A+ School of Excellence Archive

"From the moment our review team began reading their initial A+ application, to the final thank as the review team left the campus, Deer Valley High School has demonstrated an outstanding level of passion and commitment to all students. This self-described ""small, but mighty"" campus has figured out a way to create a sense of family and belonging for all students, staff and community members.
From paraprofessional to classroom teacher, security guard to principal, Deer Valley is ALL IN on changing the lives of kids. They take time to celebrate accomplishments while also analyzing opportunities for improvement and embracing those challenges moving forward. They are dedicated to what is best for kids and certainly live up to that mantra every single day."

"- Faculty members are committed to the standards based mind-set with clear focus on the journey rather than worrying about the current location.

- Community, faculty and staff all shared extreme gratitude for their administrative team and the ""ALL IN"" approach to being one school community.

- Relationships. Relationships. Relationships. Everyone cares about each other regardless of socioeconomic status, race, ethnicity or gender.

- The pride within the faculty and student groups is infectious as a visitor will see letter jackets, canvas wrapped photos and a litany of student work displayed throughout the campus."

The Robert J.C. Rice Elementary school is deserving of the A+ designation for many reasons. First, is the incredible leadership team who both have a caring nature to them, to their students, families and to their staff. This was easily seen from the visits with Parents, Certificated and Classified Employees and the Students. Second is their vision and mission of being/having a Sustainable school has taken hold with all involved and through to the students who were all clear with this direction. Easily seen from their sustainable garden that is embraced and a great visual example for all other schools to immolate. We are proud to have visited this great Chandler Unified School District School.

Gowen Science Academy is a school of choice and one in which the choice was easy for families. The strong community connections and high academic standards have made it an excellent option for families in the Crane School district. Teachers work collaboratively utilizing data to ensure that growth is happening for every student. Growth score on AASA is evidence that the approach is working. With STEM embedded throughout the curriculum, teachers utilize Kagan and Whole Brain strategies to create a learning environment that is rich in collaboration and inquiry. Respect for all learners is evidenced in the conversations had by students and staff. Gowen Science Academy is an A+ school.