Celebrating Liberty

For more than a century, Liberty Elementary School has been a longstanding point of pride within Buckeye. Now the school is in a new era. Dozens were on hand October 14 for a ribbon cutting ceremony as the community celebrated a rebuild of the campus. 

Community members as well as students and families were able to get a tour of the renovations. “We are so grateful to our community for supporting the bond election that made this school construction possible. The new modernized buildings provide our children safe, inspiring, and collaborative spaces for learning,” said Superintendent Dr. Lori Shough.
 

Many in attendance had multiple generations in their own families who have attended Liberty. “We are committed to ensuring it continues to be a reminder of Buckeye’s rich history as the community continues to experience exponential growth,” said Liberty Elementary School Principal Jennifer Gray.

DLR Group, the designers of the Liberty rebuild, were intentional in their vision for the campus in order to meet the educational needs of future generations. 

District Bus Tour

Schools aren’t just important for the students who attend them. They matter to the communities they serve. On October 13, community members had the unique opportunity to tour the district aboard a school bus, with Superintendent Dr. Lori Shough as their guide! 

The bus traveled to two of Liberty’s schools: Las Brisas Academy and Westar Elementary. Once at the schools, the group was greeted by students who led campus tours showing each school’s signature program. It was a great opportunity to see firsthand what students are learning. 
 

The tour was also an opportunity to hear perspectives on the opportunities and challenges facing the district, such as the upcoming Override Continuation election. Look for an announcement soon on a future bus tour to see other schools in the district.

Override Facts

A Love for Math

Allison Ryal-Bagley loves math. She also loves kids, which adds up to a perfect combination for her sixth graders at Westar Elementary. “I love mathematics and I think mathematics is so important for our kids’ futures and for our nation,” said Ryal-Bagley.

Ever heard the saying, “I’m not a math person”? Well, she doesn’t believe in that, but she does believe we have to make it interesting and relevant. 
 

That’s why Ryal-Bagley applied for and received a grant with Westside Impact, which funds innovative projects. She used the grant money to buy KP Tiles, which are helping students learn percentages - a key part of the sixth grade math curriculum. She believes it will help students better understand percentages, but that’s just the beginning.
 

“This is a game-changer. We have kids who do struggle with mathematics, who do struggle with reading, who do struggle with their academics. The minute you hand them something, they all of a sudden are able to connect with it,” said Ryal-Bagley.
 

She knows not everyone is going to grow up to be a mathematician, but at the end of the day, she says her overall goal is for kids to “fall in love with math or at least like it.”

Liberty Seeks Guest Teachers, Boosts Pay

Looking to make a difference in the lives of students? The Liberty Elementary School District (LESD) has the opportunity for you. LESD needs guest teachers for all of its schools. 
 

Those with a Bachelor's degree or higher qualify for a regular substitute certificate (good for six years), while applicants with a high school diploma qualify for an Emergency Substitute Certificate (renewed annually). A fingerprint clearance card is required. 
 

As a guest teacher, you have a unique opportunity to serve the community, ensuring daily student learning continues, even in the absence of the regular classroom teacher. Your service is valued and we seek to honor days and locations that fit your preference.
 

Liberty’s governing board also just approved pay increases for guest teachers. Effective October 25, these are the rates:

• Standard Daily Rate Days 1-15 = $110/day

• Standard Daily Rate >15 days = $125/day

• Long-term Daily Rate (10 consecutive days) = $150/day

• Long-term Daily Rate (duration of the year) = $160/day + benefits eligible after 60 days + support staff leave plan (1 day of leave per month)

• Certified Long-term Daily Rate = $175/day

• Permanent Guest Teacher = $150/day + benefits
   

We would love to see you on campus! Please inquire with our Human Resources department at (623) 474-6600,                    email mcollins@liberty25.org, or visit:                                                liberty25.org/join-our-team/guest-teachers.

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