Gadsden Invites Community to Celebrate
Southwest Junior High's Global Recognition at
World's Best School Prizes Viewing Event
SAN LUIS, Ariz. — Gadsden Elementary School District No. 32 invites students, families, staff and community members to a special viewing event Thursday, Nov. 19, as Southwest Junior High School awaits the announcement of the world's No. 1 school in the Overcoming Adversity category of T4 Education's 2026 World's Best School Prizes. The announcement follows Southwest Junior High's historic achievement of earning a place among the world's top 10 schools in the category.
The event will take place at the Southwest Junior High School gymnasium, 963 8th Ave. in San Luis. Doors will open at 5:30 a.m., with the viewing event beginning at 6 a.m. Attendees will gather to watch the announcement and celebrate the school's achievement on the international stage.
In June, Southwest Junior High was named among the world's top 10 schools in the Overcoming Adversity category, becoming the only school in the United States selected for the distinction. Presented by T4 Education, an international education organization, the World's Best School Prizes recognize schools making an exceptional impact on education and their communities. The Overcoming Adversity category honors schools that demonstrate resilience, overcome significant challenges and create opportunities for students to succeed.
“Being recognized among the top 10 schools in the world is an extraordinary achievement and a proud moment for Southwest Junior High,” said Luis Reyes, principal of Southwest Junior High. “This recognition is a testament to the determination of our students, the dedication of our educators and the unwavering support of our families and community.”
“This international recognition demonstrates what is possible when we set high expectations and create opportunities for every student to succeed,” said Lizette Esparza, district superintendent. “We invite our community to join us as we celebrate this historic milestone and share in the excitement of the upcoming announcement.”
As Southwest Junior High prepares to represent San Luis, Yuma County, Arizona and the United States on the global stage, the celebration will recognize an achievement that extends beyond the school itself, reflecting the collective commitment to educational excellence that continues to shape the future of students throughout the Gadsden community.