Avondale School District

accommodating increasing student numbers. Shifting to community initiatives, Dr. Schwarz elaborates on efforts to integrate local businesses into the educational experience. “We’ve put forth a lot of effort in recent years to connect with local businesses for internships and job shadowing,” he says. This initiative extends beyond traditional career days, involving businesses in students’ career planning and development. An innovative step in this direction is the introduction of career portfolios for students before graduation. “Members of the local business community will assist students in creating these portfolios,” Dr. Schwarz reveals. This program prepares students for their future careers and fosters a direct connection between the school district and the local business community. NURTURING ARTS, ATHLETICS, AND ROBOTICS In Avondale School District, the emphasis on arts, athletics, and robotics highlights its students’ diverse talents and interests. Principal Wilson delves into the vibrant world of the district’s extracurricular activities, revealing a landscape where creativity, competition, and student leadership flourish. “We have a fantastic visual arts program,” begins Wilson, illustrating the vast array of creative disciplines offered, including photography, ceramics, and metals. He proudly points to the theater program, a perennial powerhouse in local and state competitions. “It is student-led and student- centered,” Wilson emphasizes, underscoring the district’s philosophy of fostering student autonomy and creativity. Wilson transitions to discuss the district’s robotics 7 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 5, ISSUE 02 AVONDALE SCHOOL DISTRICT