ASU Preparatory Academy leads the way in advancing science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) education in Arizona by actively participating in the Arizona STEM Acceleration Project (ASAP).

Launched in 2022, this groundbreaking initiative is a collaboration between Arizona State University’s Center for Science and the Imagination and the Mary Lou Fulton College for Teaching and Learning Innovation.

Focused on tackling learning loss and reducing disparities in STEM education, ASAP provides funding and resources to empower educators to create high-quality, freely accessible STEM lessons for teachers across the state.

Guided by the visionary leadership of Michael Vargas, Amanda Whitehurst and Dr. Ruth Wylie, the project has harnessed the expertise and unwavering commitment of Arizona’s educators to fulfill its mission. Dr. Wylie emphasizes, “The Arizona STEM Acceleration Project was born from a belief in the potential of Arizona’s teachers to lead the way in STEM education innovation.” 

ASU Prep has been instrumental in this initiative, with 20 of our educators helping to create 1,500 free STEM lesson plans now available statewide. These efforts have significantly enriched Arizona’s educational landscape, earning ASAP two prestigious awards recognizing its contributions to education and innovation.

Celebrating excellence in education

ASAP’s work received two distinguished accolades this year. The first, the Judges Award, was presented as part of the 2024 Governor’s Celebration of Innovation hosted by the Arizona Technology Council and the Arizona Commerce Authority. This award applauded ASAP’s extraordinary progress in enhancing STEM education and acknowledged its grassroots advocacy across the state.

The project also earned the ASU President’s Award for Social Embeddedness, recognizing its innovative and collaborative approach to engaging the community. This award speaks to ASAP’s dedication to partnerships that create meaningful, lasting change for Arizona students.

Reflecting on the success, Rachna Mathur, Senior STEM Strategist at ASU Prep, shares, “Being part of both the startup team and the implementation at ASU Prep has been incredible. The effort to create thousands of up-to-date STEM resources by teachers, for teachers, shows the power of professional collaboration. It’s all for free—and it’s transforming classrooms.”

Dr. Wylie adds, “The recognition we’ve received recognizes the work of our STEM fellows and the transformative impact they’re making in their communities. Looking ahead, we aim to continue supporting educators throughout the state and fostering a vibrant STEM education ecosystem that prepares students for the challenges and opportunities of tomorrow.”

Let’s take a look at that transformative impact in action.

Julia Wright – Hands-on math

Julia Wright, a math and personal finance teacher at ASU Prep Global Academy, designed four stimulating STEM activities to bridge the digital divide and support interactive learning for remote learners. 

Partnering with the Arts Academy at Estrella Mountain, Wright worked with gifted middle schoolers to bring abstract concepts to life through real-world applications. Students applied geometry principles by calculating slopes and angles, graphed exponential functions by tracking water cooling rates and solved systems of equations to estimate items in mystery jars. Another activity had students collect temperature data using digital tools, comparing classroom and ambient readings. 

“Watching students gain confidence, sharpen their inquisitiveness and trust their independent thinking was incredibly rewarding. The enthusiasm and energy they brought to each project were a testament to the effectiveness of the hands-on approach,” Wright shares.

Danielle Houseman – Coding and creativity

Danielle Houseman, a sixth-grade computer science teacher at ASU Prep STEM Academy, has transformed her STEM Lab into a dynamic space for exploration and innovation.

With support from ASAP funding, she introduced middle school students to Python coding using Edison robots. This project provided hands-on learning opportunities, encouraging students to develop problem-solving skills and explore the potential of computer science.

“I emphasize the importance of collaboration and tackling real-world problems through inquiry,” says Houseman. “I’ve cultivated a space where students are inspired to engage and explore using state-of-the-art technologies.”

Beyond coding, Houseman has spearheaded an array of projects, from hovercraft design and magnetic levitation vehicles to Rubik’s Cube mosaics and bridge engineering. Her diverse initiatives have made the K–6 STEM Lab a hub for discovery, blending science and engineering with curiosity-driven innovation.

Bryce Wolcott – Online labs reimagined

For Bryce Wolcott, an online chemistry and biology teacher at Khan World School at ASU Prep, the challenge was clear—how can students in a remote setting experience high-quality labs?

With the support of ASAP, Wolcott partnered with Science Interactive to provide his students with mail-order lab kits, replicating the hands-on classroom experience. The kits allowed his students to explore complex concepts in chemistry and biology, from chemical reactions to the principles of biology, using professional-grade materials.

“The ability of my students to complete hands-on labs in my courses has been immensely valuable in terms of their content knowledge and engagement,” Wolcott explains.

He also collaborated with Carolina Biological to design high school lab kits, which he plans to pilot soon.

Wolcott credits ASAP with not only helping him innovate in his teaching but also connecting him to a passionate community of STEM educators. Reflecting on the fellowship, he shares, “After nearly 20 years in teaching, this program sparked a new passion for improving my practice and it’s been exciting finding ways to support and learn from other Arizona teachers.”

Transforming STEM education through collaboration

ASAP’s success demonstrates the power of collaboration. By empowering educators with tools, funding and a sense of community, the project has sparked innovation in classrooms across the state. From Julia Wright’s real-world math applications to Danielle Houseman’s dynamic STEM Lab and Bryce Wolcott’s reimagined online labs, ASU Prep teachers have become leaders in redefining STEM education.

Highlighting the program’s broader impact, Mathur notes, “It’s amazing what happens when teachers are empowered to innovate—not just for their schools but for the entire state.” 

Through its partnership with ASAP, ASU Prep remains committed to shaping the future of STEM in Arizona, one classroom at a time. And as these teachers and students continue to thrive, the future looks brighter than ever.

Traditional classrooms no longer define the limits of education. Unbundled learning reshapes how students engage with their education, offering more flexible and personalized paths to success. This approach emphasizes adapting to students’ unique needs and goals, extending learning into diverse environments and experiences.

Recently, Whitney Marsh, Chief of Staff at ASU Preparatory Academy, joined the Getting Smart podcast to share how ASU Prep is leading the way with this innovative model.

ASU Prep offers a mix of flexible options, including brick-and-mortar campuses with Family Choice Fridays, where students have the freedom to stay home, work on projects, or engage in internships and other hands-on experiences. They’ve also introduced the ASU Prep Digital+ hybrid program, blending online learning with in-person, project-based opportunities. 

“Students can design their own pathways while aligning with their future goals,” Marsh explained, highlighting ASU Prep’s commitment to personalization.

“For me, college became the pathway to achieve upward mobility and pursue my dreams. At ASU Prep, our focus is giving students that same opportunity,” Whitney shared. “We aim to meet students where they are while leveraging the broader ecosystem and policy environment to support them.”

Check out the full episode where Whitney Marsh and other Arizona education leaders discuss transformative learning opportunities beyond the classroom.

Introducing Family Choice Day

ASU Prep is proud to present Family Choice Day, a flexible, hybrid scheduling option available to students enrolled at our Phoenix, South Phoenix, Pilgrim Rest, and Polytechnic campuses in Arizona. This innovative program allows families to choose how and where their children learn on Fridays, creating a more dynamic and relevant educational experience. Families can adjust their enrollment choices quarterly, ensuring the program aligns with their evolving needs.

Flexible learning options

In-person learning

Students have the option to attend half-day in-person classes at an ASU Prep campus or engage in special in-person programming at an ASU campus. On-campus offerings include academic intervention, enrichment programs, special field trips, and on-site internships, all designed to provide hands-on, enriching experiences that support learners’ growth.

At-home learning

For those who prefer a home-based learning environment, students can complete a “Friday Playlist” that includes both online learning and offline  learning opportunities. Options include family field trips, out-of-school enrichment programs, internships at approved sites, digital electives, coursework  “must-dos,” as well “may-do” suggestions, such as journaling.

The background of Family Choice Day

The concept of a flexible fifth day originated at our ASU Prep Casa Grande campus, where a four-day school week has been in place for many years. The hybrid program allowed an extra day for students to engage in jobs, internships, and academic support activities. The success of this model was mirrored at the South Phoenix high school campus last year, leading to the decision to expand the program across more campuses.

Surveys of families and teachers highlighted a strong preference for a flexible Friday, enabling the program to align with family needs while maintaining academic rigor. This flexibility has proved beneficial, reducing burnout and increasing student engagement and success.

The benefits of Family Choice Day

Megan Hanley, Executive Director of School Design, notes, “Family Choice Day gives families the choice and flexibility for what works best for them.” This could mean offering students a chance to recharge and engage in activities that spark their interests, providing valuable family time, or enabling them to pursue work opportunities and explore new passions.

The hybrid learning model of Family Choice Day offers numerous advantages, including:

• Family flexibility: Families can tailor their student’s learning experience to best suit their needs, whether it’s a day of fun learning at school or a relaxed learning day at home.
• Student engagement: By providing a break from the traditional school week, students remain excited and engaged, both academically and in non-academic activities.
• Personal growth: Students are encouraged to explore interests outside the standard curriculum, fostering creativity and personal development.
• Staff collaboration: Teachers have the opportunity to lead classes in areas they are passionate about, enhancing the educational experience for both students and educators.
• Real-world preparation: Students become familiar with blended learning environments found in college classes and modern workplaces.

Unique offerings across campuses

“It’s going so well,” shares Hanley. “Each school site is offering such a unique program. Classes are being led by all kinds of staff members, including our School Resource Officer at Downtown Phoenix, as well as great community partners.”

Some of the unique programs and activities offered at each campus:

• ASU Prep Polytechnic STEM Academy: Drones, robotics, piñata-making and other crafts.
• ASU Prep Polytechnic High School: Collaborations with ASU on robotics, cooking classes and more.
• ASU Prep Pilgrim Rest: Fashion program collaborations and leadership coding initiatives.
• ASU Prep Downtown Phoenix: Mindfulness sessions, fitness programs and poetic collaborations.
• ASU Prep South Phoenix: Virtual reality coding, soccer skills development and aquarium projects.

A community effort

“We are so appreciative of our entire staff throughout the Network,” says Hanley. “Working through all of the processes and changes is only possible if our staff see the possibilities, understand the goal, and exhibit perseverance through change. We are also so grateful to our families who have handled the change so well and are excited about the possibilities both at home and at school.”

Family Choice Day is more than just a schedule change—it’s a gateway to unlimited possibilities in learning and personal growth. We are thrilled to see our students thrive in this flexible, innovative environment.

Mesa, Arizona is home to 57 preschools, with the student population being mostly Hispanic or white. Parents who are looking to enroll their child have a number of daycares, pre-kindergarten programs, learning centers, and child care centers to choose from, but when it comes to class size, quality of education, and teacher qualifications, some schools stand out more than the others.

What to look for in a Mesa preschool

One of the most important qualifiers to look for in a preschool is how it encourages social and mental growth through educational programs to support your child’s development. From motor skills to language and behavior, children ages three to six are reaching important milestones that set the tone for long-term development.

However, this enrichment isn’t just for in-person classrooms—online schools should be evaluated in the same way. It is possible to enjoy hands-on activities, engaging experiences, and collaboration that allows your student to interact with others and grow from the comfort of your home.

The best local preschools in Mesa, AZ

Mesa public schools offer challenging curriculums with diverse options, including STEM, free Montessori, and other accelerated programs. Our selections for top schools factored in these offerings, along with class size and overall student and parent experience. Here’s a quick look at the best preschools in Mesa, AZ for 2024.

1. ASU Preparatory Academy Polytechnic Preschool

ASU Prep Poly Preschool aims to help students build strong foundations in both academics and social development while preparing students to enter ASU Prep Poly STEM Elementary. In February of this year, ASU Prep Poly earned a prestigious A+ School of Excellence Award by the Arizona Educational Foundation for its dedication to high-quality education. It’s a STEM-certified school that serves nearly 500 students in grades K through 4, offering a diverse, nurturing environment that helps each student build a strong foundation for their education. 

Pre-K students at ASU Prep Poly interact with certified educators who focus on a play-based approach to activities, art, music, and beginning comprehension studies. It’s a supportive and warm environment where your child will grow their confidence and social skills while preparing for kindergarten enrollment. 

And with smaller class sizes, teachers are able to spend more time with each child and focus on their individual growth. ASU Prep Poly follows Next Education Workforce, a teaching model that empowers educators and provides all students with a more personalized learning experience. 

Betsy Fowler, Head of Schools at ASU Prep Academy, said, “In the classroom, we have a focus on what we call blended personalized learning, which means students are gaining really important technology skills and using technology tools, but also doing in-person learning where they’re collaborating with each other.”

Stats on ASU Prep Polytechnic: 

• 466 PreK–4th grade students
• Student-Teacher Ratio: 25:1

Name: ASU Prep Poly Preschool

Address: 6950 E Williams Field Rd., Mesa, AZ 85212

Contact Number: 480-727-5700

Website: https://asuprep.asu.edu/poly-preschool/

2. Franklin Accelerated Academy – Brimhall Campus

Franklin Accelerated Academy is a National Blue Ribbon School that offers a traditional in-person environment for all students on a first-come, first-served basis. 

The school’s programs are heavily influenced by parental input and guidance, with a focus on reading, writing, and math. 

Stats on Franklin Accelerated – Brimhall:

• 759 PreK–6th grade students
• Student-Teacher Ratio: 19:1

To learn more about Franklin Accelerated Academy – Brimhall Campus, please visit their Facebook.

3. Las Sendas Elementary School

Las Sendas is an A+ School of Excellence that’s known for their large, successful music program, and for being the only school in the district to teach the Suzuki Method, which every child is required to learn. 

Stats on Las Sendas:

• 738 PreK–6th grade students
• Student-teacher ratio: 19:1

To learn more about Las Sendas Elementary School, please visit their Facebook.

4. MacArthur Elementary School

Macarthur Elementary School is known for having high community engagement and promoting hands-on learning for all students. 

The school has adopted a health-focused education that led them to be recognized by the Alliance for a Healthier Generation. 

Teachers are encouraged to get to know students on a personal level to support social-emotional development and growth of each child.

Stats on MacArthur Elementary:

1. 544 PreK–6th grade students
2. Student-teacher ratio: 17:1

5. Franklin Accelerated Academy East Campus

Franklin Accelerated Academy has an A+ Schools of Excellence award for their successful approach to education. 

They encourage students to learn to read by using authentic children’s literature as a way to keep them engaged and enriched.

Stats on Franklin Accelerated:

• 607 PreK–6th grade students
• Student-teacher ratio: 17:1

6. Canyon Rim Elementary

Canyon Rim Elementary offers three different preschool programs: Kindergarten Prep, Building Blocks 3, and Advantage Preschool. 

Kindergarten Prep is the traditional program (either in-person or hybrid) that helps students jump start their traditional learning pathway. 

Both Building Blocks and Advantage Preschool Programs offer a specialized curriculum based on AZ Early Childhood Standards, with Building Blocks focusing on building confidence and Advantage Preschool focusing on critical thinking and social-emotional development. 

Stats on Canyon Rim:

• 768 PreK–6th grade students
• Student-teacher ratio: 16:1

To learn more about Canyon Rim Elementary, please visit their Facebook.

7. Hermosa Vista Elementary

With Spanish-language programs at the forefront, Hermosa Vista is known for its dual-language immersion program and FLEX program, helping students gain Spanish language skills.

The school is health focused and follows Next Education Workforce, a teaching model that empowers educators and provides all students with a more personalized learning experience. 

Stats on Hermosa Vista:

• 648 PreK–6th grade students
• Student-teacher ratio: 16:1

To learn more about Hermosa Vista Elementary, please visit their Facebook.

8. Meridian Elementary

Meridian Elementary offers two preschool programs: Advantage Preschool and Building Blocks 3 & 4. 

The Advantage Preschool option includes Integrated SPICE—a blended program with a maximum of 12 students learning and collaborating in one inclusive environment. It promotes social interactions and communication skills through peer modeling and intentional feedback.

The Building Blocks program is designed using AZ Early Childhood Standards, creating a foundation for young students that promotes confidence within an elementary school environment.

Stats on Meridian:

• 708 PK-6th grade students
• Student-teacher ratio: 18:1

To learn more about Meridian Elementary, please visit their Facebook.

9. Hale Elementary

Extracurricular activities and the arts are at the heart of Hale Elementary, and it starts with their Early Learning (Preschool) program. 

Students focus on critical thinking skills and social-emotional development in an inclusive environment for all levels. 

The implementation of The Creative Curriculum allows students to explore different learning styles and modalities, which can then be tracked by teachers to create an individualized education for each student.

Stats on Hale:

• 466 PK-6th grade students
• Student-teacher ratio: 16:1

To learn more about Hale Elementary, please visit their Facebook.

10. Zaharis Elementary

In addition to STEM Enrichment Preschool and Montessori, Pre-k students at Zaharis Elementary also have access to the CTE Preschool & Childcare Program. 

The school implements a tuition-based education for children who are three to five years old and directed by a highly qualified educator with a specialty in early childhood education, as well as high school students working toward their educational career via CTE Education Professionals. 

Like other elementary schools within their district, Zaharis follows The Creative Curriculum and offers an individualized approach to preschool education with age-appropriate activities.

Stats on Zaharis:

• 786 PK-6th grade students
• Student-teacher ratio: 17:1

To learn more about Zaharis Elementary, please visit their Facebook.

Comparing top-rated Mesa preschools?

ASU Prep Poly Preschool is a tuition-free public preschool. Through a diverse school environment and family partnerships, ASU Prep Poly Preschool helps students build strong foundations in both academics and social development through a combination of structured and free play. Our preschool students learn to share, interact with others, develop reasoning skills, and build confidence and self-esteem to make a seamless transition to Kindergarten.

We believe all students can achieve success at the highest levels. Our education is personalized, project-based, and delivered at a pace that meets students where they are. The pathway to higher education and career success continues all the way through high school at ASU Prep Poly STEM Elementary, ASU Prep Poly Spark Institute, and ASU Prep Poly High School. 

Chartered by Arizona State University, ASU Preparatory Academy students are Sun Devils from day one, receiving regular opportunities for mentorship by ASU students and faculty. We’re helping students discover and pursue their passions, achieve their goals, and build a lifelong love of learning on their journey to success.To learn more about ASU Prep, please visit our website.

We are thrilled to announce that ASU Preparatory Academy Poly STEM Elementary has been named one of just 37 Arizona public schools to receive the esteemed A+ School of Excellence Award for the 2023-2024 academic year by the Arizona Educational Foundation. This award, a testament to high-quality education, recognizes ASU Prep Poly STEM Elementary “as a model and a beacon of success to schools throughout Arizona and the nation.”

ASU Prep Poly STEM Elementary, a tuition-free K–6 school, offers an innovative and rigorous STEM-infused curriculum in a learning environment where students are encouraged to explore, inquire, and engage in real-world problem-solving that will ultimately guide them to college and career success. Additionally, ASU Prep Polytechnic is a STEM-certified school, one of the few with this additional level of rigor for students.

The coveted A+ designation, the highest state-level award given to public schools, underscores the school’s dedication to educational excellence. Initiated in 1983, the A+ School of Excellence award process evaluates schools on multiple aspects including teaching and learning strategies, student achievement, leadership, and community integration. The selection process involves an extensive review by a panel of A+ principals, teachers, and district leaders, followed by a multi-day site visit led by a team of A+ award judges.

ASU Prep Poly STEM Elementary’s A+ achievements

ASU Prep Poly STEM Elementary Principal Claudia Mendoza shares some insights into what sets the school apart:

• Our school prioritizes innovative teaching methods and fosters a dynamic learning environment that encourages curiosity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills among students.
• We are committed to ensuring that every student reaches their full potential academically, socially, and emotionally. Through personalized instruction and support, our students consistently excel in their academic endeavors.
• Our instructional leaders, teachers, and staff demonstrate exemplary leadership skills by setting high expectations, providing guidance and support, and fostering a positive and inclusive school culture.
• ASU Prep Poly STEM Elementary actively engages with the community to enhance the educational experience of our students. We collaborate with parents, local organizations, and businesses to provide enriching opportunities and resources that extend beyond the classroom.

Upon receiving this recognition, Principal Mendoza expressed, “This award is a validation of our collective efforts and reaffirms our commitment to excellence in education. It serves as a source of pride and motivation for our students, staff, parents, and community partners, inspiring us to continue striving for greatness.”

The school plans to celebrate this achievement to honor everyone who contributed to this success. Principal Mendoza shares, “It’s important to acknowledge and celebrate our accomplishments as a school family, and this recognition is definitely worth celebrating.”

Learn more

We invite you to attend an information session to learn more about what makes ASU Prep Poly STEM Elementary an A+ School of Excellence.

Black History Month is an annual celebration of the profound contributions that African Americans have made to all facets of society. Throughout this month, we come together to honor the legacies and ongoing achievements of Black individuals. Here is a sampling of Black History Month events hosted by our ASU community:

George Floyd Global Memorial to present ‘Twin Flames’ exhibit

This arts experience is a unique partnership between the ASU Art Museum, the ASU Center for Work and Democracy, and the George Floyd Global Memorial. Enjoy an insightful guided walkthrough in addition to a food truck with delicious bites, mocktail bar, and entertainment.

• February 2, 2024, 5 – 7 p.m.
• Free
• Registration Information

Color Cabaret by Music Theatre and Opera

This entirely student-led cabaret helps provide an opportunity for composers, lyricists, librettists, and performers of color, formed through personal connections, friends, and colleagues from all over ASU, to share their creativity.

• February 3, 2024 at 7:30 p.m. and February 4, 2024 at 3 p.m.
• $10
• Registration Information

Black Liberation Through the Marketplace with Rachel Ferguson

Join author Rachel Ferguson as she discusses Black Liberation Through the Marketplace, and come away with a better understanding of Black history and creative ideas for how to make this nation truly one with liberty and justice for all.

• February 6, 2024, 5 – 6:30 p.m.
• Registration Information

International Jazz Day AZ Foundation’s co-presents JADE

Jade Johnson has performed beloved renditions of the National Anthem at Suns, Mercury, Diamondbacks, Clippers and Lakers games, and landed acting roles on TV’s “Blackish” and in theater Off Broadway. From jazz and pop to R&B, hear a focused singer-songwriter hitting her stride.

• February 10, 2024, 7:30–9:30 p.m.
• $25 – $35
• Registration Information

This is Melanin

Step into a world brimming with entertainment and education. This all-ages extravaganza includes food trucks, music, games, vendors, speakers – and good vibes. Brace yourself for thought-provoking panel discussions and workshops focusing on vital community empowerment topics such as finance, home-buying, and more.

• February 24, 2024, 4pm
• Free
• Registration Information

ASU Preparatory Academy’s Polytechnic campus recently celebrated a special birthday: its Sweet 16.

Since a “Sweet 16” celebration is an opportunity to highlight growth while also looking forward to future successes, the ASU Prep Poly community plans to do just that. Reflecting on the school’s growth, K–6 Principal Claudia Mendoza, says, “Change is good. Because we can’t do the same old thing in the same old way.”

So, what has changed in the last sixteen years? The size of the program, including the number of students and the amazing opportunities offered them, has grown tremendously. And what remains the same is equally important. According to Mendoza, it’s the amazing staff’s “commitment to our school, our students, and our learning community.”

Speaking to the ASU Prep Poly staff, the excitement about this milestone and the school community in general is evident—and contagious. They eagerly take the opportunity to reminisce, reflect and plan for the future. Here are some of their insights.

Continuous progress

As the first ASU Preparatory Academy to open in 2008, the Poly campus was humbly housed in a little office complex, then later shared space in the former Veterans Hospital. Brenda Brown has been with Poly from the very beginning as both a parent and K–6 teacher. She recollects the first informational meeting, as people gathered on lawn chairs in an unfurnished office.

In those beginning years, Coach Brown shares how families and community businesses joined forces for “dirt day,” relocating unused dirt from ASU’s Tempe sports fields to create a P.E. space. Over time, as the students grew up, so did the programs and spaces to accommodate them. The middle school and high school were established and ASU Prep Poly ultimately found its home within state-of-the-art buildings on the ASU Polytechnic campus.

The ASU connection

ASU Prep Poly is proud of its close relationship with ASU, recently ranked No. 1 in innovation for the 9th straight year by U.S. News & World Report. Principal Mendoza explains, “Our kiddos see themselves as Sun Devils from day one” as students from Barrett, the Honors College work with students on projects, like coding. The college faculty is also involved, providing holiday presents for Poly students in need.

“Our kiddos see themselves as Sun Devils from day one.”

—Claudia Mendoza, K–6 Principal ASU Prep Poly STEM Academy

ASU Prep Poly STEM 7–12 Principal Lori Frazier highlights the additional benefits of the ASU connection: every student has the chance to take university or concurrent courses while in high school, saving them time and money when they get to college and exposing them to future STEM careers. Principal Frazier explains that ASU Prep Poly continues to build these pathways for students, working with ASU’s engineering program, for example, regarding future careers in the growing field of semiconductor and microelectronics.

ASU Prep Poly’s innovative education

The school began with a vision to immerse students in project-based and STEM-centered learning starting in elementary grades, and today is proud to be STEM-certified by Cognia, an accreditation based on rigorous, research-based standards and best practices.

Principal Frazier says, “We are truly focused on each individual student and personalizing their pathway, not just high school graduation, but to get them in a post-secondary program.” ASU Prep Poly’s innovative and personalized learning curriculum prepares each student for this journey.

“We are truly focused on each individual student and personalizing their pathway.”

—Lori Frazier, Principal ASU Prep Poly STEM 7-12

“Our education is multidisciplinary,“ shares Mendoza. “Students are exposed to the STEM field in kindergarten, learning how to code robots. They’re learning all about the engineering process. They’re doing things that are meaningful to them, but at the same time, solving problems, utilizing logic and code, and collaborating with their peers. That’s what sets us up for success later on, as students get older.”

ASU Prep Poly’s student life and clubs

ASU Prep Poly faculty takes time to boast about their students’ extracurricular achievements with Amy Kochis, K–6 Assistant Principal, making a special note of Colorguard. “Our first Colorguard started 16 years ago with only 15 members. Today, the program has flourished into a remarkable achievement, with more than 110 students across five different groups. This growth reflects not only the dedication our staff has to our students but also the commitment to excellence and inclusivity embedded here at ASU Prep.”

Coach Brown adds some of the ASU Prep Poly athletic programs that have taken shape over the years: volleyball, cross country, flag football, girls and boys basketball, cheer, soccer, golf, softball, baseball, wrestling, swim, and track & field. Not to mention standout clubs like Robotics, Student Government, Key Club, and National Honor Society.

Close knit community

Beth Sullivan, an ASU Prep Poly teacher since its inception, shares how her family moved to Arizona from Michigan in search of a school that would provide “a strong sense of community, as well as a solid, innovative, and academically rigorous education” not only for her three sons as students, but also for her as a teacher. “The four of us began our ASU Prep journey together. We celebrate how fortunate we are to have been surrounded by such an amazing community of families, as well as talented, caring, innovative, and creative educators.”

“We are surrounded by such an amazing community of families, as well as talented, caring, innovative, and creative educators.”

—Beth Sullivan, ASU Prep Poly teacher

Sullivan’s children graduated from ASU Prep Poly STEM High School and went on to complete undergraduate degrees from ASU. Principal Mendoza shares that watching students grow up and graduate is a special part of the job: “I get to see kids go from being little elementary kiddos to being a middle schooler and then on to a high schooler, looking at college and career choices.”

Assistant Principal Kochis agrees, “One of the best things I have had the opportunity to witness was the graduation of students I first taught as Kindergartners. The joy of seeing them successfully navigate their educational journey from the early years to high school graduation is truly rewarding.”

Lori Gutierrez, Health Assistant and 16-year Poly veteran shares a favorite tradition, “Our Senior Walk is so special! I love seeing the seniors walking through the halls at the elementary campus. When teachers and I see students that we have known since they were in elementary school, it brings tears to our eyes. We are extremely proud of them.”

“The joy of seeing [our students] successfully navigate their educational journey from the early years to high school graduation is truly rewarding.”

—Amy Kochis, K–6 Assistant Principal ASU Prep Poly STEM Academy

Many of the ASU Prep Poly staff members, including Gutierrez, describe the community as “family.” Principal Mendoza credits the staff for that, describing them as the backbone of the school, whose actions and decisions “come from the heart.” Kochis adds: “The extraordinary culture, dedicated staff, engaged families, thriving students, innovative practices, and a strong sense of community. This is a place where education goes beyond the curriculum, shaping students into well-prepared, confident individuals ready to navigate the world!”

Looking to the future of ASU Prep Poly

Principal Frazier, whose own sons graduated from ASU Prep Poly, wants to continue to share their school community with others, growing enrollment, and further strengthening the ASU pathway to future careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Principal Mendoza adds that as they continue to support students in learning and taking advantage of all the available opportunities, she also looks forward to continued high rankings in state testing and school grades.

“This is a place where education goes beyond the curriculum, shaping students into well-prepared, confident individuals ready to navigate the world.”

—Amy Kochis, K–6 Assistant Principal ASU Prep Poly STEM Academy

Assistant Principal Kochis adds,  “My hope is to continue building on the incredible culture already in place and infusing it with innovation. Together, we can continue to create an environment where every student thrives academically, socially, and emotionally.”

Learn more about ASU Prep Poly

ASU Preparatory Academy Polytechnic, along with all the schools in the ASU Prep network, are on a mission to design new models for educational success and raise academic achievement for all learners. To learn more about ASU Prep’s innovative, personalized, project-based learning, visit our website.

Here are some of our favorite moments from this year’s celebration.

 

 

ASU Prep Academy is hosting several Kinder Round-Up information sessions at our four elementary locations in the metro Phoenix area.

At the event, families will have an opportunity to meet our teachers, tour our campuses, and learn more about our Kindergarten program, which features:

• Tuition-free full-day options
• One-to-one technology devices
• Individualized learning plans
• Gifted program options in Spring semester
• After-school programming

To learn about Kindergarten eligibility and VIP on-site enrollment, click here.

At ASU Prep, we believe that a strong and vibrant community is fundamental to the success of our students! Our community, composed of dedicated educators, motivated students, and supportive families, forms the backbone of our learning environment.

We encourage active community participation to foster a culture of collaboration and mutual respect. This community spirit extends to our free, family-friendly neighborhood events. We hope you’ll join us!

ASU Prep Polytechnic High School is hosting a Sweet 16 Birthday Celebration, a very special birthday bash to celebrate sixteen years of serving students. Join us Friday, January 19, 3:30-6:30 p.m. for festive fun for the whole family, including bounce houses, video game trucks, hands-on STEM and robotics, and giveaways! RSVP today.

RSVP Today!

Recently, ASU Preparatory Academy South Phoenix transformed into a vibrant fiesta of colors and sounds, paying homage to the rich tradition of Día de los Muertos. The community gathered for a night bursting with entertainment.

On November 4, the campus filled with families, their faces painted in vivid designs and many had heads adorned with floral crowns, eager to participate in the festive activities offered throughout the night. Guests danced alongside the lively mariachi, watched the twirling baile folklórico dancers and marveled at a daring aerialist performance.

There was authentic cuisine and craft stations to create sugar skulls and paper flowers, but the heart of the celebration was the breathtaking Cihuapactli Collective Altar, where guests paid tribute to loved ones.

The event was a chance for attendees to soak in the spirit of the ASU Prep community as the South Phoenix campus buzzed with excitement. Student Nataly Garcia shared what makes the school special, and therefore, the event: “It’s a small school and everyone here knows each other. The teachers and staff support each kid individually.” Alejandro Bonfil added how fun it was to hang out with friends and classmates at the celebration.

About the festivities, student Zain Gehrig said, “I would totally recommend this. It’s so much fun being here. I’m having the time of my life.” The pictures and memories of this year’s event will linger on, and are already fueling anticipation for next year’s celebration. As Garcia puts it, “You want to make sure you come next year because you don’t want to miss this fun, amazing party that ASU Prep South Phoenix has offered to everyone!”

To see a recap of the event, please visit our YouTube channel.

No need to wait until next year to join in the fun. ASU Prep is hosting more free community events, including the upcoming Creative Fusion Fest at ASU Prep Pilgrim Rest and Let it Snow at ASU Prep Phoenix Downtown. Find out more about upcoming events here.