SUSD Celebrates Trio of Schools Honored as 2026 A+ Schools of Excellence®

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. (Feb. 20, 2026) – There is a special kind of energy on three Scottsdale Unified School District campuses this month; the kind that comes from hard work recognized and a community united in purpose. Anasazi, Kiva and Redfield elementary schools have been named 2026 A+ Schools of Excellence by the Arizona Educational Foundation (AEF).

The prestigious designation recognizes public schools across Arizona that demonstrate exceptional leadership, strong academics, a positive culture and meaningful community engagement. After an extensive application process and rigorous site visits, the three SUSD schools emerged as shining examples of what is possible when educators, students and families work together toward a shared vision of excellence.

At Anasazi, located at 12121 N 124^th Street, Scottsdale, in Desert Mountain’s Learning Community, the news was met with celebration and gratitude. Principal Jennifer Waldron reminisced over this meaningful journey, that brought the entire Anasazi community together.  

“This recognition reflects the achievement of our amazing students, the dedication and expertise of our staff, and the unwavering support of our families and community. This honor truly belongs to all of us.” Waldron explained. 

The journey to becoming an A+ School of Excellence invited the Anasazi team to reflect on its practices, celebrate its strengths and identify areas for continued growth. It also wasn’t Anasazi’s first time undertaking this process and coming out on top. In fact, this is their fifth time receiving this honor. 

About twelve miles away, at 6911 E McDonald Dr, Paradise Valley, excitement quickly spread through classrooms and hallways as Kiva’s Principal, Matt Gromek, shared the announcement of its A+ designation.  

“This recognition honors the relentless dedication of our whole community. Parents and staff were deeply moved as we celebrated the countless ways Kiva supports students, a powerful reminder that when a school and its families unite, extraordinary things happen,” said Gromek.  

Kiva, part of Saguaro’s Learning Community, exemplifies a commitment to the whole child, integrating academic achievement, character development, and social-emotional growth, which was central to the success of its application.

At Redfield, located at 9181 E Redfield Rd, Scottsdale, also in Desert Mountain’s Learning Community, their A+ designation reflects a school culture grounded in high expectations and strong relationships. Principal Amanda Rand described the process as incredibly meaningful and inspiring for the entire school community.

“Welcoming the A+ judges onto our campus was a wonderful opportunity to showcase the amazing work happening every single day. Their reflections affirmed what we know to be true: Our students demonstrate respect and responsibility each day, and our culture is grounded in kindness, belonging, and high expectations for every learner,” explained Rand.

This is Redfield’s second time achieving this prestigious designation. The first time was in 2020.  

Each of these three schools, Anasazi, Kiva, and Redfield, truly embody the values of SUSD. 

“Anasazi, Kiva and Redfield represent the very best of who we are as a district,” said Superintendent Dr. Scott Menzel. “They demonstrate what happens when talented educators, supportive families and motivated students come together around a shared commitment to excellence. This recognition reflects not just strong academics, but vibrant school cultures where students are known, challenged and inspired every day. We are incredibly proud of these school communities and grateful for the leadership that made this achievement possible.”

AEF judges toured the three SUSD schools before making their final decisions.

Each campus will hold a celebration; the details are still being finalized.

Anasazi, Kiva and Redfield join Hohokam, Navajo, Pueblo, Cherokee and Desert Canyon Elementary schools as SUSD A+ Schools of Excellence.

More information can be found on our website.

Media Contacts: 

• Kristine Harrington, (480) 404-2417, kristineharrington@susd.org;  
• Cymphanie Sherman, 602-615-7325, csherman@susd.org

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About the Arizona Educational Foundation

The Arizona Educational Foundation (AEF) was founded in 1983 by then-Arizona State Superintendent of Public Instruction Carolyn Warner, with the support of longtime local business leaders Eddie Basha, President and CEO of the Bashas’ grocery store chain, and Bill Shover of the Arizona Republic. Their goal was to bolster the reputation of public schools, celebrate their excellence and provide programs to support them on their paths to excellence. 

About the Scottsdale Unified School District
With around 20,000 students in all SUSD schools, the Scottsdale Unified School District (SUSD) has been a premier choice for pre-kindergarten through grade 12 public education for 128 years. Located northeast of metropolitan Phoenix, the District serves the educational needs of students and families in Phoenix, Paradise Valley, Fountain Hills, Tempe and Scottsdale. A highly experienced, professionally certified teaching staff fosters a diverse and rigorous educational environment that engages all students in world-class, future-focused learning. Offering gifted learning, special education, career and technical education, and a variety of athletics, arts and enrichment programs and clubs, SUSD provides the rich environment today’s students need to explore their interests, develop important social skills and grow into tomorrow’s leaders. For more information, visit www.susd.org and follow along on social media: Facebook: @ScottsdaleUSD, Instagram: @ScottsdaleUnifiedSD, LinkedIn and YouTube.