You’re considering a move to—or within—Arizona, and you’ve got kids. Of course, you want the very best for them, so schools are always top of mind. Chandler, Scottsdale, and Gilbert, all in Maricopa County, are top-rated for lifestyle, and when it comes to education, they also receive high marks. But how are these marks calculated? Schools are ranked and compared within their own state only, and based on combined math and reading proficiency test score rankings.
Did you know?
Before we take a deep dive into these three cities, here’s an interesting tidbit to consider when reviewing school rankings. It’s been found that parental involvement is directly related to school rankings. That’s right—the more parents help with homework, attend PTA meetings, and the like, the better off their kids are at school, and the better they perform on tests.
Chandler—#1 of best school districts in Maricopa County
Niche calls Chandler, “one of the best places to live in Arizona.” Niche, a website that ranks nearly 100,000 schools and districts based on statistics and millions of opinions from students and parents, bases its praise on Chandler’s suburban feel, homeownership, and great schools. Currently, there are 79 public schools in the city, with one of the highest concentrations of top-ranked public schools in Arizona. Here’s how Chandler scored:
- Top 5% of Arizona public schools
- #1 of 22 best school districts in Maricopa County
- #515 of 10,760 school districts in the U.S.
- Average math proficiency score of 61% (vs. 45% statewide)
- Average reading proficiency score of 60% (vs. 55% statewide)
Among the many schools reviewed, Niche gave BASIS Chandler A+ overall and #2 for STEM schools in Arizona. STEM education integrates science, technology, engineering, and mathematics into a cohesive program. Great Hearts Academies-Chandler Prep also received A+ overall, and ranked #6 “Best Public Schools in Arizona.”
In Arizona, public charter schools also play a key role in the city’s high ratings. These alternatives to traditional public schools are state-funded without any tuition required by parents. Today, there are 18 public charter schools in Chandler, including these top-rated choices:
- Charter BASIS Chandler Primary-North Campus
- 638 students in grades K-4
- Average reading proficiency of 81%
- Average math proficiency of 87%
- Bright Beginnings
- 262 students in grades Pre-K, K-6
- Student-teacher ratio of 14 to 1
- Average reading proficiency of 87%
- Average math proficiency of 82%
Scottsdale—#2 of best school districts in Maricopa County
Scottsdale is a desert city in Maricopa County and one of the best places to live in Arizona, according to Niche. A top place for retirees, it’s also a big draw for young professionals.
Although known for its spa resorts and golf courses, Scottsdale is home to some of the best schools in the state—with many private and public schools that include college preparation curriculum. They boast high test scores and safe and productive work environments. Like Chandler, there are currently 18 public charter schools in Scottsdale.
Statistically speaking, Scottsdale is #2 of 22 best school districts in Maricopa County. It’s also rated 942 out of 10,760 school districts in the U.S., and #4 of the best school districts in Arizona. Top-rated, A+ Niche-rated, schools in Scottsdale include:
- BASIS Scottsdale
- 1,081 students in grades 5-12
- Student-teacher ratio of 11 to 1
- Average reading proficiency of 88%
- Average math proficiency of 92%
- Great Hearts Academies
- Features one of the most rigorous curricula
- 857 students in grades 5-12
- Student-teacher ratio of 12 to 1
- Average reading proficiency of 76%
- Average math proficiency of 87%
Gilbert—#3 best school district in Maricopa County
With a population of 237,484, Niche found Gilbert to also be one of the best places to live in Arizona. “Living in Gilbert offers residents a sparse suburban feel and most residents own their homes.” Young professionals call Gilbert “home,” making schools a much-discussed topic. Schools in Gilbert are highly rated, and enjoy a Niche rating of A+ overall.
- #1,669 of 12,584 places with the best public schools in America
- #7 of 119 places with the best public schools in Arizona
- #3 of 22 best school districts in Maricopa County
Among its many schools is Neely Traditional Academy. It ranks high with Niche with an A+ overall rating with 793 students in grades Pre-K and K-6. According to state test scores, 86% of students are at least proficient in math and 79% in reading.
What do school ratings teach us about Maricopa County?
The numbers bear it out—these three cities are desirable for many reasons, one of which is schools. Whether you put your roots down in Chandler, Scottsdale, or Gilbert, your children are bound to have an exceptional education. It’s no wonder Maricopa County attracts young professionals.
What’s next?
We’re exploring other areas in the region that may be of interest to you—especially areas that make the valley great. So be sure to check back on our website from time to time.