A+ School of Excellence™

Gilbert Classical Academy 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.

Gilbert Classical Academy student and teacher talking

Gilbert Classical Academy’s A+ School of Excellence Award comes as a result of the school’s commitment to developing students of impeccable character who embrace a passion for learning by gaining a solid foundation of knowledge through a rigorous, classical, all Honors and AP curriculum. GCA is a nationally recognized 7th through 12th grade combined junior high and high school that is dedicated to preparing students for college. Beyond academics, they have a like-minded and high-achieving student population that creates a positive learning environment and a strong sense of community.

“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!