Academic Programs

GPS offers K-6 Accelerated classroom learning experiences at eight of our elementary schools, across the district, to meet the needs of our students and families. This is a unique opportunity for students with strong academic abilities and a love of learning to be challenged in a supported learning environment.

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Advanced Placement (AP) classes are available at all GPS high schools. Students are granted AP status and/or college credit on how well they perform on the national AP exam. Information regarding AP courses and exams are available from the counseling office of each high school.

learn more about AP

AVID-Advancement Via Individual Determination-is designed to increase schoolwide learning and performance. AVID’s mission is to close the opportunity gap by preparing all students for college and career readiness and success in a global society. Located at:

Desert Ridge Junior High Desert Ridge High

CTE programs are available at each of our five comprehensive high schools. Through enrollment in these programs, students can explore a number of areas of occupational interest (career clusters) and pursue a career focus in-depth while completing their high school diploma. 

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The Arizona State Board of Education has approved the following seals for art, social studies, and world languages. These seals recognize high school students who achieve proficiency in related coursework and complete additional examinations along with extracurricular tasks.

learn more about Diploma Seals

Gilbert Elementary offers a K-6 dual language experience that allows students the advantage of learning their grade-level content in two languages, English and Spanish. This program develop culturally responsive, active learners who are intellectually challenged and engaged.

learn more more Dual Language Immersion

International Baccalaureate (IB) programs are offered at Gilbert High and Patterson Elementary. IB aims to develop inquiring, knowledgeable, and caring young people who help to create a better and more peaceful world through intercultural understanding and respect. 

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The School of Innovation (SOI) hosted by Desert Ridge Junior & Desert Ridge High takes 7th-12th grade students on a journey to build the skills and access the education they need to unlock career opportunities in the job market of their future.

learn more about SOI

GPS offers K-6 Traditional classrooms and curriculum at Canyon Rim Elementary, Neely Traditional Academy, and Spectrum Elementary. All desks face the front of the room, and the curriculum is delivered primarily through whole group instruction led by qualified teachers. 

Learn more about Traditional Learning

Gifted Academy offered at Towne Meadows Elementary 3rd through 6th grade and Highland Junior High School 7th & 8th grade provides a differentiated learning experience addressing the individual needs of gifted students.

Gifted Academy at highland junior high Gifted Academy at Towne Meadows Elementary

At Quartz Hill Elementary students are engaged in studying weather patterns using green screen technology in the school’s Innovation Lab. Students produce their own weather reports, blending science standards with digital production and presentation skills, bringing STEM learning to life in a specialized, hands-on learning space.

learn more about STEM at Quartz Hill

South Valley Junior High Sports Performance Academy is a half day program. Students have access to the full junior high experience, both academically and socially, attending class with their peers in the morning, taught by certified, highly qualified GPS teachers. Students then attend a training or performing arts facility of their choice in the afternoon.

learn more about SPA