About Us
Parents of enrolled pupils and parents who wish to enroll their children in the Chandler Unified School District must fill out this form to visit, tour (outside of regularly scheduled tour times) or observe a classroom. Our tour schedule is posted on our calendar but they are currently every Wednesday at 2:00pm.
Hours
- Schedule:
- 9:06 AM - School begins
- 3:58 PM - School dismissed
- Office Hours:
- 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM
- Early Dismissal time:
- 11:02 AM - Conference Days (8/28 & 2/5)
- 1:04 PM - Final exam Days (12/17 & 18 and 5/20 & 21)
Bell Schedule
Contact
Phone: (480) 224-2400
Fax: (480) 224-9379
| Principal, Special Education Contact, & 504 Coordinator Lisa Palella |
(480) 224-2407 |
| Assistant Principal/Athletic Director Michael Schultz |
(480) 224-2409 |
| Dean of Students Amy Welch |
(480) 224-2418 |
| Registrar Karina Bautista |
(480) 224-2417 |
| Cafeteria | (480) 224-2404 |
| Nurse, Katie Riddle | (480) 224-2402 |
| Attendance Line | (480) 224-2403 |
| Media Center | (480) 224-2401 |
| Transportation - CUSD Main Office | (480) 424-8600 |
About Our School...
Welcome to Payne Junior High School, where the foundations for a successful academic journey are laid. We pride ourselves on providing a nurturing and stimulating environment that caters to the unique needs of our students. At our school, we strive to create a community where students can thrive academically, socially, and emotionally, preparing them for the challenges of high school and beyond.
Our dedicated team of educators understands the importance of this transitional phase in a student's life. We offer a comprehensive curriculum that balances core subjects such as mathematics, science, language arts, and social studies, with a wide range of elective courses, including art, music, physical education, and technology. By encouraging curiosity and critical thinking, we empower our students to become independent learners and active participants in their own education.
Beyond academics, our school fosters a supportive and inclusive atmosphere, promoting positive relationships among students and staff. We prioritize character development, emphasizing values such as respect, responsibility, integrity, and empathy. Through various extracurricular activities, clubs, and community service opportunities, students have the chance to explore their passions, develop leadership skills, and forge lifelong friendships.
We invite you to explore our website to learn more about our curriculum, faculty, extracurricular offerings, and the unique opportunities that await your child at Payne Junior High School. Together, we can inspire a love for learning and set them on the path to success during these formative years.
― Lisa Palella, Principal

A+ School of Excellence™ Program from Arizona Education Foundation. The program is a comprehensive school assessment program that celebrates outstanding schools and brings to light the positive stories and successes happening in public schools every day.
The A+ School of Excellence™ Program unifies and energizes a school and its community.
PJHS Mission & Vision
To provide students innovative opportunities for educational excellence in a safe, supportive, and rigorous environment
Vision
Our diverse population is a strength, and a spirit of equity, collaboration and respect permeates our community.
Our graduates are prepared for success in the global community and thrive as responsible and ethical citizens.
Our families are confident in the District's commitments to their children's achievement and well-being.
Our employees are respected and valued for their compassion, expertise and professionalism.
Our community takes pride in the Chandler Unified School District as a premier District of choice.
- Our students will achieve academic Success and social growth through the use of 21st century skills needed for a more efficient future in an ever broadening global economy.
- Our staff will cultivate a culture of Excellence that promotes creative and critical thinking through professional collaboration and continual education.
- Our community will assist in the Advancement of education by recognizing student success and providing educational experiences for all students.
Payne Junior High School Namesake Video
Chandler Unified School District Health Services Links
Find all information on the District Health Services page, including:
- Contact CUSD Health Services
- Health Protocol
- Medication Administration Policy
- Health Condition Forms for Parents
- Immunization Policy
- Lice Information
- Mental Health Resources
- Grief Resources
- Heat Index Information