Sossaman Middle School in the Higley Unified School District has earned the title of an A+ School of Excellence. 

The Arizona Educational Foundation bestowed this award, making it Sossaman’s second time receiving the designation.  

Five Higley schools have had the honor of receiving this award. It is the highest state-level honor given to public schools in Arizona.  

The A+ School of Excellence Award is a testament to Sossaman Middle School's unwavering commitment to educational excellence, according to the district. The adjudication process identifies schools that exemplify the best in education and are recommended for the U.S. Department of Education’s National Blue Ribbon Award.  

Hundreds of schools apply annually for the designation, which is awarded to those demonstrating exceptional qualities such as strong leadership, high-quality teaching, a rigorous curriculum, engaged parents and community and a student-centered learning environment.  

Sossaman Middle School has excelled in all these areas, providing a nurturing and innovative educational experience for its students, according to the district.  

“A+ designation isn’t something that simply happens,” Brett Bonner, AEF’s director of Professional development and dean of the AEF Academy, said in a release. “It’s the result of unrelenting dedication to excellence in all areas of education, innovation, and community involvement.”  

The selection process begins each August with an online application, followed by interviews and site visits conducted by AEF staff and a panel of judges.  

The recognition covers a four-year period, with Sossaman Middle School earning the 2025-2029 designation.  

During this time, the school's principals will mentor and develop participants in AEF’s Principal’s Leadership Academy of Arizona and assist with training and workshops as part of the AEF Academy.  

Sossaman Middle School is dedicated to igniting curiosity, nurturing growth, and fostering a passion for learning through innovative experiences within a supportive environment, according to the district. The school’s state-of-the-art facilities and interdisciplinary team of educators provide a student-centered learning environment that encourages critical thinking and problem-solving.