Catalina Foothills School District Superintendent Mary Kamerzell will step down from the position she has held for nearly 30 years and will pass the proverbial baton to Denise Bartlett, the current Associate Superintendent. We had the opportunity to chat with the superintendent about the upcoming transition. Here is what she had to say.
Congratulations on your 28 years as Superintendent of the Catalina Foothills School District and your decision to move on come July 1, 2024. What stands out as your greatest achievement in this role?
No achievements are mine alone. The most satisfying part of my work over the years has always been expanding programs and courses for our students.
What were the biggest challenges you encountered when you became Superintendent, and
how did you begin to address those issues?
When I was hired, the governing board asked me to find the dollars to add five school days to the calendar. Other challenges were low teacher pay and no strategic plan that defined our aspirations and action plans to progress toward them.
There was, and continues to be, low per-pupil public school funding in Arizona. We accomplished the items that were within our control (school days, teacher pay, strategic plan).
What are some of the most notable positive changes you have witnessed in the public school system in Arizona over the years?
In my view, any positive changes in public schools are attributable and specific to the
local school districts that found a way to improve the educational experience for their
students despite the challenges.
What are some of the bigger challenges currently facing the district?
Our state’s disinvestment in its public school system has created a negative context in which we try to do our work on behalf of students. We’ll see what this 2024 Arizona legislative session brings in the way of cuts to balance the state budget.
Typically, public school funding results in a negative outcome. In the lead-up to the November 2024 election, there has also been an attempt here and across the state to politicize schools and their school boards. Fortunately, voters in our district pay close attention to who is running for the governing board and have a long history of electing nonpartisan individuals who are committed to a quality education for all kids.
What have been the most consistent strengths of the district over the years?
1) Our resident voters who agree to tax themselves to supplement state funding for their local schools. All of our bond and override elections during the past 30 years have been successful.
2) Our programs attract students from 35 Tucson-area zip codes under Arizona’s Open Enrollment Program. Maintaining enrollment means we can operate schools efficiently and expand educational offerings for all students.
3) A culture of professionalism that supports teaching and learning. Our staff, teachers, and others, are valued and supported.
4) Incredible parent support. Our CFSD Foundation, school Family-Faculty Organizations, and activity booster groups add significant value to our students’ experiences. These super volunteers not only provide financial support but also give thousands of hours of volunteer work to our schools each year.
How do you plan to spend July 1, 2024, your first official day not being the district
Superintendent?
That’s a mystery.
What are your parting words as Superintendent to the district and the greater Catalina Foothills community?
Stay the course. Don’t let political noise disrupt a commitment to inclusivity and
creating a learning environment in which all students thrive. In my view, there is no
greater public good.
