February 27, 2025
Chandler, Arizona — The National Forum for Advancing Excellence in Middle Grades awarded Arizona College Prep Middle School in Chandler Unified School District (CUSD) the prestigious School to Watch® (STW) designation. ACP Middle School is one of five schools to receive this inaugural honor.
The STW program identifies schools with middle-level grades that are academically excellent, developmentally responsive, socially equitable, organized and structured for continuous improvement. These schools also demonstrate the STW criteria in an exemplary manner.
From the STW Evaluation team: “Arizona College Prep Middle School delivers an outstanding middle school program that is deeply responsive to the unique developmental needs of its young adolescent students. The staff fosters a supportive and engaging learning environment where students feel challenged, empowered, and connected. They provide a strong academic foundation through differentiated instruction, relevant curriculum, and a focus on building critical thinking skills, all while prioritizing social-emotional development and fostering positive relationships with peers and adults within the school community.”
At the February 26, 2025, CUSD Governing Board Meeting, Dr. Robert Caplinger, the inaugural State Director for the Arizona Schools to Watch program, presented ACPMS Principal Manjula Reddy and ACPMS staff with the recognition, outlining the rigorous selection and evaluation process the school underwent to earn the designation.
“This national recognition is a tremendous testament to the hard work of our staff, students, and community,” Principal Reddy said. “Each day, we strive to do our very best in all that we do, and we are grateful to be recognized with this honor.”
Arizona joined the STW network in 2024, becoming the 20th state to participate. Over the past 26 years, more than 700 schools nationwide have earned this distinction. This is the first time Arizona schools have been honored.
ACPMS, along with the other top middle schools in the country, will be recognized at the National Schools to Watch Conference in Washington, D.C., this June.
About Arizona College Prep Middle School
Arizona College Prep pushes students to their highest potential and prepares them for success in advanced study programs at our ACP High School campus and for future success in the college or university of each student's choice. We expect students to become contributing members of our society. Arizona College Prep (ACP) Middle School serves students in grades 6, 7, and 8. Visit cusd80.com/acpms for more information.
