Reporter: Dr. Richard Rutkowski, Governing Board President

Continuing our goal of “Doing it Better,” the FHU (“Fountain Hills University”) program, which was implemented in the last academic year is going strong with a substantial number of students participating.  The program is a partnership with Arizona State University and gives the opportunity for juniors and seniors to enroll in ASU college courses while still in high school and receive high school and college credit.  Using this along with the College Board Advanced Placement Program gives students the ability to complete up to 2 full years of ASU credit before high school graduation at NO cost to the student’s family.  FHUSD is the only school district in AZ to offer this benefit.  ASU credit is also accepted at almost all colleges nationwide.

Fountain Hills High School, has a tradition of excellence over the past decade, including being named a 2025 National Model School, one of only 13 high schools in the U.S., a six-time Arizona Department of Education “A” letter grade designation, an A+ School of Excellence award for excellence and innovation, and a five-time U.S. News & World Report “Best” & “National School” recipient.  The State of AZ has open enrollment, giving parents freedom to choose the school for their children.

In 2024, voters approved the District to sell, lease, or exchange two vacant parcels of land.  The Board has accepted an offer from Toll Brothers for purchase of the land.  The proposal for single-family home development will soon be considered by the Planning & Zoning Commission and the Town Council.  Proceeds from the sale would be used to generate capital funds for needed maintenance and repairs to District school facilities and help to free up resources for teacher & classroom funding.

A recent resignation from the Governing Board created a vacancy.  As per state statute, Maricopa County School Superintendent Shelli Boggs will make an appointment to fill the vacancy.  The appointee will complete the current term, ending in December 2026.