A+ School of Excellence Archive

"Copper Creek Elementary exemplifies a welcoming and inclusive culture from the moment anyone steps onto campus. Whether walking through the office, down the hallways, or into classrooms, visitors are greeted by smiling students, dedicated volunteers, and committed staff members. The school’s well-established systems and routines create a strong, consistent foundation that supports high levels of student learning and engagement.

A student-centered approach is evident in the use of data trackers, PBIS practices, and intentional WIN (What I Need) time, all of which ensure that instruction is targeted and responsive. Staff members work collaboratively to support both academic growth and positive behavior, reflecting a unified commitment to student success. Community involvement is a hallmark of Copper Creek, with exceptional volunteer participation enhancing the school experience for all learners.

Copper Creek Elementary has cultivated a nurturing environment where students, staff, and families work together to ensure every child feels supported and empowered to succeed."

"Based on the Site Visit Team’s observations, stakeholder feedback, and evidence collected during the visit, Vernon Elementary School clearly exemplifies the qualities of an A+ School of Excellence. The school demonstrates that excellence is not defined by size, location, or wealth, but by relationships, intentional leadership, and an unwavering belief in students. Vernon Elementary is a place where hope, opportunity, and high expectations drive daily practice, making it highly deserving of the A+ designation. Evidence Supporting A+ School of Excellence Recognition

A Culture Rooted in Relationships
Relationships are at the center of everything Vernon Elementary does. Students, staff, families, and community members share strong, authentic connections that foster trust, belonging, and mutual respect. Teachers echoed the Site Visit Team’s observations that students are known, valued, and supported as individuals.

Hope and High Expectations for Every Student
A defining characteristic of Vernon Elementary is a deep sense of hope. The school community firmly believes that its students deserve the same opportunities as students in larger, more affluent schools. This belief drives the school’s commitment to expanding access, creating opportunities, and refusing to allow geography or limited resources to define student potential.

Maximizing Resources and Doing More With Less
As a small, rural school with limited resources, Vernon Elementary consistently finds ways to do more with less. Staff demonstrate creativity, collaboration, and a shared sense of responsibility to ensure students receive rich learning experiences and meaningful opportunities.

Strong Pride, Ownership, and School Climate
The campus is clean, well-maintained, and welcoming. It is evident that students, staff, and community members take pride in their school and view it as a shared responsibility. This culture of ownership contributes to a positive, respectful learning environment.

Small Class Sizes Driving Engagement and Personalization
With approximately 130 students across ten grade levels, class sizes are intentionally small, allowing for highly personalized instruction. Teachers build strong relationships with students, resulting in higher engagement, increased participation, and instruction that is responsive to individual student needs.

High-Quality Instruction and Foundational Curriculum
Instruction is solid and consistent across grade levels, supported by a strong foundational curriculum. Teachers emphasized a shared instructional focus and alignment, ensuring students receive a coherent and purposeful learning experience.

Clear Emphasis on Literacy
Literacy is a schoolwide priority. A strong focus on reading and foundational literacy skills is evident across classrooms, supporting academic growth and long-term student success.

Effective Leadership and Sustained Improvement
Parents and teachers consistently highlighted a significant positive shift in the school’s direction following leadership changes, including the superintendent four years ago and the principal three years ago. Leadership has brought stability, clarity, and a renewed focus on culture, instruction, and community engagement.

School as the Heart of the Community
Vernon Elementary serves as the hub of its community. The school hosts a variety of events—such as movie nights, reading nights, and other evening activities—that strengthen family engagement and reinforce the school’s role as a central, unifying presence.

Expanded Student Opportunities Beyond the Classroom
Improvements in interscholastic sports and extracurricular opportunities have increased student engagement, school pride, and access to experiences that support whole-child development."

Ventana Vista exemplifies a welcoming and inclusive culture when welcomed to the campus. FFO (family faculty organization) provided breakfast & lunch. When we arrived all of the teaching staff came early to eat with us and introduced themselves before we visited their classrooms. Walking through the classrooms, we were greeted by students, teachers, staff and volunteers. Spanish immersion is demonstrated with fidelity and strategies provided to help students understand. Vocabulary word walls were evident in English & Spanish with anchor charts posted in many classrooms. Legacy projects were created and placed all over the campus enhancing the fine arts for a welcoming and positive environment. Spanish Immersion is included in all specials, PBIS, library and other areas of the campus.

"The primary aspect that stands out most is the Spirit of Sunrise Elementary. This spirit clearly drives decision-making at every level and is visible throughout the campus—in classrooms, hallways, and daily interactions. It is deeply embedded in the school’s culture and reflects the strength of its close-knit community. Both students and staff demonstrate a strong sense of pride in their school, which contributes to a positive, welcoming, and supportive learning environment.

The effectiveness of the principal is evident in the strong leadership and clear vision that guide Sunrise Elementary. The principal fosters an environment where teachers feel supported and students are encouraged to succeed. Under her leadership, students are offered a wide range of opportunities to grow academically and socially, including engaging classroom instruction, collaborative learning experiences, and enrichment activities. These opportunities help students develop not only strong academic skills but also confidence, responsibility, and positive relationships with peers and adults."

Silver Valley Elementary School exemplifies what it means to be an A+ School of Excellence. During our visit, AEF judges observed a vibrant, student-centered culture where leadership is intentionally cultivated in every classroom and every hallway. As a “Leader in Me” Lighthouse School with strong PBIS implementation, Silver Valley ensures that academic and personal growth go hand in hand. Classrooms proudly displayed mission statements, and students and staff alike set WIGS-(Wildly Important Goals) that are meaningful, data-driven, and carefully documented through schoolwide portfolio use. Leadership is truly lived here, whether through staff "Action Teams" or student roles in the Lighthouse Team, GEO Club, Student Council, LOL (Lead Out Loud), and BEAR Force, every member of the SVE community has a voice and a purpose. From the warm welcome judges received upon arrival to the thoughtful use of WIN time to meet individual student needs, it is clear that Silver Valley operates as a connected, supportive family. This was a common theme shared with judges during each of the stakeholder meetings. The school pairs academic growth of students with leadership development. This deep commitment to excellence, empowerment, and community makes Silver Valley Elementary profoundly deserving of the A+ School of Excellence honor.

A Second Chance. Sentinel Peak High School in the Flowing Wells District in Tucson, AZ is a school where every student, no matter their past, starts with a clean slate. It doesn't matter what you've done or why you failed. Former student graduate Maria said it best, "I learned to love to learn again." Comprised of only 70 students, 5 teachers, and 4 classrooms, Sentinel Peak stands out among alternative schools. This magical school —the epitome of A+ —is all about Second Chances, Restorative Justice, Fresh Start, Redemption Arc, Owning the School, Grace and Space, and Hope for the Future. SPHS helps students find their true individuality and purpose. And it's not just talk; it's real. Principal Dr. Hurst said, "I hope you can't tell who is here for drugs, theft, attendance, or failure. And the judges couldn't. Not even a little. Dr. Hurst replied, "Goal achieved." The judges expected the students to be surly, angry, unmotivated, and a bit dysfunctional. Instead, they were the happiest, most well-adjusted students we have ever met. They loved their school and each other fiercely. One student said that at SPHS, "I feel seen." Another, "This school rewired my brain." "Every day I feel like I'm someone, that I'm enough." Not one single student disagreed. They admitted there is no bullying, and if there is any drama at all, Dr. Hurst nips it right in the bud. When asked to describe the school in one word, every single group we met with began with "Family"—even Dr. Hurst. Sentinel Peak goes out of its way to reward achievement and highlight success. Leaderboards, Spotlights on Success, and Goals reached were on every wall. The staff each wears many hats. Dr. Hurst is Principal, Lunch Lady, Safe Space for time-out, and Head Cheerleader, encouraging students academically, emotionally, and socially. The operations specialist, Shannon Hijl is the receptionist, registrar, breakfast lady, hall monitor, recess duty, nurse, and all-around border collie. After the student meeting, my co-judge turned to me and asked, "Have you ever had a student meeting where kids felt that strongly?" I shook my head and replied, "This is the A plusiest school I've ever been to. I have never seen a school with the deck stacked against them do so much for kids. Sentinel Peak High School should be a model for Alternative Schools everywhere. They give second chances and build student success for as long as students are there, and continuing through life.

"When entering Sahuaro Ranch Elementary School, visitors are greeted with a smile and a friendly, “hello.” The school is well-maintained, indicating a sense of pride among students, staff, and families. The drop-off and pick-up procedures work well and provide comfort to families who know their children are safe and cared for throughout the day.
The students are respectful and kind to adults and each other. It is evident that there are high behavior expectations and students understand these expectations.
There is a sense of collaboration that is centered around student learning. The principal, Michelle Kulinec, acknowledged that her staff works hard and shared that there is a strong emphasis on student data and goal setting. During PLC’s, data is analyzed to determine needed action steps. During the certified staff meeting, teachers shared that every student is in a category to meet their needs, rather than focusing on only the bottom 25%. Mrs. Kulinec has been strategic in using her Title funding to invest in people.
When meeting with certified staff, classified, staff, and parents and community, there was a constant theme: “Everyone works together to ensure student success.” Words used to describe Sahuaro Ranch Elementary were belonging, supportive, fun, playful, amazing, considerate, very welcoming, home, family, compassionate, rare, inclusive, loveable, and exceptional. On parent described Sahuaro Ranch as “home away from home.” She that they intentionally open enrolled to Sahuaro Ranch and that her children love going to school every day. They never want to stay home. Another parent shared that when they first came to Sahuaro Ranch, her child came home and said, “Mom, they care about me here!”
To support student learning, academic interventionists push-into classrooms. This partnership with the classroom teacher provides for targeted intervention. In addition, there is a support staff position funded through Title funds that is targeted at pulling out students in need of additional intervention. These systems address the school’s vision of “Every Student Belongs, Every Moment Counts.”
Through programs such as ABLE (Achievement through Beneficial Life Experiences), Best Buddies, and Student Council, collaboration and student leadership is fostered and celebrated. Watching the students in ABLE help with selling snacks during lunch by taking and filling orders, observing Best Buddies (older students), making gingerbread houses with special needs students, and seeing flyers for the many events that Student Council sponsors, we saw clear evidence of the focus on student leadership and collaboration.

Sahuaro Ranch’s commitment to student learning is evident in moving from a C rating from the Arizona Department of Education to earning an A rating from the Arizona Department of Education in three years. Based on what the judging team observed, and what was heard during the panels, our team recommends Sahuaro Ranch Elementary School for the A+ School of Excellence™ award."

"Metcalf Elementary School places an increased focus on closing achievement gaps by preparing ALL students for college/career readiness and success in a global society. This school exemplified high standards of learning and genuinely cared about the well-being of their students, staff, and community they serve.

The learning atmosphere is genuine, authentic, and students sincerely believe in their teachers/staff/principal. Highly effective implementation of differentiated instruction models throughout each classroom.

Highly effective implementation of small group instruction specific to the content areas of Reading and Mathematics.

The entire school (classrooms, library, playground/6 Zones, hallways, etc.) demonstrates highly effective classroom management strategies. Staff values the importance of genuine and authentic relationships with ALL students.

Clearly demonstrated evidence of critical 21st century learning skills: Problem solving, communication, creativity, innovation, collaboration, and perseverance.

Metcalf Elementary School has a healthy and rich school culture. It was wonderful to see the positive interactions with staff, parents, students, and school community members. Metcalf Elementary School authentically serves as a community hub and genuinely cares about the students and community they serve.

Entire Metcalf campus is clean, well cared for, attention to detail, welcoming, provided a wonderful first impression, and passed Mr. Bonner’s student restroom smell and cleanliness test!

Effective instructional strategies were modeled throughout our site visit. These strategies included effective questioning techniques, active participation (overt/covert), technology integration, modeling of the expected outcome(s)/learning objective(s), organization (materials/learning environment), and lesson task analysis was evident.

Instructional learning objectives were targeted, specific, and met the individual needs of learners. Learning environments were welcoming, pleasant feeling tone, student work samples displayed throughout campus, art, an amazing library, and created a strong sense of wanting to be a part of the school community.

Metcalf Elementary School is a safe, positive, and an innovative place to learn. The school has a highly dedicated school community that is fully invested in meeting the diverse needs of Metcalf students and the community they proudly represent. This is a mining town (Morenci, AZ) and they are proud of it! Through this mindset, Metcalf demonstrated the importance of family, hard work, grit, and to get the job done!

The Metcalf family are incredible chefs and made the BEST breakfast and lunch (salsa, cinnamon rolls, biscuits and gravy) ever for our site visit judges. Thank you!

Metcalf Elementary School exceeds the high standards of the A.E.F. School of Excellence criteria and is well deserving of the coveted A+ Award of Recognition."

"Littleton STEM Academy is highly deserving of the A+ School of Excellence Award for the 2025–2026 school year due to exceptional instructional leadership, deeply embedded culture of collaboration, and unwavering commitment to student success. Judges observed consistent, high-quality instruction across grade levels, supported by collaborative planning, clearly posted learning targets and success criteria, intentional use of data walls, and strong classroom management with high expectations for all students . Academic conversations were evident in every classroom and during instructional round and were identified by staff as a cornerstone of the school’s learning culture.

The school’s leadership exemplifies intentional, inclusive, and action-oriented practices. Administrators actively participate in instructional rounds, guiding coalitions, and shared decision-making processes, modeling the belief that “what gets monitored gets done” . Staff consistently described feeling supported both professionally and personally, highlighting a family-like culture where innovative ideas are encouraged and implemented for the benefit of students . This collective commitment to continuous improvement has fostered a safe, supportive, and inclusive environment where all staff are learners and have the opportunity to become leaders.

Student voice and well-being are central to Littleton STEM Academy’s success. Students confidently described their school using words such as EPIC, welcoming, safe, compassionate, and peaceful, and shared that they are deeply engaged in rigorous learning every day . The EPIC Firebirds culture is evident campus-wide, reinforcing integrity, effort, and preparedness while ensuring that no one interferes with the safety, learning, or well-being of others . Collectively, these practices demonstrate a school community that lives its mission, empowers its learners, and exemplifies excellence in every aspect, making Littleton STEM Academy a model A+ School of Excellence."

Lincoln Elementary School, “Everyone’s Hometown School” in the Prescott Unified School District is an A+ School of Excellence because it is a vibrant learning community where the leadership, staff, and families collaborate to ensure students are learning and growing. Lincoln Lion pride is evident among all school members who are genuinely valued and empowered. As Arizona’s longest continuously operating school, the Lincoln community remains committed to its invaluable long-time traditions while enthusiastically embracing growth and innovation.