Education

Dream, learn, become, the Maricopa Unified School District motto, serves as a call to action for nearly 9,000 students and 1,200 staff in 11 schools.

Pre-K

For some the journey begins long before traditional

school age.

MUSD offers tuition-based preschool for children ages 3 to 5; 4- and 5-year-olds may enroll in a tuition-based dual language program. Special needs children under 3 may enter a tuition-free developmental preschool program.

Tuition-free for kindergarteners through third grade, the Santa Rosa Elementary School Dual Language Program offers learners a passport to the world. Students receive instruction in English and Spanish and learn bilingualism, biliteracy and cultural competency in preparation for progressive immersion.

Elementary

At least two MUSD elementary school programs earned national recognition in 2024.

In February the Arizona Educational Foundation awarded Prima Butte Elementary an A+ for exemplary commitment to student support, active teaching methodologies, a nurturing climate, parental involvement, community cohesion and visionary leadership.

In April, Butterfield Elementary became the first Arizona school to earn the distinguished Cognia® Accreditation and the Cognia® STEM Certification. This national recognition requires rigorous standards for learning environments, equitable resources and effective leadership.

Middle School

Since 2012 the MUSD Blended Learning Program has offered personalized learning in nontraditional classrooms to elementary and middle school students. What began with 50 students at Maricopa Wells Middle School has expanded to Desert Wind Middle School and Santa Rosa Elementary School. With hundreds enrolled, this state-recognized program offers student-centered learning with real world applications.

High School

As students progress to Desert Sunrise or Maricopa high schools, they have greater opportunities to crystallize their interests with guidance from remarkable, dedicated teachers and staff members. Students enrolled in career and technical education programs learn agriscience, culinary arts, engineering, graphic design, sports medicine and other innovative subjects. Additionally, teens participate in celebrated fine arts and cultural programs. Athletes strive for excellence on fields, courts and in the pool.

Explore all that MUSD offers here.