A+ School of Excellence™
![HJH A+ Excellence 2026-2030 graphic with HJH logo]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1771532268/gilbertschoolsnet/pimycd7paophwcwfmtcm/AExcellence-HJHNews.png","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1771532268/gilbertschoolsnet/pimycd7paophwcwfmtcm/AExcellence-HJHNews.png","width":512}])
Highland Junior High Earns 2026 A+ Recognition from AEF, making a total of 19 A+ Schools of Excellence in GPS
Congratulations to our four NEW A+ Schools of Excellence® recognized by the Arizona Educational Foundation.
- Campo Verde High School
- Gilbert Classical Academy
- Highland Junior High
- Playa del Rey Elementary School
Gilbert Public Schools is now home to 19 A+ Schools of Excellence® across our district, an incredible achievement recognizing the academic excellence and community achieved on our campuses, Kindergarten through 12th grade.
The A+ School of Excellence adjudication process was initially developed 43 years ago as a way of identifying which Arizona public schools would be recommended for the U.S. Department of Education’s National Blue Ribbon Award.
Hundreds of schools apply each year to obtain this highly sought-after designation, which is given to those who demonstrate attributes that define the best of the best in education.
Some of the qualities judges look for include:
- strong leadership that inspires collaboration and embraces professional development;
- high-quality teachers and staff who create engaging learning experiences and help students thrive academically and socially;
- a rigorous standards-aligned curriculum that encourages critical thinking and problem-solving;
- engaged parents and community involvement;
- and a student-centered learning approach with extracurricular activities and a safe and nurturing environment.
Highland Junior High’s A+ School of Excellence Award comes as a result of its dedication to creating opportunities for their students to pursue personal growth and excellence. The Gifted Academy at Highland Junior High for 7th and 8th graders, prioritizes teachers supporting students by understanding their unique needs and abilities. Beyond academic achievement, the HJH mission is to foster strong community and family involvement in all they do in order to create a safe and supportive learning environment for all students, every day.
“A+ designation isn’t something that simply happens,” said Brett Bonner, AEF’s Director of Professional Development and Dean of the AEF Academy. “It’s the result of unrelenting dedication to excellence in all areas of education, innovation, and community involvement.”
The selection process begins each August when schools submit an online application. From there, AEF staff and a panel of judges determine which schools warrant an interview and finally, a site visit.
All judges must be either A+ School of Excellence recipients or have previously served in an A+ School of Excellence.
The recognition covers a four-year period, with this year’s group earning the 2026-2030 designation. During that time, the A+ School principals will mentor and develop participants in AEF’s Principal’s Leadership Academy of Arizona, a professional development program for new and aspiring school leaders. Additionally, the A+ school leaders and administrators will assist with training and workshops as part of the AEF Academy.
Congratulations to our Campo Verde, Gilbert Classical Academy, Highland Junior, and Playa del Rey students, staff, and families for this recognition and achievement!