FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Casa Grande Union High School District Earns “A” Letter Grade from State of Arizona
Casa Grande, AZ — Casa Grande Union High School District is proud to announce it has received an “A” letter grade from the Arizona Department of Education, recognizing the district’s continued commitment to academic excellence and student success.
The “A” rating reflects outstanding performance in key areas including student achievement, academic growth, graduation rates, and college and career readiness. This achievement highlights the dedication of students, teachers, staff, and families who work together every day to create a culture of excellence across the district.
Students across the district say the recognition reflects the effort and support they experience daily in their schools.
“For me, my school district earning an ‘A’ rating means that everyone who isn’t in our school district will now see how amazing our district is,” said Evelyn Maldonado, valedictorian at Vista Grande High School. “The rating reflects the hard work, dedication, and determination of every student, teacher, and staff member in our district, and that is amazing to me.”
Vista Grande student Colten Clover added, “Our teachers and staff put in lots of work to make our school so great. I am very glad Vista Grande was my choice for high school; I do not regret my decision.”
At Casa Grande Union High School, students say the support from staff makes a meaningful difference.
“Our students and staff are the best support system any student can ask for and are behind you every step of the way,” said student Lynisee Armstrong.
Senior Sawyer Barth, who recently earned a $450,000 full-ride scholarship to Duke University, says the recognition reflects years of collective effort.
“To me, earning an ‘A’ rating means that our hard work has finally paid off,” Barth said. “It shows that a ‘ground-up’ system successfully implemented by both administrative and district leadership has resulted in state-renowned success. It adds to the long list of reasons why I’m proud to be a Cougar and proud to be from Casa Grande.”
Parents across the district also recognize the impact the schools have on their children’s success.
“As a parent, I couldn’t be more proud to send my children to a district that consistently puts students first,” said parent Daranne Tacker. “Earning an ‘A’ from the Department of Education just confirms what we already feel—this is a place where our kids are supported, challenged, and truly set up for success.”
Parent Erin Dugan echoed that sentiment. “Earning an ‘A’ rating means a lot to our family because it reflects a strong commitment to both academic excellence and student support. As a parent, it gives me confidence knowing my son is in an environment that prioritizes learning, growth, and preparing students for their future.”
The Arizona Department of Education’s accountability system evaluates schools and districts annually, assigning letter grades based on a comprehensive set of performance indicators.
Casa Grande Union High School District remains focused on preparing all students for success beyond high school, whether that path leads to college, career, or military service.
“This recognition is not the finish line—it’s motivation to continue striving for excellence in everything we do," Superintendent Jeff Lavender added.
For more information about Casa Grande Union High School District, please visit cguhsd.org.