and Development Conference solidified their position as top performers in the DECA program, which has participants from around the globe," he said in the meeting. “In addition to learning, growing and taking part in many networking opportunities, two Pinnacle juniors made quite an impact when they placed first in their respective categories.”

Landon Stone and Skyler Teegarden took the top spots in Independent Entrepreneurship Plan a 20-page Business Proposal, and Apparel and Accessories Case Study Role Play, respectively.