Dysart teacher and volunteer named Hometown Hero

The Surprise Independent, in partnership with Fellowship Square Surprise, recently hosted the Hometown Heroes awards ceremony, to recognize residents for their achievements and important contributions to the Surprise Community. The Dysart Unified School District is honored to have two nominees recognized as Hometown Heroes within the community. 

Heather Casey, a teacher at Willow Canyon High School, was selected as a Hometown Hero of Surprise in the Educator category. Ms. Casey was nominated by Willow Canyon staff for her leadership, advocacy, and commitment to students. Ms. Casey has been with the district for fifteen years as a visual arts teacher at Willow Canyon, and has been an exceptional leader and mentor to her students over the years. Several of her students have taken home recognition at local art shows, and have even contributed to city art murals and contests within the Surprise community. In addition, Ms. Casey assists in curriculum writing and revision, serves as a mentor to new teachers, and serves as the district High School Visual Arts lead. In addition to her leadership on campus, Ms. Casey donates to local animal shelters and dog rescues, and is an advocate for Ovarian and Breast Cancer research, volunteering her time to support those affected and help raise funds for research. 

Sharon Beard, a dedicated district volunteer, was nominated and selected as a Hometown Hero of Surprise in the Volunteer category. Mrs. Beard was nominated by Asante Preparatory Academy teacher, Rachel Kelley, where she currently donates her time assisting students. Mrs. Beard first began volunteering in the district with students at Thompson Ranch Elementary School, Surprise Elementary School, and Ashton Ranch Elementary School. In addition to volunteering her time in the classroom, Mrs. Beard serves as an educational surrogate for the Dysart district representing children in foster care and group homes. Prior to volunteering with the district, she enjoyed volunteering with students at the Desert Botanical Garden, and the Del Webb Hospital daycare for hospital employees. “Working with children is my joy and I am sure it keeps me young at heart!” says Mrs. Beard. 

Ms. Casey and Mrs. Beard, along with family, and friends, were invited to attend the Hometown Heroes Luncheon Celebration, on Wednesday, September 25th. The event was held at Fellowship Square, Surprise, and featured an awards ceremony where each recipient was honored for their achievements. 

The Dysart Unified School District is appreciative of the leadership and commitment both Ms. Casey, and Mrs. Beard have shown towards our students, and are honored to have them as a part of our extraordinary team.