Governing Board Awards & Recognitions
Congratulations to the Latest DVUSD Governing Board Honorees!
The Deer Valley Unified School District (DVUSD) Governing Board awards ceremony celebrated a year of exceptional achievement across the district’s schools, arts programs, and leadership.
Academic Excellence: A-Rated District
DVUSD has once again secured an "A" rating from the Arizona Department of Education (ADE). Highlighting the district’s rigorous standards, 93% of DVUSD schools earned an "A" or "B" rating for the 2024-25 school year. The ADE determines these grades based on five factors: student growth, proficiency on state tests (AASA/ACT), English language proficiency, high school readiness, and graduation rates.
Tonight, the district honored eight specific A-rated schools:
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The Traditional Academy at Bellair: Recognized for a culture of perseverance and high expectations.
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Desert Sage Elementary: Celebrated for maintaining an "A" rating consistently since 2016.
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Diamond Canyon School: Commended for its collaborative "Coyote" spirit and commitment to excellence.
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Highland Lakes School: Noted for its focus on student growth and strong community partnerships.
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Hillcrest Middle School: Honored for nurturing lifelong learners and critical thinkers.
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Inspiration Mountain School: Praised for its "Round Table" mentality and shared responsibility for student success.
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Las Brisas Elementary: Recognized for providing a safe, rigorous, and high-quality learning environment.
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Legend Springs Elementary: Led by Principal of the Year Nichole Basl, the school was lauded for its balance of high achievement and meaningful intervention.
Arts and Individual Achievements
The Mountain Ridge High School "Pride of the West" Marching Band was celebrated for its historic four-year streak as State Champions. Competing in ABODA and AZMEA events, the ensemble was recognized for its poise and excellence in music and visual performance.
In individual honors, Ryan Donovan of Boulder Creek High School was named one of the Top 50 Educators by Educator’s Room. Selected from over 500 applicants, Donovan was recognized for his innovative teaching and his work building community partnerships with organizations like the League of Women Voters and the Anthem Veterans Organization.
District Leadership
The ceremony concluded by honoring the DVUSD Governing Board, which received the Total Boardsmanship Award from the Arizona School Boards Association. President Paul Carver noted that the award reflects the Board’s commitment to transparent, student-first governance and continuous professional development, ensuring DVUSD remains a "District of Choice."
The district will honor the remaining A-rated schools at future Governing Board ceremonies. Congratulations to all of our award winners and honorees!