November 3, 2021
The Balsz Elementary School District appreciates the recent Arizona Supreme Court ruling on the state Constitution's single subject rule, particularly as it pertains to mask mandates. Our district adopted a policy requiring masks on campus in response to the stated desires of our community. Both informally and through a district-wide survey, the Balsz family showed a deep and abiding commitment to making our campuses safe, healthy, and open environments for in-person learning. They overwhelmingly requested masks be required on our campuses for everyone's well-being. It is gratifying to know the District's right to implement policies that make our community safe have been validated by the state's highest court.
We also look forward to the more transparent and inclusive state budget process this ruling will create.
Finally, we celebrate the decision by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) to approve COVID-19 vaccinations for children ages 5- to 11-years-old. Thanks to our partners in health, any child ages 5 to 11 in the Balsz community can schedule their vaccine at the Mountain Park Health Center Balsz Pediatric Clinic, located at 1300 N 48th Street, by calling (602) 243-7277. www.mountainparkhealth.org
October 13, 2021
Re: Warning Regarding Recent Tik-Tok Challenges
Dear Parents/Guardians:
We are writing this letter to warn you about a string of Tik-Tok challenges and the risks associated with these challenges. Some of the monthly challenges include the following:
- October: Smack a staff member on the backside
- November: Kiss your friend’s girlfriend at school
- December: Deck the halls and show your b**** [private areas]
- January: Jab a breast
- February: Mess up school signs
- March: Make a mess in the courtyard or cafeteria
- April: Grab some “eggsz” (theft/stealing)
- May: Ditch Day
- June: Flip off front office
All these items listed above constitute a violation of the Student Handbook and Governing Board Policies related to student conduct. Several items above also constitute criminal activity, such as assault, vandalism, theft, indecent exposure, and the like.
These challenges are not funny and will not be condoned by the School or District administration. In addition to imposing discipline for any acts of student misconduct, the administration will refer any criminal activity to law enforcement for prosecution.
Please talk to your children about these Tik-Tok challenges and the consequences and penalties that may result. We hope that by bringing these concerns to your attention, we can avoid any disruption to our schools and to your child’s education.
Sincerely,
Zeek Ojeh, CPA
Acting Superintendent
