Apache Junction school district launches The Classical Academy at Superstition Mountain
New K-5 school to offer traditional, liberal arts education
Metro Creative
Registration for The Classical Academy at Superstition Mountain opens next week. Parents interested in enrolling their children are to visit the AJUSD website or contact the district office for details on the registration process.
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Why a classical education?
Studies show that students who receive a classical education consistently outperform their peers in other educational models. According to the National Assessment of Educational Progress, students in schools with a strong emphasis on foundational literacy and numeracy score, on average, 10-15% higher in reading and math proficiency than their counterparts, the release states.
Additionally, the Thomas B. Fordham Institute found that classical education models:
• Increase student engagement and satisfaction by 22%.
• Lead to 25% higher college readiness rates compared to students from more contemporary education models.
• Foster stronger critical thinking and analytical skills, as evidenced by higher performance on standardized tests like the SAT and ACT.
Key features of the Classical Academy at Superstition Mountain are:
• Rigorous curriculum: Focus on memorization, critical thinking, and classical literature.
• Character development: Emphasis on responsibility, integrity, and leadership.
• Small class sizes: Personalized instruction to support academic growth.
• Enrichment programs: Integrated art, music, and physical education for a holistic learning experience.
Apache Junction Unified School District is opening The Classical Academy at Superstition Mountain, a K-5 school designed to provide students with a traditional, liberal arts education. Registration for the inaugural school year will begin next week.
It will be at the former Superstition Mountain Elementary School, which has been closed since 2015, near the northwest corner of Southern Avenue and Ironwood Drive.
The Classical Academy emphasizes a well-rounded education rooted in core subjects like literature, mathematics and science, supported by art, music, and physical education. This approach fosters critical thinking, character development and a lifelong love of learning, according to a release.
“This is a big step forward for our district,” Dr. Robert Pappalardo, AJUSD superintendent, said in the release. “The Classical Academy gives students a strong academic foundation and helps them grow into confident, capable individuals. We’re proud to offer this option to families in our community.”
Meara Verna, executive director of curriculum, added, “A classical education doesn’t just focus on academics. It’s about teaching kids how to think critically, communicate clearly, and act with integrity. The Classical Academy will give our students the tools they need to succeed in school and in life.”
Enrollment information
Registration for The Classical Academy at Superstition Mountain opens next week. Parents interested in enrolling their children are to visit the AJUSD website or contact the district office for details on the registration process.
With its commitment to putting Kids First, AJUSD continues to expand educational opportunities to meet the diverse needs of its students and families with a variety of future-ready programs such as the Dual Language Spanish Immersion Program at Four Peaks Elementary and GenTech STEM Program at Peralta Trail Elementary and Cactus Canyon Junior High, and a CTE Program at Apache Junction High School.
AJUSD serves Apache Junction, Gold Canyon and surrounding areas, AJUSD’s mission is to prepare students for lifelong success by prioritizing academic excellence and student well-being. Go to https://www.ajusd.org.
