A+ Schools

The Arizona Educational Foundation (AEF) A+ School of Excellence™ Award program began in 1983 as a way to identify, celebrate, and recognize educational excellence in Arizona public schools. AEF annually identifies and honors exemplary pre-kindergarten through 12th grade schools. 

The A+ Schools of Excellence™ in Scottsdale Unified are:

• Anasazi Elementary School
• Cherokee Elementary
• Desert Canyon Elementary School
• Hohokam Elementary School
• Kiva Elementary School
• Navajo Elementary School
• Pueblo Elementary
• Redfield Elementary School

Applicant schools are evaluated in the areas of student focus and support, school culture, active teaching and learning, curriculum, leadership, community and parent involvement, and assessment data. Evaluation of schools is based on a lengthy, written application submitted by the school and a rigorous site visit conducted by a team of trained judges. A+ Schools each receive $500 and a banner designating it as an A+ School of Excellence™ winner. Schools retain their A+ designation for four years. The Arizona Educational Foundation is a nonprofit organization that fosters excellence in education by administering statewide programs that enhance the capabilities of Arizona’s schools. For more information on the A+ School of Excellence™ process, visit: https://www.azedfoundation.org/a-schools.