Tavan
Elementary School
Home
Igniting Curiosity
Innovative instruction & experiential learning, guided by dedicated teachers.
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OUR EVENTS
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Scottsdale Unified School District Mohave District Annex
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Tavan Playground
all day
Scottsdale Unified School District
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Coronado High School - Governing Board Room
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Tavan Playground
all day
Scottsdale Unified School District
all day
Scottsdale Unified School District
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Coronado High School - Governing Board Room
all day
all day
all day
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Tavan Playground
OUR STORIES
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![Scottsdale Unified aces state report card]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1746223675/susdorg/siv8p8ghuynzhivcoaww/susd_img_in-the-news.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1746223675/susdorg/siv8p8ghuynzhivcoaww/susd_img_in-the-news.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1746223675/susdorg/siv8p8ghuynzhivcoaww/susd_img_in-the-news.jpg","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_4/v1746223675/susdorg/siv8p8ghuynzhivcoaww/susd_img_in-the-news.jpg","width":1200},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1746223675/susdorg/siv8p8ghuynzhivcoaww/susd_img_in-the-news.jpg","width":1301}])
School is in – and state grades are out, as well as a complex points system.
Scottsdale Unified School District celebrated an “A” grade, highlighted by nearly two dozen schools that aced their report cards.
“We are incredibly proud of our students, teachers, and staff for their hard work and dedication,” SUSD Superintendent Scott Menzel said. “Earning an ‘A’ rating once again reflects the strength of our academic programs and the deep partnership we share with our families and community.”
![SUSD Education Expo 2025]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1767991549/susdorg/scqjiylz7s9y3vetcwvw/susd_img_spotlight-063_1.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1767991549/susdorg/scqjiylz7s9y3vetcwvw/susd_img_spotlight-063_1.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1767991549/susdorg/scqjiylz7s9y3vetcwvw/susd_img_spotlight-063_1.jpg","width":781}])
In this episode of the SUSD Spotlight Podcast, we’re joined by Assistant Superintendent for Educational Services Lea Mitchell to talk about the second annual SUSD Education Expo, taking place on Wednesday, November 5 from 5:00 pm - 8:00 pm at Saguaro High School!
Learn how the Expo offers families from across the district and the Valley a one-stop opportunity to explore all SUSD schools and their specialized programs in a single location!
![Kindergarten Round Up Fall 2025]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1767991548/susdorg/wiqcykblwopxgzgpxqd7/susd_img_spotlight-062_1.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1767991548/susdorg/wiqcykblwopxgzgpxqd7/susd_img_spotlight-062_1.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1767991548/susdorg/wiqcykblwopxgzgpxqd7/susd_img_spotlight-062_1.jpg","width":781}])
In this episode of the SUSD Spotlight Podcast, we’re joined by Dr. Christine Bonow, Assistant Superintendent for Elementary and K–8 schools, to talk about Kindergarten Round Up! Find out what families can expect at these welcoming events and how it helps parents and children feel prepared for that big first day. This episode is packed with helpful insights on making the transition to kindergarten smooth and memorable! Find the Kindergarten Round Up event closest to you at SUSD.org/Kinder.
Scottsdale Unified School District is opening its doors to future families with a series of kindergarten roundups and a districtwide expo, offering parents and students a firsthand look at classrooms, programs and community culture.
Dr. Christine Bonow, assistant superintendent of elementary and K-8 schools, said the events are designed to give families the tools they need to make informed choices about their child’s education.
“SUSD is proud to offer full day kindergarten at each of our elementary and K-8 schools,” Bonow said. “Kindergarten round ups are wonderful events offered three times per school year that provide prospective parents and children an opportunity to tour the school, meet with school administrators and see kindergarten classrooms in action.”
As the 2024-25 school year closes, I want to take a moment to reflect on the extraordinary journey we’ve taken together.
Dr. Scott A. Menzel, Superintendent, Scottsdale Unified School District.
Guided by this year’s theme, “Elevate Excellence: Reaching New Heights Together,” we were deliberate, aligning our entire district around three Wildly Important Goals (WIGs) to ensure that we were not just moving forward, but moving forward together.
![Showcase Magazine - Spring / Summer | 2025]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1747936217/susdorg/gahln64hodckqllok2fa/susd_img_showcase-spring-summer-25-tn.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1747936217/susdorg/gahln64hodckqllok2fa/susd_img_showcase-spring-summer-25-tn.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1747936217/susdorg/gahln64hodckqllok2fa/susd_img_showcase-spring-summer-25-tn.jpg","width":781}])
We are thrilled to share this edition of Showcase magazine, which highlights how Scottsdale Unified School District continues to partner with our community to elevate excellence. By offering new and unique opportunities both in the classroom and beyond, we ensure our students are prepared for success in the real world.
Our cover story features one of many Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs that provides students with hands-on learning and industry certifications. Chaparral High School's criminology program equips students with investigative skills, an understanding of forensics, and insight into the justice system and corrections. Beyond preparing them for future careers, this program fosters informed citizenship by deepening students' awareness of their rights and those of others.
The Scottsdale Charros Program supports SUSD in various ways – namely, by bringing programs, resources and scholarships to the schools and recognizing the district’s outstanding students and educators with The Scottsdale Charros Education Awards.
For the past 60 years, educators in the district have received a personalized plaque and a $2,000 grant from the association.
![Building Schools, Building Trust | 2016 Bond Update]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1741388820/susdorg/ombdwbd3ufbhdcvdkjb2/susd_img_spotlight-046.png","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1741388820/susdorg/ombdwbd3ufbhdcvdkjb2/susd_img_spotlight-046.png","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1741388820/susdorg/ombdwbd3ufbhdcvdkjb2/susd_img_spotlight-046.png","width":780}])
In this episode of SUSD Spotlight, we’re joined by Dennis Roehler, SUSD’s Director of Facilities Management, and Wally Graham, Organization Development Consultant and former member of the SUSD Bond Oversight Committee. We reflect on the 2016 Bond—how the $229 million was allocated to rebuild and renovate schools, enhance safety, and improve transportation. We dive into the challenges faced, including community concerns, leadership transitions, and the impact of COVID-19, and explore how transparency and oversight helped rebuild trust. Finally, we discuss the long-term needs of the district and the importance of continued community engagement in shaping the future of SUSD’s facilities.
Music education is thriving in the Scottsdale Unified School District (SUSD), where students from elementary through high school receive top-tier instruction and performance opportunities.
As March marks Music in Our Schools Month, educators and administrators reflect on the profound impact of music on student development and the district’s commitment to fostering musical excellence.
OUR SCHOOL
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Tavan elementary is a public neighborhood school situated in the heart of the arcadia neighborhood, at the base of camelback mountain. Tavan is a pre-kindergarten through fifth grade school in the scottsdale unified school district. Home of the wildcats, Tavan elementary opened its campus in 1954 and is a familiar landmark in the Arcadia residential neighborhood. The physical site is composed of twelve buildings, with each classroom door opening the outside to enhance collaboration and learning opportunities. With multiple sports fields, playgrounds, gardens, and learning spaces, there are multiple opportunities to enhance learning. |
![OUR CAMPUS]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1719725575/susdorg/yssljyn1l9xykc3g8grz/AAsusd_img_desert-our-stories.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1719725575/susdorg/yssljyn1l9xykc3g8grz/AAsusd_img_desert-our-stories.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1719725575/susdorg/yssljyn1l9xykc3g8grz/AAsusd_img_desert-our-stories.jpg","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1719725575/susdorg/yssljyn1l9xykc3g8grz/AAsusd_img_desert-our-stories.jpg","width":801}])
- OUR ACCOLADES
- OUR COMMUNITY
As a part of the Arcadia learning community in the Scottsdale unified school district, Tavan promotes academics, citizenship, kindness, and social consciousness. Here, students can excel in gifted and enrichment programs, pursue English language development, or explore their musical talents in band or strings.
![OUR LEARNING COMMUNITY]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1715898672/susdorg/qvdpzrfxftfagwwrepz7/arcadia_img_our-learning-community.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1715898672/susdorg/qvdpzrfxftfagwwrepz7/arcadia_img_our-learning-community.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1715898672/susdorg/qvdpzrfxftfagwwrepz7/arcadia_img_our-learning-community.jpg","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_4/v1715898672/susdorg/qvdpzrfxftfagwwrepz7/arcadia_img_our-learning-community.jpg","width":1200},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_5/v1715898672/susdorg/qvdpzrfxftfagwwrepz7/arcadia_img_our-learning-community.jpg","width":1600},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_6/v1715898672/susdorg/qvdpzrfxftfagwwrepz7/arcadia_img_our-learning-community.jpg","width":2200}])
- OUR LEARNING COMMUNITY
The Arcadia Learning Community in the Scottsdale Unified School District is renowned for its commitment to academic excellence and fostering a nurturing environment for students.
- OUR POINTS OF PRIDE
- Celebrate Diversity
- A Label School
- Avid School
- Comprehensive Gifted Program
- Specialized Instructional Programs
- and more
![OUR PRINCIPAL]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1719724943/susdorg/xbsn53gxadw2uqjydgxl/tavan_img_our-principal.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1719724943/susdorg/xbsn53gxadw2uqjydgxl/tavan_img_our-principal.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1719724943/susdorg/xbsn53gxadw2uqjydgxl/tavan_img_our-principal.jpg","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1719724943/susdorg/xbsn53gxadw2uqjydgxl/tavan_img_our-principal.jpg","width":801}])
- OUR PRINCIPAL
Julie Ballard is proudly serving her 6th year as the principal of Tavan elementary school. As a Scottsdale Unified School District community member and employee, she is honored to have the opportunity to lead Tavan into its 70th year of educational excellence.
OUR HIGHLIGHTS
8+
Years Acknowledged As A Be Kind School