• Bobcat Families, 

    It continues to be both a pleasure and an honor to serve as the principal for Sonoran Foothills School. For those that are new to our community, here is a little bit of information about me: 

    I have been dedicated to the education profession since 2002 serving as a teacher, mentor, assistant principal, and principal. I graduated from Northern Arizona University (Go Lumberjacks!) in 2002 and quickly began my journey as a teacher. I had amazing opportunities to grow professionally as a first and third grade teacher in a Title I community. Shortly after I began my career, I pursued my passion for lifelong learning and earned my Masters in Curriculum and Instruction through Arizona State University (Go Devils!). Additionally, during my time in the classroom, I had the joy of mentoring teacher candidates through a district partnership with the ASU iTeach program.  This experience ultimately prepared me for a position in 2011 as a full-time New Teacher Mentor. Working with our newest educators was inspiring and refreshing, and once again, led me back to ASU where I received my second Masters in Educational Leadership. After completing my Masters, I spent one year as an assistant principal and then went on to serve as the principal of Liberty Elementary in PVUSD for four years. My time at Sonoran Foothills began at the start of the 2020-2021 school year. This community has been patient, kind, supportive, and compassionate through some of the most difficult of times. Together, we will continue to partner and support each other as we focus on the well-being and academic growth of every student!

    When I’m not at school, my husband, Jeff, and our two amazing children, Billy Bob and Haley, truly help me to keep a balance with everyday life. As a family we enjoy staying active by hiking, bike riding, and playing sports (especially baseball!). We also enjoy traveling and taking on new adventures. Most importantly, we believe in quality time as a family and cherish each moment that we have together.

    On behalf of the entire Bobcat staff, we are looking forward to a great school year. We will strive to foster a culture that is focused on doing what is best for students and ensuring that they have a positive educational experience that will impact them for a lifetime.  

    Once again, I am honored to be a part of Sonoran Foothills and greatly look forward to connecting with your family this year!

    Sincerely, 

    Darlene Baumgartner