Students at Ishikawa Elementary School celebrate the school’s A+ status, Tuesday, May 19, 2015. [photo by Tim Hacker/ Mesa Public Schools]
These outstanding schools are winners of 2019 A+ School of Excellence awards from the Arizona Educational Foundation (AEF):
- Emerson Elementary School—Christel Swinehart-Arbogast, principal
- Ishikawa Elementary School—David Shill, principal
- Lincoln Elementary School—Josh Henderson, principal
- Mendoza Elementary School—Deb Lynch, principal
- Sirrine Elementary School—Renee Parker, principal
- Washington Elementary School—Michele Grimaldi, principal
“The A+ School of Excellence program celebrates outstanding schools throughout Arizona, calling attention to the positive stories and successes occurring in public schools,” explained Kim Graham, AEF executive director. “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.”
Since 1983, the foundation has honored A+ Schools of Excellence to give recognition to remarkable Arizona public schools. Schools submit applications that document demographic information, current programs and practices, parent and community involvement, as well as leadership. Applications also highlight commitment to excellence, equity, service and high achievement.
A team of trained judges selects A+ Schools of Excellence after conducting site visits throughout the state.
“Ishikawa Elementary School is honored and humbled to be named an A+ School of Excellence,” said Principal David Shill. “It has reenergized and recommitted our staff, students and community to honor the greatness that is Zedo Ishikawa Elementary School.”
Each of this year’s 52 award-winning schools receives $500 and an A+ School of Excellence banner. Schools hold the A+ title for three and a half years. Mesa currently has 23 schools designated as A+ Schools of Excellence, more than any other district in the state.
For more information about all Mesa Public Schools, please visit mpsaz.org.