A Collective Standard of Excellence: Glendale High School’s Achievement Above All Honorees

The Glendale Union High School District Governing Board spotlights Glendale High School’s Achievement Above All recipients, whose dedication, leadership, and service represent the highest standard of excellence. These honorees reflect an all-in commitment to students and school communities, demonstrating what is possible when educators, students, staff, and volunteers work together to support learning, belonging, and opportunity. 

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Teacher Recipient: Tiffany Mendez

Tiffany Mendez brings more than 18 years of experience in education, including seven years of service to students at Glendale High School. A graduate of Cortez High School, she earned her bachelor’s degree from Ottawa University and her master’s degree from the University of Phoenix. Her academic foundation, combined with years of experience teaching mathematics at Madison Middle School and Glendale High School, has shaped her belief that every student is capable of success when given the right support, encouragement, and opportunity to grow.

Throughout her career, Tiffany has demonstrated leadership both inside and outside the classroom. She currently teaches Algebra I, Geometry, and dual-enrollment College Math at Glendale High School and also teaches college-level mathematics at Phoenix College. As the Geometry Professional Learning Community lead, she collaborates with colleagues to strengthen instruction and expand access to high-quality math learning experiences. Beyond academics, Tiffany serves as the Link Crew sponsor, guiding upperclassmen as they mentor incoming freshmen and helping students begin their high school journey with confidence and connection.

Tiffany Mendez embodies the spirit of Achievement Above All through her unwavering belief in students and her commitment to building relationships that inspire growth. She leads with positivity, purpose, and a solution-focused mindset, consistently asking what is best for students and taking action to support them. Her dedication, leadership, and belief in every student’s potential have shaped Glendale High School’s culture and exemplify the values of Achievement Above All.

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Student Recipient: Janessa Gabaldon Lucero

Janessa Gabaldon is a senior at Glendale High School whose four-year journey on campus reflects consistency, drive, and balance. Janessa has been deeply rooted in the community from an early age. Her academic focus and determination have guided her through a rigorous course load, positioning her at the top of her graduating class while preparing her for future studies in biology and medicine at the University of Arizona.

Janessa has distinguished herself as both a scholar and a student-athlete. A four-year varsity starter in softball and basketball, she has served as a three-year captain in both programs, earning recognition for her leadership and competitive excellence. Her athletic honors include First Team All-Region in softball and Second Team All-Region in basketball, along with recognition as a Rotary Student and consistent placement on the Principal’s Honor Roll. Her selection as Arizona’s representative to advocate for the Special Olympics on Capitol Hill further reflects the trust placed in her to represent her school and state with confidence and professionalism.

Janessa’s impact is felt not only through her accomplishments but through the way she approaches every responsibility placed before her. Whether mentoring peers or serving others on a national platform, she leads by example with humility and determination. Her ability to excel across academics, athletics, and service speaks to a deep sense of accountability and purpose. Janessa Gabaldon’s presence at Glendale High School has strengthened school pride, inspired her peers, and set a powerful example of pursuing excellence with integrity and heart.

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Student Group Recipient: Cross Country

The Glendale High School Cross Country program brings together 28 student-athletes committed to personal growth, teamwork, and perseverance. Sponsored by Coach Matt Schmitt and led by senior captains Destiny Hernandez and Juan Rubio, the team is built around developing students physically, academically, and socially. From early-season practices to long-distance training, Cross Country demands discipline and resilience, while creating strong bonds that extend beyond competition.

The program distinguishes itself through both performance and leadership. The team hosted the Glendale Showcase, the third-largest cross-country invitational in Arizona, welcoming more than 80 high schools with over 1,500 athletes, and later served as host for the AIA Sectional Championships. Despite the responsibility of organizing large-scale events, the team continued to compete at a high level, achieving historic milestones: the entire boys' team qualified for the state championships for the first time in 12 years, and two female athletes qualified for the first time in 15 years. Beyond racing, the team supports campus initiatives by hosting staff welcome events, sponsoring ACT preparation opportunities, and volunteering at community races.

The impact of the Cross Country program is reflected in the habits and values its athletes carry with them each day. Team members consistently show up for one another, push through physical and mental challenges, and invest time in supporting both their school and community. Whether training together, cheering on competitors from other schools, or giving back through service, these students represent Glendale High School with pride and purpose. Their collective efforts have strengthened school culture, built lasting connections, and left a meaningful mark on the Glendale community.

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Support Staff Recipient: Sarah Coleman

Sarah Coleman has been a valued member of the Glendale High School community for seven years, serving as an instructional assistant whose presence brings consistency and care to campus each day. A graduate of Maryvale High School, Sarah brings a grounded approach to supporting students, enabling her to connect easily with those she serves. Her role places her at the heart of student learning and engagement, where relationships and trust are essential.

In her work with Community-Based and Adaptive Physical Education programs, Sarah provides critical support that ensures students are prepared and supported in every setting. She works closely with teachers and coaches to coordinate daily instruction, helping create meaningful experiences for students. Known for her patience, reliability, and positive energy, Sarah is a staff member whom colleagues depend on to keep classrooms running smoothly and to help students feel comfortable and confident. Her steady presence has made a noticeable difference in both instruction and school operations.

Sarah’s impact is most evident in how students respond to her. She greets everyone warmly, listens without judgment, and creates an environment where students feel valued and understood. Whether assisting during class, supporting Unified events, or simply being available when someone needs encouragement, she consistently shows up with compassion and care. Through her dedication to others and willingness to support wherever needed, Sarah has strengthened Glendale High School’s sense of community and connection.

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GHS Alumni Foundation: Knucklehead Foundation

The GHS Alumni Foundation, also known as the Knucklehead Foundation, is a volunteer organization formed by proud Glendale High School graduates from the Class of 1977 who share a lifelong connection to their alma mater. What began as a small group of longtime friends has grown into a mission-driven foundation focused on supporting current Glendale High School students. Their roots on the Glendale campus span more than five decades, shaping a deep appreciation for the experiences, relationships, and opportunities that defined their time as Cardinals.

Through fundraising efforts such as the “Cards for Cars” car show, the group has provided direct financial support to student-athletes and programs across campus. Their contributions have enabled students to travel for competitions, access necessary equipment, support creative programs such as Film and TV, and participate in once-in-a-lifetime experiences. In addition, the foundation has created an annual $5,000 scholarship to support Glendale High School students as they pursue their future goals.

The Knucklehead Foundation's presence is felt not only through financial support but also through the pride and connection they bring back to campus. Their involvement reflects a genuine desire to stay engaged, uplift students, and strengthen the Glendale community without seeking recognition. By consistently supporting today’s Cardinals and investing in their success, the foundation has reinforced a strong sense of continuity, ensuring that Glendale High School remains a place where tradition, opportunity, and community succeed.

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A Shared Commitment That Moves Glendale High School Forward
Together, Glendale High School’s Achievement Above All honorees reflect the many ways excellence takes shape across campus. Through leadership, service, perseverance, and care for others, these recipients demonstrate the impact of showing up fully for students and the school community. Their collective contributions reinforce Glendale High School’s tradition of pride, connection, and opportunity, reminding us that lasting impact is built through dedication, relationships, and a shared belief in what students can achieve when they are supported and inspired.