Two Dysart schools named A+ Schools of Excellence

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE — 10/7/2020

Dysart High School and Sonoran Heights Elementary School have been named A+ Schools of Excellence by the Arizona Education Foundation.  The A+ School of Excellence is a comprehensive school assessment program that celebrates outstanding schools and helps to identify, celebrate, and recognize educational excellence in PreK-12th grade schools throughout Arizona. 

Dysart has had nine schools named A+ Schools of Excellence over the last ten years.  Sonoran Heights’ previously received the A+ award, which is valid for four years, in 2015. Dysart High School is the third high school in Dysart to receive this award in two years.

“Every student deserves an extraordinary learning experience in Dysart,” said Superintendent Dr. Quinn Kellis.  “The A+ award recognizes the exceptional work of all staff to provide that experience. Dysart High School and Sonoran Heights Elementary are, indeed, A+ schools!” 

A+ School of Excellence recipients are evaluated on many areas, including student focus and support, school culture, active teaching and learning, curriculum, leadership, community and parent involvement and assessment data. Selected schools must demonstrate high student academic achievement or growth over time, participate in site visits by state education leaders, and document in detail the school’s leadership and commitment to excellence, equity, and service. The application process is collaborative, and involves all stakeholders - students, staff, and the community. Winning schools receive $500 and a banner designating them as an A+ School of Excellence winner. 

“The A+ School of Excellence Award shines a spotlight on the positive stories and successes occurring in public schools,” said AEF Executive Director, Kim Graham. “The application and evaluation process for this program is comprehensive and rigorous. We applaud these schools for exceeding expectations to meet their students’ needs and for achieving overall success despite the many challenges that face the education community statewide.”