District News and Updates
Arizona Healthy Schools Act (House Bill #2164)
As we begin the 2026-2027 school year, we want to share an important update regarding classroom celebrations.
Arizona's new Arizona Healthy Schools Act (House Bill #2164) has changed what foods may be shared with students during the school day. Beginning this school year, foods containing certain prohibited ingredients may not be brought to school for distribution to students during birthday celebrations, holiday parties, or other classroom events.
For purposes of this law, the school day is defined as beginning at midnight before the instructional day and ending 30 minutes after the conclusion of the instructional day. During this time, foods containing any of the prohibited ingredients may not be distributed to students on campus.
What this means for our classroom:
- Parents may continue to pack any lunch, snack, or treat they choose for their own child.
- Birthday treats or snacks intended to be shared with classmates must comply with the Arizona Healthy Schools Act.
- Foods containing any of the state's prohibited ingredients cannot be distributed to other students during the school day.
- To help avoid disappointment, please contact me before sending any food items for a classroom celebration.
There are many wonderful ways to celebrate birthdays without food! Some ideas include:
- Donating a favorite book to the classroom
- Stickers, pencils, or bookmarks
- A special birthday certificate
- A classroom helper privilege
- A fun birthday recognition during class
Thank you for your understanding and partnership as we comply with state law while continuing to make every student's birthday special
Behind the Work: District Committees
Budgetary Steering Committee
The primary community committee is composed of stakeholders representing the diverse subgroups within the Florence Unified School District community. The Budgetary Steering Committee reviews the findings and proposals submitted by each subcommittee, evaluating which options—or combination of options—can achieve the necessary budget reductions while minimizing the impact on students’ educational experiences and family support systems.
4-Day School Week Committee
The 4-Day School Week Committee is dedicated to exploring the potential impacts of transitioning the district to a four-day school week. The committee is developing a proposed model and examining key considerations, including operational changes, staff compensation, and overall budgetary implications.
Building Closure Committee
The Building Closure Committee is responsible for evaluating the potential impacts of school site closures. The committee examines the financial and logistical implications of closing each facility, including student reassignment plans and the effects of those transitions on students and families. Ultimately, the committee develops a prioritized list of school sites that may be considered for closure, if necessary.
7-12 Model Committee
The 7–12 Model Committee is evaluating what the district would look like if existing high schools were restructured to serve grades 7–12. The committee is researching outcomes from other districts that have implemented this model, assessing facility capacity and constraints, and analyzing the potential benefits and challenges of such a transition.
Latest Updates: Hear from our Committees
Budgetary Steering Committee
4-Day School Week Committee
Stay informed with monthly video updates from our committee leads, sharing the work, progress, and priorities shaping our district work.
Building Closure Committee
Stay informed with monthly video updates from our committee leads, sharing the work, progress, and priorities shaping our district work.
7-12 Model Committee
Stay informed with monthly video updates from our committee leads, sharing the work, progress, and priorities shaping our district work.