Ride the Wave Art Event Helps Foster Creativity, Unity and Fun for AJUSD Staff

APACHE JUNCTION, Ariz. - May 11, 2023 - PRLog -- Staff from Apache Junction Unified School District recently came together for an out-of-the-paint box experience and enjoyed a guided art class on April 27 and May 6. The theme was "Ride the Wave", an art project depicting blue waves and sunny skies. The bonding exercise was led by Phyllis Bellemare, the academic/behavior intervention coordinator  at Cactus Canyon Junior High and an artist in her own right.

In addition to promoting health, wellness and camaraderie, the Ride the Wave project was a way for employees to prepare for the summer months ahead. Focusing on health and wellness has expanded beyond students to include teachers, administrators and staff at AJUSD.

Other activities included a hike in December and another one in March where hikers explored the beautiful scenery of the Hieroglyphic Trail. Patricia Smith, student Wellness Coordinator for AJUSD, commented that the excursions, including the Ride the Wave experience, have benefits to all who participate.

"Art is a wonderful way to refresh one's soul in a colorful and creative way," said Smith. "Phyllis did a wonderful job and now all who participated have their own artwork to remind them of this joyful time."

In addition to coordinating the staff events, Smith, in her grant-funded role as Student Wellness Coordinator, oversees, implements, monitors and reviews multi-tiered systems of support (MTSS) at all school sites. The program's emphasis is to create a positive impact on academic performance, improve students' health, and reduce high-risk behavior. Smith works closely with interventionists, leads for social workers and nurses, and gives support to site leaders to build systems that address the whole learner.

Coordinating the staff hikes was more than a fun expedition.

"We are a small school district with a unique, family-like atmosphere," Smith added. "We add new staff to our district every year. This event, and others like it, provides a way for us to have a shared experience and appreciate the beautiful and unique place where we work and play."

In an effort to recruit top candidates for numerous job positions, AJUSD has posted job openings on their new and improved website, www.ajusd.org. Positions include teaching positions and support staff at all schools. Openings are also available in food services, custodial, transportation, paraprofessionals and for substitute teachers.

Registration is currently underway for the 2023-2024 school year. For more information visit www.ajusd.org.