A decade strong: ASU takes top spot in innovation for 10th year in a row

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Originally published on Arizona State University.

US News & World Report honor the latest in No. 1 rankings for university

For the 10th year in a row, Arizona State University is No. 1 in innovation in the newly released annual “Best Colleges” 2025 rankings by U.S. News & World Report — just one of many top rankings earned by the university.

ASU has placed first in the peer-nominated category every year since the “most innovative” category was created by U.S. News & World Report magazine, and the university has ranked ahead of MIT and Stanford University each time.

“Receiving the top innovation ranking from our peers for a decade is significant, as it affirms that our enterprise-wide innovation mindset is deeply tied to our institutional identity,” said ASU President Michael M. Crow.

“ASU works hard to find and act on every opportunity at every level of teaching, discovery and operations to collaborate and manifest better solutions. We are proud of the variety and scope of impact we are making.”

The latest accolade joins a series of repeated No. 1 rankings in recent years for high-impact areas including innovation, sustainability and impact.

In the just-released STARS Sustainable Campus Index from the Association for the Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Education, ASU ranked No. 1 in the United States and No. 2 in the world for its sustainability practices, ahead of Stanford, Cornell and Colorado State University. The index also put ASU in the top 10 worldwide for six “impact areas” of the assessment: No. 1 in air and climate, No. 2 in transportation, No. 3 in investment and finance, No. 7 in research, No. 9 in curriculum and No. 10 in public engagement.

For the fifth consecutive year, Times Higher Education ranked ASU No. 1 this summer in the U.S. for its work through education, research and practice in alignment with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. For the overall ranking, ASU came in ahead of Michigan State University, Penn State University and MIT.

For the third consecutive year, ASU was the No. 1 public university for hosting international students by the 2023 Institute of International Education’s Open Doors Report, ahead of the University of Illinois, Purdue and the University of Michigan.

Other No. 1 rankings over the past several years include:

  • No. 1 in research expenditures for anthropology, by the National Science Foundation (2023), ahead of the University of Michigan, Harvard University, Stanford University and the University of Arizona.
  • No. 1 in transdisciplinary, multidisciplinary and other sciences, by the National Science Foundation (2023), ahead of Northwestern University, Johns Hopkins University, the University of Pittsburgh and Ohio State University.
  • No. 1 journalism school in top overall awards for news, by the Broadcast Education Association (2022–24), ahead of Syracuse, the University of Florida and the University of Southern California.
  • No. 1 in the world for international trade, by the QS International Trade Rankings (2023–24), ahead of the University of Michigan, Harvard and the University of Pennsylvania domestically, and the University of Cambridge in the United Kingdom, University of Toronto in Canada and IMD in Switzerland, internationally.
  • Explore more on the ASU rankings website.

Big headlines from the past year

In the past year, ASU has made a huge impact in several areas:

Microelectronics

Earlier this month, five projects in the ASU-led Southwest Advanced Prototyping Hub won nearly $30 million in federal funding to launch projects that will boost national security by enhancing U.S. microchip-making capability. In the spring, ASU entered into a partnership with DECA Technologies to collaborate on North America’s first Fan-Out Wafer-Level Packaging research and development capability.

Space

Last October, a SpaceX Falcon Heavy rocket lifted the Psyche spacecraft into the sky, the first NASA deep-space mission led by ASU and the culmination of a 12-year undertaking led by Lindy Elkins-Tanton, Foundation and Regents Professor in the School of Earth and Space Exploration, vice president of the ASU Interplanetary Initiative and the principal investigator of the Psyche mission. The spacecraft is traveling to the Psyche asteroid, which scientists believe could be part of a metal-rich interior of a planetesimal, a building block of a rocky planet.

It’s a mission that reaches far beyond the science team: ASU has involved students and the community in the Psyche mission through art and education.

Heat mitigation

Arizona passed a law in the spring that guarantees mobile-home owners’ right to install cooling measures, thanks in large part to the work of the Knowledge Exchange for Resilience at ASU, an interdisciplinary team that worked for more than five years on the problem of extreme heat and mobile homes in the Valley.

Big grants

ASU won two big grants from the U.S. Agency for International Development: $80 million to create new learning opportunities and resources that support the success of young people in Africa, and $35 million to lead a large, interdisciplinary initiative to help reduce gender-based violence in El Salvador, with the goal of stemming the flow of irregular migration to the U.S.

In addition, the U.S. National Science Foundation chose ASU to lead a $15 million multi-institutional enterprise to confront climate challenges in the Southwest and spur economic development in the region.

Learn more about grants for solutions-oriented research on ASU News.

Artificial intelligence

In early 2024, ASU announced that it was the first higher education institution to collaborate with OpenAI, the AI research and deployment company behind ChatGPT. That led to the AI Innovation Challenge, in which more than 500 proposals for AI projects were submitted across the university. More than 200 of those projects are underway, including a bot to improve health care workers’ interviewing skills and the use of ChatGPT to enhance writing skills.

Top awards

Several of ASU’s community of faculty and administrators have won prestigious awards over the past year. Water expert Amber Wutich, President’s Professor and director of the Center for Global Health in the School of Human Evolution and Social Change, won a “genius grant” from the MacArthur Foundation, only the third ASU faculty member to do so.

Colleen Jennings-Roggensack, executive director of ASU Gammage and vice president for cultural affairs at ASU, won a Tony Honor for Excellence in Theater.

Regents Professor Michelene “Micki” Chi won the Yidan Prize for Education Research, the biggest award in education and an international honor that recognized her innovative approaches that help learners reach their full potential.

More from latest US News & World Report rankings

The “most innovative” ranking by U.S. News & World Report is based on peer voting. Institutions were nominated by college presidents, provosts and admissions deans across the country, and schools were chosen based on who is making the most innovative improvements in curriculum, faculty, students, campus life, technology and facilities.

ASU also was tied for No. 7 nationwide for undergraduate teaching — ahead of Yale, Stanford and Harvard universities — and No. 3 among public universities for the first-year college experience, ahead of the University of Michigan, Purdue University and Ohio State University.

In addition, ASU ranked highly in areas that are important for careers. The university was in the top 20 — along with Stanford, Cornell and Purdue universities — for service learning, in which students can apply what they learn in class in community activities. In the category of co-ops and internships for undergraduates, ASU ranked in the top 15 nationwide along with MIT, Duke and Harvard, and fifth among public universities, along with Georgia Tech, Purdue and Clemson — all part of continued, successful results in boosting the employability of ASU graduates.

Several ASU undergraduate degree programs ranked in the top 20 nationwide in the U.S. News & World Report Best Colleges for 2025:

  • No. 2 for supply chain management and logistics — one of a number of top rankings for W. P. Carey School of Business — ahead of MIT, the University of Tennessee at Knoxville and the University of Texas at Austin.
  • No. 9 (tied) for business management information systems, W. P. Carey School; ahead of New York University, the University of Pennsylvania and the University of Michigan.
  • No. 9 for production/operations management, W. P. Carey School; ahead of the University of Indiana; the University of California, Berkeley; and NYU.
  • No. 10 for analytics, W. P. Carey School; ahead of Indiana University, Cornell and the University of Texas at Dallas.
  • No. 12 for business management, W. P. Carey School; ahead of the University of Southern California, Cornell and Pennsylvania State University.
  • No. 13 for accounting, W. P. Carey School; ahead of UC Berkeley, the University of Washington and Michigan State University.
  • No. 13 for environmental/environment health engineering, Ira A. Fulton Schools of Engineering; ahead of Princeton, Yale and Rice universities.
  • No. 16 for civil engineering, Fulton Schools; ahead of UCLA, the University of Washington and the University of Wisconsin.
  • No. 17 (tied) for industrial manufacturing, Fulton Schools; along with USC, Ohio State University and the University of Pittsburgh.
  • No. 18 (tied) for cybersecurity computer science, Fulton Schools; ahead of Duke University and the Rochester Institute of Technology.
  • No. 19 (tied) for electrical/electronic communications engineering, Fulton Schools; ahead of Harvard, Columbia and the University of Wisconsin.
  • No. 19 for artificial intelligence computer science, Fulton Schools; ahead of Duke, Purdue and Yale.
  • No. 19 (tied) for finance, W. P. Carey School; ahead of Georgetown University, USC and Emory University.

Additionally, Edson College of Nursing and Health Innovation’s undergraduate nursing program rose to No. 39 (tied) from No. 52, ahead of Florida State University, Purdue and George Mason University. ASU’s undergraduate psychology programs rose to No. 42 (tied) from No. 51, ahead of Stony Brook University, the University of Iowa and Temple University. The Fulton Schools’ overall undergraduate engineering program was tied for No. 35, ahead of Michigan State University, Iowa State University and the University of Arizona.

Find the full rankings on the U.S. News & World Report website.

ASU Prep Polytechnic STEM Elementary introduces Transformational Teacher Leaders

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ASU Preparatory Academy Polytechnic STEM Elementary is thrilled to announce the launch of the Transformational Teacher Leader (TTL) program, a groundbreaking initiative designed to empower educators and elevate teaching practices across our campus.

This program aligns with ASU Prep’s mission and core values, which emphasize leadership through innovation, data-driven decisions, and fostering a collaborative school environment.

What is a Transformational Teacher Leader?

In this exciting role, Transformational Teacher Leaders (TTLs) will continue to inspire in the classroom while also stepping into leadership positions, allowing them to remain passionate teachers and evolve as instructional leaders. This dual role provides our exemplary educators with the opportunity to advance their careers without leaving the classroom—a perfect blend for those who seek additional responsibilities and the chance to make a broader impact.

Introducing our ASU Prep Polytechnic STEM Elementary Transformational Teacher Leaders

Melissa King

With 15 years of teaching experience in California and Arizona, Ms. King is a seasoned STEM educator who holds a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from the University of Phoenix and a Master’s in Teaching and Curriculum from the University of San Francisco. At ASU Prep Poly STEM Elementary, she has played a pivotal role in implementing the “What I Need” (WIN) Math program for fourth graders, which customizes learning experiences based on pre-testing.

As a TTL, King aims to successfully implement collaborative Professional Learning Community (PLC) meetings within the 5th and 6th grade teams. She is enthusiastic about learning and leading ASU Prep Poly to new heights in innovative teaching.

Melina Whitehead

An experienced bilingual educator with a degree from Brigham Young University, Ms. Whitehead believes in the transformative power of education—a belief that resonates deeply with her. Her educational philosophy is driven by the idea that educators are catalysts for change within their classrooms.

Known for her initiative and strategic insights, Whitehead is eager to contribute to ASU Prep Poly STEM Elementary’s success as one of the inaugural TTLs and looks forward to impacting the future of education through this role.

Emily Cohen

Ms. Cohen brings 24 years of teaching experience to the table, along with a Bachelor of Arts in Education and a Master’s Degree in Curriculum and Instruction with a focus on English as a Second Language, both from Arizona State University. As a school-wide mentor teacher and with two years of instructional coaching under her belt, she is excited to embrace her role as a TTL.

Cohen is committed to fostering a culture of collaboration and teamwork, aiming to make a positive impact on her students, colleagues, and the broader community.

Erica Smeltzer

A passionate educator and trainer, Ms. Smeltzer holds an undergraduate degree from California Lutheran and a Master’s from Northern Arizona University. Her enthusiasm for joining the ASU Prep team is palpable.

Smeltzer believes that change equates to growth, and she is excited about the new opportunities this program presents. With a philosophy that encourages trying new things and continuous improvement, she looks forward to co-teaching and collaborating to enhance her teaching methodologies.

A transformative impact on our school community

The TTL program at ASU Prep Poly STEM is more than just a leadership initiative—it’s a commitment to the continuous evolution of educational excellence. ASU Prep is proud to support these remarkable educators as they embark on this journey, and we are excited to witness the transformative impact they will have on our school community.

Top-rated preschools in Mesa, AZ 2024

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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.

ASU Preparatory Academy Polytechnic Preschool

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/

Franklin Accelerated Academy - Brimhall Campus

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.

MacArthur Elementary School students and faculty

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
Franklin Accelerated Academy East Campus students

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:

Canyon Rim Elementary students

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:

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

Hermosa Vista Elementary students

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:

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

Meridian Elementary students

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:

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

Hale Elementary students

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:

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

Zaharis Elementary

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:

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.

Racing into the future with ASU Prep Poly 5th grader William Macdonald

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Tech-savvy 5th grader William Macdonald takes STEM-centered learning seriously. As a student at ASU Prep Polytechnic STEM Academy, William has a passion for coding and an entrepreneurial spirit that shines as bright as the circuits he loves to tinker with. Recently, it inspired him to orchestrate the first-ever ASU Robot Race.

William and a friend presented a proposal for this innovative event to the school counselor and Principal Claudia Mendoza, receiving an enthusiastic green light. William then designed marketing materials on Canva, recruited participants, and planned a challenging track filled with obstacles designed to test the mettle of each competing robot.

While William won’t be competing in the race he designed, he is thrilled to oversee the competition that includes grade representatives in grades 3 through 6. The grand prize on the line? A pizza, cupcake, and movie party for the winning contestant’s entire class.

William Macdonald at a racing track

 

William’s knack for technology isn’t just limited to school projects. Check out the February 2024 issue of Epic Kids to learn about his other enterprises, including constructing walls and wiring the lighting in his family’s home. With dreams of following in his parents’ footsteps to attend ASU for his undergraduate studies, William Macdonald is a shining example of where curiosity, creativity, and a love for technology can lead.

Top-rated Mesa elementary schools (2024)

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Mesa is the third largest city in Arizona. Just outside Phoenix and Tempe, part of the East Valley, Mesa lies north of Gilbert and Chandler, offering affordable cost of living while enjoying all the same amenities.

As part of Maricopa county, Mesa boasts plentiful outdoor recreation, as well as diverse career opportunities in fields like aerospace and healthcare.

With the steady growth of young families in the area, Mesa offers rich choices in educational options including Mesa Public Schools, the largest public school district in Arizona, which includes several charter schools in communities such as Signal Butte, Eastmark, Queen Creek, and more.

What to look for in a Mesa elementary school

Choosing the right elementary school in Mesa is crucial as it lays the foundation for your child’s educational journey.

It can be difficult to compare public schools, private schools, charter schools, and montessori schools. A good place to start is by considering the school’s curriculum and teaching methods to ensure they align with your child’s learning style. Determine if the school’s culture and environment is welcoming and inclusive, and is set up to promote positive values and behaviors.

Determine whether the school offers special programs or extracurricular activities that might interest your child.

Research the school’s performance in state rankings, test scores, and reviews to get an idea of the school’s academic performance and reputation.

Lastly, don’t overlook practical considerations such as location, school hours, and enrollment which affects student-teacher ratio. These can influence your child’s daily experience and comfort level at school.

With Mesa’s growing population and student growth, it’s more important than ever to select a school that can cater to these dynamics. Schools like ASU Prep Poly STEM Elementary excel in this regard, offering a robust curriculum, personalized learning, and a nurturing environment. Their commitment to fostering academic excellence and developing well-rounded students makes them an ideal choice for your child’s early education.

The best elementary schools in Mesa, Arizona

With the best elementary schools, Mesa offers a wide range of options for families, including top-rated public, private, charter, and montessori schools that reflect a trend toward specialized education in STEM, career, and technical pursuits.

We selected schools with a track record of student success, community support, and a focus on preparing students to reach future academic milestones.

1. ASU Prep Poly STEM Elementary

View their Instagram post here.

ASU Prep Poly STEM Elementary is a tuition-free, public school that serves students PreK-6 with a curriculum designed to prepare students for a future in STEM from an early age.

The school is conveniently located on the Arizona State University Polytechnic college campus with access to student and faculty mentors.

ASU Prep Poly STEM students focus on hands-on projects and real-life problem-solving to foster a love of learning and the development of critical thinking skills.

Students can seamlessly transition to junior high school at ASU Prep Poly Spark Institute and ultimately, ASU Prep Poly STEM High School.

This continuity in education enhances their learning experience, fostering an environment that nurtures their passion for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics throughout their academic journey.

Students are empowered with a strong support system that includes highly-qualified teachers, a team of counselors, school leadership, university mentors, as well as family involvement.

Overall, ASU Prep Poly STEM Academy is committed to providing rigorous, university-preparatory education that equips students with the knowledge and skills they need to thrive in the 21st century.

Take a virtual tour of the vibrant campus to see where children are flourishing and developing their potential.

Notable features include:

  • Tuition-free public school
  • Instruction in STEM, music, Spanish, physical education, and art
  • Project-based and team-focused approaches to learning
  • Family Choice Day on Fridays, allowing families to choose where and how students learn.
  • Seamless transition to ASU Prep Poly Spark Institute and ASU Prep Poly STEM High School with access to internships and university courses on the ASU Polytechnic Campus
  • Early college opportunities to earn tuition-free university credit

Name: ASU Preparatory Polytechnic STEM Academy
Address: 6950 E Williams Field Rd, Mesa, AZ 85212
Contact Number: (480) 727-5700
Website: https://asuprep.asu.edu/poly-stem-elementary

2. Mesa Academy for Advanced Studies

View their Facebook post here.

Mesa Academy for Advanced Studies serves students from grades 4 through 9 and is recognized as an International Baccalaureate school.

The Academy’s curriculum is academically challenging and socially engaging, providing a well-rounded educational experience for all children. Its diverse options include STEM, career and technical education.

The Renowned International Baccalaureate Program offers a rigorous curriculum for high-achieving students.

With a student-teacher ratio of 17:1, students receive personalized attention and support throughout the school year. The program boasts the title of First LEGO League Robotics State Champions, showcasing its commitment to innovation and excellence.

Additionally, the program emphasizes integrated foreign language learning, providing students in Mesa with a well-rounded and immersive educational experience. It is an ideal choice for families seeking an academically challenging environment for their children.

To learn more about Mesa Academy for Advanced Studies, please visit their Facebook.

3. Franklin Accelerated Academy Brimhall Campus

View their Instagram post here.

Franklin Accelerated Academy Brimhall Campus serves students from PreK-6.

This school is known for its accelerated academic programs and commitment to high standards of education. The school participates in Xplore, an extended-day program for Kindergarten to 6th grade students that includes a variety of instructional and recreational activities, including academic support, engineering, science, virtual reality, athletics and more.

Notable features of the school include an active parent organization that supports the school’s activities and initiatives.

The school provides a traditional setting with an accelerated curriculum.

It fosters a culture focused on respect and responsibility. Additionally, the school utilizes the Spalding Method, an integrated language-arts program, for elementary school students in grades K-6.

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

4. Franklin Accelerated Academy East Campus

Franklin East Accelerated Academy East Campus serves students from PreK-6, providing an accelerated academic program.

The school supports student development through extracurricular activities like Student Council and Garden Club.

Notable features of this elementary school include a student-teacher ratio of 17:1.

As part of Mesa public schools, this elementary program fosters a culture that prioritizes respect and responsibility, with strong parent involvement and support.

Students learn to read using authentic children’s literature, and we implement the Spalding Method, an integrated language arts program, from kindergarten through sixth grade.

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

5. Franklin Accelerated Academy Jordan Campus

View their Instagram post here.

Franklin Accelerated Academy Jordan Campus provides an accelerated curriculum to its students.

The Band and Orchestra program offers 4th – 6th grade students the ability to increase creativity, improve discipline, and collaborate with peers.

Franklin Jordan Campus is part of the Mesa school district. One of the key aspects is its “Back to basics” traditional school setting, which provides a solid foundation for students’ education.

The school culture is centered around respect and responsibility, with strong parent involvement and support.

In addition, elementary students learn to read using authentic children’s literature, fostering a love for reading from an early age. The Spalding Method, an integrated language-arts program, is implemented from Kindergarten to 6th grade, ensuring a comprehensive approach to language development.

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

6. Franklin Accelerated Academy Downtown Campus

View their Facebook post here.

Franklin Accelerated Academy Downtown Campus serves students from PreK-6.

The downtown campus provides a favorable learning environment that fosters strong relationships. The principal is noted for setting aside time for individual student interaction.

The school’s educational mission is to provide not only literacy skills, but challenge, reward, and encourage the development of individual talents and give the motivation to excel for all students.

Employing a “back to basics” traditional school setting, the culture is centered around respect and responsibility, with strong parent involvement and support.

This Mesa elementary school encourages student council participation, fostering leadership skills and a sense of community.

Students learn to read using authentic children’s literature, while the Spalding Method, an integrated language-arts program, is implemented from Kindergarten through 6th grade.

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

7. MacArthur Elementary School

View their Facebook post here.

MacArthur Elementary School serves students from PreK-6 with the motto “Where Learning Today is Leading Tomorrow.”

School values are reinforced through Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports.

Notable features of this Mesa elementary school include a student-teacher ratio of 18:1, fostering an environment where each student receives individual attention and support.

MacArthur Elementary School prides itself on high community engagement, working closely with parents and the local community to create a collaborative learning experience.

The curriculum is designed to prepare elementary students for junior high school, equipping them with the necessary skills and knowledge for the next phase of their education.

With engaging hands-on lessons that promote active learning and critical thinking, this school has been recognized by the Alliance for a Healthier Generation for our commitment to promoting a healthy lifestyle among students.

8. Las Sendas Elementary School

View their Instagram post here.

Las Sendas Elementary School serves students from PreK-6.

The school has a strong reputation for its music program and the principal and teachers are noted for their care for the students.

The school’s STEM institute focuses on the Design Thinking Process, encouraging students to create solutions for real-life problems.

The school boasts a student-teacher ratio of 19:1, ensuring that students receive individualized attention and support.

The curriculum is designed to be challenging, providing students with the opportunity to excel academically.

Additionally, the school offers a large orchestra program, allowing students to explore and develop their musical talents.

Furthermore, there is a student-led news program, enabling students to gain valuable experience in journalism and broadcasting. Lastly, the school has a STEM institute, fostering a passion for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics among students.

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

9. Hermosa Vista Elementary School

View their Facebook post here.

Hermosa Vista Elementary School serves students PreK-6.

Inclusive Early Learning Programs promise that young children of all abilities will learn and grow together, receiving the necessary support, equipment, and materials.

All students at the school have the opportunity to develop Spanish language skills through either the Spanish Dual-Language Immersion program or the Spanish FLEX program.

Additionally, Hermosa Vista Elementary School has an active parent organization that actively supports our students’ education. Students also benefit from physical education twice a week, with the option to join the morning walking/jogging club.

The school also boasts the Next Education Workforce, which builds teams of educators with distributed expertise to provide all students with deeper and personalized learning experiences.

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

10. Hale Elementary School

View their Facebook post here.

Hale Elementary School, known as “Home of the Heroes,” serves students PreK-6 with the motto “Believe and Achieve.”

The school’s Gifted and Talented program emphasizes skills for critical and creative problem-solving, research, and self-development.

Therapy dog visits from Paws and Peers bring smiles to students, helping them meet social and emotional needs.

Notable features of this school include a student-teacher ratio of 16:1, an active and supportive parent organization, and a variety of extracurricular activities such as Battle of the Books, Chorus, Math Team, Student Council, and STEAM Club.

Hale Elementary offers an arts program, with orchestra, band, and fine arts classes. In addition, they promote healthy lifestyles through Physical Education and Fitness classes.

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

Comparing top-rated Mesa elementary schools?

Teacher next to ASU Prep Academy sign

ASU Prep Poly STEM Elementary is a great tuition-free elementary option to consider if you want a learning environment that immerses students in STEM-centered education from a young age. We believe all students can achieve success at the highest levels, and it’s why 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 through middle school at ASU Prep Poly Spark Institute, followed by ASU Prep Poly STEM High School.

Chartered by Arizona State University, ASU Prep Academy students are Sun Devils from day one, receiving regular opportunities for mentorship by ASU students and faculty. It’s how 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 Poly STEM Elementary, please visit our website.

ASU Preparatory Academy Poly STEM Elementary earns prestigious A+ School of Excellence Award

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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 Poly STEM students

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.

ASU Honors Black History Month with Community Events

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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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

ASU Prep Poly celebrates milestone Sweet 16 birthday

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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.

Strong foundations start in Kindergarten.

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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.

Upcoming ASU Prep Neighborhood Events

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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!