Arizona School Soars 25 Points Above State Test Averages

A Yuma elementary school is proving that exceptional results are possible when an entire community rallies behind student success.

Desert View Academy earned a personal visit this week from Arizona Superintendent Tom Horne, who presented the school with an Exemplary Academic Achievement Award. The recognition celebrates the school's standout performance across all three core subjects.

The numbers tell an impressive story. While 31% of Arizona students reach proficiency in math, 56% of Desert View students hit that mark. In English language arts, 55% of students are proficient compared to the state's 40%. Science scores follow the same pattern, with 52% proficient versus 34% statewide.

"When I came here, I found a great atmosphere," Horne said after touring classrooms and meeting with students. "The leadership, the teachers, the attitude of the students."

Teacher Victoria Armas says the secret isn't a single program or method. Every person who walks through the school doors plays a role in student success.

"It starts with the parents," Armas explained. "It starts with the custodians and the cafeteria workers, and the office personnel and administration and our learning coaches as well. Everybody in this school affects them."

The Ripple Effect

Desert View's success shows what happens when a school builds culture beyond test prep. Students don't just see teachers invested in their learning. They see cafeteria staff, janitors, and front office workers all pulling in the same direction.

That kind of environment creates momentum. When kids feel supported by every adult they encounter, academic confidence grows naturally. The school's approach suggests that achievement gaps close faster when communities treat education as everyone's responsibility, not just teachers'.

The school is opening its doors this Saturday for an Enrollment Carnival from 8 to 11 a.m. Families can tour the campus, meet staff, and see firsthand what makes Desert View different while their kids enjoy community activities.

Desert View Academy proves that beating the odds doesn't require fancy programs, just a community that refuses to accept average.