Schools
Maricopa provides a wide range of educational options, including public, charter, and private schools.
Throughout 11 schools, the Maricopa Unified School District includes nearly 9,000 students and 1,200 staff members.
Elementary
Maricopa Unified School District provides a strong foundation for students from the early years through elementary school. Early learning opportunities include tuition-based preschool programs for children ages 3 to 5, dual language programs for select age groups, and tuition-free developmental preschool support for qualifying children with special needs.
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The district also continues to earn national recognition for academic excellence. In 2024, Pima Butte Elementary School received an A+ School of Excellence designation from the Arizona Educational Foundation, while Butterfield Elementary School became the first school in Arizona to earn both Cognia® Accreditation and Cognia® STEM Certification.
Middle School
Since 2012, the Maricopa Unified School District Blended Learning Program has provided a more customized and flexible approach to education for elementary and middle school students. What began with just 50 students at Maricopa Wells Middle School has expanded to additional campuses, including Desert Wind Middle School and Santa Rosa Elementary School.
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​This state-recognized program combines technology-based learning, teacher-led instruction, project-based curriculum, and real-life applications in a nontraditional classroom environment designed to encourage collaboration, critical thinking, and student engagement.
High School
As students continue their educational journey at Desert Sunrise High School and Maricopa High School, they gain opportunities to further pursue their interests through a wide range of academic, athletic, fine arts, and career-focused programs supported by dedicated teachers and staff.
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Students enrolled in Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs can pursue hands-on learning in areas such as agriscience, culinary arts, engineering, graphic design, sports medicine, and other innovative career pathways designed to prepare them for college and future careers. In addition to academics, students can participate in award-winning fine arts, cultural programs, and competitive athletics across a variety of sports and extracurricular activities.
