Combs Unified school named 'School of Excellence'

The J.O. Combs Unified School District’s Ranch Elementary School in San Tan Valley has received the A+ School of Excellence Award from the Arizona Educational Foundation for the 2023-2024 academic year.

"We are immensely proud to see our team at Ranch Elementary recognized with this highly prestigious honor," Combs Superintendent Greg Wyman stated in a district press release. "It's not only a testament to talent and commitment of each and every staff member, but also the exceptional accomplishments and successes that are taking place on that campus every day."

The A+ School of Excellence Award recognition began in 1983 as a way of “identifying, celebrating and recognizing educational excellence in schools throughout Arizona,” the release stated.

The award is the highest state-level accolade given to a public school.

“The A+ Award is a powerful energizer for increasing public confidence in recognized schools, often resulting in greater parent and community involvement and even serves as an economic driver for some communities,” the release stated.