Throughout the years, Fountain Hills Middle School and Junior Achievement of Arizona have had a long and beneficial relationship.

With that said, I would like to express my gratitude and appreciation to all of our townspeople who have given their time, knowledge, experience and support to our students.

Thank you Fountain Hills Unified School District Superintendent Mr. Tom Lawrence, and FHMS principals Mrs. Anita Gomez, Mr. Tony Galietti and former FHMS principal Mr. Tom Brennan. You have all played key roles in in the bettering of our schools and students.

Additionally, many thanks go to the Rotary clubs of Fountain Hills for their continued financial contribution in bringing JA to our wonderful School District.

Several dedicated Fountain Hills residents of varying backgrounds and professions have enthusiastically delivered JA lessons in my classroom. These JA volunteer instructors have come to my classroom once a week for six weeks and teach a JA-built set of lessons titled “America Works.” These lessons focus on American history blended with entrepreneurialism, risk, reward and life-skills.

Thank you, friends, mentors, leaders, and dedicated supporters: Mr. Rob Trulson, Mr. Dwight Johnson, Mr. Jerry Traylor, Mr. Jim Thompson, Mr. Bob Hoge, Mr. and Mrs. Art and Cathy Ammon, Dr. Vincent Larkin, Mr. Tim Pickering, Ms. Melissa Leasher, and of course, “lastest but not leastest,” the Von Dutch of them all, a card-carrying “Lifetime Notebook” member, a man whom I owe more than can ever be repaid, Mr. Karl Ivarsson.

Great job folks! Thank you for your years of dedication and commitment. We have been so blessed to have had you work with our students throughout the years.