Falcon Focus

Dear Parents & Guardians,

We are proud to share that Fountain Hills Unified School District has retained its “A” Letter Grade for 2025 from the Arizona Department of Education! This recognition reflects the outstanding work of our students, staff, and administrators across all campuses.

Fountain Hills High School earned its sixth “A” Letter Grade—and its third in a row—continuing an incredible legacy of excellence. FHHS not only maintained its high standards but also grew its overall score from last year. In addition, the high school earned its sixth U.S. News & World Report “Best High Schools” national ranking, was named a 2025 National Model School, and will host the Arizona Education Foundation next month as part of its pursuit of a second A+ School of Excellence Award.

Through our Fountain Hills University (FHU) partnership with Arizona State University, students can now earn up to 42 ASU credits at no cost—the equivalent of a year and a half of college. When combined with FHU+ and the AP Capstone program, students can graduate with up to 60 college credits, saving time and money while launching into higher education or a career. Many of our students are also pairing FHU with EVIT, allowing them to graduate with both career certifications and college credit. FHUSD graduates truly have one of the best pathways in the state to college and career success.

Fountain Hills Middle School has also continued its remarkable growth, earning its second consecutive “A” Letter Grade and achieving a higher overall score than the previous year. Over the past four years, FHMS has grown more than 20 points on its ADE Letter Grade—an extraordinary accomplishment. The middle school’s i21 program, now in its third year, is thriving, ensuring students are well-prepared for Honors and AP coursework at FHHS. FHMS was also recently recognized as a 2025 National Model School, celebrating its innovation and success as a small but mighty campus.

McDowell Mountain Elementary School demonstrated tremendous academic growth, increasing its overall letter grade points from 76.36/90to 82.71/90—just one point shy of an “A” Letter Grade. This improvement represents significant progress over the past two years. With the launch of our i21 Junior program, MMES is accelerating student achievement, offering students the opportunity to enter middle school a year ahead in math and English.

Over the past four years, FHUSD has undergone a remarkable transformation. Our students are achieving more, our staff is innovating and excelling, and our community is stronger than ever.

I am incredibly proud of our students, teachers, administrators, and families for their commitment and dedication. We will take a moment to celebrate this success, and then—as always—get right back to work continuing to grow and sustain our excellence.

Together, we are building something truly special in Fountain Hills.