Former Superintendent, Peoria Unified School District

For 35 years, I had the pleasure of serving the people of the Peoria Unified School District. Starting as a teacher in the classroom, I went on to serve as an assistant principal, principal, K-12 administrator, assistant superintendent, deputy superintendent and ultimately as the superintendent. It was one of the greatest honors of my life.

During that time, we helped the district grow into the fourth largest school district in the state – now serving more than 37,000 students and 4,000 staff in 42 schools across the district. Working together with teachers, students, parents, staff, administrators, and our community, we have helped make Peoria one of the best districts in the state.

Promoting an environment conducive to the social, emotional, physical and academic growth of all students has been a major part of our success – all of which are supported by this override and bond. A YES vote on the override and bond will ensure that we provide quality programs in a safe environment.

I invite you to join me in voting YES for the override and bond to give our teachers and students the tools they need to succeed. – Dr. Denton Santarelli, Former Superintendent, PUSD