The Center for Model Schools has announced Gilbert Public Schools as an "Innovative District" for demonstrating an unwavering commitment to transforming student outcomes by fostering learning environments where every student can thrive.

GPS will be honored at the  2025 Model Schools Conference taking place in Washington, D.C. from June 22-25, which celebrates forward-thinking districts that drive transformation, inspire change and implement groundbreaking strategies to improve student outcomes.

Gilbert Public Schools is one of only nine school districts in the nation, and the only district in Arizona, to earn the Innovative District recognition.

The distinction is a result of the district’s commitment to student success and continuous improvement, according to a release. By fostering a culture of collaboration, visionary leadership, and ongoing development, Gilbert Public Schools aims for excellence in education.

"We are honored to be recognized as an Innovative District at MSC 2025," Superintendent Shane McCord said in the release.  "This national recognition is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our educators, students, and community in fostering an environment where our students can thrive."

As part of this recognition, Krista Cox, director of secondary curriculum, instruction, and assessment at GPS, and Robert Bircher, director of elementary curriculum, instruction, and assessment, will present at the conference.

Their session, "Proven Strategies for Continuous Improvement and Impact Measurement in Schools and Districts," will share effective frameworks and practical strategies for continuous improvement with student outcomes, emphasizing data-backed impact checks, accountability, and measurable outcomes.

“It’s an honor to have the opportunity to speak at an event with so many leaders in education from across the country,” Cox said. “Being recognized as an Innovative District requires a commitment to student success and continuous improvement from everyone in our district, which is evident in the remarkable achievements our students and schools continue to accomplish."

Notably, Gilbert Public Schools is one of four large school districts in Arizona to maintain an A rating from the Arizona Department of Education for two consecutive years.

GPS is also the only large district in the state where each of its schools has earned either an A or B rating.

Over the past three years, GPS has also experienced remarkable growth in advanced academic achievement, with Advanced Placement and International Baccalaureate enrollment, for example, and passing rates increasing by more than 15% annually. 

Students at Gilbert Public Schools have earned roughly 1,400 graduation proficiency seals from the Arizona Department of Education, a 50% increase from last year.

Furthermore, the class of 2025 graduating seniors across GPS collectively earned $74,583,187 in scholarships.

Meanwhile, each high school earned all College and Career Readiness Index points on their school report cards, making GPS the only district in the East Valley to do so.

Those who wish to learn more about GPS can visit GilbertSchools.net.