Former Governor Ducey Gives Recognition to National Education Ranking As It's 'Changing Arizonans' Lives For The Better'

Former Governor Doug Ducey has shown appreciation towards Arizona schools dominating national rankings for the second year in a row.

"How about that! " Doug Ducey said. "Last year, one Arizona school of choice was ranked as the #1 High School in America, and this year, their spot was taken by another Arizona school of choice…"

The significant winner is BASIS Tucson North, which just earned the number one spot in the country according to U.S. News rankings. The school didn't just win one category, it was named both the best high school overall and the best charter school in America.

Arizona schools swept through the rankings. BASIS Chandler came in second place for best STEM schools, while BASIS Peoria earned third place in that same category.

In total, eleven Arizona schools made it into the top 100 nationwide. Ten of those schools are part of the BASIS charter school system, showing how quick the program is growing. 

The schools that made the list include BASIS Tucson North in first place, BASIS Phoenix in 17th, BASIS Chandler in 28th, and several others scattered throughout the top 100, as the previous report informs. 

The only non-BASIS school to make Arizona's top 100 was University High School from Tucson's public school district, which came in at 92nd place.

U.S. News looked at more than 24,000 high schools across all 50 states to create these rankings. They judged schools based on how well students do on state tests, graduation rates, college readiness, and how well they serve students from disadvantaged backgrounds.

BASIS Tucson North is a free public charter school that teaches students from 5th through 12th grade. The school uses an accelerated curriculum designed to help students compete at an international level.

This success story highlights Arizona's school choice approach, which gives families more options for their children's education. Ducey has long supported these programs, arguing they create competition that helps all schools improve.

“Education Freedom is changing Arizonans' lives for the better!” Ducey concludes.