TEMPE, AZ, April 13, 2017 — The Arizona Educational Foundation (AEF) announced the names of 39 Arizona public schools receiving the coveted A+ School of Excellence™ award for the 2016-2017 academic year on Thursday. Connolly Middle School, within the Tempe Elementary School District, was among the list of the 2017 A+ School of Excellence winning schools.
The A+ School of Excellence Program is a comprehensive school assessment program that celebrates outstanding schools and brings to light the positive stories and successes taking place in public schools every day. AEF has identified and honored exemplary pre-kindergarten through 12th grade public schools in Arizona since 1983.
Connolly Middle School became eligible for the A+ School of Excellence award by submitting an application that provides demographic information, a description of current programs and practices, documentation of parent and community involvement, a profile of the school’s leadership and commitment to excellence, equity, and service. Connolly earned this award for their superior ability to identify and meet the academic and non-academic needs of their student population.
The staff of Connolly Middle School continually collaborates to create an environment where a shared commitment to learning, critical thinking, cooperation, tolerance, and self-discipline will enable students to become lifelong learners and responsible citizens. Connolly Middle School offers a unique educational experience because of the AVID (Advancement Via Individual Determination) program as well as being home to ASPIRE Academy, which is designed for the most academically gifted middle school students.
“Connolly Middle School is highly worthy of this distinction,” said Christine Busch, Tempe Elementary School District Superintendent. “Our Connolly students, staff, and parents demonstrate all that is exemplary and noble about public education.”
About Connolly Middle School
Connolly Middle School is a school for grades six- through eight in Tempe, Arizona, and is part of the Tempe Elementary School District. It is a Title I school, and serves more than 1,000 students. Since opening its doors in 1972, the Connolly community has developed their current motto of “Whatever it takes, we are college bound!” The mission of Connolly Middle School is to prepare students for college readiness and success in a global society through rigorous coursework and critical thinking. Connolly Middle School is committed to the success of all students, creating a learning environment that emphasizes academic integrity and fosters emotional connections. For more information about Connolly Middle School, visit www.tempeschools.org/connolly.
About the A+ School of Excellence™ Award
Since its inception in 1983, the A+ School of Excellence Award from the Arizona Educational Foundation identified and honored exemplary pre-kindergarten through 12th grade public schools in Arizona. This prestigious award helps to create greater parent and community involvement and confidence in schools that win the award. Schools that earn the A+ School of Excellence designation retain their status for a three-year period after which time they must reapply for the award. For more information, visit www.azedfoundation.org.