Phoenix, Ariz., February 18, 2026 – Forty-eight Arizona public schools have been awarded the A+ School of Excellence Award®, the highest state-level recognition given to a public school in Arizona, the Arizona Educational Foundation (AEF) announced.
A Legacy of Excellence
The A+ School of Excellence program began 43 years ago, in 1983, as a method for identifying Arizona public schools that would be recommended for the U.S. Department of Education’s National Blue Ribbon Award. Hundreds of schools apply each year for this designation.
Schools earning the A+ designation demonstrate qualities such as strong leadership, high-quality teachers, a rigorous curriculum, engaged parents, and a student-centered learning approach. According to AEF’s Director of Professional Development Brett Bonner, “A+ designation isn’t something that simply happens,” but is “the result of unrelenting dedication to excellence in all areas of education, innovation, and community involvement.”
The Selection Process and Future Impact
The selection process begins with an application submitted in August, followed by review by AEF staff and a panel of judges comprised of current and former A+ School of Excellence recipients. This year’s award is valid for four years, from 2026-2030. During this period, principals from the awarded schools will mentor participants in AEF’s Principal’s Leadership Academy of Arizona and assist with AEF Academy training and workshops.
The A+ School of Excellence Award differs from the Arizona Department of Education’s “A-F” rating system, and is open to schools with an “A” or “B” rating that meet the program’s standards. AEF Chief Executive Officer Kim Graham noted that the application process itself serves as a valuable self-assessment tool for schools, providing a framework for improvement.
2026-2030 A+ School of Excellence® Schools
The following schools have earned the 2026-2030 A+ School of Excellence® Award:
- Anasazi Elementary School, Scottsdale Unified School District
- Apollo High School, Glendale Union High School District
- Campo Verde High School, Gilbert Public Schools
- Carrillo K-5 Communication and Creative Arts Magnet School, Tucson Unified School District
- Chandler High School, Chandler Unified School District
- Continental Elementary School, Continental Elementary School District #39
- Cooley Middle School, Higley Unified School District
- Copper Creek Elementary School, Amphitheater Public Schools
- Copper Ridge Elementary School, Vail Unified School District
- Cortina Elementary School, Higley Unified School District
- Dobson High School, Mesa Public Schools
- EduPrize Gilbert, EDUPRIZE Schools
- EduPrize San Tan Valley, EDUPRIZE Schools
- Estrella Foothills Global Academy, Laveen Elementary School District
- Gilbert Classical Academy, Gilbert Public Schools
- Haley Elementary School, Chandler Unified School District
- Winifred Harelson Elementary School, Amphitheater Public Schools
- Helen Keeling Elementary School, Amphitheater Public Schools
- Highland Junior High School, Gilbert Public Schools
- Howard K. Conley Elementary School, Chandler Unified School District
- Huachuca Mountain Elementary School, Sierra Vista Unified School District
- John Jacobs Elementary School, Washington Elementary School District
- John M Andersen Elementary School, Chandler Unified School District
- Julia Randall Elementary School, Payson Unified School District
- Kerr Center for Agriscience, Mesa Public Schools
- Kiva Elementary School, Scottsdale Unified School District
- Knox Gifted Academy, Chandler Unified School District
- Kyrene de los Lagos Elementary School, Kyrene Elementary District
- Kyrene del Norte Elementary School, Kyrene Elementary District
- Kyrene del Pueblo Elementary School, Kyrene Elementary District
- Lincoln Elementary School, Prescott Unified School District
- Littleton STEM Academy, Littleton Elementary School District
- Marana High School, Marana Unified School District
- Maurice C. Cash Elementary School, Laveen Elementary School District
- McClintock High School, Tempe Unified High School District
- Metcalf Elementary School, Morenci Unified School District
- Navarrete Elementary School, Chandler Unified School District
- Pantano High School, Vail Unified School District
- Playa del Rey Elementary School, Gilbert Public Schools
- Redfield Elementary School, Scottsdale Unified School District
- Sahuaro Ranch Elementary School, Peoria Unified School District
- Sentinel Peak High School, Flowing Wells Unified School District
- Silver Valley Elementary School, Queen Creek Unified School District
- Sunrise Drive Elementary School, Catalina Foothills Unified School District
- Tempe High School, Tempe Union High School District
- Ventana Vista Elementary School, Catalina Foothills Unified School District
- Vernon Elementary School, Vernon Elementary School District
- James K Zaharis Elementary School, Mesa Public Schools
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the A+ School of Excellence Award valid?
The recognition covers a four-year period, with this year’s group earning the 2026-2030 designation.
What is the role of the AEF in supporting awarded schools?
The AEF facilitates learning and mentorship opportunities, and principals from A+ schools will mentor participants in AEF’s Principal’s Leadership Academy of Arizona.
Is the A+ School of Excellence Award the same as the Arizona Department of Education’s A-F rating system?
No, the A+ School of Excellence Award is a separate designation open to schools with an “A” or “B” rating that meet all facets of exemplary practices.
What role do you believe community involvement plays in fostering educational excellence?
