Gadsden Continues to Lead Yuma County Public Elementary Districts in Academics, Celebrates a Decade of Excellence at Desert View
SAN LUIS, Ariz. — Gadsden Elementary School District No. 32 (GESD) continues to lead Yuma County's public elementary school districts in academics, according to the 2025–2026 state accountability results. The district celebrates another year of academic achievement and its continued commitment to student success.
Among this year's notable accomplishments, Desert View Elementary School earned its 10th consecutive A rating, marking a decade of sustained academic excellence. Southwest Early College Academy also earned an A rating, improving from a B last year and reaching a significant milestone in its commitment to providing students with high-quality educational opportunities.
The district celebrates the following 2025–2026 school letter grades:
- Arizona Desert Elementary School – Grade B
- Cesar Chavez Elementary School – Grade B
- Desert View Elementary School – 10th consecutive A
- Ed Pastor Elementary School – Grade B
- Gadsden Elementary School – Grade B
- Rio Colorado Elementary School – Grade B
- San Luis Middle School – Grade C
- Southwest Early College Academy – Grade A, improving from a B
"Maintaining our position as the leading public elementary school district in Yuma County reflects the dedication of our students, educators and families," said Governing Board President Tadeo A. De La Hoya. "Desert View's decade of excellence and Southwest Early College Academy's A rating demonstrate the high standards we strive to maintain across our district."
"These results are a reflection of the work taking place in our classrooms ," said District Superintendent Lizette Esparza. "We are proud of our schools' accomplishments and remain focused on strengthening instruction, supporting our educators and helping every student succeed."
Arizona's A–F accountability system evaluates schools based on academic proficiency, student growth, English language learner progress and indicators of student readiness. The 2025–2026 results mark the final year under the current grading formula, as the Arizona State Board of Education transitions to a revised accountability system for 2026–2027. The updated system will eliminate bonus points, establish higher performance standards and provide separate letter grades for individual academic indicators to offer a clearer picture of school performance.
Gadsden Elementary School District remains committed to advancing academic excellence, strengthening educational programs and providing students with the knowledge, skills and opportunities needed for future success. As Arizona transitions to a revised accountability system, the district will continue prioritizing high-quality instruction, innovation and continuous improvement to ensure every student has the opportunity to reach their full potential.
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