HUSD News Stories

Higley Unified School District (HUSD) has earned national recognition as a "Schools to Watch District" by the National Forum, a prestigious distinction awarded to districts in which all middle-level schools have been designated as Schools to Watch. HUSD is the first district in Arizona to receive this recognition.

This milestone achievement follows the recognition of Sossaman Middle School (2025) and Cooley Middle School (2026) as Arizona Schools to Watch. As the district's only two middle schools, their designation signifies that HUSD has met the rigorous criteria for being named a Schools to Watch District, an honor that reflects excellence in academic achievement, developmental responsiveness, and strong organizational structures. 

The Schools to Watch program, led in Arizona by the Arizona Association for Middle Level Education, identifies schools that are committed to meeting the unique academic and developmental needs of students ages 10-15. Recognized schools demonstrate best practices in middle grades education and serve as models for others across the state and nation. 

HUSD will be formally recognized for this accomplishment at the National Schools to Watch Conference in Washington, D.C. this June, alongside Cooley Middle School as a 2026 honoree and other distinguished schools and districts from across the United States. The designation as a Schools to Watch District highlights HUSD's commitment to continuous improvement and its success in creating middle schools where students are academically challenged, socially and emotionally supported, and prepared for future success.