A+ School of Excellence Archive

Booker T. Washington is an amazing school! From the first moment you walk on to the campus, you can feel that it is a special place for students. Booker T. Washington has a dedicated staff and an incredibly supportive community. The culture that the staff and Principal Chang have created is responsive to the needs of their students and the community. They go above and beyond the everyday practices and are a model of not only quality but equity for all. The demonstrate a committment to supporting their community and making every student feel a part of the Bulldog Pack!

Marana High School has earned the A+ School of Excellence award because its entire community works together to create an environment where students thrive every day. Marana High has established a strong, positive school culture—one where relationships are prioritized, expectations are clear, and every student feels supported and valued. This culture is strengthened by excellent leadership that models integrity, communicates a clear vision, and empowers staff to innovate and grow. Marana High’s great teachers bring the vision to life through high-quality instruction, genuine care for students, and a commitment to continuous improvement. And at the heart of Marana High School are the students—curious, capable, kiind young people who show pride in their school. Congratulations Marana High School for earning recognition as an A+ School of Excellence!

"Unanimously, the judges for the Verrado Elementary School Site Visit recommend Verrado Elementary School receive the Arizona Education Foundation, A+ Excellence in Education Award for the 2022-2023 School Year.

Mr. Jankee has earned the respect of all of his stakeholders and his transparent leadership instills confidence in his teachers and the Verrado community. Verrado Elementary has dealt with a tremendous population expansion this year and done so under Mr. Jankee’s calm, caring, transparent leadership. There is a sense of calm as you walk the halls of this school despite the ongoing daily increase in student population during what could be a time of tumultuous change. During our visit the library was being transformed into a new third grade classroom yet, there were no signs of stress for students, staff or the community.

The Verrado Family atmosphere is authentic and reaches each and every member of this A+ School. Highlights from our visit include the overwhelming show of collegiality which was evidenced at every level of the certified and classified staff members. The Customer Service starts in the front office and is observable in every room on campus. The staff at VES are true champions for each and every child as well as for each other. Mr. Jankee walks his talk and honors everyone for their skills and allows each member of the Family to contribute. He values opinions and listens in order to communicate the best outcomes for the VES Superstars.

The implementation of the Conscious Discipline across the school community permeates the overall caring family culture. The entire school community has been consistent in teaching students strategies for self regulation of behaviors. This happens in the classroom, hallways, cafeteria and even on the playground where students meditate and practice breathing strategies before returning to class. Students were observed to regulate their own behaviors and know they have a safe space in each area of this A+ campus.

Verrado elementary has strong instructional coaching provided by Mr. Emery. Along with Mr. Jankee’s leadership teachers feel they are able to approach each day with the support and professionalism of these two leaders. Mr. Emery wears many hats on campus from staff training, modeling for new teachers, team teaching with staff, and data discussions at every grade level to mention a few. Mr. Emery starts each child's day with a smile, fist bump, and or a pleasant comment as he greets each Superstar by name as they are dropped off at school. The parents of VES feel their child(ren) are valued and safe each day.

Students, staff and community members all agree that Verrado Elementary School is a safe place with high expectations. It is a true family. Over and over we heard that families do research to come and enroll their children in this school. Many families and staff alike have sold a home nearby to ensure their children can stay at Verrado. It is a pleasure for this team to recommend Verrado Elementary School for its 3rd A+! Congratulations, YOU ARE ALL SUPERSTARS!"