A+ School of Excellence Archive

Arredondo is a hidden gem in Tempe. From the moment you walk in, you feel the history and the welcomed to the family. Arredondo celebrated their 50th year in Feb. of 2023. Arredondo is a community family. This was evident from every student, parent, staff member that we talked to. Arredondo takes every student and helps to make them love school. Parent speak proudly of their students going to this school.

George Washington Academy (GWA) is deserving of the A+ designation because they walked the walk and talked the talk. The high value placed on relationships was evident throughout the site visit. Dedicated staff, passionate parents and community along with hard working, happy students made a strong impression on the A+site visit team. The leadership at the school modeled mutual respect for all groups and the term family was used in many scenarios in our group meetings. The students and parents articulated that they chose GWA and it was the open feeling for the community that made GWA unique. The A+ site visit team was unanimous in their recommendation and would love to be a part of the A+ celebration for GWA.

"Family, community, and kindness are just some of the words that were consistently heard throughout our visit to Linden Elementary School.

Students shared their pride for Linden as they toured us around the beautifully maintained school; parents delighted as they shared the rich history and culture of the community and why they intentionally moved into the boundaries to send their students to Linden. As we spoke to each group of stakeholders, it was clear that the community felt involved and welcomed on campus, the staff loved working with each other and for the students' success, and the students loved being at the school to learn and grow together!

Throughout the classroom visits, there was clear evidence of high expectations, while also addressing students social emotional needs. The students and staff all shared the philosophy of being ""Bucket Fillers"" and the kindness expectations were evident from the language the students used, to the signs positive incentives across campus.

Mrs. Charla Cosgray's exceptional leadership was evident from the moment we walked up to the school. She greeted her students and families at the drop off, knowing them each by name. Throughout the day, maintaining her positive energy around campus while supporting the teachers and staff's needs. The entire Linden Staff seamless blended learning with love and high expectations.

The overall culture of Linden Elementary School from the principal to the PTO, to each and every student and staff member on campus felt special and unique. The ""family"" feel was evident, and all members were included and important.

It is our honor to state that Linden Elementary School truly deserves the honor of the A+ Recognition Award!"