Best Education Programs in Gilbert

Best Education Programs in Gilbert: A Data-Driven Guide for Families

Gilbert, Arizona consistently ranks among the best places in the state for families, and its education system is a major reason why. From nationally recognized public schools to innovative charter academies and specialized private programs, Gilbert offers diverse, high-performing education options for K-12 students.

Key Takeaways

• Gilbert Public Schools (GPS) is one of Arizona’s highest-performing districts with strong college readiness and graduation rates.
• Top-ranked schools like BASIS Gilbert, Perry High School, and Greenfield Junior High consistently earn high ratings from U.S. News and Niche.
• Charter options such as EDUPRIZE and BASIS emphasize STEM and advanced academics.
• Private and specialized schools provide strong support for special education and alternative learning styles.
• Families should compare curriculum focus, extracurricular depth, and enrollment processes before choosing.

Gilbert Public Schools: The Academic Backbone of the Community

Gilbert Public Schools serves more than 34,000 students and is widely recognized for academic rigor, supportive faculty, and diverse programming. The district consistently reports graduation rates above state averages and strong standardized test performance.

Top Public High Schools in Gilbert

SchoolStrengthsBest ForPerry High SchoolHigh graduation rate, Advanced Placement success, athleticsCollege-bound students and athletesBasha High SchoolArts programs, dual enrollment optionsCreative and academically balanced studentsHighland High SchoolCareer and technical education pathwaysStudents exploring vocational paths

Top Middle and Elementary Schools

• Greenfield Junior High School: Frequently ranked among Arizona’s best for academic performance and student culture.
• Neely Traditional Academy: Structured, back-to-basics curriculum with high test scores.
• Carol Rae Ranch Elementary: Strong parent involvement and consistent achievement.

What Sets GPS Apart:

• Gifted and accelerated programs starting in elementary grades
• Comprehensive Career and Technical Education offerings
• Robust athletics and extracurricular activities
• Social-emotional support systems and counseling services

Top Charter Schools in Gilbert

Charter schools in Gilbert consistently rank among Arizona’s highest performers, particularly in math, science, and college readiness.

BASIS Gilbert

BASIS Gilbert is widely recognized as one of the top charter schools in the state. It emphasizes accelerated STEM curriculum, Advanced Placement coursework beginning in middle school, and strong academic accountability.

Best for: High-achieving students seeking a rigorous academic track.

EDUPRIZE Charter School

EDUPRIZE is known for its science and technology focus combined with character education. It integrates hands-on learning experiences and project-based instruction.

Best for: Students who thrive in interactive, inquiry-driven environments.

American Leadership Academy (ALA)

ALA combines academics with leadership training and character development. Strong community engagement and patriotic education themes differentiate it from traditional public schools.

Best for: Families seeking structured culture and values-driven education.

Private and Specialized Education Options

While public and charter schools dominate enrollment, Gilbert families also have access to smaller private and specialized institutions.

Leading Private Schools

• Gilbert Christian Schools: College preparatory curriculum integrated with faith-based instruction.
• SanTan Charter Private Option: Blends charter flexibility with private learning models.

Special Education and Alternative Programs

• Sierra School of Gilbert: Serves students with emotional and behavioral challenges through therapeutic support models.
• District-based special education programs within GPS with individualized education plans and support specialists.

Gilbert also offers online academies and hybrid programs for families seeking flexible scheduling.

Curriculum Comparison: Finding the Right Fit

Program TypeAcademic FocusStructureIdeal Student ProfilePublic (GPS)Balanced academics, CTE, APTraditional zoned enrollmentStudents seeking full extracurricular accessCharter (BASIS, EDUPRIZE)STEM, accelerated learningLottery-based admissionHigh-performing or self-motivated studentsPrivateFaith-based or specializedTuition-based, selectiveFamilies seeking smaller class sizesSpecialized SchoolsTherapeutic or adaptive learningIndividualized plansStudents needing structured support

What Parents in Gilbert Say

Community feedback across local forums and Facebook groups highlights several recurring themes:

• Strong teacher engagement and communication within GPS
• High academic pressure at BASIS, which some families love and others find intense
• Exceptional sports culture at Perry and Basha High School
• Waiting lists and competitive enrollment for top charter programs

Many parents recommend touring campuses and speaking with current families before making a final decision.

Extracurricular and Enrichment Opportunities

Beyond academics, Gilbert schools excel in enrichment.

STEM and Robotics

Several GPS and charter schools offer competitive robotics teams and coding clubs starting at the middle school level.

Arts and Performing Programs

Basha High School and Perry High School feature award-winning marching bands and theater programs.

Athletics

Gilbert high schools regularly compete at state championship levels in football, baseball, and basketball.

Gifted Programs

Gifted identification begins early in elementary school within the district, with accelerated coursework tracks extending through high school.

Enrollment Guide for Families Relocating to Gilbert

Step 1: Determine School Zoning

Public school assignments are typically based on home address. Check the Gilbert Public Schools boundary map before purchasing or leasing a home.

Step 2: Evaluate Charter Lottery Deadlines

Charter schools often require applications months in advance. Some operate on waitlists due to high demand.

Step 3: Schedule Campus Tours

Observe classroom environment, teacher engagement, and extracurricular facilities.

Step 4: Compare Academic Reports

Review state report cards, graduation data, and college readiness scores.

Step 5: Prepare Required Documents

• Birth certificate
• Immunization records
• Proof of residency
• Prior transcripts

Families relocating mid-year should contact district offices directly for placement guidance.

Choosing the Best Education Program in Gilbert

The “best” education program depends on your child’s academic strengths, social needs, and long-term goals.

• For academic acceleration: BASIS Gilbert
• For balanced public excellence: Perry High School or Greenfield Junior High
• For STEM exploration: EDUPRIZE Charter
• For faith-based education: Gilbert Christian Schools
• For specialized support: Sierra School or district special education services

Gilbert stands out because it does not force families into a single model. Instead, it provides a spectrum of high-performing programs that support college readiness, technical career paths, leadership development, and individualized growth.

Frequently Asked Questions About Education Programs in Gilbert

How do Gilbert Public Schools compare to charter and private schools?

Gilbert Public Schools offer a balanced mix of academics, career and technical education, and activities. Charter schools like BASIS and EDUPRIZE focus more on accelerated STEM and advanced courses. Private schools often provide smaller classes and faith-based or specialized programs. Your choice depends on your child’s learning style and your family’s priorities.

What are the top-rated schools in Gilbert for college-bound students?

For college-focused paths, families often look at Perry High School, Basha High School, and BASIS Gilbert. These schools are noted for strong graduation rates, Advanced Placement success, and college readiness measures in state and national rankings.

How does charter school enrollment work in Gilbert?

Most Gilbert charter schools use an application and lottery system rather than home zoning. You submit an application before the deadline, and if demand is high, your child may be placed into a lottery or on a waitlist. It helps to apply early and check each school’s specific process and dates.

What options do you have if your child needs special education or extra support?

You can access district-based special education through Gilbert Public Schools, where teams create individualized education plans and provide support services. You can also consider specialized schools like Sierra School of Gilbert, which focuses on students with emotional and behavioral needs using therapeutic and adaptive approaches.

How do you choose between public, charter, and private schools in Gilbert?

Start with your child’s needs and interests. If you want broad activities and neighborhood schools, public schools like Perry High or Greenfield Junior High may fit. If your child wants accelerated STEM or advanced academics, charter options like BASIS or EDUPRIZE may appeal. If you value faith-based teaching or small classes, a private school such as Gilbert Christian Schools may be a good match. Campus tours and report cards can help you compare.

What documents do you need to enroll your child in a Gilbert school?

You usually need your child’s birth certificate, immunization records, proof of residency, and prior school records or transcripts. If you move mid-year, you should contact the district or school office so they can guide you on placement and any extra steps.