I attended the unity rally where community members gathered in celebration of our school district.

All the local leaders who spoke delivered thought-provoking speeches, including former Mayor Jay Schlum, who prompted the question of why we all chose to live in Fountain Hills. The school district was the ultimate reason my family chose Fountain Hills.

Over six years ago, I was in high school. Unfortunately, like many teenagers, I was dealing with constant feelings of depression and anxiety and battling the temptations of suicide.

My family made the decision to move to Arizona when I was 16. We spent a week in the Valley just looking at communities that we might call our future home.

One day, our realtor drove us beyond the rolling hills of Scottsdale and into Fountain Hills, where we found a uniquely quaint community. We called the Fountain Hills High School to see if we could get a quick tour and they got us in that afternoon. The very first person I spoke to was Dr. J. We discovered a school that struck a balance, offering ample opportunities to make new friends without feeling overwhelmed.

I graduated from FHHS in 2019. I owe my thanks, the reason why I am still on this earth today, to the FHUSD.

Our school district is made up of phenomenal people, including Dr. J. We must invest in our school district to support thriving schools, offer students the opportunities to choose their paths and, above all, provide fundamental support as they navigate today’s challenges, including mental illness and suicide. Join me in voting “yes” for the bond and helping the Fountain Hills Unified School District as they continue to create a safe and welcoming space for all families.