HUSD JOINT SEPARATION STATEMENTDecember 19, 2008 The Higley Unified School District (HUSD) Governing Board and District Superintendent Dr. Joyce Lutrey have amicably agreed to terms of separation upon Dr. Lutrey’s request. Both the Governing Board and Dr. Lutrey support this separation and are confident the district will continue to make great strides with the district strategic plan* underway and a strong leadership team in place. The Governing Board and Dr. Lutrey have worked as a team to manage the district’s fast growth and build a strong foundation for the district. In just eight years, HUSD has grown from one school to nine, received North Central Accreditation as the first k-12 district in AZ to do so, achieved two Excelling school labels from AZ State Standards, and surpassed the Arizona average in every subject area tested in every grade level at every district school. These successes provide the perfect opportunity for Dr. Lutrey to seek opportunities outside the district to advance her career knowing the district is making great strides with a goal and plan in place to achieve Excelling labels for every district school. She believes the district is well positioned to move forward as a new Governing Board takes shape in January 2009. Dr. Lutrey will officially depart the district June 30, 2009 and will work with the Governing Board and the cabinet to complete district projects from December 19, 2008 through the June 30, 2009 date. Beginning December 19, 2008, Dr. Denise Birdwell will assume Dr. Lutrey’s daily duties as the Governing Board determines who will assume the Superintendent title beginning July 1, 2009. The Governing Board wishes Dr. Lutrey well and thanks her for the dedication and commitment she has provided the Higley community over the past five years. Dr. Lutrey wishes to thank the community, the Governing Boards, the students staff and families for their support. She wishes them all well for the future.