Mountain View News
STEAM Night 11/14/24
Join us on November 14th from 5:00pm - 6:30pm to learn more about:
- Senses-Stations for students to explore their 5 senses.
- Plants- Students will create a greenhouse to grow a plant while observing its life cycle.
- Erosion - Students will create a barrier that will reduce erosion. *
- Kazoos and Egg Shakers
- Electromagnet and Simple Circuits Stomp Rockets
- Plate Tectonics
- Earthquake-proof buildings.
- and more...
Estimated Impact to Your Taxes
The Dysart community is scheduled to pay off the voter-approved 2006 bond in fiscal year 2028. If approved, the proposed 2024 bond would phase in over three years, so there is no expected tax rate increase associated with the proposed bond. The bond tax rate would actually drop to approximately half of the current rate beginning in 2029 due to the 2006 bond phasing out.
The community is invited to learn more about the 2024 Dysart bond at Dysart.org/Bond2024, as well as detailed information on Dysart’s budgets and annual financial reports at Dysart.org/Budget.
Note: Tax rates are an estimate and are influenced by a variety of factors including Maricopa County assessed valuation fluctuations. The tax rates listed here are based on a revised estimate in July 2024.
The proposed 2024 Bond would fund facility renovations at each site
The Dysart Governing Board called for the November 5, 2024 bond election at the March 14 board meeting after a unanimous community committee recommendation. The bond program would be $127 million to fund safety and security improvements, school bus replacements, facility renovations at each site, construction of a new elementary school and land for a new high school in the Northwest Asante area.
Based on the estimated average assessed home value within our district of $197,830, the average homeowner would pay $5.94 per month, for a total of $71.22 estimated per year.
The Dysart community is scheduled to pay off the voter-approved 2006 bond in fiscal year 2028. If approved, the proposed 2024 bond would phase in over three years, so there is no expected tax rate increase associated with the proposed bond. The bond tax rate would actually drop to approximately half of the current rate beginning in 2029 due to the 2006 bond phasing out.
The community is invited to learn more about the 2024 Dysart bond at Dysart.org/Bond2024, as well as detailed information on Dysart’s budgets and annual financial reports at Dysart.org/Budget.
Note: Tax rates are an estimate and are influenced by a variety of factors including Maricopa County assessed valuation fluctuations. The tax rates listed here are based on a revised estimate in July 2024.
NO INCREASE Tax Rate Phase-in Plan
Based on the estimated average assessed home value within our district of $197,830, the average homeowner would pay $5.94 per month, for a total of $71.22 estimated per year.
The Dysart community is scheduled to pay off the voter-approved 2006 bond in fiscal year 2028. If approved, the proposed 2024 bond would phase in over three years, so there is no expected tax rate increase associated with the proposed bond. The bond tax rate would actually drop to approximately half of the current rate beginning in 2029 due to the 2006 bond phasing out. Learn more at Dysart.org/Bond2024
Note: Tax rates are an estimate and are influenced by a variety of factors including Maricopa County assessed valuation fluctuations. The tax rates listed here are based on a revised estimate in July 2024.
Debby Cruz Named Principal of the Month
Mountain View School Principal Debby Cruz was named the Grand Canyon University (GCU) Principal of the Month for October.
The GCU Principal of the Month awards are given to outstanding school leaders who demonstrate creativity and vision while implementing or supporting areas of focus including STEM-related pathways and programs, character education and innovations designed to increase student success. Below is an excerpt from the nomination letter submitted by Mountain View School staff.
Principal Cruz was honored for her dedication to inspiring children to learn, grow and succeed and for going above and beyond to promote STEM learning at Mountain View. Principal Cruz has supported Mountain View School to continuously improve in STEM to include STEM professional development opportunities, improving the STEAM Night with the support of PTA and staff, and she also connected the school with the NAU STEM Focused School of the Future Grant.
Throughout the past two years, Principal Cruz has created a positive environment, where teachers and staff at Mountain View have felt supported and appreciated. Principal Cruz has brought many fun aspects of celebration to the school culture including Monthly Student Award Assemblies, Staff Perfect Attendance Awards, and Staff Golden Paw Awards, where she seeks out community nominations of wonderful staff and how they have positively impacted their children. She even made a "Golden Treat Cart" that she stocks up with snacks for the class that has the best overall attendance for the month. Principal Cruz has made gains with STEM education throughout all classes, the school label improved from a B to an A this past year under her leadership, highlighting the hard work of her and all staff members.
Debby was recognized at a recent district principal meeting in front of her peers by GCU and received a gift basket, plaque and gift card celebrating her efforts.
No School October 14-18
Enjoy your time relaxing with family! Be Safe and we'll see you on October 21st @ 9 am
Important Dates to Remember for the November Election:
- October 7 - Last day to register to vote
- October 9 - Early voting begins
- October 25 - Deadline to request vote by mail
- November 5 - Election Day
About the Bond
Dysart Schools has a $127 million bond initiative on the ballot to fund safety and security improvements, school bus replacements, facility renovations at each site, construction of a new elementary school and land for a new high school in the Northwest Asante area.
Based on the estimated average assessed home value within our district of $197,830, the average homeowner would pay $5.94 per month, for a total of $71.22 estimated per year.
The Dysart community is scheduled to pay off the voter-approved 2006 bond in fiscal year 2028. If approved, the proposed 2024 bond would phase in over three years, so there is no expected tax rate increase associated with the proposed bond. The bond tax rate would actually drop to approximately half of the current rate beginning in 2029 due to the 2006 bond phasing out. Learn more at Dysart.org/Bond2024
Note: Tax rates are an estimate and are influenced by a variety of factors including Maricopa County assessed valuation fluctuations. The tax rates listed here are based on a revised estimate in July 2024.
Parent/Teacher Conferences
Please join us for Parent/Teacher Conferences the week of 10/7-10/11. If you have not signed up yet, please contact your child's teacher via Parent Square as soon as possible. Next week's school schedule is as follows;
Monday 9:00 am -1:45 pm
Tuesday 9:00 am - 3:45 pm
Wednesday 9:00 am - 3:45 pm
Thursday 9:00 am - 1:45 pm
Friday 9:00 am - 1:45 pm
Please make arrangements to have your child picked up on time.
How Would the Bond Impact Schools?
- School safety improvements
- Replace Aging AC units
- Roof Sealing and Repairs
- Replace school buses over 15 years old
- Construction of a new elementary school and land for a new high school in the Northwest Asante area
- Facility renovations at each site
If approved, the bond tax rate would drop to approximately half of the current rate beginning in 2029 due to the 2006 bond phasing out. Based on the estimated average assessed home value within our district of $197,830, the average homeowner would pay $5.94 per month, for a total of $71.22 estimated per year.
Learn more at Dysart.org/Bond2024
Dysart Bond Informational Meeting
The meeting is an opportunity for the community to learn facts and get questions answered about the November 5, 2024 Dysart bond election, which would include the construction of a new elementary school and land for a new high school in the Northwest Asante area, if it is approved. There will be a brief presentation of factual information relating to the bond by Dysart representatives, and then an opportunity for attendees to ask any questions they may have.
If you are unable to attend this meeting, additional meeting opportunities are available:
- Tuesday, September 24, 10:00am* - Hosted by City of Surprise District 2 at Grand Agua Fria Room (Sun City Grand), 17100 W. Clearview Blvd., Surprise AZ 85387
- Wednesday, September 25, 5:00pm - El Mirage Senior Center, 14010 N. El Mirage Rd., El Mirage, AZ 85335
- Friday, September 27, 10:00am* - Hosted by City of Surprise District 2 at AZ Traditions Ballroom, 17225 N. Citrus Rd., Surprise AZ 85374
- Monday, October 7, 10:00am - Hosted by PORA in the PORA Conference Room at 13815 W. Camino Del Sol, Sun City West, AZ 85375
The community is invited to learn more about the 2024 Dysart bond at Dysart.org/Bond2024, as well as detailed information on Dysart’s budgets and annual financial reports at Dysart.org/Budget.
We hope you are able to attend to learn more and get your questions answered.
*Please note that some meetings are combined with city council district meetings, so there may be items on the agenda prior to the start of the Dysart Bond Information Meeting.
Constitution Day: September 17th
Did you know? Constitution Day is an American federal observance that recognizes the adoption of the United States Constitution and those who have become U.S. citizens. It is normally observed on September 17, the day in 1787 that delegates to the Constitutional Convention signed the document in Philadelphia.
Morning Announcements
Each morning at MVS, these 3 amazing young ladies lead the entire school in the Pledge of Allegiance and Declaration of Independence, followed by a Minute of Silence for us to reflect on what's important.
Patriot Day: September 11th
Did you know? In the United States, Patriot Day occurs on September 11 of each year in memory of the people killed in the September 11 terrorist attacks in 2001.
Fall Pictures 9/10-9/11
Individual pictures for ALL students are scheduled for September 10th and 11th. Order forms will be sent home with your student the first week of September.
Labor Day: Monday, September 2nd.
Did You Know? Labor Day is a federal holiday in the United States celebrated on the first Monday of September to honor and recognize the American labor movement and the works and contributions of laborers to the development and achievements of the United States.
First Day of School 8/1/2024
We are so excited to welcome everyone back to what we are sure will be our best year yet!!! School starts on Thursday, August 1st at 9:00AM.
Meet the Teacher Night: 7/30 from 5 pm - 7 pm
Please join us on Tuesday, July 30th from 5 pm-7 pm for Meet The Teacher Night~!
Class Rosters will be posted that evening letting your students know who their homeroom teacher will be!
Please view your grade level School Supply List.
We are so excited for the 24-25 School Year and can't wait to see you!
School Schedule 5/20-5/23
Monday 5/20: 1:45 pm Release
Tuesday 5/21: 3:45 pm
Wednesday 5/22: 12:00 pm
Thursday 5/23 (Last Day Of School): 12:00 pm
MVS Band Concert
Come Join Us!
MVS Band will be performing at SRHS
5/13/2024 from 7-8 pm
Teacher Appreciation Week is May 6-10
To Our Mountain View Teachers,
Thank you for inspiring us every day. Your patience and dedication have changed our lives.
We not only appreciate you on May 7th, we appreciate you EVERY day!!!
Spring Concert 5/9
Join us for the last MVS choir concert of the school year!
3rd-8th Grade Spring Concert
May 9 @ 6:00 pm
April 15th is Purple Up! Day
“Purple Up! For Military Kids” is a day for Department of Defense Education Activity communities to wear purple to show support and thank military children for their strength and sacrifices.
AASA Testing Pep Rally
Mountain View started off the AASA testing season with a FUN-FILLED pep rally on Friday, March 29th led by our MVS Cheerleaders! Students were chosen to compete as both part of a team, as well as individually, in races, balloon games, and a basketball shootout. We were excited to be joined by Shadow Ridge Pom and Drumline. The kids had a fantastic time!
Paraprofessional Day: April 3rd
Help us celebrate the Paraprofessionals in your child's life today!
Beauty and The Beast, Jr. Performance
Please join us for our Drama Club performance of Beauty and the Beast, Jr.
Thursday, March 28th
6:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Tickets: $5 pp at the door (cash only, please)
Other student created items will be sold as well!
Don't miss the event!
Come support your Mountain View Mountain Lions
Beauty and the Beast, Jr.
Lights! Camera! Action!
MVS Theater Club and Mrs. Frazer/Mrs. Bellitto Present:
Beauty and the Beast, Jr.
Thursday, March 28th
6:00 pm - 7:00 pm
$5 per ticket
Please Join Us and Support Our MVS Theater Club
Dysart Festival of the Arts
The Dysart Festival of the Arts is a day of celebrating the arts, both the visual arts and the performing arts. Students from all over the district participated in musical performances and displayed their artwork to our guests of over 10,000 attendees from the community. MVS had two Jr. High Students participate in the District Honor Choir as well as 25 3rd - 5th-grade students in the MVS choir presented a short musical presentation about the importance of learning music.
Promotion Pictures 3/13
It's that time already! Kindergarten and 8th Grade Promotion are March 13th! Flyers were sent home this past week. Please check with your student.
STEAM Night, Thursday, March 7th
Spring/Class Pictures Coming Soon!
Mountain View Spring pictures will take place on Wednesday, February 21st. To take an individual picture, student must have a completed envelope or online order receipt. Online Pre-Orders open until 9:00 AM on February 21st. Order envelopes will be sent out soon!
Season 3 Tryouts Begin the Week of Feb. 20th
Season 3 tryouts for Boys/Girls Basketball, Boys/Girls Soccer, & Cheer begin February 20th!! Students should stop by Mrs. Sartor's office for a permission form. Students cannot tryout unless a signed permission slip has been turned in. Tryouts are opened to all 6th-8th grade Mountain View students. If you have any questions, please reach out to the following coaches;
Girls Basketball: Sarah Kratzer - [email protected]
Boys Basketball: Jeff Wattner - [email protected]
Girls Soccer: Melanie Alvarado - [email protected]
Boys Soccer: Tyler Combs - [email protected]
Cheer: Courtney Elliott - [email protected]
Yearbook Orders Close March 1st!
Order your 2023-2024 Mountain View Yearbook HERE before it's too late. School ID# 718129
Mountain View's 100th Day of the 23-24 school year is 1/23/2023
MVS students will be celebrating in many different ways on January 23rd! Make sure to ask your child how THEY celebrated their 100th day of school.
APEX PTA Fun Run 1/24-1/31
PTA's Biggest and Most Fun Fundraiser for our school is happening now! Pep Rallies, Prizes, Fun Run (pre-k through 5th) and Color Run (6th-8th) are getting ready to start! Don't forget to ask your student how you can help!
NO SCHOOL: Monday, 1/15/2024, in honor of Martin Luther King, Jr.
No School on Monday, January 15, 2024
It's 2024!
The staff at Mountain View School would like to wish all of our Mountain Lion Families a Very Safe and Happy 2024! We can't wait to see what this year has to offer each and every one of you! We'll see you on January 9th!
Enjoy the Holiday Season & Stay Safe
Winter Break December 25, 2023 - January 8, 2024. School will resume on Tuesday, January 9th at 9:00 am.
12/22: School Release at 12:00 pm
Reminder: Students will be released at 12 pm on Friday, December 22nd.
Season 2 Sports Picture Day December 19
Sports Picture Day 12/19 for:
Girls Volleyball (Individual & Team)
Cheer (Individual & Team)
Cross Country (Group Only)
Flag Football (Individual & Team)
Extra Order Forms Are In The Front Office
Mountain View Choir Performance
Mountain View Choir held their Winter choir concert last night, December 14th, and it was a hit! Students sang their hearts out to songs such as "Holiday of Music", "Chime In", "Listen to the Jingle", and "Do You Hear?" among others. Thank you to Mrs. Featherstone and her choir students for a beautiful performance.
Winter Concert: Grades 3-8 Choir
Please join us on Thursday, December 14th for a Mountain View Winter Concert led by Mrs. Featherstone
Kindergarten Winter Program 2023
Thank you to all of our Kinder Babies, and Mrs. Featherstone, for another FANTASTIC Kindergarten Winter Program. The students did a fantastic job and a wonderful time was had by all!
Kindergarten Winter Concert
Come Join Us!
When: Thursday, December 7th @ 6:00 pm
Where: MVS Cafe'
Thanksgiving Break 11/20-11/24
No School November 20th-November 24th
Enjoy this time with your loved ones!!
School resumes Monday, December 4th
STAY SAFE!!
Thanksgiving Break
Mountain View School will be closed from November 20th-24th. Enjoy your Thanksgiving and Stay Safe!
Thanksgiving Lunch 11/17/2023
We would like to invite our families to join their students for Thanksgiving Lunch on Friday, November 17, 2023. The cost for lunch is $3.50 per plate for all guests. We will accept cash only and would prefer exact change if possible, to help get our families through the line quickly. TIMES: Will be posted on this website closer to the date. As always, for the safety of our students and staff, State Issued ID will be REQUIRED for anyone over the age of 18 before being allowed on to campus. Thank you for understanding.
No School: 11/10/23
Veterans Day is November 11
Thank you to all of our service men and women! One this day, and every day, we honor YOU!
Mountain View Earns an A!
We are so proud to announce that Mountain View School earned an “A” rating from the school accountability labels for the 2022-2023 school year! Mountain View is one of 18 schools in the district to receive the “A” rating. Additionally, Mountain View ranked in the top 20% of schools in the state.
The school accountability labels measure year to year student academic growth, proficiency on English language arts, math and science, the proficiency and academic growth of English language learners, indicators that an elementary student is ready for success in high school and that high school students are ready to succeed in a career or higher education and high school graduation rates.
PTA Fall Festival October 27th
Times: 5:30-8:30 pm
Free Entry
Tickets available for Games and Attractions:
Games/Petting Zoo/Glow Mini Golf/Rock Wall
Presale Prices:
$25 wristband or $20 for 25 tickets (Attractions 1-3 tickets)
Food Trucks:
Sandwich Street*Only Fire Pizza*Spice Queens*Lilis Tacos*
Dungan Dogs*Sunny Bew Coffee*Kona Ice
Live Music from @Kurtis Adair
And TONS of Vendors at our Vendor Market!!
More info at MVSPTA.com or
contact PTA at [email protected] for more information on how to get your tickets!
Spelling Bee Winner!!
Mrs. Cruz and Mrs. Garcia awarded Analee Infante with her certificate for winning the 2023-2024 MVS Spelling Bee on October 2nd. She will move on to compete against the winners from each Dysart EleMiddle school. We wish you the best of luck Annalee!!!!
Sandra Day O'Connor Day
Today, September 25th, we celebrate Justice Sandra Day O’Connor (age 93) who was the first woman appointed to the Supreme Court in 1981 where she served until 2006 when she retired. She remained active as a tireless advocate for judicial independence and the Rule of Law throughout the world. In recognition of her lifetime accomplishments, President Barack Obama awarded Justice O’Connor with the nation’s highest civilian honor, the Presidential Medal of Freedom, on August 12, 2009. As a legislator, O'Connor worked towards changing various state laws that discriminated against women. She helped repeal a 1913 Arizona statute prohibiting women from working more than eight hours a day, which had been used to prevent women from seeking and keeping jobs.
Constitution Day: September 17th
Constitution Day is the day that we, in the United States of America recognize the adoption of the United States Constitution and those who have become U.S. citizens. It is normally observed on September 17, the day in 1787 that delegates to the Constitutional Convention signed the document in Philadelphia.
PTA Fundraising Winners!!
The winners of the MVS PTA fundraiser were all given the opportunity to throw a delicious Birthday Cake flavored pie into staff member, Mr. David's face! They were so excited and he took it like a true "Mountain Lion" Thank you to all of our students who worked so hard to raise money for our school!
National Arts in Education Week 9/11-9/15
The arts are an essential part of a complete education, no matter if it happens in the home, school, or community. Students of all ages—from kindergarten to college to creative aging programs—benefit from artistic learning, innovative thinking, and creativity. Celebrating National Arts in Education Week is a way to recognize this impact and share the message with friends, family, and communities.
Annual Student Update Due Now!
MVS Parents!
Parents, please take a moment to complete the Annual Update. You can access it by logging into your Parent Portal and then clicking the menu and selecting "More" and then "Annual Update." If the Annual Update is not completed by Sept 1st, your child will not be able to log into their chromebooks and access important materials beginning Sept 2nd. If you have any questions, please contact the school at 623-876-7450.
You can also contact Mrs. Litwin directly at 623-876-7451 for help with both the Parent Portal AND the Online Payment Portal. Thank you!
MVS Spirit Week 8/14-8/18!!
Show Your School Spirit the week of 8/14-8/18
Monday-Back From Home (Pajama Day)
Tuesday-Back From Vacation (Beach/Tourist Gear)
Wednesday-Back From The Movies (Dress as your Favorite Movie Character)
Thursday-Back With My Friends (Twin Day)
Friday-Back To School (MVS Spirit Wear)
Baseball & Softball Tryouts
Season One tryouts begin next week August 21-25. Times and days to be determined by coaches! Make sure to pick up an Athletic Packet and listen to the morning announcements for more information! You can also reach out to the coaches directly for more info regarding times and dates at [email protected] (softball) or [email protected] (baseball). Let's go 23-24 Mountain Lions!
Come "Meet Your Teacher" on August 1st
Join your fellow Mountain Lions on 8/1 from 5:00 pm-6:30 pm. Meet your 23-24 Teacher(s) and reconnect with friends. We can't wait to see you all!
School Resumes Thursday, August 3rd
We hope you're as excited as we are to begin the the 23-24 school year! We can't wait to see you all on Thursday. School hours are 9 am-3:45 pm. Doors will open at 8:40 am. Let's make this year the best one yet!!
Summer Office Hours
Summer office hours:
Mon-Thurs (closed Fridays):
June 5-22: 9 am - 11:30 am
June 23-July 9:Closed
July 10-20: 8 am-4:30 pm Mon-Thurs (Closed Fridays)
Regular office hours resume Monday, July 24th: 8 am-4:30 pm Mon-Fri
Important Back To School Information
7/10: Front Office Re-Opens 8 am-4:30 pm Register Now
8/1-Meet the Teacher Night-5 pm-6:30 pm (Class lists will be posted that evening. Information will not be given prior, due to possible last minute updates)
8/3-School Resumes. School Hours are 9:00-3:45 pm (doors open at 8:40 am)
Enrolling MVS Mountain Lions for 2023-2024!
Mountain View School is a Pre-K through 8th grade school. We are currently enrolling for the 23-24 school year
You can begin the enrollment process by clicking on the ENROLL button. In order to complete the process, you will need to provide the following documentation to the front office; Proof of Residency in the parent/legal guardian's name (utility bill, less than 30 days old), Birth Certificate, Updated Immunization Records, and a Government Issued ID verifying you are the student's parent/legal guardian.
We're excited to meet all of our new Mountain View Mountain Lions in August!
Kindergarten Celebration
Kinder parents: Celebrate your babies as they prepare to move on to 1st grade. 5/18 9:30-10:15 am in the gym. Tickets required. Check with your child's teacher if you have not received your tickets yet.
Teacher Appreciation Week
PTA is working hard to let our staff know how much they are appreciated! They're "Leveling Up" in celebrating MVS!
Shrek, Jr. The Musical
5/4/2023
Come join us this Thursday from 6-7:30 pm for Shrek, Jr. The Musical
Teacher Appreciation Week May 1-5
Teacher appreciation week is May 1st-5th. We want to thank our amazing teachers for all of their hard work. Please take a moment to thank your child's teacher!
Spring picture day February 16
Mountain View School will be holding spring picture day on Thursday, February 16th. Students will take a class photo with their homeroom and have the opportunity to take individual pictures as well.
Parents can preorder by going to mydorian.com and searching for Mountain View School. Preorders must be placed by 9:00am on the 16th. Only students with an order will be photographed individually.
We look forward to seeing your great smiles!
Winter Break
Mountain View will be closed from Wednesday, December 21st, through Tuesday, December 3rd. The office will reopen at 8am on Wednesday, December 4th, and students all return on Thursday, January 5th.
We hope you all have a safe, happy, and healthy holiday break! We are very proud of what our Mountain Lions have accomplished in the first semester, and look forward to what you will do in the spring!
Thanksgiving Lunch
Thank you to all our Mountain View families who came out to our annual Thanksgiving Lunch! Check out some of the photos below.
We hope everyone has a great Thanksgiving Break and we will see you back on Monday, November 28.
Mountain View Thanksgiving Lunch
We are excited that Dysart Nutrition and SFE are providing our students with another amazing Thanksgiving lunch on Friday, November 18th, 2022. We are expecting over 200 guests joining our students for a special lunch!
The menu includes oven-roasted turkey, mashed potatoes and gravy, stuffing, green beans, fresh baked rolls, and scratch-made pumpkin cake. The cost for all non-students is $3.50 per person. Student meals cost $2.60, reduced student meals cost $0.40, and students who receive free meals pay nothing.
Cash and checks will be accepted on the day of the event (small bills, please!). There are no pre-sales.
The schedule will be as follows:
10:20-10:40am - Kindergarten
10:45-11:05am - 1st Grade
11:10-11:30am - 6th Grade
11:35-11:55am - 2nd Grade
12:00-12:20pm - 3rd Grade
12:25-12:45 - 4th Grade
12:50-1:10 - 5th Grade
1:15-1:35 - 7th Grade
1:40-2:00 - 8th Grade
Mountain View's Semi-Annual STEAM Night
You are invited to Mountain View's Semi-Annual STEAM Family Night!
Monday, November 7, 2022
From 4:30-6:30pm
*Interactive activities for the whole family
*Grade level STEAM project exhibitions
Our students are excited to show you what they've been learning and how they can utilize the Design Thinking and Engineering Processes to solve problems. Come join us!
Career and College Expo
Dysart Unified School District invites parents and students to a Career and College Expo on Wednesday, October 26 from 5:30 - 7:30pm at the Dysart District Office, located at 15802 N. Parkview Place in Surprise.
The expo showcases Dysart's Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs, West-MEC, colleges and universities, and military representatives so families can explore opportunities to pursue in and after high school. This is a great way for 5th through 11th grade students and their parents to get hands-on with all of the career pathway classes and programs offered at Dysart Schools. The event is free and open to the public. Details can be found at www.dysart.org/CTEexpo.
Dysart Schools currently offer 17 CTE programs at four high schools (Dysart High School, Shadow Ridge High School, Valley Vista High School, and Willow Canyon High School.) Program options include Automotive Technology, Culinary Arts, Digital Animation, Digital Photography, Education Professions, Engineering, Film and TV Production, Fire Science, Graphic Design, Laboratory Assisting, Law and Public Safety, Marketing, Nursing Services, Software and App Design, Sports Medicine, Stagecraft Design and Production and Technology Device Maintenance. Learn more at www.dysart.org/CTE.
Festival of Choirs
Mrs. Featherstone invites you to come support the Mountain View School Elementary and Junior High Choirs at the Dysart Unified School District Festival of Choirs!
The Festival of Choirs will be held on Saturday, October 22, 2022, at the Vista Center for the Performing Arts.
2:00 pm - Elementary Choral Festival
2:45 pm - Middle/High School Choral Festival
This festival will feature combined choirs from all DUSD schools. The students and staff will come together to create a spectacular day of choral music. Please come and join us!
Coordinator Contact: Danae Marinelli at [email protected]
Fall Picture orders
Thank you for making picture day yesterday a success!
If you have not already ordered school pictures there is still time. The most efficient and cost-friendly way to order is to visit mydorian.com, search for Mountain View School in Waddell, click the green Order button that corresponds with your school picture day and place your order. This option is available for up to four (4) days after picture day.
Once all of the images have been processed:
Any student that has not ordered will receive an email with a unique access code and instructions to preview their image and place an order. All orders placed using the unique access code will be shipped directly to the student’s home.
Did you miss picture day or want to retake your picture?
Find our school’s retake day date and order information on mydorian.com by searching for your school. Our retake day is November 15th. A student wishing to have their picture retaken should bring their original package back to school and return it to the photographer on retake picture day.
Digital downloads are delivered based on how you ordered.
If you ordered an image download online, you will receive an email with access to your image once it is ready. If you ordered with an envelope, you will receive your download instructions when packages are distributed at the school.
Need More Assistance?
Contact Dorian's Customer Advocate Team by visiting mydorian.com, searching for Mountain View School in Waddell, and clicking on the yellow Help button associated with your picture day.
MVS Fall Picture Day Tuesday, Oct 4
MVS families: fall picture day is Tuesday, October 4th! Order forms will be given directly to the Dorian Studios photographers on Tuesday. You can also order online at dorianstudio.com.
Search for Mountain View School in Waddell, and you can order online. Ordering will be open for 4 days after picture day, and late orders can be placed on the Dorian Studios website as well.
You can contact your child's teacher for their class time slot.
We hope to see lots of smiles!
MVS Updated Arrival/Dismissal Procedures
MVS Lions!!!
MVS is working on our drop-off and pick-up routines. The following items will start on Monday.
- For arrival students will enter through the doors located by the iExplore Lab (Library). The gates by the gym will no longer be used. To assist with getting all students to these door please pull all the way forward and then have your child exit your car.
- For Arrival and Dismissal- the area for the Kinder Pickup will be moved further down the drive area. This area will now by located after the 2nd cross walk.
- Please do not park in the pick-up and drop-off lanes at any time. If you are arriving before 3:20 and parking and waiting please find a parking spot instead.
- Please pull all the way forward- this will assist with getting more cars in and out of the school at a faster rate.
- To assist with getting in and out of the car please have your child's items ready for them and have them seated on the curb side of the car ready to exit safely.
- Please only park in areas that are parking areas. The Maricopa County Sheriff will be enforcing all no parking signage.
MVS National Junior Honor Society accepting applications!
Mountain View School's National Junior Honor Society is now accepting applications for students in 7th and 8th grade. NJHS is both an honor, recognizing students who excel academically, and a privilege, giving students the opportunity to be student leaders on our campus and in our community. Applications are due September 23, 2022, to Ms. Allen, the NJHS Advisor.
Move On When Reading K-3
Dear K-3 Parents & Guardians,
In the Dysart District, our focus is on providing the best high-quality reading instruction to all students each day. Through a process called Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS), all kindergarten through third grade students are screened for reading difficulties in the fall, winter, and spring using the Acadience/DIBELS Next Benchmarks. This literacy universal screening process is a brief assessment administered to all K-3 students to inform teachers of students who are on track and students who may need more targeted intervention. This assessment also includes a dyslexia screener for all students in Kindergarten and first grade to help identify characteristics consistent with dyslexia, but does not diagnose for reading disabilities, nor dyslexia.
Per the universal screener, students who are not on benchmark are administered a deeper diagnostic assessment. This diagnostic information provides teachers and specialists with the specific skills needed to target in intervention and those interventions are started immediately, working to close the gaps. This diagnostic assessment does not diagnose for reading disabilities, nor dyslexia. A change in intervention curriculum, group size, level of intensity, frequency, and/or duration may be needed. More intensive time, duration, and frequency in intervention may be needed and can take place with the classroom teacher or a specialist, such as a reading interventionist. This is considered intensive Tier 3 intervention. The progress of all students receiving intervention is closely and frequently checked. Parents are essential to this entire process. Following the Universal Literacy and Dyslexia Screener, and diagnostic assessments, you will be notified if your child is not at grade level.
Arizona’s Move On When Reading (MOWR) legislation places great importance on this process beginning in kindergarten. This ensure all students remain on track to be reading at grade level by the end of 3rd grade. Arizona Revised Statute §15-701 states that if a student scores below the cut score on the reading portion of the 3rd grade statewide exam, he/she will not be promoted to 4th grade until the student makes sufficient progress in reading proficiency. It is understood that each child is unique, therefore exemptions have been established for students to be promoted to 4th grade. Those exemptions are available at www.azed.gov/mowr.
A variety of factors, in and outside of school, can influence a child’s educational path and progress. It is important for parents to share in the educational journey, through constant communication and involvement. We encourage you to continue to highlight and celebrate your child’s strengths and share difficulties if they occur. Please reach out to us if you have any questions. We look forward to a successful school year.
Sincerely,
Dana Knoebel
Director of Curriculum, Instruction, & Assessment Pre-K-8th
MVS Calendar of Events
Hello, Mountain Lions!
We want to make sure that our families know about our upcoming events. We have created a two-page calendar that includes all of our known events, as well as PTA events, parent-teacher conferences, and school breaks. You can also find this information on our website calendar. Please feel free to print the calendar using the button below.
Please note: Our Fall STEAM Night changed dates! Due to November 8th being Election Day, STEAM night will now be on Thursday, November 17th. The calendar below has been updated!
Thank you for helping us to #LevelUp at MVS!
Welcome Back!
Mountain View had a successful first day of school! We were so excited to welcome back our students and families for another great year. Please continue to check our website and social media to learn more about all the great activities and events planned, as well as updates on our academic progress! We hope you have a great year, and please reach out if you need anything to help make your student successful!
Check out the photo gallery from the first day below!
Join Us!! For MVS Site Council
MVS Mountain Lion Families and Community- we need you!
We are looking for four amazing Mountain View parents or community members who would like to serve on our Site Council for the 22-23 school year! Site Council is a collaborative committee comprised of administrators, faculty, parents, and community members that decides how best to utilize MVS Tax Credit Funds.
Please complete the interest form:
Mountain View teacher attends Supreme Court Summer Institute
This summer, Emily Allen, 8th Grade Social Studies Teacher at Mountain View School, was invited to attend the Supreme Court Summer Institute (SCSI) in Washington DC by Street Law and the Supreme Court Historical Society.
SCSI provides student centered learning strategies to teach both landmark and current court cases. Sixty teachers were selected nationwide from a competitive application process focused on teaching philosophy and implementation in the classroom.
As an attendee, Emily increased her understanding of the Supreme Court, met resource experts (including clerks, lawyers who participated in famous cases, and the Solicitor General), and added engaging strategies to her educator toolbelt.
“My favorite takeaways were a conflict deliberation structure and breakdown of different aspects of Supreme Court cases in various activities,” shared Allen. “These strategies will put students at the center of the classroom as they discuss, evaluate, and create arguments about the rights of citizens and the actions of the government.”
Street Law's mission is to advance civic and law related education to empower all people to positively transform their world. Since 1995, over 1,500 social studies educators from across the country have come together for the Institute.
Summer Office Hours
During the month of July, the Mountain View office is open as follows:
July 11th-22nd - the office is open Monday through Thursday, 8am-4:30pm. The office is closed on Fridays.
July 25th - the office resumes normal office hours, and will be open Monday through Friday, 8am-4:30 p.m.
Please feel free to stop by if you have questions about enrollment, need to turn in enrollment documents, or have questions about the school year. We are happy to help!
Cookies with Cruz and Meet the MVS Admin Team!
Join us on August 1st at 3:30pm at Mountain View Campus Cafeteria to meet the Admin Team. We are excited to introduce Mrs. Cruz our new Principal and celebrating Mrs. Sartor our Assistant Principal for the 2022-2023 School year.
Please join us!!!!
Meet the Teacher to Follow:
Session 1: 4:15-5:00pm
Session 2: 5:15-6:00pm
Welcome Back!
We can't wait to see everyone back for the first day of school on August 3! Make sure you mark your calendars for event and activity dates and keep an eye on our new website for important information as the start of school approaches.
Our Meet the Teacher night will be on August 1 from 4:15-6:00pm. Please join us to see the campus, meet your child's teachers, and get information on what to expect this year.
Still need to enroll? There's still time to get your children enrolled for the 2022-2023 school year! Parents and guardians can complete the necessary registration information online at Dysart.org/enroll at any time. Please note that in order to finalize registration the following documents will be required: government issued photo identification; birth certificate; proof of residency; and immunization records. For additional assistance with student registration, families are welcome to contact our front office.
Don't forget to make sure you have access to the Parent Portal to keep up with your child’s academic progress throughout the year! Sign up or access the site online at Dysart.org/parentportal or via the Campus Parent app.
Volunteer Opportunities
Dysart Schools have many opportunities for the community to assist schools in providing an amazing educational experience to each and every student. Volunteers help to enrich children’s learning opportunities, provide individual attention to children who need one-on-one assistance, promote a school-home-community partnership for quality education, provide staff members with more time to work with students, and assist staff members and support personnel with non-instructional tasks.
Where is Help Needed?
- Classroom and teacher support
- One-on-one student assistance
- Event help (preparations, setup, operations, tear-down)
- Guest speakers (experts or retirees in various fields)
- Front office assistance
How to Become a Volunteer:
- Review the volunteer handbook and complete the volunteer application at Dysart.org/Volunteer
- Make an appointment for your volunteer orientation
- Coordinate your schedule through the school office
- Put on your volunteer badge and have fun!
Who Should Apply to Volunteer?
Anyone who cares about children and education is a potential volunteer. Parents, grandparents and community members 18 years of age or older who want to make a difference in the lives of children and support educators are encouraged to apply to become a volunteer with Dysart Unified School District. Volunteers are welcome in all of our schools and prior teaching experience is not necessary.
Learn more or apply here.
School Breakfast and Lunch
Dysart Nutrition Services ensures that students at all schools have fresh, wholesome and nutritious breakfast and lunch options to support their education and focus in class. Learn more about Nutrition Services at Dysart.org/Nutrition. Menus and nutritional information may be viewed at Dysart.Nutrislice.com.
Apply for Free and Reduced Meals
Beginning July 1, 2022 the USDA is returning to income eligibility guidelines for free or reduced meals. All families should complete a Free and Reduced Lunch Application at SchoolCafe.com to help maintain school funding and make sure that qualified families receive this and other benefits. Only one application is required per family, and may be completed at SchoolCafe.com.
How to Add Meal Funds to an Account
Cash and checks are accepted for meal purchases, or families may utilize SchoolCafe.com to prepay for meals online, view their balances, or place restrictions on purchases. Online payments take 24 hours to post to student accounts.
Meal Prices
- Elementary Lunch $2.60, Reduced $.40, Adult $3.50
- Elementary Breakfast $1.25, Reduced $.30, Adult $1.75 High School Lunch $2.85, Reduced $.40, Adult $3.50
- High School Breakfast $1.25, Reduced $.30, Adult $1.75
A la carte and snack items are available for purchase on each campus, and additional meals are available for an added charge. Parents are always welcome to dine with their child, but please be sure to call in advance and check-in at the school office. Adult meals may be purchased for $1.75 for breakfast or $3.50 for lunch.
Employment Opportunities in Dysart
Dysart is the largest employer in both the cities of Surprise and El Mirage with over 2,700 employees. Dysart Schools offer highly competitive salaries, full benefits and an inviting school-year calendar with holidays and weekends off for most positions.
With a wide-variety of positions ranging from groundskeeper, to mechanic, to office staff, and teachers, we’re always looking for great people to join our Dysart team!
Current High Need Areas:
- Bus Drivers and Aides
- Childcare and Preschool Aides
- Paraprofessionals
- Behavioral Technicians
- Speech and Language Pathologists
- Special Education Teachers
- Math Teachers
- Science Teachers
- ASL Teachers
- Health Services Assistants
- Crossing Guards
- Maintenance Workers and Plant Managers
- Social Workers
Check out our current openings at Dysart.org/Careers and apply today!
Stay Informed on the Parent Portal
The Parent Portal is a great tool to stay informed 24/7 about your child’s academic progress. Grades, attendance, assignments and more are viewable in real time online or via the app, Campus Parent. A single login allows parents with multiple students to access information for all of their children in one place. Learn more at Dysart.org/ParentPortal.
Update Your Communication Preferences and Contact Info
To make sure that we can keep you informed in emergency situations, please ensure that your contact information is current in the Parent Portal. You are also able to adjust your communication preferences (phone, text, and/or email) at Dysart.org/ParentPortal or on the Campus Parent app to ensure you are getting the various message types in the way that you would like. Remember that if you select more than one type of communication per category, you will receive the message multiple times via each of those avenues.
Mountain View School Science Olympiad earns accolades
The Mountain View Science Olympiad team had a banner year for the 2021-2022 competition season.
The team participated in the virtual Arizona Science Olympiad Winter Invitational on December 4th, 2021. A team of eight students competed in different events in pairs. Events range from application of knowledge on lab stations or a test to testing student-designed and created devices in a competitive environment. The team earned recognition in the following events: Anatomy & Physiology, 3rd; Dynamic Planet, 3rd; Food Science, 3rd, and Solar System, 1st. The Anatomy and Physiology event focused on human body systems. Dynamic Planet is about Earth and space science, specifically Earth’s fresh water systems. Food Science had students closely examining the make-up of sugars in our food, including being able to accurately measure the sugar content in food utilizing a student-made hydrometer. The Solar System event took students on a journey through space objects and space missions, allowing them to showcase their knowledge.
The team also competed in the North Central Regional Tournament on February 19, 2022, in a satellite competition which took place virtually from the Mountain View School campus. The team of eight students competed in different events in pairs. Events ranged from application of knowledge on lab stations or a test to testing student-designed and created devices in a competitive environment, with various different goals and objectives depending on the event. Awards included a fourth place overall team trophy, and awards for the following events: Chiropterology, 2nd; Crimebusters, 2nd; Green Generation, 2nd; Meteorology, 1st; and Sounds of Music, 1st. Chiropterology gave students an opportunity to identify bat species from across North America, utilizing their knowledge of habitats and survival mechanisms. Crimebusters gave students a scenario where they analyzed forensic evidence to solve a crime. The Green Generation event allowed students to demonstrate their understanding of ecological principles, the human impact on our environment, and how we can come up with solutions to reverse trends and sustainability concepts. Participants in the Meteorology event used scientific process skills to understand how factors influence world climate and climate change. During the Sounds of Music event, students played an instrument that they designed and built as well as took a test on the physics of sound and music concepts. The Mountain View School Science Olympiad Team qualified for the state tournament after competing at the North Central Regional Competition.
In the culminating event for the competition season, the Arizona Science Olympiad State Tournament was held at the Arizona State University on April 2, 2022. Mountain View placed first in the Crimebusters and Write It, Do It events and earned second place in Ornithology. unknown printer took a galley of type and scrambled it to make a type specimen book.
Science Olympiad is a National Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math program that allows students to apply what they know in a competitive setting. Students gain in-depth scientific knowledge that can be used in college and future careers. Science Olympiad functions much like a soccer or football team, requiring preparation, commitment, coaching, and practice throughout the year. It allows students to meet new people and showcase their love of all things STEM by competing against other middle school students from across the state. Mountain View School has participated and competed in Science Olympiad for the past 14 years, coached by Cassie Strahota.
Mountain View teacher honored with distinguished award
Christina Brown, first grade teacher at Mountain View School, was recently selected as a recipient of the Spirit of Education Award by the National Safe Schools Convening. The Spirit of Education award recognizes and celebrates educators for their contributions in developing a positive learning culture for their students and colleagues. Ms. Brown received her award at the Phoenix School Climate and Culture Symposium held on Monday, October 28th, 2019.
The National Safe Schools Convening is comprised of a diverse range of educational organizations and leaders, that seek to discuss research-based practices for improving school culture and climate. The Phoenix School Climate and Culture Symposium is an annual conference hosted by the National Safe Schools Convening, and is designed to help educators improve school climate and culture through professional development, skill building, and application of best practices and research. Through this conference, local educators are able to engage with leading experts, and gain knowledge on how a positive school climate and culture is key to student, school, and district improvements.
Ms. Brown was nominated by fellow colleagues, and was selected as a recipient of the award for her positive interactions with students and her efforts to create the next generation of leaders, friends, and problem-solvers. Ms. Brown, along with fellow Mountain View staff, were present at the symposium where she was also asked to share her inspiring story, and strategies to support a positive classroom and school culture.