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Our Legacy

1874-2024 150 Years of Excellence in Education Logo Color

For more than 150 years, Tempe Elementary Schools has provided community-inspired education serving the families of Tempe, Phoenix, Guadalupe, and beyond.

In 2024, we proudly celebrate our Sesquicentennial - the founding of our District in 1874. Over the years, our community has placed much value in sharing our District's history.

Even in today's fast-paced world of technology and innovation, there is a deep rooted sense of enduring connection within Tempe Elementary Schools. As we reflect upon our past, we can learn much about our future - one where our students become significant future contributors within our community and our world. 

Students and Staff in front of original Rural Schoolhouse in Early 1900s Sepia

Early 1900s

Students and staff pictured in front of the original Rural Schoolhouse in the early 1900s built on the site where our current Tempe Elementary District Office is now located.

Tempe Elementary Schools Celebrates 150 Years

Join Tempe Elementary Schools for our Sesquicentennial Celebration!

We will honor our Legacy of Excellence over the past century and a half on Saturday, April 5 from 9 - Noon at the Sanchez Administration Building, 3205 S Rural Rd. in Tempe.

More details to come!

Tempe Elementary Schools Timeline

Select a date or decade to walk through our history.

Explore the Tempe Elementary School District's journey through key milestones and transformative events that highlight our evolution into a modern educational leader.

1874
Amy Garza

Tempe School District No. 3 is officially established, becoming the third school district in Maricopa County.

Tempe School District No. 3 is officially established, becoming the third school district in Maricopa County.

Tempe schools, which began 20 years before Tempe officially incorporated as a Town, laid the foundation for future educational growth and development, with an initial enrollment of 43 children.

The District began its journey with a vision to provide quality education for all children in the region…a vision that continues today.

The above photo was taken in 1905 from the top of Tempe Butte or “A” Mountain. The approximate population of Tempe in 1877 was 100, increasing to 885 in 1900. 

  • Official Establishment
Read More about 1874
1874 - 1900
chris dryland

Possibly the first photo of students attending Tempe schools, this image depicts students in front of a one-room adobe school.

Possibly the first photo of students attending Tempe schools, this image depicts students in front of a one-room adobe school.

The school, built in 1878, is the District’s second one-room adobe school and was built on the southeast corner of Eighth Street (University) and Mill Avenue. It was 20-feet wide by 40-feet long with three windows on the west and three on the east. Local volunteers built the school, and it was furnished with handmade wooden furniture.

  • Miss Dumphey's Class in 1878
Read More about 1874 - 1900
1892
Amy Garza

Around 1892, this “modern” two-story, six-room brick building was built to replace the two adobe schoolrooms.

Around 1892, this “modern” two-story, six-room brick building was built to replace the two adobe schoolrooms. It was thought the Tempe Public School, which served both grammar and high school students, was too large, but by the time it was completed, it was completely filled. It was built a foot at a time, as funds became available.

  • Tempe Public School
Read More about 1892
1900 - 1909
chris dryland

The original Rural Schoolhouse was built in the early 1900s on the site of the current Tempe Elementary District Office.

The original Rural Schoolhouse was built in the early 1900s on the site of the current Tempe Elementary District Office. 

Tempe schools saw a period of expansion and growth in the early 1900s. State records of 1904 show that Johnson District No. 29 likely merged with Tempe Elementary School District. In 1907, Tempe citizens petitioned the County to establish a Union High School District, thus marking the beginnings of the Tempe Union High School District No. 213.

The District’s first superintendent, Benjamin H. Scudder served in a joint role, leading both Tempe Elementary and Tempe Union High School districts from 1908-1912.

  • Original Rural Schoolhouse
Read More about 1900 - 1909
1904
Amy Garza

The teacher at Rural School, Mrs. Garfield Goodwin on her way to school by bicycle, about 1904.

The teacher at Rural School, Mrs. Garfield Goodwin on her way to school by bicycle, about 1904.

  • Mrs. Goodwin Riding to School
Read More about 1904
1910
Amy Garza

Hats and hairbows are prevalent among the young men and women in this sixth-grade class of teacher Margaret Hughes as they pose for their formal picture taken in front of the old Eighth Street School. The boy on the far right is Carl Spain, who became the operator of Spain’s Garage located on Sixth Street, where the Tempe City Hall building is now located.

Hats and hairbows are prevalent among the young men and women in this sixth-grade class of teacher Margaret Hughes as they pose for their formal picture taken in front of the old Eighth Street School. The boy on the far right is Carl Spain, who became the operator of Spain’s Garage located on Sixth Street, where the Tempe City Hall building is now located.

  • Margaret Hughes' 6th-Grade Class
Read More about 1910
1910 - 1919
chris dryland

In 1915, the first eight rooms of the new Tenth Street Grammar School were completed, making it the District’s third school.

In 1915, the first eight rooms of the new Tenth Street Grammar School were completed, making it the District’s third school.

Teacher Lucille Scudder’s first-grade class of 1910 poses (in photo) in front of the Eighth Street School. Miss Scudder, who later married another Tempe Elementary School District teacher, Eddie Scales, is not pictured. She was a daughter of B.H. Scudder, the first joint superintendent of Tempe elementary and high school districts.

F.J. Sullivan, then principal of Tempe Grammar School, became the next superintendent in July, 1912. Sullivan took a leave of absence in early 1914 to continue his education, but he never returned.

One of the original five TUHSD Board of Education members, J. Oscar Mullen, became the third superintendent, serving from July 1914 through June 1918. R.J. Shirley succeeded Mullen, serving as the fourth superintendent for approximately two years.

  • 1910 Lucille Scudder's 1st Grade Class
Read More about 1910 - 1919
1912
Amy Garza

Arizona became the 48th state in the Union on February 14, 1912, nearly 38 years after the Tempe Elementary School District was established.

Arizona became the 48th state in the Union on February 14, 1912, nearly 38 years after the Tempe Elementary School District was established.

  • Arizona becomes a state
Read More about 1912
1920
Amy Garza

Rural School at this time was part of the training school program of the Tempe Normal School, where students were at least in part taught by student-teachers from the Normal School (also known as the Teachers College, now ASU). The Rural School was established as Maricopa County School District No. 13 in 1883 at the northeast corner of what is now Rural Road and Southern Avenue. Rural School remained an independent school district until 1953, when it was consolidated with Tempe School District No. 3. 

Rural School at this time was part of the training school program of the Tempe Normal School, where students were at least in part taught by student-teachers from the Normal School (also known as the Teachers College, now ASU). The Rural School was established as Maricopa County School District No. 13 in 1883 at the northeast corner of what is now Rural Road and Southern Avenue. Rural School remained an independent school district until 1953, when it was consolidated with Tempe School District No. 3. 

The original schoolhouse was likely an adobe building, later replaced by the wood-frame school usually seen in early photos. It served the children of local farm families at grade levels kindergarten/first grade through eighth grade. Some of the students came from as far away as the Town of Guadalupe.

In 1962, a new 24-classroom grade school designed by Tempe architect Kemper Goodwin replaced the historic schoolhouse, and the Tempe School District built their administrative headquarters adjacent to the new school.

In 1982, the school was closed for a final time due to declining enrollment. This last, 1962-built schoolhouse was subsequently demolished. Smith’s grocery store (now Fry’s Food and Drug Store) was built on the grounds once occupied by Rural School, and it remains there today. The Tempe School District still owns the land where the grocery store was built.

Photo courtesy of Tempe History Museum #1999.14.333

  • Students and Teachers form circle in front of Rural School
Read More about 1920
1920 - 1929
chris dryland

Courses at Tempe schools in the 1920s included carpentry and expanded to include physical education for all students.

Courses at Tempe schools in the 1920s included carpentry and expanded to include physical education for all students.

Boys worked on their carpentry projects in the fenced yard at Rural School.

In the 1920s, physical education became mandatory in elementary schools. 

In this 1925 photo, Rural School student Andrew Morton reads in the window sill.

School buildings received significant updates during this decade. In August 1926, the Board gave the directive to wire the Eighth Street School for electricity. The 10th Street School received a gasoline heater, a new roof, and other repairs in the mid-to-late 1920s.

Before the end of the decade, in September 1929, the Town of Tempe became a city.

Also in 1929, Tempe Grammar School would get its first addition of two rooms, and the first joint Governing Board discussion of possible unification of the three Tempe school districts took place.

  • 1925 Andrew Morton Reading in Window Sill
Read More about 1920 - 1929
1926
Amy Garza

Among the students in this 1926 second-grade class at the Tenth Street Grammar School was Elizabeth Hampton (later James), who would go on to become a teacher, principal, and administrator in the Tempe Elementary School District. She can be seen standing in the first row, third from the right, behind the seated young boys.

Among the students in this 1926 second-grade class at the Tenth Street Grammar School was Elizabeth Hampton (later James), who would go on to become a teacher, principal, and administrator in the Tempe Elementary School District. She can be seen standing in the first row, third from the right, behind the seated young boys.

  • 2nd-Grade Class at Tenth Street Grammar School
Read More about 1926
1926 - 1933
Amy Garza

On March 30, 1926, Claude B. Wivel was elected to be the new principal of Tenth Street Grammar School.

In 1926, C.B. Wivel also began his role as superintendent of Tempe Elementary and Tempe Union. He would remain superintendent for about seven years through 1933.

On March 30, 1926, Claude B. Wivel was elected to be the new principal of Tenth Street Grammar School.

In 1926, C.B. Wivel also began his role as superintendent of Tempe Elementary and Tempe Union. He would remain superintendent for about seven years through 1933.

In the past and to date, the principal has occupied the school residence (cottage) at 33 East 8th Street, added in their contract at a rate of $25 per month, or $300 per year. 

This included Mr. Wivel, who lived at the cottage. 

  • C.B. Wivel, Superintendent & Principal
Read More about 1926 - 1933
1930 - 1939
Amy Garza

As Arizona began feeling the effects of the Great Depression, the new 16-room Tempe Grammar School opened in September 1931. 

As Arizona began feeling the effects of the Great Depression, the new 16-room Tempe Grammar School opened in September 1931. 

First-graders from the school take their class photo with their teacher, Flora Thew (center of photo).

In 1933, schools installed gas and equipment to provide hot meals to students. This marked the birth of the school lunch program for TD3.

After serving as principal of Tempe Grammar School from 1934 - 1937, Harvey M. McKemy became the first Tempe Elementary School District Superintendent in 1938. The previous superintendents served both Tempe Union High School and Tempe Elementary School Districts. McKemy would become the longest-serving Tempe Elementary School District Superintendent, filling this role until 1962.

  • Educating During the Great Depression
Read More about 1930 - 1939
1931
Amy Garza

In October 1913, Flora M. Thew began teaching “first primary” in the “old Baptist Church.” She continued to teach first grade in Tempe for 49 years. Today’s Thew Elementary School is named after her. The school year at this time averaged just six months. 

In October 1913, Flora M. Thew began teaching “first primary” in the “old Baptist Church.” She continued to teach first grade in Tempe for 49 years. Today’s Thew Elementary School is named after her. The school year at this time averaged just six months. 

  • First-Grade Teacher Flora Thew
Read More about 1931
1935-1936
Amy Garza

In August of 1935, the Board selected Eddie Scales to teach sixth grade at Tenth Street Grammar School. This was the start of Scales’ long history with the Tempe Elementary School District. He later became the District’s first instrumental music teacher. Scales served Tempe Schools for nearly 37 years until 1972. He would later have a school named for him and his wife Lucille.

In August of 1935, the Board selected Eddie Scales to teach sixth grade at Tenth Street Grammar School. This was the start of Scales’ long history with the Tempe Elementary School District. He later became the District’s first instrumental music teacher. Scales served Tempe Schools for nearly 37 years until 1972. He would later have a school named for him and his wife Lucille.

Pictured here, Nelson D. “Pop” Holdeman (among the many dedicated educators who would have namesake schools in the District) was hired to teach eighth grade at the Tenth Street School in August 1936. He later served as principal there. In 1958 he was promoted to Assistant Superintendent for Business, a position he held until he passed away in 1960. Holdeman was very active in the community, including being Assistant Fire Chief.

Photo courtesy of Tempe History Museum

  • School Namesakes
Read More about 1935-1936
1937
Amy Garza

A rare occurrence in Tempe, Arizona, snow paints the ground and decorates the shrubbery in front of the Tenth Street Grammar School on January 21, 1937.

A rare occurrence in Tempe, Arizona, snow paints the ground and decorates the shrubbery in front of the Tenth Street Grammar School on January 21, 1937.

Photo courtesy of Tempe History Museum

  • Snow at Tenth Street Grammar School
Read More about 1937
1939
Amy Garza

The Rural School football team getting ready to scrimmage where the Fry’s gas station and parking lot are now located.

The Rural School football team getting ready to scrimmage where the Fry’s gas station and parking lot are now located.

  • Rural School football team
Read More about 1939
1940 - 1941
Amy Garza

Rural School first- and second-graders during the 1940-1941 school year. Although the District’s population was growing during this time, the area still provided a rural-like community, evidenced by the students’ bare feet seen in this photo.

Rural School first- and second-graders during the 1940-1941 school year. Although the District’s population was growing during this time, the area still provided a rural-like community, evidenced by the students’ bare feet seen in this photo.

  • Rural School 1st-2nd-Grade Class
Read More about 1940 - 1941
1940 - 1949
chris dryland

The 1940s were a decade of major growth in Tempe’s population from about 2,960 to more than 7,600 by the end of the decade

The 1940s were a decade of major growth in Tempe’s population from about 2,960 to more than 7,600 by the end of the decade.

From 1941 to 1959, World War II and the restless post-war period would bring still sparsely-populated Arizona - and little Tempe - the first spurts of rapid growth that would be a way of life for decades to come. With the war came military bases, new people, new businesses, and a need for new schools.

Children paid a penny for a glass of milk provided in a federal program. Gasoline rationing forced the reduction of some programs, but learning and growing continued, as you can see in the photo of Mrs. James fifth-grade classroom. 

Sports programs flourished for boys and girls as they participated in baseball, softball, volleyball, swimming, and many other activities.

In 1942, for the first time, TD3 approved the contracts of teachers who were married.

Between 1946 and 1959, Tempe School District No. 3 was standing on the brink of becoming one of the fastest growing school districts in the state. The Board, however, was still focused on running a gradually growing, but still financially limited, school district.

In November 1946, the District acquired the Rohrig District.

The Board changed the entrance age for first graders. Beginning in the 1947-1948 school year, all children entering first grade must have reached the age of six by December 1. 

In November 1948, the Board voted to sell the Eighth Street School site and property to the Tempe Union High School District for $50,500.

  • Decade of Growth
Read More about 1940 - 1949
1941
Amy Garza

Fifth-grade students enjoying physical education class outdoors at Tenth Street Grammar School on a bright mid-November day in Arizona.

Fifth-grade students enjoying physical education class outdoors at Tenth Street Grammar School on a bright mid-November day in Arizona.

  • Physical Education at Tenth Street Grammar School
Read More about 1941
1949
Amy Garza

Lois Klein was hired in 1949 as a kindergarten teacher; one of the many people who dedicated their lives to the children of TD3. She became Director of Student Services, Special Education, and Data Processing, giving Tempe District the distinction of being the first school district west of the Mississippi River with a computer.

Lois Klein was hired in 1949 as a kindergarten teacher; one of the many people who dedicated their lives to the children of TD3. She became Director of Student Services, Special Education, and Data Processing, giving Tempe District the distinction of being the first school district west of the Mississippi River with a computer.

Her skill and creativity was instrumental in helping Superintendent Sam Fees lead the District through troubled times of tremendous growth and desegregation in the 1960s and early 1970s. 

  • Lois Klein, Teacher, Director, Trailblazer
Read More about 1949
1950 - 1959
chris dryland

At the beginning of the 1950s, the three Tempe schools had an enrollment of 1,921 with substantial growth on the horizon.

At the beginning of the 1950s, the three Tempe schools had an enrollment of 1,921 with substantial growth on the horizon. 

In the spring of 1951, the Wayne Ritter School, at Tyler Street and Rural Road, was completed and opened with Augusta T. Carminati serving as Principal. 

This photo pictures Manuel Luque, Bus Driver and Truant Officer, in 1952, (photo courtesy of the Tempe History Museum).

In April 1953, the District expanded its boundaries to include Rural School serving grades 5-8 and Guadalupe School, now known as Frank Elementary, serving grades 1-4.

Mitchell School welcomed students for the first time in September 1953.

H. M. McKemy Intermediate School, originally Concorda School, opened in March, 1958. It consisted of 21 general classrooms, five special classrooms, a library, and a cafetorium across the 15-acre campus.

Thew School opened in September, 1958. The school was named after Flora Thew who, after she retired in 1961 at the age of 70, was the longest continuously-employed classroom teacher in Arizona, serving all of her 49 years in TD3 teaching first grade.

  • District Expansion
Read More about 1950 - 1959
1951
Amy Garza

Tempe Grammar School Advanced Orchestra, circa 1951

Photo courtesy of Tempe History Museum

Tempe Grammar School Advanced Orchestra, circa 1951

Photo courtesy of Tempe History Museum

  • Tempe Grammar School Advanced Orchestra
Read More about 1951
1951
Amy Garza

In the spring of 1951, the Wayne Ritter School, at 815 Tyler Street and Rural Road, was completed and occupied. Augusta T. Carminati was elected Principal. The campus was located on seven and a half acres and included 21 classrooms, and a “cafetorium” (cafeteria and auditorium combined). Years later, ASU bought it from TD3 and repurposed it, eventually demolishing it around 2007.

In the spring of 1951, the Wayne Ritter School, at 815 Tyler Street and Rural Road, was completed and occupied. Augusta T. Carminati was elected Principal. The campus was located on seven and a half acres and included 21 classrooms, and a “cafetorium” (cafeteria and auditorium combined). Years later, ASU bought it from TD3 and repurposed it, eventually demolishing it around 2007.

  • Ritter School opened
Read More about 1951
1953
Amy Garza

After being a dedicated volunteer at Guadalupe School since 1933, Ruby Wood began her official teaching career with the District in 1953, splitting her time between Guadalupe School and Rural School. The last 21 years of her career were spent at Guadalupe School until she retired in 1974. During her final two years, she worked as a teacher, truant officer, counselor, nurse, and Director of Special Education

After being a dedicated volunteer at Guadalupe School since 1933, Ruby Wood began her official teaching career with the District in 1953, splitting her time between Guadalupe School and Rural School. The last 21 years of her career were spent at Guadalupe School until she retired in 1974. During her final two years, she worked as a teacher, truant officer, counselor, nurse, and Director of Special Education.

Working in Tempe had been a homecoming for Wood, who attended the old Rural and Eighth Street schools as a child and graduated with the first four-year class at Tempe High in 1912. In honor of her long history in TD3, Wood School was named after her when it opened in 1975. 

  • Ruby Wood
Read More about 1953
1953
Amy Garza

Located near Ninth Street and University, Mitchell School welcomed students for the first time in September 1953, opening with 12 classrooms, offices, and a cafetorium. Mitchell School closed in the 1980s but in 2024 is the headquarters for Childsplay, a Tempe-based children’s theater group. Mitchell School was named after William W. Mitchell whose grandson Harry Mitchell would serve as Tempe’s Mayor from 1978 until 1994.

Located near Ninth Street and University, Mitchell School welcomed students for the first time in September 1953, opening with 12 classrooms, offices, and a cafetorium. Mitchell School closed in the 1980s but in 2024 is the headquarters for Childsplay, a Tempe-based children’s theater group. Mitchell School was named after William W. Mitchell whose grandson Harry Mitchell would serve as Tempe’s Mayor from 1978 until 1994.

  • Mitchell School opened
Read More about 1953
1955
Amy Garza

Broadmor School was built on a 10-acre site and included 18 classrooms and a cafetorium. When it opened in September 1955, there was only one home south of Broadway Road with the exception of a few farm homes. Roads and homes were constructed soon after, which moved the city south and put Broadmor School in the center of Tempe.

Broadmor School was built on a 10-acre site and included 18 classrooms and a cafetorium. When it opened in September 1955, there was only one home south of Broadway Road with the exception of a few farm homes. Roads and homes were constructed soon after, which moved the city south and put Broadmor School in the center of Tempe.

  • Broadmor School was built
Read More about 1955
1957
Amy Garza

Joe Spracale was hired as a classroom teacher at Broadmor School in 1957. He went on to serve McKemy Intermediate School as assistant principal from 1967 to 1972 and then principal from 1972 to 1991 when he retired. The day he retired, Joe joined the Tempe Impacts Education (TIE) Foundation, serving as a member and president for decades. As of 2025, he is still an active member of the TIE Foundation Board.

Joe Spracale was hired as a classroom teacher at Broadmor School in 1957. He went on to serve McKemy Intermediate School as assistant principal from 1967 to 1972 and then principal from 1972 to 1991 when he retired. The day he retired, Joe joined the Tempe Impacts Education (TIE) Foundation, serving as a member and president for decades. As of 2025, he is still an active member of the TIE Foundation Board.

In 2022, Hudson Elementary was renamed Joseph P. Spracale Elementary School in honor of Joe.

  • Joseph P. Spracale
Read More about 1957
1958
Amy Garza

H.M. McKemy Intermediate School opened its doors to students in March 1958. It consisted of 21 general and five special classrooms, a library, and a cafetorium across the 15-acre campus. Later renamed McKemy Middle School, it served students in grades 6-8. The school closed at the end of the 2010-2011 school year due to declining enrollment. In 2013, it reopened as Tempe Academy of International Studies – McKemy Campus, becoming an International Baccalaureate World School in 2015. It was rebuilt in 2020, and the name changed once again to McKemy Academy of International Studies.

H.M. McKemy Intermediate School opened its doors to students in March 1958. It consisted of 21 general and five special classrooms, a library, and a cafetorium across the 15-acre campus. Later renamed McKemy Middle School, it served students in grades 6-8. The school closed at the end of the 2010-2011 school year due to declining enrollment. In 2013, it reopened as Tempe Academy of International Studies – McKemy Campus, becoming an International Baccalaureate World School in 2015. It was rebuilt in 2020, and the name changed once again to McKemy Academy of International Studies.

  • McKemy Intermediate School
Read More about 1958
1958
Amy Garza

Thew School opened in September 1958 with 19 classrooms and a cafetorium on seven and a half acres. The school was named after Flora Thew who, after she retired in 1961 at the age of 70, was the longest continuously-employed classroom teacher in Arizona, serving all of her 49 years in TD3 teaching first grade.

Thew School opened in September 1958 with 19 classrooms and a cafetorium on seven and a half acres. The school was named after Flora Thew who, after she retired in 1961 at the age of 70, was the longest continuously-employed classroom teacher in Arizona, serving all of her 49 years in TD3 teaching first grade.

  • Thew School
Read More about 1958
1960
Amy Garza

Ira Brogan, for whom Brogan Center was named, fills a film strip order for a teacher. Working out of a government surplus quonset hut during the early 60s, Brogan was delivery man, general maintenance, and locksmith for the district. He and his wife Leonore, who worked in the cafeteria at Frank School, also lived in a trailer at the south end of the property at the district office and acted as night watchman.

Ira Brogan, for whom Brogan Center was named, fills a film strip order for a teacher. Working out of a government surplus quonset hut during the early 60s, Brogan was delivery man, general maintenance, and locksmith for the district. He and his wife Leonore, who worked in the cafeteria at Frank School, also lived in a trailer at the south end of the property at the district office and acted as night watchman.

  • Ira Brogan
Read More about 1960
1960 - 1969
chris dryland

Tempe’s population, less than 25,000 at the end of the 1950s, more than doubled during the 1960s. 

Tempe’s population, less than 25,000 at the end of the 1950s, more than doubled during the 1960s. 

To accommodate the population growth, ten new schools were built between 1961 and 1969: Holdeman (1961), New Rural School (1962), Gililland/Mosley (1963), Laird/Shamley (1964), Meyer (1965), Evans (1966), Hudson/Spracale (1967), Scales (1969), Getz (1969), and Curry (1969). In September 1969, District enrollment reached 10,862 students. 

On June 25, 1962, Harvey M. McKemy (pictured here) retired after nearly three decades as head of Tempe Elementary School District. In his 28 years, McKemy managed the tremendous growth in the city and oversaw the construction of six new schools. During his time, he saw the two-school, 10-teacher District grow into a $2-million growing operation.

Sam Fees was named Superintendent in 1962 and remained in that position until 1975. During this time of monumental growth, Fees directed the construction of 18 schools. Fees was often seen carrying blueprints under his arm as he trekked around the District, checking on the many building projects underway.

  • Decade of New Schools
Read More about 1960 - 1969
1961
Amy Garza

Holdeman School was built, named in honor of Nelson D. “Pop” Holdeman, a dedicated teacher, principal, and administrator who began his teaching career in the District in 1936. Holdeman also gave untold hours in community service activities for local children.

Holdeman School was built, named in honor of Nelson D. “Pop” Holdeman, a dedicated teacher, principal, and administrator who began his teaching career in the District in 1936. Holdeman also gave untold hours in community service activities for local children.

  • Holdeman School was built
Read More about 1961
1962
Amy Garza

Sam Fees became Superintendent in 1962, remaining in that position until 1975. During this time of monumental growth, Fees directed the construction of 18 schools. Fees was often seen carrying blueprints under his arm as he trekked around the District, checking on the many building projects underway.

Sam Fees became Superintendent in 1962, remaining in that position until 1975. During this time of monumental growth, Fees directed the construction of 18 schools. Fees was often seen carrying blueprints under his arm as he trekked around the District, checking on the many building projects underway.

Superintendent Fees was granted medical leave in the summer of 1975, and the Board appointed Robert P. Curry to serve as acting Superintendent for the 1975-1976 school year. Fees was later reassigned as “District Administrator” and also served as director of operations until his retirement in 1981.

  • Sam Fees was named Superintendent
Read More about 1962
1962
Amy Garza

The original Rural School was rebuilt and welcomed students for 20 years before closing in 1982. The old and new Rural Schools were open for a combined 99 years. The District Administration Building stands on the old Rural School site. Fry's grocery store was later built on the land where the new Rural School stood.

The original Rural School was rebuilt and welcomed students for 20 years before closing in 1982.

In this photo from the early 1960s, Ira Brogan is seen delivering science materials.

The old and new Rural Schools were open for a combined 99 years. The District Administration Building stands on the old Rural School site. Fry's grocery store was later built on the land where the new Rural School stood.

  • Rural School was rebuilt
Read More about 1962
1970 - 1979
chris dryland

By 1970, the once sleepy little town of Tempe had grown to 25 square miles with 63,550 residents

By 1970, the once sleepy little town of Tempe had grown to 25 square miles with 63,550 residents.

TD3 enrollment reached its all-time peak of 13,540 in 1975, and the building boom that started in the 1960s continued through this decade to accommodate the additional students. The District built 11 schools and a maintenance facility during the 1970s: Carminati (1971), Connolly (1972), Arredondo (1972), Bustoz (1974), Nevitt (1974), Ward (1974), Aguilar (1975), Rover (1975), Wood (1975), Brogan Center (1977), Fuller (1977) and Fees (1979).

Learning centers, equipped with a tape recorder, listening box, and headsets helped children across the District and at Holdeman School (in photo) to develop their reading skills.

Superintendent Fees was granted medical leave in the summer of 1975, and the Board appointed Robert P. Curry to serve as acting Superintendent for the 1975-1976 school year. Fees was later reassigned as “District Administrator” and also served as director of operations until his retirement in 1981.

At a special meeting In May 1976, the Governing Board announced it had selected Dr. Ralph Goitia, then superintendent of Phoenix Elementary District No. 1, to lead the District. Dr. Goitia would serve as TD3 Superintendent for 12 years.

  • Peak Enrollment
Read More about 1970 - 1979
1980 - 1989
chris dryland

The 1980s ushered in a time of unique developments across the District, including land sales, school leases, and technology.

The 1980s ushered in a time of unique developments across the District, including land sales, school leases, and technology.

A contract to build a permanent Getz School was approved in 1980 along with a plan for TD3, Kyrene, and Tempe Union to all use the new school. That same year, the Board authorized the sale of eight acres of land on Vine Street to the City of Tempe. The land had been purchased five years earlier when enrollment was rapidly increasing.

In 1982, the Board approved a plan for the closure of Mitchell, Rural, and Ward schools. All three schools would be leased to various organizations during the decade, including the Jewish Centers of Greater Phoenix, Childsplay, and Arizona State University.

A pilot program was initiated at Meyer, Rural, and Connolly schools to use “micro computers” in classrooms and a learning laboratory for instruction and practice in math, grammar, early reading, spelling, and social studies.

A fun run (pictured in photo) through the neighborhood was Bustoz School students’ way of celebrating the school’s 10th birthday in 1985. Students also used the event to raise money for the American Cancer Society and to spread awareness of cancer prevention.

In 1987, Superintendent Dr. Ralph Goitia announced his plans to retire in June, 1988. The Board began a superintendent search about one year prior and received more than 70 applications. They selected Dr. Agustin A. “Augie” Orci to begin serving as superintendent on July 1, 1988. Dr. Orci had served as associate superintendent for instruction in Clark County School District, Nevada and had grown up in Arizona.

  • Unique Developments
Read More about 1980 - 1989
1990 - 1999
chris dryland

Connolly Computer Club members show off the MacIntosh computer they won in a national competition.

Pictured above, Connolly Computer Club members show off the MacIntosh computer they won in a national competition. 

Throughout the 1990s, the Technology Strategic Plan Action Team implemented numerous Bond projects designed to bring modern technology into the schools and District.

Both the District’s new office and the Smith’s (Frys) market next door were completed and opened in the summer of 1991. Disappearing in their wake were the Bivins Education Center and the “new” Rural School, which had stood on the site. The new District office was named the Sanchez Administration Center in honor of former 15-year Board member, Dr. George M. Sanchez, a popular, well-respected, and skilled eye-health care practitioner who treated his patients and their families with respect and kindness.

The non-profit TIE (Tempe Impact Education) Foundation was formed in October, 1990 and continues to support and fund the needs of District children and teachers to this day.

Three Superintendents led TD3 during the 1990s. Dr. Augie Orci retired in 1993. Dr. Mary Ann Lawson took over serving as Superintendent for five years from 1994 to 1999. Dr. John Baracy, who had served as Superintendent in the Roosevelt Elementary School District guided TD3 into a new century, serving as Superintendent from 1999 to 2004.

  • The Age of Technology
Read More about 1990 - 1999
2000 - 2009
chris dryland

The new century marked a time of rebuilding and repurposing for several schools within the Tempe Elementary District.

The new century marked a time of rebuilding and repurposing for several schools within the Tempe Elementary District.

After a renovation, Ward School was reopened as Ward Traditional Academy in 2005 serving students in grades K-8.

Thew and Holdeman schools were rebuilt in 2008 and continue to serve K-5 students. Scales Elementary was also rebuilt in 2008, and the school reopened as Scales Technology Academy (pictured above) committed to excellence in education and technology integration.

The District’s oldest remaining school, Broadmor, was rebuilt the following year, 54 years after opening its doors in 1955.

The Brogan Center was rebuilt in 2009 and serves as the District’s Transportation, Facilities Management, and Nutrition Services hub.

In 2009, Evans Elementary School was repurposed and has served as an alternative school as well as a preschool.

Similar to the previous decade, three Superintendents led the staff and students of TD3 between 2000 and 2010. Dr. John Baracy, who had joined TD3 in 1999 left for another opportunity in 2004. Debra Gomez, who had been serving as an associate superintendent, led TD3 for one year, before the Governing Board hired Dr. Arthur Tate to serve as Superintendent for six years through 2011.

  • Rebuilding and Repurposing
Read More about 2000 - 2009
2010 - 2019
chris dryland

The work of repurposing and rebuilding schools continued through this decade bringing new schools and opportunities for students.

The work of repurposing and rebuilding schools continued through this decade bringing new schools and opportunities for students.

McKemy Middle School was closed at the end of the 2010-2011 school year due to declining enrollment. In 2013, the school was repurposed and reopened as Tempe Academy of International Studies – McKemy Campus, becoming an International Baccalaureate World School in 2015. It was rebuilt in 2020, and the name was changed once again to McKemy Academy of International Studies.

Bustoz Elementary School merged into Fuller Elementary School and Meyer Elementary merged into Hudson (Spracale) Elementary School at the end of the 2010-2011 school year. Bustoz was repurposed as TD3 Professional Learning Center at Bustoz, a professional development center for teachers and staff.

Fees Middle School transitioned to Fees College Preparatory Middle School in 2011. That same year, Aguilar School was rebuilt. Laird (Shamley) School, now serving K-8 students, was rebuilt in 2016. In 2017, Arredondo School was rebuilt. Also that year, Meyer School was remodeled and reopened as Meyer Montessori in August. 

Frank School, which was originally built in 1929 and rebuilt in 1967, was rebuilt once again in 2018 (pictured here) along with Nevitt School. The rebuilt Frank Elementary School incorporated the architecture from the Guadalupe community in which it was built and included a bell tower containing the original Guadalupe School bell, which was originally rung to alert the local school children that it was time to come to school.

Superintendent Dr. Arthur Tate left the District in 2011 for another opportunity. The Board hired long-time TD3 leader Christine Hoddy Busch as Superintendent in 2011.

  • New Schools & Opportunities for Students & Staff
Read More about 2010 - 2019
2020 - Present
chris dryland

During this decade, Tempe Elementary School District celebrates 150 years of community-inspired education.

During this decade, Tempe Elementary School District celebrates 150 years of community-inspired education. 

Since 1874, when the Tempe Elementary School District became the third school district in Maricopa County, we have focused on our mission of inspiring excellence… Every Child… Every Adult… Every day. Details of our upcoming sesquicentennial celebrations will be posted on our website!

School construction continued with a newly rebuilt Wood Elementary opening in 2020 and Gililland (Mosley) Middle School opening in 2022.

After ten years as Superintendent and nearly 35 years in education, Christine Hoddy Busch retired. The Governing Board hired Dr. James Driscoll in 2021 as Tempe Elementary School District’s 11th leader.

  • Into the Future
Read More about 2020 - Present