Education Briefs

Mar 8, 2010 — The Arizona Daily Star

Alexis Huicochea and Andrea Rivera

Mar. 8, 2010 (McClatchy-Tribune Regional News delivered by Newstex) -- 200+ educators rally in support of schools

More than 200 Tucson-area teachers rallied at Reid Park on Thursday, chanting "Save Our Schools" and "No More Cuts."

The educators were part of the statewide March4Schools Day of Action, emphasizing the value of public education and funding issues affecting schools.

"Right now, Tucson has amazing public schools that offer enormous opportunities," said Beth Slaine, public-policy coordinator for the Tucson Education Association, which represents Tucson Unified School District teachers. "Every percent cut cuts into a student's ability to be prepared for the work force and universities."

While signs at the rally asked passers-by to honk in support of education, Slaine said the public needs to voice its support to the Legislature.

Edith Corrales, a second-grade teacher at Liberty Elementary School, said she thought it was important to attend the rally. In her 14 years as a teacher, Corrales said, she has never seen such a funding shortage.

"I'm here to try to save our jobs and the children's education," she said.

2 Marana counselors get statewide honor

Two Marana Unified School District counselors were named top counselors by the Arizona School Counselors Association.

Tina Verville was named Junior High/Middle School Counselor of the Year for her work at Tortolita Middle School, where she has worked for six years.

Twin Peaks Elementary School counselor Shari Attebery was named Elementary School Counselor of the Year. Attebery has worked at Twin Peaks for six years.

Verville, Attebery and other counselors will be honored March 26 at the association's annual conference in Mesa.

Sahuaro student wins blimp-naming contest

The Truly Nolen Pest Control blimp that flies around during UA basketball games has been dubbed "Mak the Mouse."

Sam Williams, a Sahuaro High School sophomore, was the winner of the "Name That Truly Blimp" contest.

Mak -- as in McKale -- is known for dropping free tickets and coupons from high in the rafters during halftime.

Alexis Huicochea and Andrea Rivera

Newstex ID: KRTB-0014-42661649