Pendergast District Welcomes New Board Member and Announces Leadership Appointments

January 15, 2025 – Phoenix, Arizona – The Pendergast Elementary School District kicked off 2025 with exciting leadership changes, reflecting a strengthened commitment to educational innovation and community collaboration. At the January 14, 2025 Governing Board meeting, the district proudly welcomed its newest member, Ms. Monica Granado, whose dedication to public education and advocacy will bring fresh energy and insights to the Board.

Additionally, Mr. Jose Arenas and Ms. Hilda Ortega-Rosales were re-elected and officially sworn in for new four-year terms, continuing their unwavering service. The Board also elected Susan Serin as President and Jose Arenas as Vice President, underscoring its steadfast mission of “preparing students to compete in a globally connected society.”

Meet Monica Granado: A Voice for Families and Education

A pivotal moment in the meeting was the swearing-in of Ms. Monica Granado, elected in November 2024. A proud member of the Oglala Lakota Nation, Granado brings a unique blend of cultural heritage and leadership experience. She has been a cherished part of the Villa de Paz community for over a decade and has deep roots in West Phoenix, where she attended Maryvale High School, Metro Tech Vocational High School, and Phoenix College.

Granado’s career began in early childhood education through the Metro Tech Early Childhood Development Program, where she cultivated her passion for nurturing young minds. Over the years, she transitioned into leadership roles in retail management and served as PTSA President during the 2023-2024 school year, showcasing her ability to unite families and schools in meaningful ways.

As a parent of two children - one a current student at Villa de Paz Computer Science Academy and the other a Villa de Paz alum now excelling at Westview High School - Granado’s drive to advocate for equitable education is both professional and personal. Her appointment marks a new chapter in fostering stronger family-school partnerships.

Celebrating Continuity and Community Trust

The re-election of Mr. Jose Arenas and Ms. Hilda Ortega-Rosales reflects the community’s confidence in their visionary leadership. Arenas and Ortega-Rosales have been instrumental in creating a culture of excellence, equity, and innovation within the district, and their continued presence promises even greater strides in the years ahead.

Leadership Poised to Propel Student Success

Newly appointed President Susan Serin and Vice President Jose Arenas bring extensive experience and unwavering dedication to their leadership roles. Serin, a seasoned and forward-thinking board member, champions innovative programs that prepare students with the skills needed to excel in today’s dynamic and evolving world. Arenas, a distinguished education leader, passionately advocates for high-quality education, equity, and robust community partnerships, ensuring every student has access to transformative learning opportunities.

The Pendergast District Governing Board remains steadfast in its mission to advance student success through forward-thinking initiatives, equitable practices, and meaningful collaboration with families and community stakeholders. Guided by a unified vision of providing innovative schools and empowering learners, the board strives to achieve academic excellence and holistic development. By implementing strategies that strengthen family engagement and foster a thriving, inclusive educational environment, the board ensures that the district’s core values of integrity, inclusion, innovation, and community are reflected in every endeavor.

For more information about the Pendergast Elementary School District or to schedule a visit, please contact:

Ramiro Alvarez, Public Information Officer 
ralvarez@pesd92.org 
623-772-2292