Three additional Mesa Public Schools campuses — Dobson High School, Kerr Center for Agriscience, and James K. Zaharis Elementary School — have received the prestigious A+ School of Excellence Award from the Arizona Educational Foundation. The A+ School of Excellence is the highest state-level recognition given to a public school.
Dobson High School
Dobson High School shines as a place where students are known, challenged, and supported while pursuing rigorous and meaningful learning experiences. With College and Career Academies alongside strong Advanced Placement classes, Dual Enrollment, Career and Technical Education pathways, and award-winning performing and visual art offerings, Dobson connects classroom learning to real-world opportunities and student passions.
These efforts lead to positive student outcomes, including millions in scholarships earned, expanded access to advanced coursework, and strong preparation for college and career pathways after graduation. Dobson’s focus on belonging, student voice, and continuous growth helped the school earn its A+ School of Excellence designation.
Kerr Center for Agriscience
Kerr Center for Agriscience is an A-rated school serving students from kindergarten through eighth grade. At Kerr, learning comes to life through hands-on exploration and real-world experiences, with a strong focus on Agriscience education. Students engage deeply with the natural world in the school’s land lab, home to lambs, goats, chickens, turkeys, and diverse plant life.
The middle school program fosters a small learning community that promotes personalized learning and academic growth. Students participate in FFA activities and gain valuable experience through involvement in local, county, and state fairs. With a unique blend of rigorous academics and agricultural education, Kerr cultivates a passion for learning and a strong connection to the environment.
James K. Zaharis Elementary School
James K. Zaharis Elementary serves students from pre-kindergarten through sixth grade and is recognized for its strong commitment to inquiry, innovation, and literacy practices.
Through a collaborative teaming model, teachers provide personalized learning within a nurturing and supportive environment. Students are encouraged to ask thoughtful questions, explore new ideas, and create solutions. At Zaharis, students develop essential 21st-century skills, including communication, creativity, and critical thinking, preparing them for future success.
With these three additions, Mesa Public Schools now has 11 A+ Schools of Excellence:
• Eisenhower Center for Innovation
• Franklin Accelerated Academy - East Campus
• K-8 STEM Academy at Red Mountain Ranch
• James K. Zaharis Elementary School
Want to find out what’s inside our A+ schools? Schedule a tour today!