In this episode of Somos Sunnyside, we step behind the curtain at Desert View High School to spotlight the incredible Drama and Stagecraft program where creativity, collaboration, and technical skill bring performances to life.

Instructor Dustin Bielich and student Rexx Gallardo share how Technical Theater is truly where the action happens. From building detailed sets and designing costumes to managing lighting, sound, stage direction, and makeup, students gain hands-on experience in every aspect of production. The program gives students the opportunity to be part of after-school performing arts productions, contributing to major events like the fall play and spring musical.

Listeners will hear what it really takes to put on a full-scale production from the teamwork, problem-solving, and dedication behind the scenes that audiences may never see. Most importantly, Bielich and Gallardo emphasize that there is a place for everyone in Stagecraft. Whether students want to be on stage or behind it, the program offers meaningful opportunities to develop skills, build confidence, and be part of something bigger than themselves.

Tune in to discover how Desert View’s Drama and Stagecraft students are turning passion into performance and making magic happen backstage.

In this powerful episode of Somos Sunnyside, we step inside Sunnyside’s Law and Public Safety program with teachers Steve Armenta and Katelyn Federico, J.D., alongside students Natalie Felix and Irene Villa. This dynamic Career & Technical Education pathway prepares students for advanced training, higher education, and immediate employment in the law and public safety field.

Students gain hands-on experience developing forensic investigative techniques, including crime scene processing and fingerprint analysis. They also explore civil and criminal procedures through a simulated courtroom environment, giving them real-world insight into how the justice system operates. Beyond policing, students examine the vital roles of corrections, rehabilitation, and probation—developing a comprehensive understanding of public safety careers.

Through strong partnerships with professionals across multiple sectors of the law and public safety field, students regularly engage with guest speakers from local agencies and related industries who provide real-world insight, mentorship, and career guidance. In addition, this program prepares students to earn industry-recognized certifications, including the opportunity to graduate with their Guard Card through the Arizona Department of Public Safety, giving them a competitive advantage as they enter the workforce or continue their education.

Students also have the opportunity to enroll in dual enrollment criminology courses through Pima Community College, earning college credit while still in high school.

Natalie and Irene share their aspirations of pursuing careers in law—one with a focus on Crime Scene Investigation (CSI), and the other aiming to become a police officer and eventually a U.S. Marshal. Their stories highlight how Sunnyside is building confident, career-ready leaders in public service.

🎧 Tune in to hear how Sunnyside is shaping the next generation of justice professionals.

In this episode of Somos Sunnyside, we spotlight the Sports Medicine Program at Sunnyside High School, a hands-on pathway preparing students for careers in athletic training, healthcare, and sports science. We sat down with student Destiny Inzunza and instructor Johanna Lerma to learn how this program puts learning into action in and out of the classroom.

The Sports Medicine program offers students real-world experience in a dynamic, clinical environment. As students progress into their second year, they gain the opportunity to observe the diagnosis and treatment of sports-related injuries firsthand, working closely as assistants to their school’s athletic trainer. From injury prevention and rehabilitation to taping and wrapping athletes for competition, students play a vital role in supporting Sunnyside’s student-athletes.

Destiny Inzunza has been part of the program for three years and has already had the opportunity to treat student-athletes alongside the athletic trainer. She shared how the program has deepened her passion for sports medicine and helped her build confidence, technical skills, and a strong foundation for her future career. Under the guidance of Johanna Lerma, students are not only learning the science behind sports medicine but they’re developing professionalism, teamwork, and a commitment to athlete care.

This episode highlights how Sunnyside High School’s Sports Medicine Program is empowering students through experiential learning, mentorship, and meaningful responsibility and proving once again that at Sunnyside, learning goes beyond the classroom.