Rattlesnake Ridge Earns A+ School of Excellence!
Rattlesnake Ridge Earns A+ School of Excellence!
Rattlesnake Ridge Elementary School has earned the prestigious A+ School of Excellence Award® from the Arizona Educational Foundation (AEF). The A+ School of Excellence is the highest state-level recognition given to a public school!
The A+ School of Excellence process was developed 42 years ago to identify which Arizona public schools would be recommended for the U.S. Department of Education’s National Blue Ribbon Award.
“This recognition is a reflection of the entire school community: teachers, staff, administration, parents, and, of course, our students, said Matt Uden, Principal. “The process included a rigorous application process which formally began in early 2024 and culminated with a two-day site visit to campus where every classroom, stakeholder group, and aspect of a typical day at Rattlesnake Ridge was showcased and observed by A+ judges with a wealth of experience leading and teaching at schools across Arizona. We are overjoyed that the judges recognized the incredible culture that has been created and maintained consistently by our staff, students, and the community at large to earn the distinguished A+ designation.”
We are overjoyed that the judges recognized the incredible culture that has been created and maintained consistently by our staff, students, and the community at large to earn the distinguished A+ designation.
Hundreds of schools apply each year to obtain this highly sought-after designation, which is given to those who demonstrate attributes that define the best of the best in education. Some of the qualities judges look for include: strong leadership that inspires collaboration and embraces professional development; high-quality teachers and staff who create engaging learning experiences and help students thrive academically and socially; a rigorous standards-aligned curriculum that encourages critical thinking and problem-solving; engaged parents and community involvement; and a student-centered learning approach with extracurricular activities and a safe and nurturing environment.
“A+ designation isn’t something that simply happens,” said Brett Bonner, AEF’s Director of Professional Development and Dean of the AEF Academy. “It’s the result of unrelenting dedication to excellence in all areas of education, innovation, and community involvement.”
The selection process begins each August when schools submit an online application. From there, AEF staff and a panel of judges determine which schools warrant an interview and finally, a site visit. The recognition covers a four-year period, with this RRE earning the 2025-2029 designation. During that time, the A+ School principals will mentor and develop participants in AEF’s Principal’s Leadership Academy of Arizona, a professional development program for new and aspiring school leaders. Additionally, the A+ school leaders and administrators will assist with training and workshops as part of the AEF Academy.