Letter Grades for Arizona Schools Released, Showing Positive Progress

PHOENIX – The Arizona State Board of Education has released letter grades for nearly 2,000 public and charter schools, marking significant academic progress. For K-8 schools, 479 earned “A” grades, 525 received “B” grades, 289 received “C” grades, 62 received “D” grades, and only five received a failing “F” grade. In the high school category, 112 schools earned an “A,” 95 a “B,” 23 a “C,” and four a “D,” with no high schools receiving an “F.”

Grade Distribution Reflects Student Growth and Academic Effort

Executive Director Sean Ross shared, “We saw 44 more A’s from last year, nine fewer B’s, 26 fewer C’s, two fewer D’s, and two fewer F’s.” The grades are determined by a mix of federal law requirements and various factors, including student test scores, year-over-year growth, and the performance of vulnerable populations, such as English language learners. For elementary schools, absenteeism rates influence grades, while high schools are assessed on graduation rates.

The system emphasizes student growth, especially in elementary schools, where the board values incremental progress more than mere proficiency. “Growth is worth more than proficiency,” Ross noted, underscoring the board’s intent to fairly represent schools’ broader impact on students.

Appeals Process and Community Transparency

Schools have until Nov. 15 to appeal their grades. With improved transparency and a more inclusive approach, the appeals process has seen a notable decrease, with only 53 appeals last year compared to a typical 150.

Ross noted, “There’s no putting that toothpaste back in the tube. If I’m a school and my letter grade comes out as a ‘C,’ and I change it to a ‘B,’ the board knows that, but the community might not.” The revamped process has helped make initial grades more accurate, further reducing the need for appeals.

Support for Lower-Graded Schools

For the 79 schools receiving “D” or “F” grades, the Arizona Department of Education offers support through its school improvement system, while charter schools work with the Arizona State Board of Charter Schools to implement necessary improvements. Ross remarked, “The schools that struggle most have received significant support and are moving out of those struggles.”

Additional Resources for Families

Parents looking to make informed decisions for their children’s education can consult the Arizona Department of Education’s “school report cards” for a comprehensive look at each school’s offerings, including clubs, activities, and sports programs.