By Diana Whittle
When Laura Toenjes talks about the value of education, her enthusiasm is evident. It’s also obvious in her conversation that the new assistant superintendent for the Kyrene district loves to teach as much as to learn.
So, it’s a bit surprising when she admits that teaching was not her first career choice—she started working at a library and had aspirations to attend law school. Then, sometime later, when she was given a chance to teach fourth graders in the Gilbert School District, she believes she found her true calling.
“I fell in love with being in the classroom and by being surrounded by the kids,” said Toenjes. “I truly believe in the power of education and how it can change the life of every child.”
The discovery led her to pursue a variety of educational positions, both in teaching and leadership, including most recently in Tucson at the Sunnyside Unified School District, where she served as Director of School Improvement under Dr. Jan Vesely, now Kyrene’s new superintendent.
It was the chance to work with Dr. Vesely and to return to the Valley that inspired her to apply for the assistant superintendent position at Kyrene.
“I grew up in Gilbert, so working in Tempe was a chance to come home for me,” said Toenjes, who earned her bachelor’s degree at University of Arizona. She holds two masters degrees—one from Northern Arizona University in elementary education and a second in the administration and supervision of curriculum and instruction from University of Phoenix.
Her educational credentials should be useful in her new role in Kyrene as she is responsible for supporting school operations such as student achievement, staff evaluations, district curriculum, parental involvement, along with overseeing data analysis to follow trends in instruction, professional training and community partnerships.
“In my new role, I look forward to becoming more familiar with the schools, their principals, the teachers, staff, students and the community,” said Toenjes.
“I believe as a leader I should foster a district-wide work environment that is student-focused and results-oriented, placing high priority on student learning and performance.”
She says she is impressed by the diverse educational choices offered to families at both the elementary and middle-school levels.
“In Kyrene, we have K-5 schools that offer dual language, leadership, traditional styles of education, and still maintain specials including library, art, music, PE — Kyrene kids really receive a ‘whole child’ education,” said Toenjes.
“As students move through grades sixth to eighth grades, we add elective choices so that during these key formative years we give children the opportunity to explore their interests and to discover their passion.”
Toenjes says schools today are operating under a newer model than in previous generations by engaging students in their schoolwork.
“The days of ‘sit and listen’ are being replaced by our students being involved in their own learning and working collaboratively to solve problems.
“When we, as instructional leaders, offer them these kinds of self-directed opportunities—it’s amazing to see what they do,” said Toenjes.
As for her professional satisfaction, she says she has a passion for serving and for feeling that her contributions have made a difference, so she’s enthused to be back in the East Valley.
“I am glad to be part of the Kyrene family. I’ve always been aware of Kyrene’s reputation for excellence and look forward to contributing to the journey.”
