The following are comments delivered by Taylor at the January 17, 2024 HUSD Governing Board General Meeting

Madam President and members of the board and cabinet,

I wish to speak on two items this evening. First, board meetings are an integral part of any school district. For many parents, staff, and students, board meetings are the only opportunity these individuals normally have to see or interact with a school board.

With the dedication and work hours of many teachers, parents, and staff, a 5pm meeting time conflicts with their home and work schedules, preventing them from regularly attending. Having the meetings broadcast online is a wonderful feature, allowing these meetings to reach many others around the area. Even with this technological feat, it is no substitution for in-person participation, including the ability to request to speak. Of the unified school districts, Higley is the only one meeting at this time.

Gilbert USD meets at 6pm

Chandler USD meets at 7pm

Paradise Valley 6:30pm

Scottsdale 6pm

Deer Valley 7pm

Cave Creek 6pm

Dysart 6pm

I respectfully make the request that the board review its meeting time and and move it back to 6pm or later, allowing for more teachers, parents, and community members—whom the board represent—a better opportunity for in-person attendance.

Second, on December 23, two days before Christmas, a fire devastated the home of the Assistant Principal of one of HUSD’s elementary schools, displacing her and her immediate family for the holidays and months to come. Almost immediately after, word spread throughout the district and dozens of community members rallied together to support one of our own. A GoFundMe was organized, and the goal was met in under 72 hours. In the end, the original goal was surpassed by over $1,000.

What a testament of our district and the members who reside within it. I want to publicly recognize and thank everyone who gave to support our Assistant Principal. The outpouring of generosity was both humbling and inspiring. There are many great things about our school district, and what a blessing it is to witness one first-hand.

Thank you.

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